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Old 08-28-2014, 08:49 PM   #23 (permalink)
Ecky
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Quote:
Originally Posted by broski499 View Post
I talked to my mechanic about the insight, honda hybrids in general and he has scene a ton of problems with them. The electric motor not being powerful enough, the battery being too small, a lot of problems with warranty claims.

Sounds like you have had a good experience?
Not sure what is meant by the battery being too small. I get about 5 minutes of continuous assist on a full battery, and the electric motor puts out more than 50% of the gas engine's peak torque. How much is the right amount?

Anyway, the battery can be expected to last more than 10 years if you treat it right, and refurbished units will run you $500-$2000 when it's time. It's true that the electric motor is less powerful than in a Prius, but to my knowledge the gen1 Insights have very few problems. Can't speak for the second gen.

I buy secondhand and have never had to deal with warranties, but the 2006 G1 Insights should be covered for a new battery until 2016, if it starts throwing a code.
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