1998 Honda Civic CX Hatchback review from North America
"Good value if maintained"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water pump, starter, muffler, drum brake pistons replaced in 2007.
Speedometer stuck at 30 km/h in 2005.
Aerial stuck in 2003.
Gasket around right tail light went and allowed rain water into the hatch in 2001.
Recall repair done on the ignition switch, and the warranty was extended to 7 years on the manifold.
General comments?
Generally a reliable vehicle that has started in all weather (+35 to -40 Celsius)
Purchased new in 1998 I am still on my original battery, lights, rear brake pads (!), and clutch.
Okay on fuel and inexpensive to maintain over the 10 year period. This car isn't bullet proof, but it hasn't had any catastrophic faults.
Speedometer will sometimes work at highway speeds, but mostly dances at 30 km/h. I was quoted around $500 to replace the cluster, but I do not think it is a worth while repair. I am guessing I have about 230,000 km on the car, and I intend to drive it into the ground.
Wind noise around the door window seals is fatiguing and there is a lot of road noise throughout the car. Not ideal for long trips or high speed travel if noise bothers you.
Tasteful interior design that still looks good presently. The dash and seat materials have not split or worn through, and the carpet is still in good condition.
Recommended reviews
| Good first car, but is lacking, and leaves you wanting more |
| Good, but not up to its legend |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 3 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 230000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 18th December, 2008 |