2003 Honda Civic
Introduction to the 2003 Honda Civic
The 2003 Honda Civic is a compact car that offers a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:
- 1.7L SOHC i-VTEC Inline-4: 115 horsepower at 6,100 rpm, 106 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm
- 1.7L VTEC Inline-4: 127 horsepower at 6,300 rpm, 110 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm
- 2.0L VTEC Inline-4: 160 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, 141 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm
These engines could be paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Owners of the 2003 Honda Civic appreciate its fuel efficiency, reliability, and fun-to-drive nature. However, some have reported various issues with the vehicle.
Engine
1.7L VTEC Inline-4
- Leaking oil pressure switch: Oil spills underneath the vehicle. Requires replacement of the oil pressure switch. $100 - $200+
2.0L VTEC Inline-4
- Head gasket failure: Coolant and oil leak from the engine, causing overheating and engine damage. Requires replacement of the head gasket. $1,000 - $2,000+
- Crankshaft seal leak: Oil spills underneath the vehicle. Requires replacement of the crankshaft seal. $500 - $1,000+
- Excessive oil consumption: Engine burns excessive oil, requiring frequent top-ups. Requires engine rebuild or replacement. $3,000 - $5,000+
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Grinding gears: Gears difficult to shift, especially in cold weather. Requires adjustment or replacement of the shifter linkage. $200 - $500+
CVT
- Shuddering: Transmission shudders during acceleration. Requires replacement of the transmission fluid and/or torque converter. $500 - $1,500+
- Hesitation: Transmission hesitates on shifts. Requires transmission software update or replacement of the transmission control module. $200 - $1,000+
No Issues Found: Suspension, Electrical, Exterior, Interior
Summary
The 2003 Honda Civic is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with the engine and transmission. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but they should be considered when purchasing a used Civic.