One of the most reliable superminis on the market, consistently ranking in the top three for owner satisfaction. The 1.3 i-VTEC is a proven naturally aspirated engine that regularly exceeds 200,000 km without major issues. Main concerns: CVT judder on early 2015-2016 models (fixable with fluid change), starter motor failures on push-button start versions, infotainment glitches on pre-2018 cars, and potential boot water leaks from degraded seals. Manual gearbox versions are essentially bulletproof.
Shuddering during low-speed acceleration, especially from standstill - more- less
A well-documented issue on early GK Jazz models with CVT automatic transmission. The start clutch becomes contaminated with moisture or dirt in the transmission fluid, causing a noticeable shudder when accelerating from rest. Honda extended the CVT warranty to 7 years specifically because of this issue. In 90% of cases, a CVT fluid flush with genuine Honda fluid resolves the problem (approximately €100-150). If the fluid change doesn't work, start clutch replacement costs around €500-600. Post-2017 models are significantly less affected due to revised components.
Starter motor failure (push-button start models)€300 - €500
Engine clicks but won't turn over, or requires multiple attempts to start - more- less
Forum reports indicate this issue primarily affects push-button start models (EX and higher trims), while key-start versions are rarely affected. Symptoms include the engine clicking but not turning over, or starting after multiple attempts. Typically occurs between 50,000-100,000 km. Some owners have received goodwill warranty coverage from Honda even outside the warranty period - worth contacting Honda corporate before paying for repair. Manual key-start models appear to be immune to this issue.
Infotainment screen freezes/glitches€0 - €400
Touchscreen freezes, slow response, Bluetooth connectivity issues - more- less
Pre-facelift models (2015-2017) commonly experience infotainment glitches including screen freezes, slow response times, and Bluetooth problems. Often resolved with a soft reset (hold power button 10 seconds) or software update at the dealer. Using non-certified USB cables can trigger issues. Honda has issued software updates addressing most bugs. Post-2018 facelift models have improved systems. In persistent cases, head unit replacement may be required under TSB guidance (€300-400 if out of warranty).
Boot water leak (seal degradation)€50 - €200
Water pools in spare wheel well or boot floor after rain - more- less
A known issue across Jazz generations where water enters the boot through degraded seals at the roof gutter seam near the tailgate hinge, or around the rear light housings. Honda extended the warranty to 6 years specifically for this problem. Check the spare wheel well for water. DIY fix involves removing the gutter trim, cleaning, and applying new seam sealant (3M Drip Check recommended). Professional repair costs €100-200. Also check rear light seals and the fuel filler drain hole which can clog.
Handbrake caliper internal failure€100 - €500
Handbrake doesn't hold despite feeling positive, excessive travel - more- less
The integrated handbrake mechanism in the rear calipers can fail internally, causing the handbrake to not hold even though it feels engaged. Honda has acknowledged this as a known component failure. Initial fix may involve cleaning and adjusting the calipers (€80-100). If the internal mechanism has failed, caliper replacement is required at €200-250 per side. Some owners have received goodwill contributions from Honda for this repair.
Window regulator/motor failure€200 - €400
Window stuck, moves intermittently, or makes grinding noise - more- less
Electric window regulators can fail, causing windows to become stuck or operate erratically. Symptoms include windows moving intermittently, getting stuck partway, or clicking/grinding noises during operation. Replacement cost including parts and labor runs €200-400 depending on whether motor and regulator are integrated. Aftermarket parts are significantly cheaper than OEM Honda parts.
Parking sensor false alarms€100 - €250
Sensors beep randomly with nothing nearby, especially in cold/wet weather - more- less
Some owners report overly sensitive parking sensors that trigger warnings with nothing present. More common in cold or damp conditions due to moisture ingress. Can often be resolved by cleaning sensors with WD-40 and a microfiber cloth. If a sensor has failed (possibly from stone damage), replacement runs €150-250 including fitting. The system can be temporarily disabled via a button left of the steering wheel.
Exceptionally reliable - one of the safest used car choices
The Honda Jazz GK is one of the most reliable superminis available, with the 1.3 i-VTEC engine known to exceed 200,000 km routinely. Most issues are minor (infotainment glitches, seals) or specific to early 2015-2016 CVT models. Manual gearbox versions have virtually no known reliability issues. The conservative owner demographic means most examples are well-maintained.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history Complete records essential. Honda recommends service every 12 months or 20,000 km. CVT fluid should be changed every 40,000-50,000 km.
Tires Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns. Original size is typically 185/60R15.
Cold start Must start engine completely cold. Listen for any unusual sounds in the first few seconds.
Test drive Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds and stop-start traffic to check CVT behavior.
Specific for this vehicle
CVT judder test (automatic models) From a complete stop, accelerate gently and feel for any shuddering or hesitation. This is the key test for early CVT issues. Should be completely smooth.
Check spare wheel well for water Lift the boot floor and inspect for moisture or water stains. Signs of previous water damage indicate seal issues.
Test all infotainment functions Check touchscreen responsiveness, Bluetooth pairing, and navigation. Try multiple button presses to check for freezing.
Test starter on cold engine (push-button models) If possible, try starting the car cold multiple times. Hesitation or clicking suggests starter issues.
Check handbrake holding power On a slope, engage handbrake and release foot brake. Should hold firmly. Excessive travel or slipping indicates caliper issues.
Verify fuel pump recall completed 2017-2019 models may be affected by fuel pump recall. Check with Honda using VIN before purchase.
Contact Honda with your VIN to verify all applicable recalls have been completed. The fuel pump recall (code 6FE) is particularly important for 2017-2019 models as it can cause engine stalling. UK is considered low risk for the Takata airbag issue due to climate, but should still be verified.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)Expired on all GK models
Powertrain warranty (5 years / 150,000 km)Expired on 2015-2019 models
CVT extended warranty7 years from first registration
Boot seal extended warranty6 years from first registration
All 2015-2019 Jazz GK models are now outside standard warranty. However, Honda has been known to offer goodwill repairs for known issues like starter motors and CVT problems even outside warranty - always contact Honda corporate before paying for repairs on these specific issues.
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.