2012 Honda Fit Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2012 Honda Fit and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Honda Fit has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2012 Honda Fit has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2012 Honda Fit?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2012 Honda Fit, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe the dashboard gauges for any unusual readings, as these can provide clues about underlying issues. Inspect the engine bay for any visible damage to wires, hoses, or connectors, as physical wear and tear can lead to malfunctions. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; this tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that pinpoint the problem, allowing for more targeted troubleshooting. Additionally, consulting your owner's manual can offer insights into what the check engine light may signify and suggest further troubleshooting steps. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue or if the problem appears complex, it may be wise to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve it.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2012 Honda Fit?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2012 Honda Fit, it can be a source of concern for any driver. One of the most common culprits is a loose or faulty gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be resolved by simply tightening or replacing the cap. However, if the issue persists, it may indicate deeper problems such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in regulating the vehicle's emissions and fuel efficiency. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter, mass airflow sensor, spark plugs, or ignition coils can also trigger the check engine light. These components are vital for the engine's performance, and neglecting them can lead to more significant problems down the line. Therefore, it is essential to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic codes, which can help pinpoint the exact issue and guide you in making the necessary repairs. Addressing these common problems promptly not only ensures the vehicle runs smoothly but also helps prevent potential safety hazards and costly repairs in the future.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2012 Honda Fit?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2012 Honda Fit, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious consequences, including extensive engine damage and costly repairs. The light may indicate problems ranging from minor issues, such as a loose gas cap, to more severe concerns like engine misfires or emissions system failures. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to understand that while some issues may seem trivial, they can escalate quickly if not addressed. Not only can neglecting the check engine light result in decreased fuel efficiency and performance, but it can also pose safety risks while driving. Therefore, it is advisable to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the underlying problem. This proactive approach not only aids in timely repairs but also ensures the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. Always prioritize safety and consider consulting a professional mechanic if the issue is beyond your expertise.

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