1989 Honda Civic problems
The Honda Civic (Japanese: ホンダ・シビック, Hepburn: Honda Shibikku) is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1972. As of 2023, the Civic is positioned between the Honda Fit/City and Honda Accord in Honda's global car line-up.
The first-generation Civic was introduced in July 1972 as a two-door fastback sedan, followed by a three-door hatchback that September. With a 1,169 cc transverse engine and front-wheel drive like the British Mini, the car provided good interior space despite overall small dimensions. Initially gaining a reputation for being fuel-efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly, later iterations have become known for performance and sportiness, especially the Civic Type R, Civic VTi, Civic GTi and Civic SiR/Si.
The Civic has been repeatedly rebadged for international markets, and served as the basis for the Honda CR-X, the Honda CR-X del Sol, the Concerto, the first generation Prelude, the Civic Shuttle (later to become the Orthia) and the CR-V (which, by extension, was used as the basis for the Honda FR-V).
The Civic is one of the all-time best-selling automobiles in the world, with over 27 million units sold since 1972 as of 2021.
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Common 1989 Honda Civic problems
The 1989 Honda Civic is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Brake lights will not turn off, even with key out of ignition: This problem can be caused by a faulty brake light switch or a wiring issue. It's also possible that the switch is stuck in the "on" position, which can cause the battery to drain over time.
- Heater/AC blower will not work for some settings: This issue can be caused by a faulty blower motor resistor or a wiring problem. If the blower works but doesn't produce heat, it's possible that the heater core is clogged or that the thermostat is stuck open.
- Blower works but no heat: This problem can be caused by a faulty heater core, a clogged heater core, or a faulty thermostat. It's also possible that the cooling system is low on coolant, which can prevent the heater from working properly.
- Car will not start but engine will turn over: This issue can be caused by a faulty ignition system, a weak battery, or a damaged starter motor. If the engine turns over but won't start, it's possible that the ignition system is the culprit.
- Climate control faceplate is cracked: This issue can be caused by age, wear and tear, or exposure to extreme temperatures. It's also possible that the faceplate was damaged during installation or removal of the climate control unit.
- Idle RPM cycles from high to low: This issue can be caused by a faulty idle air control valve (IAC), a sticking throttle plate, or a vacuum leak. It's also possible that the engine is running too rich or too lean, which can cause the idle to fluctuate.
- Dome light turns on briefly when driving, especially while turning: This issue can be caused by a faulty dome light switch, a wiring problem, or a faulty turn signal switch. It's also possible that the switch is stuck in the "on" position, which can cause the dome light to come on at inopportune times.
- Squeaky steering wheel: This issue can be caused by a lack of lubrication, worn out steering components, or a loose steering rack. It's also possible that the steering wheel itself is causing the noise, which can be fixed by tightening the steering wheel nut or replacing the steering wheel.
- Squeaky hatch: This issue can be caused by a lack of lubrication, worn out hatch components, or a loose hatch striker. It's also possible that the hatch itself is causing the noise, which can be fixed by tightening the hatch striker or replacing the hatch.
- Water leaks: This issue can be caused by a faulty sunroof, a damaged windshield, or a clogged drainage system. It's also possible that the seal around the doors or windows is damaged, which can allow water to enter the cabin.
- Broken A/C controls: This issue can be caused by age, wear and tear, or exposure to extreme temperatures. It's also possible that the controls were damaged during installation or removal of the climate control unit.
- Broken seat belt retractor mechanism: This issue can be caused by age, wear and tear, or exposure to extreme temperatures. It's also possible that the mechanism was damaged during installation or removal of the seat belt.
- Head gasket failure: This issue can be caused by overheating, poor maintenance, or a manufacturing defect. It's also possible that the head gasket was damaged during installation or removal of the engine.
- Hard seats: This issue can be caused by a lack of cushioning, worn out seat covers, or a design flaw. It's also possible that the seats were not designed for long periods of sitting, which can cause discomfort over time.
- Limited steering wheel adjustment: This issue can be caused by a design flaw, a lack of adjustability, or a manufacturing defect. It's also possible that the steering wheel was not designed for tall drivers, which can cause discomfort over time.
