2003 Honda Insight Problems

Written by: Richard Craver on April 30, 2024

The Honda Insight is a hybrid electric vehicle that was first introduced in 1999. It was designed to be a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered cars.

While the Honda Insight has generally been well-regarded for its fuel efficiency and reliability, there have been a few reported problems with the 2003 model year. Some of the most common issues reported by 2003 Honda Insight owners include issues with the hybrid battery,

problems with the transmission, and problems with the suspension. It’s worth noting that these problems are not necessarily unique to the 2003 model year,

and they may also affect other years of the Honda Insight. If you own a 2003 Honda Insight, it’s important to be aware of these potential problems and to take appropriate steps to address them if they occur.

2003 Honda Insight Problems

1. Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) Battery Failure

The Honda Insight is a hybrid electric vehicle that uses a hybrid battery system called the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system. This system is responsible for providing power to the electric motor and storing energy that is generated during braking.

Some 2003 Honda Insight owners have reported problems with their IMA battery, including failure of the battery or reduced capacity. If the IMA battery fails, it can result in decreased fuel efficiency and performance, and it may also cause the car to stall or not start at all.

2. Shuddering from Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

The 2003 Honda Insight is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to provide smooth and efficient power delivery.

However, some owners have reported problems with the CVT, including shuddering or jerking while driving. This can be caused by a variety of issues,

including wear and tear on the transmission, problems with the transmission fluid, or a malfunctioning transmission control module.

Software Update for IMA Computer: Some 2003 Honda Insight owners have reported problems with the IMA computer, which is responsible for controlling the hybrid battery system.

These problems can include errors or faults that are displayed on the dashboard, as well as reduced performance or fuel efficiency. In some cases, a software update for the IMA computer may be necessary to resolve these issues.

3. Check Engine Light Due to Binding Gas Cap

Some 2003 Honda Insight owners have reported that the check engine light will come on due to a binding gas cap. A binding gas cap can prevent the fuel tank from venting properly, which can cause a pressure build-up in the fuel system.

This can trigger the check engine light and may also cause problems with the fuel system, such as reduced fuel efficiency or performance. In most cases, replacing the gas cap will resolve this issue.

4. Inactive-Merged-Software Update for IMA Computer

This issue appears to be a duplicate of the third problem listed in your original question. If you are experiencing problems with the IMA computer in your 2003 Honda Insight, a software update may be necessary to resolve the issue.

This may involve downloading and installing new software onto the computer or replacing the computer itself. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedures for updating the IMA computer to ensure that it is done correctly and safely.

Possible Solution

Problem	Possible Solution
Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery failure	Replace the IMA battery or have it repaired
Shuddering or jerking from continuously variable transmission (CVT)	Check and replace the transmission fluid, replace the transmission control module, or have the transmission serviced
Software update for IMA computer	Follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedures for updating the IMA computer, which may involve downloading and installing new software or replacing the computer
Check engine light due to binding gas cap	Replace the gas cap
Other issues with the IMA computer	Follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedures for troubleshooting and repairing the IMA computer, which may involve updating the software or replacing the computer