Honda Civic 2005 and earlier

breckco · October 2001

The clicking sound you are hearing sounds normal. I think it's just a characteristic of Honda automatic transmissions just like Chryler transmissions sound like a twisting rubber band as they come to a stop. I had an 89 accord (new at the time) that did this and found they all did it even back then.

One other possibility is the brake pads. Most cars have front brake pads that "float". Sometimes you'll hear clicking sound when the pads shift rearward after being parked.

lngtonge18 · October 2001

Funny how you described the Chrysler tranny sound!! I think you hit that sound effect right on the nose. I always wondered why they made that funny sound. Any thoughts as to what causes it? When I first heard a Caravan pull up next to me with that sound, I thought it was just the signs of Chrysler's notoriously bad tranny. But I hear all of them make that sound so I guess it's just a characteristic. I do agree with you that the clicking sound is just a normal sound effect of the Honda tranny shifting into Drive. It could be because Honda uses a unique auto tranny design. I don't know the exact design specs, but if anyone is interested, there was a forum started in the maintenance and repair section about Honda's unique auto tranny design. An interesting read, as I didn't know they were any different.

tlindeman1 · October 2001

I complained early on about the bouncy, bottomy suspension in my Civic and the responses from Honda (and this forum) was that noone else noticed the problem. The fact is Honda blew it on the suspension on the 2001's and hastily fixed it on the 2002's. At 8,000 miles it seems softer than ever and I originally considered at least replacing the rear shocks with 2002 units from a dealer. At $112 apiece they're not only pricey but probably designed to work with the revised springs (which mine doesn't have). I'm patiently waiting for aftermarket replacements (Koni, Bilstein, Koni and Tokico have them "under development"). I can't believe some idiot suspension engineer designed this suspension and that it was deemed acceptable. Don't they road test their new designs? This is a glaring flaw in an otherwise very nice car and hundreds of thousands of us are stuck with it or faced with hundreds of dollars in upgrades to try to improve it. If you think there's no problem, drive a Focus, Elantra or Protoge and ask yourself why their suspensions are so much better. Reliability and resale are extremely important but you don't "ride" on them. Frankly, I can't afford the depreciation hit to trade this one in on a 2002 after 5 months.

bordsource · October 2001

Has anyone else had the A/C problem? It's a little whir that supposedly comes from the power steering rack with the air conditioner engaged. I was told it was a univrsal characeristic.

mdriver · October 2001

Did you not road test the 01 before you bought it? When I test drove an 01 at the end of last year, I decided within about a mile that I would not buy it based soley on the ride. My 6th gen was like driving a BMW after that test drive of the 01. And I had about 80K on all original shocks! Still, Honda failed to do its homework with the 01, concentrating on a flat rear floor, when they should have been attending to the ride.

jlim1 · October 2001

Maybe most of us expected too much from 01 Civic. I don't, because I relied too much on the critics' information I read on Net and automotive reviews. I took the car for a hard spin in and out of city on all road conditions and didn't find problems with it until 2000 miles later, when there seemed to be mild rattles around the glovebox and the front passenger door. Two of which the Honda service didn't bother to take it seriously enough and even the counter person made a mockery out of it by saying that it's just a Civic, not an Acura or Lexus. I was quite pissed. I owned 00 Elantra and 92 Escort in the past that didn't rattle on bumpy roads, and why should Civic? Not only that. I got my car checked in for a service appointment at 8:30 am, no one bothered to provide the status of the service up until noon, so I approached the counter person and he said he would get someone to take a look at it. The car was literally sitting out in the rain for as long as I was waiting in the lounge ! All they could do was to re-tighten the components inside the passenger door and the rattle is still evident. My impression of Honda service in my area isn't stellar when they made a mockery out of the rattles and not even taking it seriously as other mechanical problems.
I'm not disappointed with the car. Still in love with it. Just very disappointed with the people of Honda for the softer shocks they designed and the annoying rattles in the car and for the so uneffective service I received (twice). After all, a car is what people make. It doesn't come naturally with problems; it's human that builds the problems in it - design and assembly.

gdkarma74 · October 2001

Hello everyone,

I just drove home in my brand new 2002 Civic LX sedan in Ruby Red, and it makes me wonder how I waited this long to get a new one. I am glad that I waited because all the bugs are worked out in the 2002 and the red is fabulous!

