Honda Jazz 1.2 GE

A well-documented issue across the GE Jazz generation. The sealant in the run channel along the roof line cracks over time, allowing rainwater to track down into the boot area and pool in the spare wheel well. Honda issued a service bulletin and extended the warranty to 6 years for some models. The fix involves removing the roof run channel strips, scraping out the old sealant, and applying fresh seam sealant (3M Drip Check is the recommended product). Also check and clean the fuel filler drain hole, which clogs and contributes to water ingress. A competent DIYer can do this in an afternoon, but a garage will charge around €100-250 for the work.

The Honda Jazz is one of the most targeted cars for catalytic converter theft across Europe and the UK, because the converter sits in an accessible position under the car and contains valuable rhodium, palladium, and platinum. Replacement with an aftermarket type-approved catalytic converter typically costs €500-700 including fitting, while OEM units are more expensive. A catalytic converter guard or cage can be fitted as a preventive measure for around €150-250. This is more of a security concern than a mechanical fault, but it's worth noting for street-parked cars.

The physical key lock mechanisms on the Jazz can seize up due to accumulated dirt, moisture, and corrosion inside the lock barrel. This is more common on cars parked outdoors and in humid or coastal climates. Symptoms include the key becoming increasingly difficult to turn until it refuses completely. Lubrication with graphite or silicone spray can help in early stages, but once the mechanism is corroded it usually needs replacing. A new lock mechanism costs around €40-80, with labour of around €40-100 depending on which door is affected. Regular lubrication of the lock cylinders helps prevent this.

The rubber engine mounts on the L12B gradually deteriorate with age and mileage, typically becoming noticeable after 100,000-130,000 km. Symptoms include increased vibration felt through the steering wheel and gear lever at idle, and a clunking sensation when putting the car in and out of gear. Replacement with genuine Honda mounts is recommended, as aftermarket mounts sometimes don't match OEM specifications and can cause residual vibration. The upper mount is more commonly affected first. Parts cost around €50-100 per mount, with labour around €100-200 depending on which mounts need replacing.

The rear suspension bushes and shock absorbers on the GE Jazz can show wear earlier than expected, particularly on cars regularly driven on poor road surfaces. Worn rear shocks manifest as a bouncy, unsettled ride over bumps and uneven tyre wear. Rear trailing arm bushes deteriorate and can cause a knocking sound over bumps. Shock absorber replacement costs around €50-100 per unit for quality aftermarket parts, with labour of around €150-250 for a pair. Bush replacement is often done at the same time.

Honda issued a recall affecting Jazz models where water entering through an open driver window could reach the master power window switch, causing electrical resistance to build up and potentially leading to overheating or melting. The recall fix involved either replacing the switch or fitting a waterproof skirt around it. While most affected cars have already been rectified, it's worth verifying with the VIN that this recall has been completed, especially on cars with no dealer history. If the switch needs replacing outside of the recall, parts cost around €50-80 plus minimal labour.