1997 Honda Civic problems

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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.

1997 Honda Civic

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Common 1997 Honda Civic problems

The Honda Civic 1997 is known for its quality, style, packaging, performance, and price. However, like any other vehicle, it has some common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are the details of those issues:

  • Exhaust Manifold Crack: The exhaust manifold of the 1997 Honda Civic is prone to cracking, especially in the center. This issue can lead to a reduction in engine performance, increased emissions, and a louder exhaust note. A good, cheap option for replacing the exhaust manifold includes a spot for an O2 sensor. However, it's essential to find one that bolts on and works without any modifications.
  • Missing Gasket between Air Filter Box and Throttle Body: The gasket between the air filter box and throttle body can wear out or disappear over time. This issue can cause a vacuum leak, which can lead to various problems, including a rough idle, poor acceleration, and a check engine light. To fix this issue, you can look for a replacement gasket at a local auto parts store or online.
  • Transmission Shifting Issues: Some owners of the 1997 Honda Civic have reported hard shifts from 2nd to 3rd gear and 3rd to 3rd gear, as well as a jarring TCC lockup. These issues can be caused by various factors, including worn-out synchronizers, a damaged clutch, or low transmission fluid levels. To address these issues, it's recommended to hit up a junkyard, clean the throttle body, and do 3 drain and fills on the transmission, using about 3 quarts each time. Additionally, welding the crack can be a temporary fix.
  • Faulty O2 Sensor: A faulty O2 sensor can cause various issues, including a check engine light, poor fuel economy, and reduced engine performance. To fix this issue, you can replace the O2 sensor with an OEM or Denso sensor, as aftermarket sensors may not provide the same level of performance and reliability.
  • Idle Air Control Circuit Issue: The idle air control circuit issue can cause the engine to rev between 1500 and 2000 RPM, leading to a rough idle and a check engine light. To fix this issue, you can take apart the throttle body and clean it thoroughly. If the issue persists, you may need to replace the idle air control valve or the throttle position sensor.

In summary, the 1997 Honda Civic is a reliable and durable vehicle, but it can experience some common problems, such as a cracked exhaust manifold, missing gasket between the air filter box and throttle body, transmission shifting issues, faulty O2 sensor, and idle air control circuit issue. To address these issues, it's recommended to replace the faulty parts with OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts, clean the throttle body, and perform regular maintenance tasks, such as transmission fluid changes and O2 sensor replacement.

1997 Honda Civic engine

Are 97 Civics reliable?

The average rating is a 4.6 out of 5 stars. The 1997 Honda Civic Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5. It ranks 1st out of 32 for all car brands.

How long can a 1997 Honda Civic last?

It's not uncommon for a Civic to last upward of 20 years, and you can tack on the miles during that expanse of time. You could get from 200,000 to 300,000 miles with a Honda Civic before it completely breaks down or requires extensive repairs.

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 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.

1997 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:

  • Air bags problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Honda Civic vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1997 Honda Civic

The NHTSA has received 401 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Honda Civic. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Honda Civic vehicles.

