One of the most reliable small hybrids on the market, perfect for urban driving and first-time buyers. Honda's e:HEV two-motor hybrid system is robust with an 8-year/100,000 mile battery warranty. Main issues are minor: infotainment freezing (software update fixes it), occasional 12V battery drain from BCM software (now resolved), and some early 2020-2021 cars had front camera startup issues (recall completed). Brake pads last exceptionally long due to regenerative braking. No timing belt - uses chain. Excellent fuel economy averaging 4.5-5.5 L/100km in real-world use.
Screen becomes unresponsive, camera shows black, system crashes · more· less
Honda vehicles from 2016-2020 including the Jazz have experienced infotainment systems that freeze, crash, and fail to respond to inputs. Symptoms include screen stuck on one display, backup camera showing black screen, and "Process system not responding" messages. A class action lawsuit was filed alleging the units are defective. Most cases can be resolved with a hard reset (hold volume down button for 10 seconds) or a free software update from Honda dealer. Only severe cases requiring hardware replacement cost €100-150.
12V battery drain€100 - €250
Battery drains after 7-10 days parked due to BCM software bug · more· less
Some 2020-2021 Jazz models had a Body Control Module (BCM) software bug that prevented systems from shutting down properly, draining the 12V battery. This was the same issue affecting HR-V models in late 2022. Honda issued a software update (BCM firmware updated from M0E010 to M0E020) that resolved the issue. If buying a used Jazz from this period, verify the BCM software has been updated. Battery replacement costs €100-150 if needed, plus labor. This issue is now rare on Jazz models that have received the update.
Air conditioning issues€300 - €900
Occasional AC not cooling properly, condenser failures rare · more· less
A small number of Jazz owners report air conditioning issues, though these appear to be occasional rather than widespread problems. Most common issue is low refrigerant requiring a regas (€80-120). Honda extended warranty on AC condensers for 2018-2020 models to 10 years due to defects, so condenser failures may be covered. Condenser replacement costs €500-900 at dealer if not under warranty. Compressor failures are rare but can cost €600-900 for parts and labor.
Window regulator failure€350 - €550
Window motors fail causing slow operation or stuck windows · more· less
Window regulators are a known weak point on Honda vehicles. Symptoms include windows moving slowly, getting stuck halfway, or making clicking and grinding noises. The motor is often integrated into the window regulator assembly, requiring full replacement. Parts cost €100-200, labor adds €150-250. Independent garages charge significantly less than dealerships. This is not a common failure on the GR generation but worth checking during inspection.
Exceptionally reliable for a hybrid
The Honda Jazz GR Hybrid scores 96.9% in the What Car? Reliability Survey and is widely praised for trouble-free ownership. The e:HEV hybrid system is proven reliable with strong warranty coverage. Most reported issues are minor software glitches that can be fixed with updates. Honda's reputation for building durable, long-lasting cars is well-deserved with this generation.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Honda dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Hybrid system requires proper servicing.
Tires
Check tread depth (175/65R15 or 185/60R15 depending on trim), age, uneven wear patterns.
Cold start
Start engine completely cold. Hybrid system should engage smoothly without warning lights.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Jazz bodies are generally rust-resistant.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Test hybrid system transitions between electric and petrol.
Specific for this vehicle
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Check touchscreen responsiveness, backup camera operation, Bluetooth connectivity. Try all functions to verify no freezing.
Verify front wide camera works (2020-2021 cars)
Early cars had camera startup issues. Ensure camera activates properly after starting vehicle. Recall should be completed.
Check for BCM software update completion
Ask seller or dealer if Body Control Module software update has been applied. Prevents battery drain issues.
Inspect 12V battery condition
Hybrid cars rely heavily on 12V battery. Check voltage (should be 12.4-12.6V with engine off). Ask when it was last replaced.
Test all windows and power equipment
Operate each window fully up and down. Listen for grinding or slow operation indicating regulator wear.
Verify air conditioning works properly
Test AC on cold setting for at least 5 minutes. Should blow cold air quickly. Check for unusual noises.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Front wide camera startup failure (Jan 2020 - Jan 2021)Software update - verify completed
BCM software update for battery drainFirmware M0E010 → M0E020
Infotainment system firmware updatesMultiple updates available
Contact Honda dealer with VIN to verify all recalls and technical service bulletins have been completed. The front camera recall is particularly important for early 2020-2021 models.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years)Check specific vehicle age
Hybrid system warranty5 years / 90,000 miles
Hybrid battery warranty8 years / 100,000 miles
AC condenser extended warranty (2020 models)10 years from original purchase
Honda offers excellent hybrid warranty coverage. The 8-year/100,000 mile battery warranty covers abnormal capacity loss (not normal gradual degradation). If you maintain the car with Honda service, warranty can extend up to 10 years on certain components. Extended warranty available through Honda dealers for additional coverage beyond factory warranty.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.