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2001 Honda Civic

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2001 Honda Civic is a popular compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Two primary engine options were available: a 1.7L Inline-4 SOHC engine, producing around 115-127 horsepower and 103-114 lb-ft of torque depending on the trim level, and a 1.7L VTEC engine with an output of 127 horsepower. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Civic’s longevity, fuel economy, and ease of maintenance. Common complaints often revolve around its relatively basic features, road noise, and age-related wear and tear, given the model year.

Engine

1.7L Inline-4 SOHC (D17A1/D17A2)

  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically code P0420), reduced fuel economy, and potential rattling noises from the exhaust system.
    • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Engine Mount Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, and visible cracks or tears in the rubber components of the engine mounts.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn or damaged engine mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil pooling around the valve cover, burning oil smell, and low engine oil level.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

1.7L VTEC (D17A2)

  • VTEC Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, rough idling, poor fuel economy, lack of power.
    • Solution: Replacement of VTEC solenoid valve or cleaning of solenoid filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically code P0420), reduced fuel economy, and potential rattling noises from the exhaust system.
    • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Engine Mount Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, and visible cracks or tears in the rubber components of the engine mounts.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn or damaged engine mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil pooling around the valve cover, burning oil smell, and low engine oil level.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, difficulty shifting gears, and the engine revving high without corresponding acceleration.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may temporarily alleviate the issue. In most cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid and filter. $1500 - $3500+ for rebuild or replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes, especially between first and second gear.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may temporarily alleviate the issue. In most cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid and filter. $1500 - $3500+ for rebuild or replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Worn Suspension Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension when going over bumps, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per bushing, depending on location and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in turns, and leaking fluid from the struts/shocks.
    • Solution: Replacement of the struts and/or shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per axle (pair of struts/shocks).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all, grinding noises when operating the window.
    • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light illuminated on the dashboard, difficulty starting the engine.
    • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Especially Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust patches forming on the body, particularly around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and lower door panels.
    • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve sanding, patching, and repainting. Severe rust may require panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per affected area, depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure and age.
    • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or installation of a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ for replacement. $50 - $200+ for a cover.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The fabric of the headliner detaching from the roof of the car and sagging downwards.
    • Solution: Headliner repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Honda Civic, while generally reliable, exhibits several age-related issues. Engine problems include catalytic converter failure, engine mount failure, and oil leaks, which can lead to moderate repair costs. Automatic transmission issues like slipping and harsh shifting are significant concerns, potentially requiring expensive rebuilds or replacements. Suspension wear, electrical problems, and interior degradation are also common. Rust is a significant concern for the exterior. Overall, while many of these issues are manageable with regular maintenance and timely repairs, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchase considerations. The severity and cost of repairs can vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and location.

Honda, Civic
Honda Civic 2001
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