This car was great, right up until it went under an SUV who slammed his brakes
Timing belt snapped, which threw valves in my engine about 500 miles after I bought the car. (granted it had 160000 when I bought it, I should have changed it).
Great on gas!!
Easy to fix on your own.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 17th November, 2008
One of the greatest cars built... Period
The switch that controls the windshield wipers is limp, and one of the door locks is missing. Also one of the power windows needs some assistance to go all the way up.
This car, although small, is surprisingly roomy (I am 6ft 290lbs) and the ride is pretty comfortable considering how low it is to the ground.
My family has used this car to do everything from make long trips to haul wood. This car is extremely reliable. There have been many occasions where my brother and I have had to be picked from somewhere because of mechanical problems... none of which were the Honda.
Before I got the car it had been sitting up for more than a year. To get running all it needed was a new battery and a oil change, as well as some spark plugs and a new air filter. This car also has some things I wish more cars had, for example a ridge on the dashboard to throw stuff. Another thing is GLASS LENSES!!!
This car can turn around in place... not literally but you get the picture. I think my favorite part of this car is that it only takes $10 to put it at a half tank of gas.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 21st September, 2008
The 89 Civic: a great affordable car
I replaced the clutch at 146,000 miles.
The front brake rotors tend to warp, although the set I have now are working fine well into their life.
I've replaced CV joints, and I've had some body leaks repaired.
The driver's seat has ripped vinyl.
Otherwise, the only cost is regular maintenance.
I bought my Civic brand new right out of seminary when I had little cash, and I've kept it all these years because it just makes no sense to replace it yet. It sips gas, doesn't burn oil, and it is fun to drive. Quality is built into this simple driving machine.
The lack of air conditioning means it isn't the greatest car for long freeway journeys, although if I had to, I'd have no qualms about taking off tomorrow for a cross-country trip.
Now it is a second car that my wife loves to drive around town.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 27th July, 2006
It's great on fuel and is fun to drive bought and paid for
I have an 89 civic with 220k on the engine.
The fuel pump, distributor and catalytic converter were replaced.
The car runs and doesn't burn oil, yet.
But it lacks in horsepower with a clean air filter.
When you press the gas pedal to the floor the engine bogs and sputters.
Would you have any explanation of why the lack of horsepower?
It always starts, but lacks power.
Everything else works so I don't know if I should get rid of it.
Please email me if you know what it is.
James_dubin@yahoo.com.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 25th December, 2005
Reliability not up to spec
Passenger side CV joint went a 72,500 miles, had to replace whole driveshaft. $120.
Both tie-rods, one was my fault from removing a ball joint without the proper tools. $24 each.
Radiator went at 77,000 miles from part age, part little rock that bounced up on the highway. $98.
Steering knuckle $25 used from a junkyard. Though it was bent from prevoius owner, but I was wrong.
Routine brake pads. Fairly cheap.
Rotors seem to warp from heat easily, I have already replaced one side and the other is warped now also.
Drum brake pads and wheel cylinder. Expected from a 16 year old car.
Drivers seat ripped.
Hard starting in hot weather, I read it was a starter relay problem, common for Hondas.
I bought this car used in December of 2004 for $850. It had a couple dents on the passenger side and the bumper has never been properly attached.
Most problems have been from normal wear and tear, but I have not experienced the "amazing Honda reliability " that everyone talks about.
Gas economy is phenomenal. All my freinds are jealous. My best has been 44 mpg on a 260 mile mostly highway trip. I constantly average 40 mpg+.
Some rust, mostly rear wheel wells though some on the side of the car.
The 70hp engine leaves low-end torque to be desired and just more power overall. Revs high, but only feels quick at 50-70 mph.
The 4-speed has wide ratios for fuel economy though a 5th gear is desired to lower noise and revs on the highway at 70mph.
Handling is OK for this car. Reaches its limits earlier than the SI or CRX, but very predictable. The only I have lost traction was when I attempted to go 42mph on a 20mph curve which resulted in a quick 180 and a very surprised and scared teenager.
The lack of Air conditioning is a nuisance on summer days.
With the gas prices skyrocketing, this car is a must have for any teenager. Seeing how I only paid $850 for the car with 72,000k, I beleive I found a nice deal with the fuel economy factored in and the low running costs.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 14th September, 2005
Hello.
I find this review very helpful, especially the part on fuel economy. If you think fuel prices are rocketing in the USA, just know that it can always get worse: I live in the Netherlands, where we have to pay $ 6.40 for a gallon of gasoline... I think I'll buy a Honda Civic!
26th Sep 2010, 11:53
These Civics run great unless they get hit. I was rear-ended by a Mercury Montego (mid-size car). My Civic was totalled and they were able to drive away.