2022-03-30

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
  • VIN: 1hgej8148vl
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 1997 Honda Civic. The contact received a notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V026000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact then received a notice that the parts were available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it remained in their possession for three months due to the part for the vehicle not being available. The contact then signed a waiver to take liability for any air bag failure that may occur while in his possession. The contact also declined a buyback offer made by the manufacturer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
2020-09-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-17
  • VIN: 1HGEJ712XVL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: GOOD DAY: ON 17 MARCH 2020, HONDA ADVISED ME THAT MY 1997 CIVIC IS INCLUDED IN NHTSA RECALL 20V-026, WHICH AFFECTS THE DRIVER FRONTAL AIRBAG MODULE. IN THE RECALL NOTICE, HONDA SAID THE REPAIR PARTS ARE UNAVAILABLE, AND PROMISED TO NOTIFY ME WHEN THE DEFECTIVE COMPONENTS BECOME AVAILABLE. MORE THAN SIX MONTHS LATER, I AM STILL AWAITING WORD FROM HONDA ABOUT WHEN MY CAR CAN BE REPAIRED. MY HONDA DEALER SAYS THEY HAVE NO IDEA WHEN THE PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE. I THEREFORE WISH TO ISSUE A FORMAL COMPLAINT THAT HONDA HAS FAILED TO REMEDY THIS DEFECT WITHIN THE 60-DAY REASONABLE TIME PERIOD SPECIFIED IN THE RECALL NOTICE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.
2020-09-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8147VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA CIVIC. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V026000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. HONDA OF GREELEY (4535 W. 29TH ST, GREELEY, CO 80634) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
2020-08-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-20
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8244VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA CIVIC. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V026000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. GARDENA HONDA LOCATED AT 15541 S WESTERN AVE, GARDENA, CA 90249 WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.*DT*JB
2020-06-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
  • VIN: 1HGEJ6229VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA CIVIC. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V026000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. NORM REEVES HONDA SUPERSTORE HUNTINGTON BEACH (19131 BEACH BLVD, HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA 92648, (888) 405-0115) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED THE CONTACT WITH A CASE NUMBER. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
2020-04-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-04-05
  • VIN: 1HGEJ6124VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I GOT A RECALL LETTER SAYING THEY DON'T HAVE MY PART AND I HAVE SIXTY DAYS TO REPLY BUT WITH THIS VIRUS HOW AND WHEN WILL THEY HAVE MY PART
2019-10-15

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-15
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8643VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: MY HONDA IS OVER 15 YEARS OLD. ARE THE AIRBAGS SAFE?
2018-12-13

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-12-12
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8VL058
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: HEADLIGHTS HAVE NOT AND WILL NOT OPERATE ON LOW BEAMS. ONLY ON HIGHBEAMS AND EVEN AFTER FACTORY REPLACEMENT. BLINKERS DO NOT OPERATE CORRECTLY AND SEEM TO CHANGE TIMING PATTERN WHEN REAR BLUBS ARE CHANGED FOR A SHORT TIME. ONE BLINKS AT A DIFFERENT TIME THAN THE OTHER EXCEPT WHEN THE FLASHERS ARE ON. IT BLINKS FASTER IN IDLE AT AT STOP LIGHT BUT AS SOON AS YOU ACCELERATE IT SLOWS DOWN. THESE ARE THE AMBER SIDE HEADLIGHTS BUT ON HIGHBEAMS AMBER DOESN'T WORK CORRECTLY. MY VIN HOWEVER DOES NOT SHOW UP ON HE RECALL. HOW CAN I GET THIS REPAIRED? I'VE HAD THE CAR SINCE 1999 AND NEVER RECEIVED ANY NOTIFICATION EXCEPT WHEN MY MILEAGE MAINTENANCE IS DUE. I'M CONCERNED ABOUT THE AIRBAG ISSUE AS WELL BUT HAVE NO WAY OF KNOWING HOW TO GET IT CHECKED AND IF NEEDED REPLACEMENT BAGS AND LIGHTS PUT IN. PLEASE ADVISE (XXXX) THANK YOU PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2017-12-08

AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-08-15
  • VIN: CAR TOTALLE
  • Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL? WHILE DRIVING STRAIGHT THROUGH MY NEIGHBORHOOD BOULEVARD I FELL ASLEEP, CAUSING ME TO QUICKLY ACCELERATTE AND HIT A TREE HEAD ON APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, ACCORDING TO MULTIPLE WITNESSES AND EMERGENCY RESPONDERS. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED IN THE CAR. MY FACE AND BODY HIT THE STEERING WHEEL, RESULTING IN 4 TEETH KNOCKED OUT, 8 SPINE DISC HERNIATIONS AND INJURIES, A HEART CONTUSION, WHIPLASH, CONCUSSION, CRACKED COLLAR BONE, AND MUCH BRUISING, AND BROKEN EYE GLASSES, RETRIEVED BY AN ATTENDING NEIGHBOR WITNESS. I WAS TOLD BY AN ATTENDING EMT THAT IF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED THESE INJURIES WOULD NOT HAVE OCCURRED. WHEN I ASKED MY INSURANCE AGENT HOW TO RETRIEVE MY PERSONAL ITEMS FROM THE CAR I WAS TOLD HE CAR WAS IMMEDIATELY DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS AND, WITHOUT MY KNOWLEDGE, MY INSURANCE CO. TRANSFERED MY HONDA TO THE WRECKING YARD TO BE FLATTENED. I SPOKE TO THE ACCIDENT ATTENDING RESCUE RESPONDERS AND FIREMEN. THEY SAID BASED ON THE WAY MY CAR HIT THE TREE HEAD ON AND THE IMPACT SPEED, THE AIRBAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED AND IF THE AIRBAGS WERE PRESENT IN THE CAR THEY MUST HAVE BEEN DEFECTIVE. I HAVE KEPT ALL WRITTEN PAPERWORK RESULTING FROM THIS ACCIDENT.
2017-09-06

SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-04-21
  • Components: SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: I ORDERED DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE VALUCRAFT BALL JOINT (PART NUMBER: VFA2084) FROM AUTOZONE.COM FOR MY CAR ,1997 HONDA CIVIC DX 2 DR COUPE ON 5/29/2016. THE BALL JOINTS WERE INSTALLED ON BOTH SIDES AND RAN FINE UNTIL ON 4/21/2017 BETWEEN 10-11PM PASSENGER SIDE VALUCRAFT BALL JOINT BROKE OFF BETWEEN STUD AND BALL WHILE I WAS MAKING LEFT TURN WITHOUT ANY WARNING SIGNS. PASSENGER SIDE CV AXLE WAS PULLED OUT OF TRANSMISSION AND BROKE APART AT INNER BOOT AREA. ABOUT 2/3 OF TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKED OUT. PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL FELL INWARD. THE CAR?S BODY AROUND PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL AREA WAS DAMAGED. MY CAR COULDN?T BE MOVED AND HAD TO BE TOWED. FORTUNATELY, IT HAPPENED ON LOCAL ROAD AND NO OTHER CARS AROUND, OTHERWISE I COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED. *JS
2017-01-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-05-15
  • VIN: 2HGEJ6571VH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" MY AIRBAGS WENT OFF WHEN I WAS TURNING AND WENT OVER A A BUMP, AND CRACKED MY WINDSHIELD REALLY BAD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE SRS RED LIGHT HAD BEEN ON FOR QUITE SOME TIME BEFORE THIS. WHEN THIS OCCURRED IT BLEW A FUSE AND I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED. I DID NOT FILE A POLICE REPORT BECAUSE I ONLY HAVE LIABILITY INSURANCE FOR THE CAR SO INSURANCE DID NOT NEED IT. I HAVE ALSO HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE WIRING AND THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NOT WORK AND WOULD HONK THE HORN WHEN I TRIED TO USE IT
2016-12-19

STEERING,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1974-02-14
  • VIN: 2HGEJ6323VH
  • Components: STEERING,SEAT BELTS,WHEELS
  • Summary: E-MAIL-[XXX].//.**[XXX]** INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2016-06-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-05-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1HGEJ6222VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH WHERE IT HIT A GUARD RAIL, FLIPPED AND CAUGHT ON FIRE, NEITHER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED!! MY DAUGHTER HAD TO BE TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL WITH INJURIES.
2016-05-04

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-11-30
  • VIN: JHMEJ8543VS
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE ROOF AND DRIVERS SIDE DOOR BLACK PAINT PEELING. I HAVE SEEN A FEW OTHER SAME CARS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.
2016-05-04

