Reliability

Is the Honda Jazz reliable? Honest answer.

Is the Honda Jazz a reliable car? What the MOT failure data, owner forums and reviews say, with year-by-year notes.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 336,171 recorded MOT tests, 19.4% failed.

Honda Jazz
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

Yes, the Honda Jazz is generally considered a reliable car, with decent MOT pass rates. However, older models (2002-2008) may have specific issues, particularly with suspension and electrical systems. Maintenance costs are moderate, averaging £200 to £400 annually.

MOT Pass Rates

The Honda Jazz has a good MOT pass rate, typically around 75-80%. However, older models, particularly those from 2002 to 2008, show higher failure rates due to age-related issues. Common failures include worn suspension components and corrosion.

Common Failure Modes

Key recurring issues include faulty suspension components, particularly on models from 2002 to 2008. Electrical faults are also reported, especially in the 2011-2014 models. These problems can lead to repair costs ranging from £150 to £500, depending on the severity.

Year-by-Year Reliability

The 2002-2008 models have a mixed reputation. While they are generally reliable, they can suffer from more frequent issues. The 2009-2014 models show improved reliability, while the 2015-2020 versions are often praised for their dependability.

Owner Feedback

However, some report issues with the infotainment system and occasional electrical glitches in later models.

Maintenance and Costs

Maintenance costs for the Honda Jazz are moderate. Routine services are affordable, and genuine parts are reasonably priced. Owners can expect to spend between £200 and £400 annually on maintenance, depending on usage and age of the vehicle.

What people are asking

Is a Honda Jazz a reliable car?

Yes, the Honda Jazz is generally considered a reliable car. Many owners have reported that it performs well over time with minimal issues, making it a popular choice for those seeking dependability.

What year to avoid Honda Jazz?

Some owners suggest avoiding the 2002-2008 models due to more frequent issues, particularly with suspension components and electrical systems. These older models may require more maintenance as they age.

Is Honda Jazz expensive to maintain?

The average annual cost of repairs and maintenance for a Honda Jazz in the UK is approximately £350 to £400. This includes routine servicing, which typically costs around £285 to £310 for an interim or full service. Spark plug replacements cost £171 on average, while clutch replacement can start from around £500.

What is the most common problem with Honda?

Common problems reported by owners include electrical issues and suspension wear, particularly in older models. These issues can lead to increased repair costs if not addressed promptly.

What owners say

Many appreciate its practicality, especially for those who need a compact car with ample boot space, making it a favourite for urban dwellers. Owners highlight the Honda Jazz as an incredibly reliable vehicle, often noting its low maintenance costs and suitability for city driving.

When discussing common faults, users frequently mention issues related to the infotainment system, particularly in models from 2011 to 2014. Some owners report that while the car is reliable, the occasional electrical glitch can be frustrating, especially when it affects navigation or audio systems.

In terms of model recommendations, many owners suggest opting for the second generation (2009+) over the first generation due to better safety features, improved fuel consumption, and a more modern design. This sentiment is echoed across various threads, where users share their experiences and preferences.

Additionally, buyers in UK communities have flagged that while the Jazz is generally reliable, they advise checking for age-related wear, particularly in suspension components and tyres, when considering older models. This proactive approach can help avoid unexpected repair costs down the line.

Honda Jazz recall record

26 recalls have been issued for the Honda Jazz, between 2004 and 2022.

  1. THE FRONT WIDE CAMERA MAY NOT START UP IN THE CORRECT WAY AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS STARTED

    R/2022/221

    Issued 9 August 2022

    The front wide camera may not start up in the correct way after the vehicle is started.

    Remedy:Change the software in the Front Wide Camera.

    Affects cars built Jan 2020 to Jan 2021

  2. VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH A FUEL PUMP MODULE MANUFACTURED WITH LOW DENSITY IMPELLARS

    R/2020/186

    Issued 24 August 2020

    Affected vehicles may be equipped with a fuel pump module manufactured with low density impellers.

    Remedy:The affected fuel pumps will be replaced.

    Affects cars built Jul 2017 to Sept 2019

  3. DUE TO INCORRECT MANUFACTURING THE REAR SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY WEBBING SENSOR COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE

    R/2020/194

    Issued 14 August 2020

    The webbing sensor in the rear centre seat belt assembly could become inoperative.

    Remedy:Check and if the seat belt is within the affected range the seat belt will be replaced.

    Affects cars built Aug 2019 to Sept 2019

  4. POSSIBLE AIR BAG INFLATOR RUPTURE

    R/2019/245

    Issued 29 August 2019

    Driver air bag may not deploy correctly.

    Remedy:The inflator inside the drivers airbag module is to be replaced.

    Affects cars built Dec 2003 to Nov 2011

22 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Honda Jazz MOT record

From 336,171 recorded MOT tests, 19.4% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20233062.3%15,652 mi
202210,3693.7%15,336 mi
202114,1154.2%20,184 mi
202010,4845.1%22,190 mi
201916,4056.8%25,806 mi
201819,7687.8%31,764 mi
201717,6498.9%35,053 mi
201618,11810.3%39,928 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn23.7%
  2. A tyre seriously damaged23.5%
  3. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements20.9%
  4. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm17.0%
  5. Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded14.9%

Figures cover every Honda Jazz tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Honda Jazz official figures

Median across 25 variants on sale, petrol electric.

Combined economy
60.1 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
106 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are the common issues with the Honda Jazz?

Common issues include faulty suspension components and electrical faults.

Which model years of the Honda Jazz are most reliable?

The 2015 to 2020 models generally have better reliability ratings.

How does the Honda Jazz perform in MOT tests?

The Honda Jazz has a decent pass rate, but watch for age-related failures.

Is the Honda Jazz expensive to maintain?

Maintenance costs are moderate, with parts being relatively affordable.

Is a Honda Jazz a reliable car?

Yes, the Honda Jazz is generally considered reliable, with many owners reporting low maintenance costs and good durability.

What year to avoid Honda Jazz?

Some owners suggest avoiding the 2002-2008 models due to more frequent issues, particularly with suspension.

What is the most common problem with Honda?

Common problems reported include electrical issues and suspension wear, particularly in older models.

Sources