Honda Car Forum

On Mon, 16 Jun 2008 08:16:48 -0700, Elle wrote:

> Original and only owner of a 91 Civic here. I am looking for either a
> beater Civic or beater Tercel for a friend trying to save on gas.
>
> Any comments on the maintenance requirements for, say, a 91 Tercel? How
> is it to change the timing belt? Any known "Achille's Heels" for the
> Tercel?

Yeah...dead cylinders/valves/rings. These cars (Tercel) have a congenital
defect in, IIRC the rings. If you buy one, buy it cheap, esp if it's
burning oil.

They will run for a long time with this condition, but depending on
emissions regulations where you live it may not pass emissions testing.
If you have a good mechanic that doesn't have a boat to pay for you might
get the job done inexpensively.

Hondas are all interference engines, and the belt needs to be replaced on
a regular basis; for that vintage I believe 60,000 miles, but try to find
an owner's manual online for the actual recommendation.