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-11-21
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8141VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL: ON 11/21/2012 MY SON WAS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN A COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF HIM ON A HWY WHERE THE SPEED LIMIT IS 50 MPH. MY SON WAS ABLE TO BRAKE AND STEER TO AVOID THE COLLISION BUT STILL IMPACTED THE OTHER CAR'S LEFT REAR QUARTER-PANEL. AS A RESULT OF THE IMPACT, HIS AIRBAG DEPLOYED BUT WITH SUCH FORCE THAT IT SEPARATED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. HE RECEIVED MAJOR FACIAL LACERATIONS AND FRACTURES IN ADDITION TO AN GAPING WOUND IN HIS WRIST. HE WAS TOLD BY SEVERAL ATTORNEYS THAT SINCE HIS CAR HAD JUST PASSED THE STATUTE OF REPOSE GATE OF 15 YR, HE COULD NOT HOPE TO BRING SUIT AGAINST HONDA/TAKATA. TO DATE, THERE DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY EFFORT TO EXTEND THE RECALL PRIOR TO 2002 FOR HONDA VEHICLES. WHEN THE EXTERNAL CAR DAMAGE IS COMPARED TO THE DAMAGE INSIDE HIS VEHICLE, HIS EXTENSIVE INJURIES, AND IMAGES OF THE AIR BAG HARDWARE ARE STUDIED, THERE IS SUFFICIENT REASON TO SUSPECT THE HONDA AIR BAG'S DETONATION RATHER THAN DEPLOYMENT WAS THE MAJOR CONTRIBUTOR TO MY SON'S INJURIES. I UNDERSTAND THE REASONING BEHIND A STATUTE OF REPOSE BUT IN THIS CASE SUSPECT A DESIGN DEFICIENCY EXISTED PRIOR TO THE CAR'S AGE EXCEEDING THE ARBITRARY 15 YR GATE.*DT*JB *TR
2016-05-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-05-15
  • VIN: 2HGEJ6620VH
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
  • Summary: I HAD CAR COMPUTER PROBLEMS, AIR CONDITIONING PROBLEM AND PAINT ON CAR BODY IS CRACKING. THESE PROBLEMS STARTED TO HAPPEN GRADUALLY, COMPUTER PROBLEMS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE ROAD IN THE CITY; THE PAINT STARTED TO CRACK FOR MANY YEARS AND THE CAR LOOKS MISERABLE. THE AIR CONDITIONING BROKE DOWN DURING A SUMMER TIME, WHEN I HAD NO MONEY TO REPAIR IT AND HAD TO SUFFER DUE TO THE HIGH HEAT WEATHER. THERE IS ALSO A CRACK SOMEWHERE IN THE ENGINE, NOT SURE WHERE, WHICH CAN MAKE THINGS WORSE.
2015-11-13

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-11-01
  • VIN: 2HGEJ6627VH
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE WARNING LIGHTS ARE ON
2015-07-16

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-07-12
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8248VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA CIVIC. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PARK POSITION, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT A CRASH. AS A RESULT, THE AIR BAG CAUSED THE WINDSHIELD TO FRACTURE. THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED HAND INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 166,000.
2015-05-01

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-04-30
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8245VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I GOT IN AN ACCIDENT BY MYSELF WHEN A DEER JUMPED OUT AND I SWERVED AND HIT A TREE. THE AIR BAG BLEW UP AND I HAVE BURNS ON MY FACE NECK AND ARM AND A GASH ON MY HEAD.I WENT TO THE HOSPITAL TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AND SHOWED THEM MY ARM. THEY WERE SHOCKED TO SEES THIRD DEGREE BURN ON MY ARM. SUCH A BURN THAT IT LEFT A LARGE HOLE THROUGH MY SWEATSHIRT. A CHARRED HOLE LIKE I WAS SET ON FIRE. THE NURSES AND DOCTORS SAID THEY HAD NEVER SEEN THAT HAPPEN BEFORE FROM AN AIRBAG. MY CAR NEVER SET FIRE ONCE. I FEEL THE AIRBAGS ARE DEFECTIVE. *TR
2015-03-05