These are just some of the common problems that 1989 Honda Civic owners have reported over the years. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the root cause and to find a solution that works for you.
Are 1989 Civics reliable?
The manual steering is still nice and tight yet easy to handle. I would say that today, it would be a fantastic car for a student looking for reliability and economy.
What is the common problem of Honda Civic?
Brakes. Some Civic owners have complained of squealing brakes; Honda is said to be aware of the problem and working on a fix, though it's worth keeping in mind that any Civic you test drive with noisy brakes may not be easy to fix.
What was a bad year for Honda Civic?
What Year Did the Honda Civic Have Engine Problems? The Honda Civic years 2001 – 2006 is a notorious batch of vehicles in the lineup with multiple engine and airbag issues. However, models from 2006 to 2008 and a few 2009 models had coolant issues such as leaks that could blow up your engine.
What engine does a 1989 Honda Civic have?
The Civic Si hatchback returned for the 1989 model year. The Si was only available as a hatchback with a 5-speed manual transmission, which featured shorter gears than lower models. The Si came with a 1.6-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder D16A6 engine, producing the same 108 bhp (81 kW; 109 PS) as in the EX.
1989 Honda Civic car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda Civic problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Honda Civic vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1989 Honda Civic
The NHTSA has received 82 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Honda Civic. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1989 Honda Civic vehicles.
2006-05-03
SEAT BELTS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JHMEE4866KS
- Components: SEAT BELTS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAD AUTO ACCIDENT, I WAS GOING 15 TO 20 MILES AN HOUR. WHEN I HIT SMALL TREE. THE STEERING WHEEL CRUSHED MY CHEST AND I SUFFERED A SPINAL CORD INJURY AT THE T~2 LEVEL AND NOW I'M NOW A QUADRIPLEGIC. MY SEAT BELT FAILED TO HOLD, THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY HAD BEEN RECALLED MINE WAS REPLACED UNDER RECALL. IN 1996 RECALL NO.- 95-028 I WAS STILL HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE BELT LATCH NOT STAYING FASTENED CALLED THE HONDA COMPANY TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM THEY DIDN'T HELP ME AT ALL. A DEALER TOLD ME HONDA HAS A LIFETIME SEAT BELT WARRANTY ON ALL HONDA VEHICLES, IT COVERS ANY SEAT BELT COMPONENTS THAT FAILS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY. THE AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR COMPANY SAID IT'S MY RESPONSIBILITY. NOW I'M PAYING THE PRICE. BUYER BEWARE YOU MIGHT END UP, LIKE ME IN A WHEELCHAIR. THIS RECALL ONLY INFECTED 3,300,000 VEHICLES, ROLL THE DICE? TAKE A CHANGE. I'M SURE THERE ARE MORE VICTIMS OUT THERE, WHILE SOME I'M SURE YOU PLANTED THEM...*JB
2006-02-23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-22
- VIN: 1HGED3540KA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE REVVED WHILE THE VEHICLE IDLED IN PARK. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE AND THE GEARS WERE HARD TO SHIFT. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS THE VEHICLE GRADUALLY LOST POWER AND THEN STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP FOR THE STALLING ISSUE. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE TIMING BELT, HOWEVER THE PROBLEM CONTINUED. DURING THE SECOND INSPECTION THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL ISSUE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED.
