Faults:

The major problem with the Honda Civics is the air conditioning. Mine broke in the second year that I owned it, so the repair was covered by warranty, and it broke a second time in its 9th year. I forget actually which part of the air conditioner does fail, but the warranty repairs were $1100 and I am expecting something comparable now.

General Comments:

Other than the air conditioning, I have had no problems with this car. I would certainly buy another Honda - they hold their value and are exceptionally reliable.

There are no faults with the interior - seats are in perfect condition, e.g. It is not the quickest car by any means, but the gas mileage is also exceptional, which is important for everyone in this economy I think!

Faults:

Air conditioning condenser was recalled shortly after purchase. Honda replaced in one day at no charge.

Exhaust (from catalytic converter back) needed replacement after 6 years. I assume this is average since I live in the Northeast of the US and there is a lot of salt on the roads in the winter to combat snow and ice.

General Comments:

Car is extremely reliable - has started every time on the first time since I purchased it.

5-speed manual transmission is excellent.

VTEC engine offers brisk acceleration and excellent fuel economy and reliability.

In 9 years, I've only made minor investments in servicing the car (oil changes, tune ups, front disc brake pads, etc.). The only exception was the exhaust replacement which is understandable after 6 years.

Car is very fuel efficient - I get approximately 27 m.p.g. in mixed driving.

Car still looks sharp and current despite its age of 9 years. Paint has held up well and no sign of rust.

Factory installed stereo (with door mounted tweeters) is good. After 9 years, I fried the front right woofer which needs to be replaced.

General Comments:

This is overall the best car to own. It's stylish, affordable and reliable. After 200,000 miles it still runs like new. Never had one problem!

Faults:

A month or two after I purchased the car, my exhaust pipe connecting to the catalytic converter broke off. It would make sense that it did because from the looks of the exhaust system, it seems that it hasn't been replaced in a while.

Let's face it, this car was designed for being a manual. I have an automatic and it feels like I am in a semi-stick-shift! The car goes into each gear like a manual as I accelerate. You have to go up a certain MPH to get it shifted up or else it would sound like it's stalling. For example, I have to get it pass 25 mph to get it to second gear. If I was on 23 or 24 it would make a really loud stalling noise. Too bad for me I can't shift anytime I want because I have an automatic.

General Comments:

I don't get how a 125hp car can be so fast!! In comparison to my mom's car, the 1998 Cadillac Catera which is about 200hp, there isn't much of a difference on side of speed. It accelerates just as quickly as her car. This civic can reach 60 in maybe 5 or 6 seconds - If using the 4-speed shift (automatic).

The handling is very nice too. I can turn tight corners at speeds of 45 mph, which is impressive.