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-05-03
  • VIN: 1HGFA16527L
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: DATE AND MILEAGE ARE APPROXIMATE. THIS WAS MY WIFE'S CAR WHICH I VERY SELDOM DROVE. NOT LONG AFTER THE CAR WAS NEW, I DROVE IT AND THE FOLLOWING HAPPENED (THE DATE I'VE LISTED IS ONLY APPROXIMATE): I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 20MPH AND HAD TO STOP FOR A RED LIGHT. I TOOK MY FOOT OFF OF THE ACCELERATOR AND STEPPED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE ENGINE RPM DID NOT SLOW DOWN TO IDLE, AND TRIED TO KEEP MOVING THE CAR FORWARD. I TURNED OFF THE IGNITION TO KEEP FROM HAVING A CRASH. THIS IS NOT AN ACCELERATOR PEDAL PROBLEM AS I SHALL EXPLAIN LATER. I CALLED THE HONDA DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT IF IT HAPPENED AGAIN TO BRING THE CAR IN. I TOLD MY WIFE WHAT TO DO IF IT HAPPENED TO HER. EITHER IT NEVER HAPPENED TO HER OR IT DID AND SHE NEVER TOLD ME. MY WIFE DIED AT THE END OF JANUARY 2015. SINCE THEN, I HAVE SOMETIMES DRIVEN HER CIVIC. ABOUT 2-3 WEEKS AGO THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED: I HAD DRIVEN SEVERAL MILES AND HAD TO STOP. THE ENGINE RPM DID NOT SLOW! I IMMEDIATELY PUT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INTO NEUTRAL AND THE ENGINE RPM IMMEDIATELY SLOWED TO IDLE. THIS IS NOT A STUCK ACCELERATOR PROBLEM BECAUSE, IF IT WERE, THE ENGINE RPM WOULD HAVE INCREASED WHEN I SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL. IT IS NOT A BRAKE PROBLEM UNLESS THE BRAKES ARE SOMEHOW PHYSICALLY OR ELECTRONICALLY CONNECTED TO THE ENGINE RPM. YESTERDAY, MARCH 4, 2015, THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED TWICE AGAIN AFTER I HAD DRIVEN ONLY ABOUT 3 BLOCKS. IN BOTH CASES I TURNED OFF THE IGNITION TO PREVENT AN ACCIDENT. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. I HAVE CONTACTED HONDA USA ABOUT THIS SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM. NOTE: I HAVE SPENT ALMOST ALL OF MY PROFESSIONAL LIFE IN THE AREA OF SAFETY ANALYSIS. *TR
2014-11-20

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-11-23
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8246VL
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: SRS LIGHT LIT UP TO THIS DATE 11/20/2014. *TR
2014-08-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-08-05
  • VIN: 2HGEJ6623VH
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA CIVIC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SRS SENSOR ILLUMINATED IN THE VEHICLE MORE THAN ONCE. THE DEALER REMEDIED THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,102.
2014-08-01

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-25
  • VIN: 2HGEJ6623VH
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA CIVIC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SRS LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 97V193000 (AIR BAGS). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,000. UPDATED 9/9/14*CN UPDATED 1/20/2015 *JS
2014-05-17

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-05-13
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON NOW CAR WILL NOT START. NO FAULT OR CEL CODES. *JS
2013-10-23

