HONDA INSIGHT (2001)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 92 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,530
£128/month
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Average
Road Tax
£20
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 1-8
995cc Petrol
Check Carefully
75% pass rate, £1530/year to run. 7 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~50 mpg
Based on 995cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the HONDA brand average of 84%.
At 25 years old, 75% of HONDA INSIGHTs from 2001 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 92 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 153,355 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
153,355
Average miles
185,000
Expected for age
The average 2001 HONDA INSIGHT has 153,355 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 185,000 miles for a 25-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 75%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
HONDA INSIGHT by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2001 HONDA INSIGHT
The 2001 HONDA INSIGHT is a city car with a 995cc petrol engine. 92 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2001, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 153,355 miles at 25 years old, HONDA INSIGHT owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2001 HONDA INSIGHT Fuel Costs
The modest 995cc petrol engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a city car. Expect around 50 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £955 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2001 HONDA INSIGHT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,530 (£128/month), broken down as £955 fuel, £20 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
HONDA INSIGHT Reliability Trend
Newer HONDA INSIGHTs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2001 HONDA INSIGHT
At 25 years old, the HONDA INSIGHT is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 92 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2001 HONDA INSIGHT's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Coil Pack Failure
Medium riskSmaller petrol engines are prone to ignition coil failures, causing misfires and rough running. Replacement is £50-£150 per coil.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 153k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2001 HONDA INSIGHT stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HONDA INSIGHT(2001) | 75% | £955 | £20 | Grp 1-8 | £1530 |
| FORD FIESTA(2003) | 71% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722+£192 |
| VOLKSWAGEN POLO(2003) | 67% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1922+£392 |
| TOYOTA YARIS(2003) | 72% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722+£192 |
| NISSAN MICRA(2003) | 70% | £955 | £30 | Grp 1-8 | £1540+£10 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Honda Models
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