2004-06-11
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-01
- VIN: 1HGED3650KA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ENGINE "REVS" AND SURGES FORWARD. THIS IS ESPECIALLY BAD WHEN IN IDLE OR WHEN RESTARTING AFTER HAVING BEEN DRIVEN. SEVERAL TIMES THIS HIGH REVVING HAS CAUSED THE CAR TO LURCH FORWARD, AND IN A COUPLE OF INSTANCES HAS ALMOST CAUSED CAR TO HIT AUTO IN FRONT OF IT. THIS HAS HAPPENED SINCE PURCHASE THREE YEARS AGO AND CONTINUES TO THIS DAY. NO ONE HAS BEEN ABLE TO EXPLAIN TO ME WHY NOR BEEN ABLE TO FIX. THIS CONDITION CAUSES HIGH FUEL CONSUMPTION AS WELL AS BEING A SAFETY FACTOR.*AK
2004-03-17
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH VEHICLE STALLED. A TECHNICIAN SERVICED THE VEHICLE ON 3-15-04, AND DETERMINED THAT IGNITION DISTRIBUTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
2003-08-07
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-07
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: HONDA ISSUED A RECALL OF THE FRONT SEATBELTS IN THE 1989 HONDA. THE BELT CAN SPONTANEOUSLY COME UNLATCHED. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM IN MY FIANCE'S 1989 HONDA. THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT SEAT BELT OFTEN SPONTANEOUSLY UNLATCHES -- THAT IS WHERE I SIT. WE HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO PLANET HONDA IN GOLDEN, COLORADO ON THREE OCCASIONS. BUT THEY HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BELT TO UNLATCH WHEN WE WERE AT THE DEALER, SO THEY HAVE REFUSED TO REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE SEAT BELT. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM. HER CAR OBVIOUSLY HAS THE PROBLEM. BUT HONDA IS REFUSING TO FIX IT. WHAT DO WE DO? *PH
2003-06-12
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-05
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TRAVELING ON I-15 SOUTH AT 75 MPH THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR TIRES TREAD SEPARATED WHICH IMMEDIATELY SENT MY 89 HONDA CIVIC HATCHBACK INTO A SPIN ENDING WITH US HITTING HEAD FIRST INTO THE CENTER DIVIDE, WRECKING THE CAR AND LUCKILY ONLY GIVING US WHIPLASH AND NOTHING MORE. *JB
2002-05-03
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER WAS BOUGHT FROM LARRY'S AUTO PARTS - NAPA, KAIMUKI ON O'AHU, HAWAII. THE MASTER CYLINDER HAD A LIFETIME-WARRANTY AND WAS MANUFACTURED BY UNITED BRAKE. THE FIRST NAPA MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER (NMBC) WAS PUT ON MY FRIEND'S 1989 HONDA CIVIC BY MYSELF ON AUGUST 29, 2001. THE FIRST (NMBC) WAS FOUND TO BE LEAKING FROM AROUND THE BOTTOM OF THE BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR. THE SECOND (NMBC) WAS INSTALLED ON DECEMBER 18, 2001 BY MYSELF, AND THE ENTIRE BRAKE SYSTEM AT EACH WHEEL WAS BLED OF AIR. RIGHT AFTER THE INSTALLMENT OF THE (NMBC) THE OWNER OF THE CIVIC NOTICED THAT AT TIMES THE BRAKE PEDAL COULD BE PRESSED VERY LOW TO THE FLOORBOARD, WHILE AT OTHER TIMES IT WAS AT ITS NORMAL HEIGHT. THREE MONTHS LATER ON MARCH 12, 2002, THE CAR WAS TAKEN INTO MIDAS, WAIALAE AVE. BRANCH. THE MECHANIC INFORMED US THE BRAKE LINES NEEDED TO BE BLED. HE LATER INFORMED US THAT HE COULD NOT GET PRESSURE INTO THE LINE AND THE REASON FOR IT WAS THE SECOND (NMBC) WAS "FAULTY" AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. MIDAS REINSTALLED THE THIRD (NMBC). WITHIN ONE WEEK THE THIRD (NMBC) WAS FOUND TO BE LEAKING. ON OR ABOUT MARCH 20, 2002, THE MECHANIC RE-BLED THE BRAKE LINES AND CHECKED FOR ANY LEAKS AND FOUND NONE. RETURNING FROM A VACATION ON THURSDAY MARCH 28, 2002, I LOOKED AT THE (NMBC) ON THE HONDA CIVIC AND OBSERVED THAT THE BRAKE FLUID HAD ENTIRELY DRAINED OUT OF THE (NMBC) RESERVOIR. ON FRIDAY MARCH 29, 2002, THE MIDAS MECHANIC REPLACED THE "FAULTY" THIRD (NMBC) FOR A FOURTH (NMBC). THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE SCREW ON THE THIRD (NMBC) BETWEEN THE TWO BRAKE LINES GOING INTO THE (NMBC) WAS LEAKING. ON THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2002, THE FOURTH (NMBC) WAS FOUND TO BE LEAKING. IT WAS LEAKING FROM AROUND THE BOTTOM OF THE (NMBC) BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR. THE FOURTH (NMBC) WAS REPLACED ON APRIL 17, 2002 WITH A TOTALLY DIFFERENT MASTER CYLINDER SUPPLIED BY MIDAS. AS OF TODAY, MAY 3, 2002, THE NEW MASTER BRAKE CYLINDER SUPPLIED BY MIDAS HAS HAD NO PROBLEMS.*AK
