Researching 1st gen Insight. Any eastern PA owners?

[Willie Williford]

"Underpowered"? Compared to what other vehicle? Geo?
Without the IMA, yes off the line it is weak. Up hill off the line it is weaker still. Once you get above 5 mph it runs fine for it's size. Are you asking for economy or performance?

The Insight loves to buzz. Let her have her way for performance.

[AbCaRed00]

Here's a link to some google.doc insight videos you may find interesting while on the search for your car. If you find an Insight with any codes thrown, here linked's an OBDII code google doc to help determine what may be the DTC etc. Good luck in your search!

[freezin4]

Originally Posted by Eli

You'll struggle to reach/maintain cabin temperature depending on how long your commute is in those types of cold temperatures, and fuel economy will go down. A block heater may be a good investment..

I find that the engine warms up in a few minutes even in 20-30 F weather. Being garage kept would help mpg even without block warmer. The HVAC system is pretty darn good. Simple controls. I keep it at 71 F and turn it off when I'm comfortable. No issues for me




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[jime]

Here's one near you that you can go and test drive. Seek advice here on which dash lights might be lit. Negative recals may only indicate the need for battery refurbishment.

2000 Honda Insight - Rare

[Klayfish]

Yep, I saw that Craigslist ad earlier. I e-mailed the guy and he responded. Hopefully I'll be able to get out there to see it before someone buys it, as I can't get out there for at least a few days.

Sorry for the dumb question, but what's negative recal? Still trying to learn and read as much as I can, using the search function as well, but time is limited.

[freezin4]

Negative Recalibration is when the computer reassesses the battery charge level and adjusts to correct SOC level. Essentially you see your SOC drop from, say, 15 bars to 2 bars and you lose assist function. It can be disconcerting when you are relying on assist such as highway merge or hill climb.

[RedJellyBean]

Originally Posted by Willie Williford

"Underpowered"? Compared to what other vehicle? Geo?
Without the IMA, yes off the line it is weak. Up hill off the line it is weaker still. Once you get above 5 mph it runs fine for it's size. Are you asking for economy or performance?

The Insight loves to buzz. Let her have her way for performance.

Compared to my old Vortech V2 SQ-trim supercharged Lexus LS400, it's extremely underpowered! But I agree that the right driving technique will keep the Insight scooting along at least somewhat meaningfully. My point is that when I need instant acceleration, as in a busy highway where my lane is at a stop and I have to get into the left lane and accelerate quickly, the car doesn't have enough get up and go, with my battery pack being in the state it's in. Fair enough?

[theaveng]

I was passing cars this morning while climbing up a California mountain (they were only doing 65). So then I shifted out of 4th to 5th and slowed down like the rest of them.

[Willie Williford]

RJB,
That just means you rely too much on the IMA battery, then get a BBB and you will be happy.

Willie

[theaveng]

I have an insight located in southern Lancaster PA.
No you can't buy it.