If you own a 2007 Honda Fit, you know it’s a practical and fun little car. But like any vehicle, it has its share of known problems. This guide covers the most common 2007 Honda Fit problems, what causes them, and how you can fix them without spending a fortune.
We’ll look at everything from annoying squeaks to more serious engine concerns. Knowing these issues helps you stay ahead of repairs and keep your Fit running smoothly for years to come.
2007 Honda Fit Problems
The 2007 Honda Fit is generally reliable, but several issues pop up frequently reported by owners. The main trouble areas tend to be the ignition coils, excessive oil consumption, and certain suspension components. Let’s break down each one so you know what to watch for.
1. Faulty Ignition Coils and Misfires
This is perhaps the most widespread issue for the 2007 model year. The ignition coils can fail prematurely, leading to engine misfires. You’ll usually feel a rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, and a flashing check engine light.
* Symptoms:
* Check engine light flashing (solid is less urgent)
* Rough engine idle and vibration
* Loss of power and poor acceleration
* Engine may stumble or shake
* The Solution:
Replacing the faulty ignition coil is the fix. It’s a DIY-friendly job if you’re handy.
1. Use an OBD2 scanner to confirm which cylinder is misfiring (codes P0301-P0304).
2. Purchase a replacement ignition coil—it’s often recommended to replace all four if one fails, as others may follow.
3. Disconnect the battery negative terminal.
4. Unplug the electrical connector on the bad coil.
5. Remove the bolt holding the coil in place and pull it out.
6. Install the new coil, reconnect the connector, and reattach the battery.
2. Excessive Engine Oil Consumption
Some 2007 Fits, particularly those with higher mileage, may start burning oil. This is often due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals allowing oil to seep into the combustion chamber.
* Symptoms:
* Low oil level between changes (check your dipstick regularly!)
* Blueish smoke from the exhaust, especially on startup or acceleration
* The smell of burning oil
* The Solution:
Addressing this can range from simple to complex.
* Short-Term Fix: Switch to a slightly thicker, high-mileage motor oil (e.g., 5W-30 instead of 0W-20). Check your oil level every 500-1,000 miles and top up as needed. This won’t fix the leak but manages it.
* Permanent Fix: Replacing piston rings and valve seals is a major engine job. It requires disassembling the engine top end. This is expensive at a shop, so many owners choose to manage the consumption with frequent top-ups unless it becomes severe.
3. Noisy or Failing Suspension Components
The front suspension can develop clunks and squeaks. The usual suspects are the front sway bar links and the front strut mounts.
* Symptoms:
* A loud clunking or knocking noise over bumps
* Squeaking or creaking when going over speed bumps or turning
* A feeling of looseness in the front end
* The Solution:
Replacing sway bar links is relatively easy and inexpensive.
1. Lift the front of the car and secure it on jack stands.
2. Locate the sway bar link connected to the strut and sway bar.
3. Use penetrating oil on the nuts if they’re rusty.
4. Hold the link shaft with an Allen key while loosening the nut.
5. Remove the old link and install the new one, tightening securely.
* For Strut Mounts: This is a bigger job often done when replacing the entire strut assembly. It’s best left to a mechanic if you’re not comfortable with spring compressors.
4. Power Steering Hose Leaks
The power steering system’s high-pressure hose is known to develop leaks at its connections. This leaves a red or brown fluid puddle under the front driver’s side of the car.
* Symptoms:
* Red fluid on your driveway or garage floor
* Low power steering fluid reservoir level
* Whining noise from the power steering pump when turning (due to low fluid)
* The Solution:
The leaky hose must be replaced.
1. Siphon out as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible.
2. Locate the high-pressure hose running from the pump to the steering rack.
3. Place a drain pan underneath.
4. Carefully disconnect the fittings at both ends (fluid will drain out).
5. Install the new hose, refill with Honda-approved power steering fluid.
6. Start the engine and turn the wheel lock-to-lock several times to bleed air from the system, checking the fluid level repeatedly.
5. Failing Door Lock Actuators
A common electrical gremlin is a failing power door lock actuator. You’ll press the button on your key fob or inside the car, and one door (often the driver’s) won’t lock or unlock with the others.
* Symptoms:
* One door lock doesn’t respond to the power lock switch or key fob
* You may hear a clicking or grinding sound from inside the door panel
* You have to manually lock/unlock that door with the key
* The Solution:
You need to replace the faulty door lock actuator motor.
