2009 Honda Fit LX 1.5
Summary:
As close to perfect as you can get for the price
Faults:
Hatchback struts.
Interior rubber pieces falling off.
Timing chain cover oil leak (service bulletin).
Driver's electric window sluggish (service bulletin).
Valvetrain lost motion spring recall.
Headlights clouded over.
Constant bulb replacement.
Transmission oil shearing rapidly, needed changing much more frequently.
General Comments:
Great car, one of the best I've had. Was made in Brazil, so the materials and fit & finish aren't as well done as other Fits probably are. Thin, easily chipped paint and lower quality carpeting and fabric.
I got poor fuel economy, but it is due to Mexico's driving conditions, not the car's fault. City: 18-20 US MPG until the motor broke in; 21-22 US MPG afterwards. Last 3000 km highway trip, five persons and baggage: 28 US MPG on various tanks. I've observed up to 40 US MPG on a tank that included driving with a tailwind.
Engine: very lively, perfect. A little low on power, but enjoys being wound up to 4,000-6,000 RPM.
Exquisite five speed manual transmission, shifts easily, fun to use, but shears its oil rapidly, starts to get notchy at 22,000 km while Honda recommends changing it at 40,000 km.
Great handling, especially in the curves. The factory Pirelli tires were OK, but once they were replaced with H-rated summer Bridgestones, the handling reached 100%.
Uncomfortable ride over bumpy roads, made worse by uncomfortable seats and H-rated replacement tires.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 30th May, 2015
3rd Jan 2011, 19:51
Nice to hear that even without airbags, the little Fit held up enough to keep your injuries minor. This is a common problem with small cars, though, not just the Fit. The airbag sensors are lower to the ground, so a vehicle riding higher than the Fit (particularly vans, trucks, and SUVs) has a good chance of not setting off the airbag. Unfortunate that people around here think they need those trucks to be safe, bigger isn't smarter.