Honda Honda Airwave common problems: what to check before you buy
Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Honda Honda Airwave is known for (2005–2010), 1 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
Known problems on the Honda Honda Airwave
CVT start-clutch judder, Airwave
Costly if missed
2005–2010 · L15A · petrol · Gearbox
What to look for: From cold and hot, creep forward and pull away gently on flat ground and a slope, feeling for shudder or surge.
Why it matters: The fault is linked to worn fluid additives letting the start clutch drag, and while a fluid change and ECU relearn help many cars, Japanese mechanics quote the start-clutch repair itself as a meaningful bill when the clutch is already worn.
Typical repair: NZ$1,500–NZ$4,500 in New Zealand · A$1,550–A$4,640 in Australia
What to look for: Look along the roof and roof edges in daylight for milky, chalky or flaking clear coat, especially around the sky roof glass.
Why it matters: A roof respray is a significant cost against the value of an Airwave, which makes a peeling roof clear coat a strong price negotiation point.
Typical repair: NZ$800–NZ$2,500 in New Zealand · A$820–A$2,580 in Australia
Got a question about a Honda Honda Airwave? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
Also check on every car
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.