1. Remove the interior door panel carefully to access the actuator.
2. Disconnect the electrical connector and the lock rod linkages.
3. Unbolt the old actuator assembly from the door.
4. Transfer any necessary rods or brackets to the new unit.
5. Install the new actuator, reconnect everything, and test before reassembling the door panel.
6. Air Conditioning (A/C) System Failures
In hot climates, the A/C system can fail. This is often due to a leaking condenser (located in front of the radiator) or a failing compressor.
* Symptoms:
* A/C blows warm or ambient-temperature air
* You may hear unusual noises from the compressor when the A/C is on
* Visible signs of oil or dye around A/C components (indicating a leak)
* The Solution:
A/C repair usually requires professional tools.
* Diagnosis: A mechanic will use a UV dye and leak detector to find the source. The condenser is a common leak point due to road debris damage.
* Repair: The leaking component must be replaced. The system then needs to be properly evacuated of air and moisture, and recharged with the correct amount of refrigerant (R-134a). Don’t attempt this without the proper equipment.
7. Worn Spark Plug Tube Seals
This is a smaller issue that can mimic other problems. The spark plug tube seals sit in the valve cover and can harden and leak over time, allowing oil to seep into the spark plug wells.
* Symptoms:
* Oil found in the spark plug wells when you remove the ignition coils
* This oil can degrade the ignition coils, leading to premature failure (misfires)
* Slight loss of oil over time
* The Solution:
Replace the valve cover gasket set, which includes these tube seals.
1. Disconnect the battery and remove the ignition coils.
2. Unbolt and remove any brackets or hoses attached to the valve cover.
3. Remove the valve cover bolts and carefully lift off the cover.
4. Clean the sealing surfaces on the cylinder head and valve cover thoroughly.
5. Install the new gasket and tube seals, reassemble, and torque bolts to specification in the correct order.
Preventative Maintenance Tips for Your 2007 Fit
Staying on top of maintenance can prevent many of these problems or catch them early.
* Check Oil Frequently: Make it a habit to check the dipstick every other time you get gas, especially if your car has over 100,000 miles.
* Listen for New Noises: Pay attention to changes in sounds from the suspension, engine, or steering.
* Use Quality Parts: When replacing ignition coils or other critical components, stick with reputable brands or genuine Honda parts.
* Follow the Severe Service Schedule: If you do lots of short trips, drive in extreme heat or cold, or frequently sit in traffic, follow the “severe” maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.
* Address Small Leaks Early: A small power steering or oil leak can quickly become a bigger, more expensive problem if ignored.
Is the 2007 Honda Fit Still a Good Car?
Absolutely. Despite these common issues, the 2007 Honda Fit remains a fantastic, economical, and versatile vehicle. Its problems are generally well-known, diagnosable, and often fixable without astronomical costs. The key is proactive ownership. Knowing what tends to go wrong allows you to monitor those systems and adress problems before they strand you.
With proper care and timely repairs, a 2007 Fit can easily surpass 200,000 miles. Its practicality, fuel efficiency, and driving fun far outweigh its typical repair needs for most owners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most common problem with the 2007 Honda Fit?
The most frequent issue is premature failure of the ignition coils, causing engine misfires and a flashing check engine light.
Do 2007 Honda Fits have transmission problems?
The manual transmission is very robust. The automatic transmission is generally reliable but can develop issues like rough shifting if the fluid is never changed. Regular fluid service is key.
Why is my 2007 Honda Fit burning oil?
High-mileage engines often experience oil consumption due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Switching to a high-mileage, slightly thicker oil and checking levels frequently is the common management strategy.
Is it expensive to maintain a 2007 Honda Fit?
No, it is generally inexpensive to maintain compared to many other cars. Repair costs are reasonable, and many common fixes are doable for a home mechanic. Parts are widely available and affordable.
How long do 2007 Honda Fit engines last?
With proper maintenance and addressing oil consumption, the L15A engine can last 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more. Their known for their longevity.
What should I check before buying a used 2007 Honda Fit?
Check for maintenance records, ask about ignition coil replacements, look for signs of oil leaks or power steering leaks, test the A/C thoroughly, and listen for suspension clunks on a test drive. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth the money.