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-10-12
  • VIN: 1HGEJ8245VL
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THIS IS CAR 2. ON THE 10TH OF AUGUST, I TOOK THE SATURN IN AFTER I HAD PLACED THE CALL TO [XXX] THE GENTLEMAN THAT SOLD ME THE SATURN, ABOUT THE CAR NOT WORKING PROPERLY. I WAS THEN GIVEN A 1997 HONDA CIVIC, I RESIGNED WHAT THE LOAN PAPERS AND LEFT. I HAD TO PAY TO TRANSFER THE PLATES FROM ONE CAR TO THE NEXT. WELL IT IS SAD TO SAY THAT ON 8-12-13 THE CAR SHUT OFF WHILE I WAS IN THE CENTER LANE OF I95, WITH 2 CHILDREN IN THE CAR AND ANOTHER ADULT DOING 70 MPH. I COASTED TO THE SHOULDER OF THE HIGHWAY, [XXX] IS CLOSED ON SUNDAY; I WAITED UNTIL MONDAY I PLACED A CALL TO [XXX]. I SPOKE WITH [XXX]AND EXPLAINED WHAT HAD HAPPENED. TODAY 10-15-2013 I GOT UP AND CALLED [XXX]. I THEN DECIDED TO GO TO THE SHOP. WHEN I GOT THERE ALL OF THE PARTIES WHERE THERE, AND I ASKED WHAT WOULD HAPPEN WITH THE CAR. I WAS INFORMED THAT THEY COULD FIX THE ENGINE FOR ABOUT $1500-$1800. THAT WAS NOT AN OPTION FOR ME AS I FELT THAT THERE IS NO WAY THAT I SHOULD HAVE TO REPLACE A WHOLE ENGINE AFTER ONLY HAVING IT FOR TWO MONTHS. I WAS TOLD THAT THE DEALERS?? HANDS WERE TIED. I WAS PAST MY WARRANTY OF 30 DAYS OR 1000 MILES.KEEP IN MIND I WAS PAST MY WARRANTY THE FIRST TIME AS WELL. I WAS TOLD THAT THERE IS NO WAY FOR THEM TO TELL IF THE ENGINE IS BAD BEFORE THEY PUT IT OUT THERE TO BE SOLD. THE DEALER THEN BEGAN TO TELL ME THAT IN A 60 DAY PERIOD I DROVE THE CAR 4000 MILES I REPLIED WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH ANYTHING. I TOLD HIM THERE SHOULD BE NO REASON THAT I HAVE TO REPLACE A WHOLE ENGINE WITHIN A TWO MONTH PERIOD USED CAR OR NOT. ALL I WANTED WAS A RELIABLE CAR THAT IS SAFE. THIS BUSINESS DIDN'T PROVIDE THAT. I WENT IN TO RESOLVE THIS MATTER FACE TO FACE, AS WELL AS EMAILED THE OWNER. ALL I WANTED WAS A RELIABLE CAR THAT WORKS PROPERLY, AND I DON'T WANT TO LOSE THE MONEY THAT I HAVE ALREADY PUT IN TO WHAT I THOUGHT I WAS GETTING IN THE FIRST PLACE, WHICH IS A SAFE RELIABLE CAR. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).*TR

1997 Honda Civic recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 16 recalls for different components of the 1997 Honda Civic.

