1989 Honda Civic DX Hatchback review from North America
"Honda has got to be kicking themselves for building such an excellent car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I've had the usual tires, brakes, exhaust systems replaced.
I've had to install 2 alternators and 2 pair of CV joints.
Also, I've replaced the timing belt and water pump on a 70,000 mile schedule.
I've put in 1 clutch and I think its about time for another one.
The front drivers seat is pretty worn, but still comfortable
Overall, this has been the most amazingly reliable, lowest cost car I've ever owned.
General comments?
I intend to keep this car till it has at least 500,000 miles on it.
I'm sure I'll have to rebuild the engine at some point, but right now, it is running really well on 89 octane gas and still gets 36 mpg regularly, with higher mileage on the freeway.
The engine has never leaked any fluids, and doesn't burn any oil. I regularly run it at 80 - 90 mph and today I ran it up to a little over 100.
I once had it pegged at 114 for about 30 miles while driving through Mississippi.
There has never been any body damage and all the original installed parts still work very well.
I change the oil religiously every 3000 miles with 10w40 Quaker State.
I also have been using Michelin XGV 185/70R/13 size all weather tires and have been getting about 70,000 out of each set.
This car was ordered and delivered with manual steering, manual brakes, crank up windows, no air conditioning and I believe that is why it has been and remains so reliable.
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![]() ![]() | For an older car, its quite a bargain, given its performance |
![]() ![]() | Great reliability, performance, and built quality economical car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1989 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 240000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Malibu |
| Date of Entry | 1st August, 2003 |

