Honda Car Forum

Are there any common problems with a 1996 - 1999 Honda Civic? Do they have the typical "iron clad" Honda reliability

I have a 96 Hatchback, been mine for the last 9 years.It has been a typical Honda. I follow the manual for service intervals.I run synthetic oil due to mileage (279500kms).Last year I changed out the upper and lower rad hoses despite being fine. The cap and rotor , they were both fine as well. Ignition wires as the originals looked a bit stiff. I did the clutch even though it still had a ton of friction materiel on it and both drive axles were worn.Everything else is original other than items designed to wear.Exhaust heat shields can get a bit noisy as the rust, use a hose clamp to secure them.I use Honda coolant, every two years and OEM Honda parts for critical items like the timing belts, thermostat, cap and rotor and water pump.I wish they still made a 2 door hatchback as mine has served me very well. If you purchase this car be sure to read the manual and dig around online and read up on some of the "facts" about the vehicle.

Very iron clad, except for bad exhausts. Don't know if that includes the cat, so check that out. But otherwise, very reliable car.