2002 Honda Civic

The 2002 Honda Civic is a popular compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It was available with two primary engine options: a 1.7L SOHC 4-cylinder engine in various trims (D17A1, D17A2, D17A6, D17A7, D17A8) and a 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine in the Si trim (K20A3). The 1.7L engine produced around 115-127 horsepower and 105-114 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific variant. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Civic for its fuel economy, dependability, and ease of maintenance. Common dislikes include the relatively bland styling (compared to earlier Civics), potential for rust in some regions, and the base engine’s lack of power for some drivers.

Engine

1.7L SOHC 4-Cylinder (D17A Series)

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (usually with P0420 code), reduced fuel economy, and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, clunking noises, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the worn engine mounts (usually the front or rear mount).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per mount.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-Cylinder (K20A3 - Si Trim)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car not starting, intermittent starting problems, key getting stuck in the ignition.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window not working, slow or erratic window movement, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the inside of the rear wheel arches.
  • Solution: Cut out rust and weld in new metal and paint or replace the quarter panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ for replacement, $20 - $100 for a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Honda Civic is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as catalytic converter failure, rear trailing arm bushing failure, shift solenoid issues in automatic transmissions, and electrical problems like ignition switch failure. Rust, especially around the rear wheel arches, is another common concern. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs. Overall, the Civic’s dependability outweighs the potential problems, but a thorough inspection before purchase is recommended.