With this guide, I’ve categorized the Best & Worst Honda Civic Years from 2001 to this year’s latest model.
The objective of this guide is to help you determine the best Honda Civic years to buy and the worst Honda Civic years to stay away from in the new Honda Civic generations.
Based on authoritative sources such as NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and JD Power, I’ll discuss the evolution, performance, and reliability of the various generations of Honda Civics.
The Honda Civic year that’s best to buy, the Honda Civic year that has AC problems, and the Honda Civic year that’s most reliable will be clearly explained to you.
It’s time to get started.
Honda Civic Generations
A compact car that has become an icon and a bestselling model, the Honda Civic was introduced in 1972. During an era of energy crises, the first generation of Honda Civic introduced affordable and fuel-efficient transportation to the automotive industry.
The following table summarizes Honda Civic generations since 2001:
| Generation | Years |
| 11th generation (FE) | 2022-Present |
| 10th generation (FC1/FC2/FC5) | 2016-2021 |
| 9th generation (FB) | 2012-2015 |
| 8th generation (FA1) | 2006-2011 |
| 7th generation (ES/EN) | 2001-2005 |
Comparing different model years requires an understanding of generational shifts, especially because certain upgrades or changes may be determining factors for prospective Civic buyers.
Honda Civic Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Our ranking of the best, neutral, and worst Honda Civic years is based on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to:
We’ll present a combined view of ratings from the platforms above in the upcoming graph.
My table below categorizes each Honda Civic model year according to best, neutral, and worst.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 11th generation (FE) | 2023 | N/A | 2022 |
| 10th generation (FC1/FC2/FC5) | 201920202021 | 20172018 | 2016 |
| 9th generation (FB) | 201320142015 | N/A | 2012 |
| 8th generation (FA1) | 200920102011 | N/A | 200620072008 |
| 7th generation (ES/EN) | 20042005 | N/A | 200120022003 |
Model years that are considered neutral don’t stand out in any particular way – they weren’t acclaimed as the best, but they didn’t receive much negative feedback either.
Our evaluations are adversely affected by certain factors, especially NHTSA recalls. The reliability score of a car is invariably lowered when there are more complaints and recalls.
Taking a closer look at the Best & Worst Honda Civic Years [Models: 2001-2024], let’s find out what each has to offer.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Civic 11th Generation (2022-2023)
The 11th generation of Honda Civic marked the beginning of a new era, moving away from the aggressive design cues of the 10th generation.
The best year of the 11th-generation Honda Civic will be 2023, while 2022 will be a year to avoid due to complaints from owners.
The Best Years: 2023
2023 was the year the Honda Civic cemented its position as the class leader. With its redesigned exterior and cleaner lines, the model presented a more elegant and mature appearance.
There was also a redesign of the interiors with minimalist design cues, improved ergonomics, and tactile feedback.
There are four trim levels on the Civic: LX, Sport, EX, and Touring. Despite being called LX, Sport, EX-L, and Sport Touring, the Civic Hatchback’s trim levels are mostly the same.
There is a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine in the LX and Sport models, while there is a 1.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the EX and Touring models.
CVTs are standard on all sedans and liftbacks. The Sport and Sport Touring models of the liftback are available with a 6-speed manual transmission.
For city driving, the model achieved 23 mpg, while for highway commuting, it achieved 44 mpg.
The Worst Years: 2022
A number of teething problems were encountered during the 2022 Honda Civic’s introduction to the 11th generation.
It was particularly noteworthy that the sticky steering wheel issue from the previous generation had been carried forward, which raised questions about the car’s drivability and overall experience.
Further, some users reported intermittent activation of the Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Mitigation System, primarily due to intermittent system glitches.
Best, Neutral & Worst Years for Honda Civic 10th Generation (2016-2021)
The 10th generation Civic was unveiled by Honda in 2016, showcasing an innovative, futuristic, and bold redesign.
Honda Civics from the generation of 2019 to 2021 are the best models. Civics from 2016 to 2021 are the worst models.
The Best Years: 2019, 2020, 2021
Consumer Reports, VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and Kelley Blue Book ranked the 2019 Honda Civic as the best year of the 10th generation.
They were available with two engine options: the 2.0L four-cylinder engine that balanced performance and fuel economy, and the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that delivered spirited performance and commendable fuel economy.
Depending on the trim level and preference, these engines come paired with manual transmissions or CVTs.
From the base LX, to the sporty Sport, to the feature-rich EX, to the fuel-efficient EX-L, Honda offered a wide range of trim levels.
The Honda Sensing Suite was introduced in these years, which included features such as collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
With a larger touchscreen, intuitive controls, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, and an improved voice recognition system, the infotainment system has been significantly enhanced.