2002-02-04
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-06-30
- VIN: 2HGED6348KH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FOR ABOUT 8 YEARS WHEN CAR WAS PARKED IN SUMMER SUN, CAR WOULD START (MYSTERIOUSLY) ONLY AFTER I LIFTED THE HOOD TO TINKER. RECENTLY A HONDA DEALER'S EMPLOYEE CASUALLY MENTIONED IT WAS A DEFECTIVE RELAY THAT WOULD COST $60 TO REPLACE. IT FAILED AT SUMMER TEMPERATURES. THAT EXPLAINED EVERYTHING, E.G., LIFTING THE HOOD COOLED THE RELAY, AND PRESTO! BUT HOW COME THE DEALER GUY KNEW THIS, WHILE NOTHING SHOWS UP ON NHTSA? SECRET WARRANTY? COULD BE A ROADSIDE SAFETY ISSUE. I.E., HELP...!*AK
2001-10-22
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, LEFT REAR TIRE SIDEWALL BLEWOUT, CAUSING CONSUMER TO LOSE CONTROL AND STRIKE A GUARDRAIL, THERE WAS DAMAMGE TO VEHICLE. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT) *SLC
2001-10-22
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, LEFT REAR TIRE SIDEWALL BLEWOUT, CAUSING CONSUMER TO LOSE CONTROL AND STRIKE A GUARDRAIL, THERE WAS DAMAMGE TO VEHICLE. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT) *SLC
2001-10-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-12
- VIN: 1HGED3553KA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PREVIOUSY VEHICLE HAS HAD PROBLEMS WITH INTERMITTENTLY NOT STARTING AND STALLING AT ANY SPEED. VEHICLE HAD BEEN AT DEALER SEVERAL TIMES, AND DEALER NEVER MADE CONSUMER AWARE OF A RECALL. IGNITER WAS REPLACED WITH A UPDATE PIECE. *AK
2001-09-16
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-14
- VIN: 1HGED3650KA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I SPOKE WITH REPAIR FACILITIES AND OTHER CIVIC OWNERS WHO SAY THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. THE REPAIR CENTERS SAID THEY ALWAYS REPLACE THE CRACKED PLASTIC RADIATOR WITH A METAL RADIATOR. HONDA SHOULD INSTALL A METAL RADIATOR TO BEGIN WITH AND THIS WOULD NOT BE A PROBLEM.*AK
2001-01-03
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS TANK LEAKING, OWNER HAD GAS TANK REPLACED. *CJ
2000-09-11
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 2HGED6450KH
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE IN A PARKING LOT CAUSING COLLISON, THE IMPACT WAS SO GREAT THAT THE OCCUPANT OF THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED A BROKEN SHOULDER BLADE. NLM
2000-09-07
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1HGED365YKA
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WAS DRIVING VEHICLE WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLECROSSED FROM ANOTHER LANE IN FRONT SUDDENLY. CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES & REAR ENDED VEHICLEIN FRONT. UPON IMPACT WITH VEHICLE, DRIVER'S SEAT BELT FAILED TO LOCK UP TO RESTRAIN DRIVER. SEAT BELT BUCKLE LOCKING MECHANISM BROKE. DRIVER WAS THROWN FORWARD, BUT NOT INJECTED. DRIVER SUFFERED WHIPLASH & RELEASED FROM EMERGENCY ROOM. *AK
2000-08-21
EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-20
- VIN: JHMED3550KS
- Components: EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE FLOOR MAT ON THE DRIVER SIDE GETS IN THE WAY OF THE BRAKES AND THE GAS PETALS. SOMETIMES IT KEEPS THE GAS PETAL DOWN. SOMETIMES, IT KEEPS THE BRAKE PETAL DOWN. IS THERE A RECALL ON THE FLOOR MATS. THESE MATS WERE PURCHASED NEW WITH THE VEHICLE. THE AIR CONDITIONER BROKE TWICE. I HAD TO PURCHASE A NEW COMPRESSOR, NEW EVAP COIL, NEW FAN -- I RELPACED EACH COMPONTENT TWICE.
