1997 Honda Civic

1997 Honda Civic

The 1997 Honda Civic is a compact car that was available in five trim levels: DX, LX, HX, EX, and Si. It was offered with two engine options: a 1.6-liter SOHC inline-4 and a 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC inline-4. The 1.6-liter SOHC engine produced 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine produced 127 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. The Civic was also available with three transmission options: a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

People like the Honda Civic for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

1.6-liter SOHC inline-4

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak. This can lead to a decrease in engine power and fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VTEC solenoid failure
  • Description: The VTEC solenoid can fail, preventing the engine from engaging VTEC. This can lead to a decrease in engine power and fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6-liter DOHC VTEC inline-4

• Timing belt failure
  • Description: The timing belt can fail, causing the engine to skip time. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve train noise
  • Description: The valve train can make noise, such as ticking or tapping. This is usually caused by worn valve lifters or camshafts.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the noisy components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description: The clutch can wear out, causing it to slip or chatter. This can make it difficult to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed automatic

• Transmission shudder
  • Description: The transmission may shudder when shifting gears. This is usually caused by a worn torque converter.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• Transmission slippage
  • Description: The transmission may slip when shifting gears. This is usually caused by worn belts or pulleys.
  • Solution: Replace the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure
  • Description: The struts can fail, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball joint failure
  • Description: The ball joints can fail, causing the vehicle to wander or pull to one side.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge. This can leave you stranded.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description: The Civic is prone to rusting, especially in the rear wheel wells and under the hood.
  • Solution: Apply rust-proofing measures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description: The dashboard can crack over time, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Honda Civic is a reliable and affordable car, but it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical issues. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the age of the vehicle.