2020-01-17
  • Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1998-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL and Acura MDX, 1998-2000 Honda Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Sedan, Odyssey and Acura 3.5RL, 1999-2000 Acura 3.2TL, 1996-2000 Civic Coupe, 1997-2000 CR-V, 1997-1998 EV Plus, and 1998-1999 Isuzu Oasis vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
  • Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag cushion may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver frontal air bag inflator, and replace it if necessary, with an inflator of a different design, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138 or Isuzu customer service at 1-800-255-6727.
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.
2008-08-11
  • Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
  • Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
2006-07-17
  • Manufacturer: TRADESONIC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
  • Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
2006-06-29
  • Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
  • Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
  • Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
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.
2006-05-22
  • Manufacturer: J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. 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: J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES AT 310-327-4981.
2006-05-15
  • Manufacturer: E SPEED RACING
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN E SPEED RACING COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT 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: E SPEED RACING WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT E SPEED RACING 909-923-3636.
2006-05-08
  • Manufacturer: ALFAOTTO AUTO ACCESSORIES
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. 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: ALFAOTTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ALFAOTTO AT 626-656-2992 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.ALFAOTTO.COM.
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.
2006-03-21
  • Manufacturer: POLI-AUTO, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: CERTAIN POLI-AUTO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. 11-728, 11-728D, 11-710, 11-419, 11-713, 11-703, 11-704, 11-708P, 11-735, 11-725, 11-726, 11-716 (P&C), 11-721-1, 11-733, 11-729, 11-730, AND 11-732, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. 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: POLI-AUTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS AT ITS ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT POLI-AUTO AT 305-477-1356.
2006-03-13
  • Manufacturer: ANZO USA, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH 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.
  • Remedy: ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
1999-05-10
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: ACCESSORY DRIVER-SIDE FLOOR MATS USED IN 1996-1998 HONDA CIVIC VEHICLES. DUE TO THE SHAPE OF THE FLOOR ON THESE VEHICLES, A MISPOSITIONED FLOOR MAT COULD INTERFERE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
  • Consequence: THE FLOOR MAT COULD PREVENT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FROM RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION.
  • Remedy: IF A CUSTOMER HAS A GENUINE HONDA DRIVER-SIDE FLOOR MAT, DEALERS WILL INSTALL A POSITIVE FLOOR MAT RETENTION SYSTEM CONSISTING OF A GROMMET IN THE FLOOR MAT AND A PIN BRACKET IN THE CAR.
1997-11-01
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG MODULES HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED. THE CLOTH FLAPS COVERING THE FOLDED AIR BAG MAY HAVE BEEN TUCKED IN TOO FAR.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD PREVENT PROPER DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG. IN A CRASH, AN IMPROPER AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO A FRONT SEAT PASSENGER.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE FRONT PASSENGER'S AIR BAG MODULE TO PREVENT THIS PROBLEM FROM OCCURRING.

Negative 1997 Honda Civic car reviews

  1. Candido Orn 2024-11-29

    I have personally owned two Hondas (my family has owned many more) and overall, it was a good car while I was going to college. However, as I looked to buy another Honda, I was surprised by how much people were asking for their used Hondas. While they are good cars, they are not gold bricks on wheels! It's important to note that they are not impervious to damage and require maintenance. I believe that too much of a mystique has been built around Honda reliability, to the point of being ridiculous! This is evidenced in how much people were asking for their Hondas with obvious blemishes. In the end, I decided to buy a luxury car for less.

  2. Stephan Homenick 2024-05-14

    This car is a great choice for commuting and hauling. With consistent fuel efficiency of 40-43 MPG, it's a reliable option for long commutes. The hatch and fold-down seats make it easy to transport large items such as ladders, furniture, trees, tools, and wood. Although the interior may seem cheap, it's not the hollow cheapness you get with GM or Ford. While the handling isn't exceptional, it's still decent. It's worth noting that this car is primarily designed for commuting rather than racing. Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and practical vehicle.

  3. Jordyn O'Reilly 2024-02-18

    I recently purchased a Honda to use as my daily driver for my commute to Nashville, but unfortunately, I have experienced a number of issues with the car. The transmission went out at 139k miles, and I also had trouble with seized spark plugs in the head. Currently, I am experiencing some electrical malfunctions, including dimming headlights and error codes for the oxygen sensor, speed sensor, and ELD. I am having trouble identifying the root cause of these issues. While I have had a difficult experience with this particular car, I understand that every vehicle can have its own unique set of challenges. I appreciate the opportunity to share my experience and hope that others have better luck with their Honda purchases.

  4. Daron Rosenbaum 2024-02-14

    This car was my first one and the one I learned to drive on. Even though I bought it when it was 9 years old and had 140,000 miles on it, it worked great and held up even though I learned to drive manual on it, abused the clutch, and drove recklessly. The Honda Civic is a fantastic choice for a first-time car buyer as it offers great economy, inexpensive repairs, and a good driving experience.

