Hey all,

Ive found a 2006 first gen insight for sale in my area with 75k miles ( 121k kilometers since I'm in Canada)

Seller says battery is dead and it throws an ima light.

Manual transmission

$2000 Canadian

Is it worth buying it and replacing the battery? Or even just driving it ICE only?

Thanks!

 

MT ICE-only performance is horrific, and the battery can deteriorate to the point that 12V charging is disabled, which means you're charging the 12V every night. If you're required to pass emissions in your area, IMA battery must be replaced.

Extended highway mpg can be really good - hardly worse than a fully functional IMA system, but in-town mpg and performance will be unbearable.

ONLY buy this car if you are capable of doing your own work, have another vehicle to drive when this one break down, and have ZERO expectation of saving any money on gas (offset by maintenance costs).

These cars are really for enthusiasts who think they're cool. I have two.

check out http://www.insightcentral.net

 

Thank-you S Keith!

Ive been hypermiling my HCHII for a little while now so I wanted to get a bit more serious with the insight but unfortunately I had to pass on it because of family problems.

Always appreciate your "insight" ! 😁