1990 Honda Civic
Introduction
The 1990 Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It was offered with a 1.5-liter SOHC engine paired with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The Civic was praised for its handling, visibility, and interior space, but some owners have reported issues with various components over the years.
Engine
1.5-liter SOHC
Head Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, white smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace head gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: None Found
Intake Manifold Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from manifold area, rough idle, engine hesitation Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slippage Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping out of gear Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000 Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual
- Shifter Linkage Issues Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loose shifter Solution: Replace or repair shifter linkage Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Failure Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, reduced ride quality, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200 Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging, electrical system malfunctions Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Ignition Coil Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, difficulty starting, reduced fuel economy Solution: Replace ignition coils Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust Description/Symptoms: Body panels showing signs of corrosion, especially in northern climates Solution: Repair rust or replace body panels Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity and location Recalls: None Found
Interior
Dashboard Cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks on instrument panel surface Solution: Replace dashboard cover Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Door Panel Rattling Description/Symptoms: Loose door panels causing rattling Solution: Tighten or replace door panel clips Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Summary
While the 1990 Honda Civic is generally a reliable vehicle, it is not without its issues. The most common problems are with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues can vary depending on the mileage and maintenance history of the vehicle. The estimated cost of repairs is also subject to factors such as labor costs and the availability of parts.