lon wrote:

> i am wanting to buy a 1992 honda civic. it has 150k. i am wondering at
> what mileage do hondas start having major car problems ( for fixing
> things) i am also wondering about transmission i read that there was a
> recall in 92 for transmission problems my friend also had a honda and
> transmission went out i am wondering if anyone has had same problem
> w/older honda civic & high miles if that is to be expected.

No, it won't explode at 151K.

Assuming the engine's belts, hoses, fluids have been maintained, and the
car hasn't been raced/abused, the lump should be good to go for another
50K, easy. Any original accessories like water pumps, alternators,
etc., are probably nearing the end of their lifespan.

Dunnow anything about the auto transmission issues.

The chassis will be tired. Steering and suspension joints will be worn.
The wheels won't fall off, but the handling will be vague compared to
a new car.

Double check for any signs of rust/corrosion before buying.

Things like heater cores and heat/AC switches may start to have problems.

FWIW, my 155K Accord is going well, although there are a few niggling
issues to chase down. (AC leak, mild low speed stutter, will need a CV
axle changed sometime in the next few months.) The motor burns about 1
qt. of oil every 4~5K miles and the transmission (5spd) also seems to be
in fantastic shape.

Look the car's overall condition. If the paint is beat to hell, the
interior cracking and torn, you gotta figure that the engine and other
systems probably didn't get any better treatment.

-Greg