Common Honda Fit problems owners experience with the 2nd generation include spark plug failure, a defective tailgate handle, and axles breaking. Our experts review the symptoms, causes, and fixes for the top 5 issues owners have run into with the 2009 to 2013 Honda Fit.
Common 2009 to 2013 Honda Fit Problems: 2nd Generation
1. Stuck Fuel Filler Door
Symptoms of a Stuck Fuel Filler Door
- Fuel filler door won’t open when pressed
Causes of a Stuck Fuel Filler Door
The fuel filler door pusher is designed to open and close the fuel door when pressure is applied, but sometimes it breaks.
How to Fix a Jammed Fuel Filler Door
If the filler door is stuck shut, grab underneath the door to open it. You might be able to open it with a key or penny. This is not a long term solution, and doing so can scuff the paint. There is a revised pusher by Honda that’s available.
2. O2 Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor
Symptoms of a O2 Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor
- Check engine light for code P0172
Causes of a O2 Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor
A check engine light with this code usually means there is a problem with the O2 sensor but it could also mean there is a vacuum leak.
How to Fix a O2 Sensor/Air Fuel Ratio Sensor
There is an O2 sensor right behind the intake on the backside. Before replacing the O2 sensor, check the seals after the MAF sensor for damage like tearing that may have caused a vacuum leak.
3. Spark Plug Failure
Symptoms of Spark Plug Failure
- Check engine light flashing and reads for codes P0300 – P0304
Causes of Spark Plug Failure
Spark plugs can loosen out of the cylinder head on the 2009 to 2013 Honda Fit
How to Fix Spark Plug Failure
You will have to remove the intake to access the ignition coils. Then you can see if any spark plugs are loose. New plugs might fix this problem, but if there’s enough damage to the head that prevents the spark plugs from tightening properly, the head will also need to be replaced. There is a service bulletin for this problem, and if doing this repair yourself, you can call a Honda dealership and ask for the exact torque specs.
4. Passenger Side Front Axle
Symptoms of a Passenger Side Front Axle
- A broken or snapped axle
Causes of a Passenger Side Front Axle
The damper on the axle can collect moisture, and this can snap the axle. The protective coating can also wear it away break the axle.
How to Fix a Passenger Side Front Axle
For axles with a damper, see if there is a recall. If there isn’t one, replace the axle.
5. Broken Liftgate Handle
Symptoms of a Broken Liftgate Handle
- Liftgate won’t open from the handle
Causes of a Broken Liftgate Handle
Moisture can rust the handle on the 09 to 13 Honda Fit and prevent it from moving or opening the liftgate.
How to Fix a Broken Liftgate Handle
Replace the liftgate handle. Remove the liftgate panel to access the handle. You can remove the handle cover from inside and release the latch with a screwdriver as a failsafe to open the hatch, but this is not a long term solution.
2nd Generation Honda Fit Model Years
Fix Your Own 2nd Gen Honda Fit with How-to Videos
Our how-to videos have step-by-step instructions from experienced mechanics to help you replace parts on your own 2009 to 2013 Honda Fit, plus more general tips and tricks.
Shop Parts and Tools
- Brakes & Wheel Bearing
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Hello there, I have a 2013 Honda Fit basic model and we have really loud road noise while driving mainly faster, 40+ mph. We had the spark plug issue and we had the recall on the front axle. We didn’t notice it so much in the beginning but it has gotten worse over the years and my husband even bought a new pair of Michelin tires for the front to see if it was the tires. This is our 4th set of tires. It didn’t seem to faze it. Is it just the way the car is made or is there something wrong? Thanks for your help.