2007 Honda Civic

The 2007 Honda Civic is a popular compact car known for its fuel efficiency and reliability. It comes with a few different engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 1.8L SOHC i-VTEC inline-4 engine producing 140 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful option is the 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC inline-4 found in the Civic Si, which delivers 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 5-speed automatic (for the 1.8L engine), and a 6-speed manual (for the 2.0L Civic Si). Owners appreciate the Civic’s fuel economy, comfortable ride, and reputation for longevity. However, some common complaints include issues with cracking engine blocks, excessive road noise, and premature wear of certain interior components.

Engine

1.8L SOHC i-VTEC Inline-4

• Engine Block Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks can develop in the engine block, typically near the cylinder head gasket area. Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and eventually engine failure. This issue is particularly prevalent in vehicles operating in colder climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the engine block, or complete engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to spark plug fouling and catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Possible piston ring replacement, valve stem seal replacement, or engine replacement depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC i-VTEC Inline-4 (Civic Si)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (with 1.8L engine)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip between gears, exhibit harsh or jerky shifting, or fail to engage certain gears altogether.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (with 1.8L engine)

• No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual (with 2.0L Civic Si Engine)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or cracked rear control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the rear suspension, reduced handling stability, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear control arm bushings, or replacement of the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dimming/Flickering Interior Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent dimming or flickering of interior lights, particularly at idle or when other electrical loads are active.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the charging system (alternator, battery), ground connections, or wiring harness issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor and/or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Clear Coat Failure (Certain Colors)
  • Description/Symptoms: Peeling or flaking clear coat, particularly on the roof, hood, and trunk. This is more prevalent on darker colors.
  • Solution: Complete repaint of the affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on replacement or cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Honda Civic, while generally reliable, has some notable issues. The most concerning is the potential for engine block cracking in the 1.8L engine, a potentially expensive repair. Other issues such as transmission problems and clear coat failure can also add to the cost of ownership. While the Civic Si is not completely without issues, it has proven to be more reliable compared to the 1.8L models. Prior to purchasing, it is recommended to inspect the vehicle thoroughly for these common problems.