2000-04-07
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2HGED7362KH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR STALLED AT SPEED ON HIGHWAY. SMOKE OBSERVED UNDER HOOD WHICH WAS JAMMED SHUT. FIRE STARTED WHICH ENGULFED THE CAR. TOTAL LOSS. *AK
2000-03-15
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-20
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: 2HGEO645OKH
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHEN CONSUMER PUT SHIFT LEVER INTO REVERSE CAUSING BROKEN BONES AND SEVERAL OTHER INJURIES TO THE OCCUPANTS. NLM
2000-01-27
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-27
- VIN: 2HGED6452KH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE, ESPECIALLY ON THE SEAT BELT BUCKLES. THERE HAVE BEEN NO PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE. OWNER CONTACTED PREVIOUS OWNER AND FOUND THAT THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL ON THE SEAT BELTS AND THAT IT HAD ALREADY BEEN FIXED. *AK *ML
2000-01-04
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE 1989 HONDA CIVIC DX USES MOTORIZED SEAT BELTS. MY NIECE WAS IN AN ACCIDENT THIS WEEKEND, HIT A FREEWAY RAILING THAT CAUSED THE BATTERY TO BECOME DISCONNECTED; UPON ITS DISCONNECT, THE MOTORIZED SEAT BELTS WERE RELEASED WHICH RESULTED IN MY NIECE BEING EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE. SHE WAS KILLED IN SUBJECT ACCIDENT. IS THERE ANY AUTOMOTIVE RECALL OR LITIGATION INFORMATION AVAILABLE ABOUT SIMILAR ACCIDENTS? HAVE THERE BEEN SIMILAR LITIGATIONS? *AK
1999-12-22
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-03
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: STRUCTURE OF THE SUN ROOF WOULD LEAK WHEN IT WAS RAINING OR VEHICLE WAS BEING WASHED. THE TRUNK WOULD LEAK ALSO. THIS CAUSED THE SEALS & THE CARPET INSIDE VEHICLE TO BE SOAKED & SOMETIMES MILDEW APPEARED. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER & MECHANIC DID WATER TEST. THE LEAKS WERE FOUND, BUT DAMAGE WAS NOT REPAIRABLE. *AK
1999-08-16
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THIS VEHICLE IS EXPERIENCING SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE DRIVING. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1999-05-24
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1HGED3556KA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WITHIN THE FIRST YEAR AFTER PURCHASE THE VEHICLE ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS STALLED AND WOULD NOT RESTART (TEMPORARILY)WHILE MOVING. ONE ONE OCCASION MERELY WAITING AT CURBSIDE ABOUT 25 MINUTES WAS SUFFICIENT TO ALLOW CAR TO RESTART. NO DASHBOARD LIGHTS INDICATED ANY PROBLEM. THE SITUATION REPEATED ITSELF ON AT LEAST TWO OCCASIONS. ON THE FINAL OCCASION (1990) IT WAS ACCOMPANIED BY AN INTENSE ELECTRICAL BURNING SMELL. NO FUSES BLEW THAT I COULD TELL. THEREAFTER I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANOTHER STALLING EPISODE OF THIS TYPE. HOWEVER, SINCE THAT TIME THE COOLING FAN NEVER OPERATES. I MUST NOT BE STOPPED IN TRAFFIC ON A HOT DAY OR THE ENGINE WILL OVERHEAT. I HAVE NO FUSES WHICH ARE BLOWN. SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM HAVE NOT BEEN SUCESSFUL. I DO NOT BELIEVE THAT ANY OF THE 'IDIOT LIGHT' INDICATORS/SENSORS HAVE EVER WORKED. I WAS PROMPTED TO WRITE THIS AFTER READING OF SO MANY MANY PROBLEMS INVOLVING ENGINES STALLING WHILE UNDERWAY. HOPE THIS IS HELPFUL TO SOMBODY.
