2nd Apr 2004, 10:33

1990 Civic EX, the left tail light and the trunk leaks, causing bulbs to fail; this also ruined the cardboard above the spare, and the scissor jack is rusty, probably unusable. Lookswise, I concur the things do seem to have rather timeless classic/modern looks, and the motor seems macho, but I heard more than once that Hondas have rather clunky gearboxes (automatic).

27th Oct 2004, 12:22

Seems a weak point, I have the same problem. The left rear tail lens was full of water, I had to remove it get it all out. The cardboard panel is soggily ruined, and the jack a rusty mess. Perhaps a new trunk seal would fix--it doesn't appear in bad shape by looking at it though. The 4-speed automatic gearbox is a bit clunky, but not as bad as before I got the left CV joint axle replaced--I thought it was the transmission going bad, but it solved the clicking noise when turning, and also shifts smoother--although I've heard that Hondas have rather clunky auto-transmissions, it's not bad, but not quite like a knife through butter!

12th May 2007, 00:53

The leaking taillights seems to be a ig HOnda thing, tons of Accord owners have the same problem.

Anyways, good review. I'm thinking of maybe getting a little civic Si to beat around in, so this helps :).

20th Sep 2009, 13:58

September 2009.

My 1990 Honda Civic SI is still going great. Did have the water problem as well in the trunk and taillight a few years back, but got it fixed and now is no problem. A bit of rust around the wheel wells seems to be common. Gone through several mufflers over the years. Chronic but fairly minor power steering fluid leak currently. Usually gets 450 km on 35 L fill. Would highly recommend! Bought the car slightly used in 1992 for $10000. Just can't bear to part with it.

20th Nov 2009, 15:27

I have a 91 Civic Si. Best car I have ever owned. Trying to solve the leaky taillight problem. Maybe take the entire fixture out and put some silicone around the old worn gasket. I had it painted in 2004, and the girl who had it previous to me kept it in the garage and outta the snow. The rust is a problem with these old cars.