The Neutral Years: 2017, 2018
In the 2017 and 2018 Civics, the kinks from the 2016 models were worked out and the foundation for future excellence was laid.
In response to user feedback, engine options remained broadly consistent, with a slight focus on enhancing the CVT’s responsiveness.
The Honda Sensing suite was slowly integrated into different trim levels as part of Honda’s commitment to safety.
In addition, the Civic Hatchback variant was introduced after a decade-long hiatus, adding versatility and European flair.
The Worst Years: 2016
One of the most problematic members of this generation is the 2016 Honda Civic. The 2016 Honda Civic should be avoided for the following reasons.
Some owners reported that the steering wheel was sticky and jerky, making for an uncomfortable ride.
Throughout all tenth-generation Civic models, many users reported malfunctions in the AC system and Freon leaks.
Honda, however, took proactive steps to address the issue, extending the warranty on the Civic condenser.
Additionally, the infotainment system suffered from lags and glitches despite being technologically advanced.
Honda Civic recalls and complaints from 2016, 2017, 2018.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)
Introducing its 9th generation in 2012, the Honda Civic underwent a significant evolution, improving its aesthetics and technological features.
Honda Civic’s 9th generation may be one of the best when it comes to reliability and affordability. Among this generation’s Honda Civics, only 2012 is to be avoided, while 2013, 2014, and 2015 are the most reliable.
The Best Years: 2013, 2014, 2015
There is no doubt that 2013, 2014, and 2015 are the best Honda Civic years among platforms like Consumer Reports, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com.
It was predominantly powered by 1.8L four-cylinder engines paired with 5-speed manuals or CVTs that balanced performance and fuel efficiency during these years.
The trim lineup continued with the base LX, the more feature-rich EX, the sporty Si, the fuel-efficient HF, and the top-tier EX-L.
The 2013 Civic received an exterior facelift that addresses criticisms of its bland aesthetics.
Furthermore, an advanced infotainment system and superior materials were added to the interiors.
A smartphone-integrated infotainment system called “HondaLink “, introduced in 2014, offers navigation, streaming audio, and voice-command search functions.
Honda LaneWatch was introduced in 2014 to enhance driver safety.
Its responsiveness, however, was criticized by some users as a bit sluggish despite the accolades.
The Worst Years: 2012
Honda Civic 2012: Why should you avoid it? In 2012, some teething problems were addressed in later models, as they are in many introductory years. Some of the problems with the 2012 Honda Civic are as follows:
Its design was often deemed uninspired by critics because of its uninspired aesthetic. However, the overall ride quality and cabin noise isolation failed to impress despite the reliable 1.8L engine.
Power steering loss, transmission glitches, and electrical problems were among the concerns raised by owners.
An example of a recall was a drive shaft that could separate in rare instances, resulting in a loss of motive power.
While the 2012 Honda Civic did well in some ratings, such as those from J.D. Power, considerable improvements were needed.
Complaints and recalls related to the 2012 Honda Civic can be found on the NHTSA website.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Civic 8th Generation (2006-2011)
2006 marked the introduction of Honda Civic’s 8th generation, which featured a futuristic redesign and a two-tier dashboard.
Certainly, the first three years of the 8th-generation Honda Civic were the worst – 2006, 2007, and 2008 – while 2009, 2010, and 2011 were the best.
The Best Years: 2009, 2010, 2011
The 2011 Honda Civic is the best model of this generation in terms of fuel economy. Honda Civic 8th-generation models from 2009 and 2010 are also very reliable.
An optimized fuel efficiency and commendable horsepower were offered by these models with their 1.8L SOHC i-VTEC engine mated to either a 5-speed automatic or manual transmission.
The trim levels included the base DX, the well-equipped LX, and the sporty Si.
Also introduced in these years were the Civic Hybrid with Integrated Motor Assist, and the natural-gas-powered GX variant, which was hailed as one of the most environmentally friendly internal combustion engines.
Additionally, the average fuel efficiency for city driving has been increased to 19 mpg, while highway driving has been increased to 45 mpg.
On the technology front, even mid-tier trims offered advanced navigation systems, USB audio interfaces, and stability control.
The Worst Years: 2006, 2007, 2008
As a result of infamous engine cracks that lead to coolant leakage and more serious problems, 2006, 2007, and 2008 Honda Civic years should be avoided like the plague.
The engine replacements were the result of a class-action lawsuit, which Honda settled, but didn’t issue an official recall.
During these years, owners often reported excessive tire wear due to problematic rear control arms causing an adverse rear camber.
It was also difficult to deal with recalls. Engine and suspension problems, as well as exterior lighting issues, were among the problems.
A list of Honda Civic complaints and recalls can be found at the NHTSA website for 2006, 2007, and 2008.
