1994 Honda Civic DX review from North America
"Reliable and flimsy all at the same time"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Radiator replacement at 200K.
Nothing actually "went wrong" mechanically or electrically with the car other than expected maintenance such as exhausts, brakes, lights etc.
General comments?
I enjoyed the reliability of the car, which is why I bought it in the first place. If you're into car stuff, I replaced the motor with a DOHC model (b16a2 for those who are technical). But if you put aside the reliability factor the car is actually rolling tin can.
This Civic is pure junk and pathetic in many aspects. The ride quality of the car is very poor, it handles horribly in all conditions. I upgraded the suspension however this review is about the STOCK civic.
On the highway the car is very shaky and has a very uncomfortable feeling.
The seats are absolutely horrible to sit on (had to upgrade to integra seats)
When the AC is turned on the entire car shakes, you can feel it especially in the shifter. It's a very annoying feeling while driving.
Ground clearance is way too low, you're a snow plow whether you want to be or not.
Crash tests are very very poor. Don't expect this car to hold up in any crash situation. On a side impact it will crumble and fold like a cheap accordion.
I could go on more but I'll stop. I recommend this car because of its engine alone. Honda does make a very good motor, but everything else (even on their new cars) has a very cheap feeling. Gas mileage of the civic was 34/38 MPG (city/highway).
There are many die-hards on these cars, but I have no brand loyalty to them. Although I do recommend it to anyone. I sold the car and bought a truck. You can really tell the difference in build quality between the two. The honda is just not a "solid" car no matter how much you argue on it, this is a fact and people need to realize this.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1994 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 3 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 2 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 155000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 215000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Caprice |
| Date of Entry | 4th August, 2008 |