Honda Civic Common Problems and Solutions
Airbag Light Occasionally Flashing On
Problem:
When a passenger sits in the front seat, the airbag warning light activates.
Solution:
This is one of the most frequently reported issues on the Civic. The problem is that there can be various reasons for this fault, and diagnosing it can take even the most experienced mechanic some time. It's best to leave this repair to professionals, as any mistakes you make might affect airbag deployment.
Difficulty level
Misty Front and Rear Lights
Problem:
Your front and rear lights are misting up in damp weather.
Solution:
This will usually be caused by faulty seals on the light units, which is an easy fix for the front light using some glue. However, for the rear lights, you'll need to replace the entire lighting unit because the breather tubing has a poor design. We have the revised rear light units in stock for easy ordering, and they include the improved breather tubing.
Difficulty level
Tail/Rear Light
Wobbly Handbrake
Problem:
The handbrake is slack and moves sideways.
Solution:
You have a worn-out clevis pin, which means your handbrake is not holding in place. You won't need to replace the floor mounting, which can be a big job. Simply have a new clevis pin delivered by us and replace the worn one.
Difficulty level
Excessive Handbrake Travel
Problem:
There is too much tension on your handbrake.
Solution:
First, check your rear brake pads and replace them if they are too worn. If your brake pads look good, then you'll need to disassemble the handbrake and tighten it.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Clattering Sound When Driving
Problem:
Your front suspension is very noisy and produces a clattering sound when you drive over uneven surfaces.
Solution:
This could be worn-out anti-roll bar links or bottom suspension arm ball-joints. Sometimes, it will be both. Inspect both parts and order replacements from our parts pages as needed.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar Link
Faulty Sat-Nav
Problem:
The sat-nav in your Civic keeps directing you the wrong way. It might also be slow to respond.
Solution:
This is simply a software update that will install new maps. Unfortunately, most dealers will charge a lot of money for this update, and it's quite common for many Civic owners to buy a separate sat-nav and ignore the built-in one. We have sat-navs available to order at all times.
Difficulty level
Sat Nav System
Erratic Starting Problems (All 1.6-Ltr Diesels)
Problem:
The car has difficulty starting, especially in cold conditions.
Solution:
The glow plugs on low-mileage 1.6-litre diesels tend to foul and will need replacing. This is a quick job on the Civic because they are very conveniently situated. Order new glow plugs from our parts list and fit them in.
Difficulty level
Glow Plug
Overheating Engine
Problem:
The engine is overheating, and there could be signs of a coolant leak on the floor.
Solution:
Earlier models of the Civic had an issue with poor-quality hose clamps in the cooling system. They would corrode quickly, and the resulting consequences can be catastrophic. Replace the radiator bottom hose clamp with a new one from BreakerYard and easily fit it.
Difficulty level
Engine manifold cracked
Problem:
The engine manifold is prone to cracking, especially on the 2.2 iCDTi engine. If you notice excessive smoke emitting from the rear of the engine when you lift the bonnet, it could be due to a cracked manifold.
Solution:
This is an expensive part to replace, but it will be covered under warranty if you still have one. Otherwise, it is your responsibility to replace the part. Breakeryard.com offers affordable replacement Civic manifolds that may help you save money. Browse for your Honda Civic replacement exhaust manifold at Breakeryard.com.
Difficulty level
Exhaust Manifold
Suspension problem
Problem:
A common issue with the Civic is the failure of the front suspension bump stops. You might notice this when driving over speed bumps if you hear a rattling noise from the front suspension.
Solution:
This can be covered under warranty if you still have one; otherwise, you'll need to fit a replacement bump stop to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Gear knob worn
Problem:
The gear knob tends to wear out quickly on the Civic. This is purely a cosmetic issue rather than a mechanical one.
Solution:
You can either accept this fault, as it is not covered by warranty, or if you choose to replace the gear knob, the cost of the repair is yours. You can save money on a used, high-quality second-hand gear knob thanks to Breakeryard.com.
Difficulty level
Corrosion on A-pillars
Problem:
The Civic is known to develop early corrosion on the bodywork around the A-pillars, especially at the outer edge of the A-pillar near the windscreen, as well as around the edges of the doors and the bonnet.
Solution:
If you are facing this problem, then you should check if the car is still under warranty, as this will be fixed for free. Otherwise, you should take it to a paintwork expert to fix the problem professionally.
Difficulty level
Fuel flap release switch failure
Problem:
There have been known issues with the fuel flap release switch failing in Honda Civic vehicles. The fuel flap release switch is located on the right side of the driver’s side footwell.
Solution:
The solution is carried out with a slight modification at a Honda dealer. If the car is still under warranty, you will get it repaired free of charge; otherwise, the cost of the repair is yours to cover. Check out this video below:
Difficulty level
Steering Misalignment
Problem:
The steering wheel isn't aligned, and the steering feels a little off.
Solution:
This is likely a common issue with the steering rack and tie rod, known to be a significant problem in later models of the Civic. You will need to replace the entire steering rack and tie rod, both of which can be found on our parts list. If the problem is only a loose steering wheel, then you might be able to get away with replacing just the tie rod.
Difficulty level
Power Steering Rack
Excessive Pressure on Brake Pedal
Problem:
You must press the brake pedal fully to stop the car. Overall, braking distances are excessively long.
Solution:
If your Civic was built in 2010, it's likely missing a crucial pin in the linkage system. We have the replacement pin you need to order, and while it's fiddly, it's a very achievable DIY task.
Difficulty level
Failed Emissions Test
Problem:
You have not passed an emissions test.
Solution:
Often mistaken for a catalytic converter fault, the issue is usually a software problem. Take your Civic to a Honda dealer and have your Engine Control Unit software updated.
Difficulty level
Rough Running
Problem:
The engine is idling roughly, and the car may shake excessively.
Solution:
If your Civic was manufactured between January 2018 and March 2019, your fuel pump has been produced with low-density impellers. Check our parts list for a new fuel pump for the Civic and install it yourself to avoid a hefty mechanic's bill.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pump Diesel