1988 Honda Civic DX hatchback review from North America
"Reliable, economical, and a delight to drive"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Finally at 196,500 miles things are starting to go bad. The transmission has just failed. The alternator failed at 190,000 miles. The other repairs have been several batteries, about 4 sets of tires, about 4 brake services and one brake system overhaul, replaced struts once, 3 mufflers, replaced front axles at 175,000, all four wheel bearings, 3 timing belts, one water pump, and the front ball joints. I do all my own repairs, and try to catch stuff before it becomes a problem.
General comments?
A more reliable car I cannot imagine. The only down side is she is finally wearing out. Fuel economy has always been better than EPA ratings, usually 34 city and about 38 highway, not bad for an automatic. I wish I had kept the body up better, it is starting to rust through around the rear wheel wells.
Recommended reviews
| Cheap, nippy, easy to drive and handle |
|
| A very reliable compact car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 1988 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 196500 miles |
| Previous car | Buick LeSabre |
| Date of Entry | 16th April, 2000 |