CARFIX

Honda Fit GK Third Generation (2013–2020)

The Honda Fit GK (2013–2020), known internationally as the Honda Jazz, is one of New Zealand's most popular used imports with an estimated 25,000+ units on Kiwi roads. This third-generation model arrived primarily through Japanese imports and offers exceptional interior space through Honda's Magic Seat system. For NZ owners, the Fit GK represents reliable daily transport with low running costs, though certain CVT and direct-injection issues require attention during WOF inspections.

Parts for the Honda Fit GK Third Generation

Known issues

1. Direct-injection carbon buildup on 1.5L engines causing rough running (80,000–120,000km). 2. CVT judder and hesitation during low-speed driving, often from neglected fluid changes (100,000km+). 3. Air conditioning compressor failure on 2013–2015 models, particularly in humid northern regions.

WOF tips

Inspectors check front lower ball joints for wear—a known weak point on NZ roads. CV boot splits are common due to our conditions. Ensure all four wheel speed sensors function correctly as ABS faults fail WOF. Exhaust flex pipe cracks near the manifold on higher-mileage examples. Headlight aim requires verification as aftermarket HID conversions are common on imports.

About the Honda Fit GK Third Generation

<h3>Overview & NZ Market Position</h3><p>The Honda Fit GK arrived in New Zealand predominantly as a used Japanese import, with the 1.3L i-VTEC and 1.5L direct-injection variants being most common. The hybrid version (GP5/GP6) also entered the market in significant numbers. New Zealand received both the standard Fit and the sportier RS variant, with the latter featuring a 1.5L engine producing 97kW. The GK generation introduced Earth Dreams Technology engines paired with CVT transmissions, delivering fuel economy figures of 4.5–5.5L/100km in real-world NZ driving conditions.</p><h3>Why Kiwis Love the Fit GK</h3><p>The Fit GK's popularity stems from its remarkable interior flexibility. The Magic Seat system allows the rear seats to fold completely flat or flip up, creating van-like cargo capacity in a supermini footprint. For urban Kiwis, this means hauling surfboards, flat-pack furniture, or camping gear without upgrading to a larger vehicle. Running costs remain exceptionally low—expect $60–80 for a full tank delivering 600–700km range. Parts availability is excellent through both Honda NZ dealers and aftermarket suppliers, with common service items like brake pads ($80–150 NZD) and filters readily stocked.</p><h3>Common Failure Points in NZ Conditions</h3><p>The direct-injection 1.5L engine (L15B) develops carbon buildup on intake valves, typically becoming noticeable between 80,000–120,000km. Symptoms include rough idle, hesitation, and reduced fuel economy. Walnut blasting costs $400–600 NZD at specialist workshops. The CVT transmission, while generally reliable, can develop juddering during low-speed acceleration after 100,000km—fluid changes every 40,000km help prevent this. Air conditioning compressors on early GK models (2013–2015) show higher failure rates, with replacement costs around $1,200–1,800 NZD installed.</p><h3>Ownership Tips for Kiwi Drivers</h3><p>Purchase a Fit GK with documented service history, particularly CVT fluid changes. The hybrid variants (GP5/GP6) offer even better fuel economy but require IMA battery health checks—replacement batteries cost $2,500–4,000 NZD. For South Island owners, the standard Fit handles well in light snow with quality tyres, though ground clearance (135mm) limits gravel road capability. The RS variant's sport-tuned suspension suits NZ's winding roads but rides firmer on damaged urban surfaces. Budget $300–450 annually for routine servicing at independent workshops.</p>

Questions owners ask

Why is my Honda Fit (GK) idling rough and feeling sluggish?
The 1.5L direct-injection (L15B) engine in the Honda Fit GK is prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves, especially between 80,000–120,000km. This restricts airflow and causes rough idling, hesitation, and reduced fuel economy. Consider a walnut blasting service to clean the valves, which costs around $400–$600 NZD at specialist workshops.
My Honda Fit CVT transmission is juddering at low speeds. What's causing this?
CVT judder in the Honda Fit GK, particularly after 100,000km, is often due to infrequent CVT fluid changes. Honda recommends changing the CVT fluid every 40,000km to prevent this. Neglecting this service can lead to internal wear and juddering during low-speed acceleration. Ensure you use the correct Honda-specified CVT fluid.
Where can I get brake pads for my 2015 Honda Fit in New Zealand?
Brake pads for the Honda Fit GK (2013-2020) are readily available in New Zealand from Honda dealers and aftermarket suppliers. Expect to pay between $80 and $150 NZD for a set of front brake pads. CARFIX does not currently stock parts for this vehicle.
What are some common WOF failures for the Honda Fit in New Zealand?
During a WOF inspection, common failure points on the Honda Fit GK include worn front lower ball joints, split CV boots, malfunctioning wheel speed sensors (affecting ABS), and cracks in the exhaust flex pipe near the manifold, especially on higher-mileage examples. Also, headlight aim is checked due to the prevalence of aftermarket HID conversions on imported models.
Are the hybrid Honda Fit (GP5/GP6) models reliable in New Zealand?
The hybrid Honda Fit (GP5/GP6) offers excellent fuel economy but requires careful attention to the IMA battery health. Replacement batteries can cost $2,500–$4,000 NZD. Regular servicing and battery health checks are crucial to ensure long-term reliability.
My Honda Fit's air conditioning isn't working. What could be the problem?
Air conditioning compressor failure is a known issue on early Honda Fit GK models (2013–2015), particularly in humid regions of New Zealand. Replacement costs can range from $1,200–$1,800 NZD installed. Have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician to confirm the compressor is the issue.
Is the Honda Fit GK good for driving in winter conditions in the South Island?
The standard Honda Fit GK handles well in light snow with quality tyres. However, its ground clearance of 135mm limits its capability on gravel roads. The RS variant's sport-tuned suspension provides better handling on winding roads but may ride firmer on damaged urban surfaces.