steve wrote:

> Hi;
>
> I've been driving a 1991 Honda Civic automatic 4 door for 10 years. I
> bought it used with 50,000 miles on it. It is at 183,000 miles
> now. It has died on me twice recently, is having things break from
> metal fatigue and it is getting harder to get new parts for it. In
> other words, I think it is time for it to go. It is nearing the end
> of its service life.
>
> I've been happy with how well it has held up so far, so I am thinking
> about starting over again with another used Honda Civic ( newer ).
>
> Its been 10 years since I bought a car. I would rather not launch
> another PhD thesis researching what is a good deal.
>
> Are the 21st century Honda Civics still a good deal for
> dependability ?
>
> Thanks in advance for any info

Unfortunately, the 7th-gen Civic (2001-05) hasn't been as reliable as
previous versions. On my 2004 which currently has 50,000 miles on it, the
alternator and front struts failed during the last 6 months, and these are
somewhat common problems. There have also been reports of transmission
failures especially in the '01 and '02, although I haven't experienced that,
knock on wood.

I hope that the current 8th-gen Civic will be better, notwithstanding the
thermostat issue that was discussed here (or on the other NG). Otherwise, I
personally may have to look at a Toyota Corolla or a Hyundai Elantra for my
next car. Sometimes I wish I had kept my '93 Accord, which was a great car.