Positive 1997 Honda Civic car reviews

  1. Elijah Bogan 2024-11-26

    The best car I've ever had (over 40 years of driving). No problems and low maintenance.

  2. Eliezer Hand 2024-11-20

    I bought this car back in 2001 with only 56K miles on it. Since then, I've put 200K miles on it, even after getting into an accident, and it still runs like a charm. I'm definitely going to get a Honda Civic for my next car because it's the perfect combination of quality and reliability. Go Civic!

  3. Otto Okuneva 2024-11-06

    This is a fantastic car and an amazing value. I'm happy to report that I haven't had any issues with it. Of course, I make sure to keep up with the regular maintenance schedule.

  4. Michel Mueller 2024-11-06

    This car has been perfect for me! It's been 6 years since I got it, and I haven't had a single problem with it, not even minor ones! I've driven it for over 80,000 miles, and it's still going strong. I often take it on long drives of up to 1,000 miles in a weekend, and it's never let me down. If you're looking for a reliable and low-maintenance car, I highly recommend getting a Honda. They're a great investment that will last you a long time!

  5. Jason Franecki 2024-10-29

    I've had my Civic for 8 years now, and I absolutely love it! I even bought my wife an Accord after such a great experience with Honda so far. It feels very stable on the highway, but is also maneuverable and fun when you downshift and take it around curvy country roads. It's a great long trip car - I've had it get 40 mpg before on a flat highway, no A/C on, going through a whole tank of gas at a time. Otherwise, it averages about 32-34 mpg in normal commuting. Overall, it's a fantastic car from a great company. Although, my next car will have 4 doors - I didn't really care at the time (college) but now I need them (baby).

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1997 Honda Civic problems:

1997 Honda Civic Problems and Complaints - 30 Issues
1997 Honda Civic Problems and Complaints - 30 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-honda-civic/problems

Top 1997 Honda Civic Problems · Bad Engine Mounts May Cause Vibration, Roughness, and Rattle · Power Window Switch May Fail · Hood Release Cable May Break at ...

1997 Honda Civic Cpe - Compression issues - Maintenance ...
1997 Honda Civic Cpe - Compression issues - Maintenance ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/1997-honda-civic-cpe-compression-issues/168583

Aug 12, 2020 ... The Ether had washed the cylinder walls down to compression readings of 40 to 105 on all 8 cylinders. A healthy shot of oil into each cylinder ...

97 civic auto transmission problem - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
97 civic auto transmission problem - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-civic-del-sol-1992-2000-1/97-civic-auto-transmission-problem-2137479/

Oct 29, 2007 ... could be a clogged screen in one of the solenoids, or it could be low/high on fluid,be sure to check the auto trans fluid with the car running.

common problems after 100k miles - HondaCivicForum.com
common problems after 100k miles - HondaCivicForum.com
https://www.hondacivicforum.com/forum/mechanical-problems-technical-chat-8/common-problems-after-100k-miles-498/

Jun 21, 2004 ... If not, all the belts, seals and fluids should be changed. Tags 100k, 200, 2004, car, change, civic, common, high, honda ...

1997 honda civic key fob problem - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
1997 honda civic key fob problem - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-civic-del-sol-1992-2000-1/1997-honda-civic-key-fob-problem-3211098/

Jun 11, 2014 ... Honda Civic / Del Sol (1992 - 2000) - 1997 honda civic key fob problem - i got a 97 civic ex auto and my fob will unlock the doors like its ...

Other years of Honda Civic

honda civic 1998 photo
Civic 1998
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464

18

27

  • 5
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  • 3
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honda civic 1999 photo
Civic 1999
Honda

359

15

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda civic 2000 photo
Civic 2000
Honda

297

18

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda civic 2001 photo
Civic 2001
Honda

1124

27

0

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honda civic 2002 photo
Civic 2002
Honda

713

24

28

  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
honda civic 2003 photo
Civic 2003
Honda

524

24

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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