1999-04-02
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-01
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SEATBACK BROKE, CAUSING THE SEATBACK TO FALL BACKWARDS WHILE DRIVING WHICH MAY CAUSE LOSS OF CONTROL. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION AND VIN#. *AK
1999-03-17
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-12
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1HGED3657KA
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY CIVIC COLLIDED WITH THE SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 40MPH. THE LAP COMPONENT OF MY SEATBELT ENGAGED ALLOWING ONLY MINOR BRUISING/CUTS TO MY KNEES WHICH HIT THE DASH. THE SHOULDER BELT, HOWEVER, DID NOT ENGAGE CAUSING MY CHEST TO SLAM INTO THE STEERING COLUMN CAUSING A DEEP CHEST CONTUSION. MY INSURANCE CO'S APPRAISER "TESTED" THE BELT BUT CLAIMS IT CATCHES WHEN TUGGED ON. THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP CLAIMS SEATBELTS ARE TO KEEP YOU IN THE CAR, NOT TO PREVENT YOU FROM HITTING THE STEERING WHEEL/DASH/WINDSHIELD.
1989 Honda Civic recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1989 Honda Civic.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-05-24
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
2006-04-18
- Manufacturer: TOM MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN EAGLE EYES AND SONAR HEADLIGHTS AND CORNER LIGHTS SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE ON 1988-2005 HONDA CIVIC, 1990-2005 HONDA ACCORD, AND 1990-2001 ACURA INTEGRA PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. HEADLIGHTS AND CORNER LIGHTS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: TOM MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF NONCOMPLIANT LIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN APRIL 17, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOM MOTORSPORT AT 626-968-4007.
2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
1995-05-24
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES. CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. CHECK THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUG ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, THEN PRESS THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS ANY SIGN OF BREAKAGE OR CRACKING, OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, PROMPTLY CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED HONDA/ACURA DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Honda Civic problems:
Common Problems With a CRX - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-crx-ef-civic-1988-1991-3/common-problems-crx-912828/
Jul 1, 2004 ... Honda CRX / EF Civic (1988 - 1991) - Common Problems With a CRX - I'm getting ready to buy a car and thought that a CRX would be a good buy.
Q&A: 1989 Honda Civic Hatchback - Common Issues & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/honda/0r4k5-1989-honda-civic-hatchback-sometimes.html
Jun 24, 2007 ... Idle problems from your era vehicle are usually caused by the idle air control valve. It's a really common problem. I replace them all the time ...
1989 Honda Civic Reviews, Page 12 of 12 - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/honda/civic/1989/page-12/
Typical Civic rust (rear wheel wells) at about 200,000 miles. New clutch at about 210,000 miles. New radiator at about 225,000 miles. New cooling fans at about ...
1989 Civic Problems and Error Codes - HondaCivicForum.com
https://www.hondacivicforum.com/forum/mechanical-problems-technical-chat-8/1989-civic-problems-error-codes-96751/
Jun 30, 2014 ... Mechanical Problems & Technical Chat - 1989 Civic Problems and Error Codes - I have a 1989 Honda Civic that is giving me fits. Engine runs ...
I did it ! I got one of my dream cars a 1989 Honda crx. I have a ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/Honda/comments/osdq05/i_did_it_i_got_one_of_my_dream_cars_a_1989_honda/
Jul 27, 2021 ... Here are some of the issues I've fixed on my '91 Si hatch that are mentioned as common problems online: Main relay (turns on fuel pump). You ...
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