Top fixes

Top Honda Civic fixes every owner should know

Cheap, practical fixes for the Honda Civic faults you actually meet, with rough costs and what a garage will charge.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 258,563 recorded MOT tests, 25.6% failed.

Honda Civic
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

Honda Civics are generally reliable but can experience common faults such as worn suspension, ignition coil failure, rust, air conditioning issues, and brake problems. Addressing these issues early can save time and money, with DIY fixes often being a cost-effective option.

Worn Suspension Components

Many Honda Civics, especially those from 2006 to 2011, suffer from worn suspension components. This can lead to a bumpy ride and uneven tyre wear. Replacing shock absorbers or bushes is often necessary to restore comfort and handling.

Faulty Ignition Coils

Ignition coil failure is common in Civics from 2001 to 2005. Symptoms include misfiring and poor fuel economy. Replacing the ignition coil can resolve these issues and improve engine performance.

DIY or Garage Job: This is a straightforward fix for those with basic mechanical skills.

Rusting Bodywork

Rust can be a problem for older Honda Civics, particularly models from the late 1990s to early 2000s. Common areas include wheel arches and sills. Addressing rust early can prevent more severe damage and costly repairs.

DIY or Garage Job: Minor rust can be treated at home with sandpaper and rust treatment.

Air Conditioning Issues

Civics from 2006 to 2015 may experience air conditioning failures. This could be due to a refrigerant leak or a faulty compressor. Regular maintenance can help avoid these issues and ensure comfort during warmer months.

Brake Problems

Brake issues are common across all Honda Civics. Symptoms include squeaking noises or a spongy pedal. Regular checks are crucial for safety and can prevent more serious problems down the line.

Honda Civic recall record

45 recalls have been issued for the Honda Civic, between 1994 and 2026.

  1. Civic Wheel Steel Bushes Missing (Accessory)

    R/2026/025

    Issued 16 February 2026

    On affected vehicles the alloy steel bushes may be missing in all five positions of the alloy wheel. This may result in the wheel nuts falling off or in the worst-case scenario wheel detachment.

    Remedy:Inspect the wheels for the presence of bush and replace wheel(s) in case of missing bushes.

    Affects cars built Feb 2017 to May 2018

  2. 22-25M Civic and Other Models EPS Gear Box Worm Wheel Swelling Failure 6JP

    R/2025/024

    Issued 31 March 2025

    On affected vehicles ​due to decrease of the grease amount in the worm wheel gear meshing area of the EPS gear box during use the sliding resistance at the meshing area increases and the torque fluctuation when turning the steering becomes larger resulting in an abnormal noise or a dangerous sticking occurs when turning the steering.​

    Remedy:For the Honda Civic (FL4 FE1) CR-V and ZR-V models replace the worm gear pre-load spring with a countermeasure part and add grease. For the Honda Civic Type R (FL5) model replace the Steering Gearbox with a countermeasure part.

    Affects cars built Oct 2021 to Sept 2023

  3. 23-25M High Pressure Fuel Pump Solenoid Component Part Breakage - 6YP

    R/2024/476

    Issued 9 December 2024

    On affected vehicles due to manufacturing issues the high pressure fuel pump could leak

    Remedy:On the affected vehicles check for leaks and replace the high pressure pump if necessary

    Affects cars built Oct 2021 to Aug 2024

  4. 23YM Civic Lithium-Ion Battery Negative Terminal Defect

    R/2024/389

    Issued 5 December 2024

    On affected vehicles the Hybrid HV battery may develop a fault where battery electrolyte leakage occurs that may result in a vehicle fire in a worst-case scenario.

    Remedy:Replace the Hybrid HV battery with a modified component.

    Affects cars built Jun 2022 to Jan 2023

41 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Honda Civic MOT record

From 258,563 recorded MOT tests, 25.6% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20221,3924.0%21,464 mi
20214,7778.1%28,063 mi
20205,4579.8%34,430 mi
201912,44510.9%43,102 mi
201813,33812.1%51,052 mi
201714,37212.9%55,236 mi
201616,00214.5%65,308 mi
201514,83415.7%75,163 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements28.2%
  2. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn22.9%
  3. A tyre seriously damaged19.3%
  4. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm15.7%
  5. The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements13.9%

Figures cover every Honda Civic tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Honda Civic official figures

Median across 14 variants on sale, petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
56.5 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
113.5 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults in Honda Civics?

Common faults include worn suspension components, faulty ignition coils, and rusting bodywork.

Can I fix my Honda Civic myself?

Many issues are DIY-friendly, but some repairs may require professional help.

Is it worth repairing my old Honda Civic?

If the repairs are less than the car's value and it runs well, it can be worth it.

Sources