Best & Worst Years for Honda Civic 7th Generation (2001-2005)
Honda Civic’s 7th generation, introduced in 2000, marked a turning point for the brand’s design and engineering.
During the later years of the generation, 2004 and 2005, the Honda Civic is at its best, while 2001, 2002, and 2003 require extra caution.
The Best Years: 2004, 2005
2004 and 2005 are undeniably the best Honda Civic years of this generation, boasting reasonably good fuel economy figures of 21 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Engine options for these vehicles included a range of SOHC VTEC engines, with the most popular being the 1.7L. They were available with four-speed automatic transmissions or five-speed manual transmissions.
No matter what their budget or desires are, consumers can find a trim that fits their needs, from the base-level DX to the sporty Si.
Technological advancements in these years include power locks, air conditioners, and better audio systems.
Safety features on the EX trim included anti-lock brakes, dual front airbags, and even side airbags.
Even though these years were successful, they weren’t without hiccups. Power windows and the radio were reported to have occasional electronic glitches by some owners.
The Worst Years: 2001, 2002, 2003
There are many transmission problems and costly repairs associated with Honda Civic years 2001, 2002, and 2003.
It has been reported that transmissions slipped, gear changes were delayed, and, in severe cases, a total transmission failure occurred.
A second area of concern for these early years was recalls. For instance, the 2001 model was recalled for issues with the exterior lighting and fuel pumps.
Despite Honda’s attempts to rectify these problems in the 2002 and 2003 Civic models, CVT transmissions and sporadic electrical problems still persisted.
However, they did have some advantages, such as fuel efficiency and compactness.
Honda Civic recalls and complaints from 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005 are available from NHTSA.
Common Issues with the Honda Civic (By Year)
You might want to avoid certain years when looking for used Honda Civics simply because they were plagued with problems. Here are a few of the most common issues per year, to help you avoid them.
2001
The 2001 Honda Civic has gone down in history as one of the worst cars ever made. There were a number of recalls and transmission issues that cost on average $2300.
2004
The brand seemed to be suffering from heating issues this year, which was the year of the fuses. It can cost up to $200 to replace an HVAC system completely in extreme cases.
2005
There was a problem with airbags in many Civic models in 2005. A warning light that wouldn’t turn off was one of the most common. Consequently, this year’s model was damaged by an airbag recall.
2006
Many 2006 Civics had cracked engine blocks, leading to coolant leaks and engine failures. The engine block was covered by the warranty, but outside of it, drivers were responsible for all costs.
Common Honda Civic Problems
Based on RepairPal’s reliability ranking, the Honda Civic ranks 3rd out of 36 compact cars. You should be aware of a few issues with the Civic despite its excellent reputation for reliability:
Transmission issues
When it comes to older Civics, transmission reliability is something to consider. Beginning with the 2001 model year, transmissions on older Civics were prone to slippage or failure. An average transmission rebuild or replacement costs $2,300.
Defective airbags
Many Civics from the early 2000s had Takata airbags that triggered a massive recall. Airbags with these faults are prone to exploding when deployed. It is important to make sure this problem has been resolved before buying a Civic from the early 2000s.
Body integrity issues
Paint peeling and cracked sunvisors are common problems with 2009 and 2010 Civics. There has been no recall as of yet due to the widespread peeling paint.
Faulty A/C systems
The climate system on used Civic models, especially those manufactured between 2001 and 2004, is notoriously problematic. Blowers that stop working are usually caused by a faulty thermal fuse.
Read: Best & Worst Toyota RAV4 Years
Read: Best & Worst Honda CR-V Years
FAQs
Are Honda Civics typically reliable?
Those looking for dependable transportation often turn to the Honda Civic for its reliability. Honda’s Civic, Accord, and CR-V have helped establish the company as a global leader. It is important to remember that not every Civic (even Honda) is perfect.
How much does a used Honda Civic typically cost?
It is no secret that Honda Civics are regarded as reliable, which is why they command a high price. Used car supplies are tight, making this situation worse. It is obvious that prices will vary considerably based on the model year and other factors. The average selling price of a 2008 Honda Civic sedan is $8,187, according to CoPilot Price Pulse. Because of current market conditions, a 2019 goes for $22,862, a premium of 36%.
Is the Honda Civic a good car to purchase?
Yes, without a doubt. It is a good idea to purchase a Civic. Honda has sold millions of Civics over the past five decades to demonstrate this. Several Civic model years should be avoided.
Conclusion
In our deep dive into the Honda Civic’s history, we conclude that the best years to buy a Honda Civic are 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2017-2023.
Do you agree with our finding about Honda Civic generation preferences, and have you had any firsthand experiences?
Let us know what you think and what you’ve experienced in the comments!