I would like to recommend Mike Girard at Majestic Honda in Warwick, RI. He gave me a quick and painless deal right over the web, no haggling, no gimmicks - $200 over invoice + $20 app fee, done deal ($15,204). Plus they have a huge discount on parts as well. Here are the websites for both parts and the dealership:
www.majestichonda.com
www.hondaautomotiveparts.com

I encourage anyone who wants a great deal in the New England area to contact them. Also to anyone wondering about getting a 2001 or 2002, go with the 2002 the suspension is much better.

I will be replacing the standard cassette deck with a cd player if anyone has done this already I would appreciate a post with any tips.

Happy driving

gdkarma

tlindeman1 · October 2001

Great...another testimonial for the much-improved 2002 suspension on the Civic. The suspension on my 2001 LX sedan seems softer and more wallowy than ever. I REALLY would like to improve the suspension on my 2001 but don't believe there are any aftermarket shocks and struts available yet. I considered installing new shocks and struts from a dealer with those for the 2002's but understand that the springs have also been revised and they may not help much. The most annoying thing about this suspension is the "drumming" noise that comes from the suspension over mottled pavement or small bumps. Also, the bouncing rear end is inexcusable. It's a shame...the car is so good otherwise. Any suggestions short of trading for a 2002? I don't think I want to take the depreciation hit after only 6 months...

jimcarr · October 2001

Recently someone was complaining about foreign auto manufacturers (make that Japanese) not stepping in and furnishing assistance for those unfortunate souls in NYC.

I haven't bothered to look up the person's address to correspond directly. Rather I would suggest that he (she) go to the following link and gain some knowledge.

http://hondanews.com/Forms/corp/*ws4d-db-query

I wonder how much money GMC/Ford or the other companies donated to Japan when they had those awful earthquakes

pat · October 2001

jcarroll54 · October 2001

Hi all,
I am looking to buy a 2002 Civic LX sedan w/auto and was wondering if anyone knows a dealership in the Seattle area that will sell for a price simmilar to what other posts are reporting. The closest I've come across is a few hundred higher. Thanks!

twistinmelon · October 2001

Asking for a quote from Honda as "proof" the suspension is "better" is like asking me to "prove" I'm handsome by providing a quote from my mother. That said, here's a quote from HondaNews.com, an official Honda corporate website:

"For 2002, both the sedan and coupe models feature refinements inside and out. The new Civic provides sportier handling and a more comfortable ride."

twist

mdriver · October 2001

The evidence is that the suspension parts supposedly have different part #s for the 2002. How much "sportier" this makes the car is unknown. But since almost any other small car was sportier than the 01 Civic, this may not be much of an improvement. Honda could have made 15" or 16" wheels standard on all models, but they stuck with the 14" for the LX. Even the Elantra (Hyundai) has 15" wheels as standard. Get with the program Honda, Hyundai is beating you at your own game.

protegextwo · October 2001

What were the three top reasons for purchasing your current car? I'm assuming if your a regular in the Honda Civic Discussion you own a small sedan of some type. I'm interested in, what sold you on your current car!

I'll go 1st. These were the qualities, I looked for when shopping.

1.) Roomy Interior-
2.) Value Pricing-
3.) Attractive Styling-

Thank you in advance!

Repectfully,
Larry

silver_bullet · October 2001

Since Larry owns TWO Proteges, and preaches the Gospel According to Mazda regularly in the Protege forum, I wonder what he's doing over here in the Civic sedan forum? ;-)

protegextwo · October 2001

Hi, I like to read and post in some of the Sedan vs. Sedan comparo topics. One of discussions, (the Low-End comparo topic) is kind of running out of steam. This topic, by the way is pretty civil and MOST of the posts are level headed and informative. I was hoping to get some good "real life" data on what influenced everyone's buying decision. I don't think, I get into many Sedan(non-comparo) Discussions and bait the regulars? I would not want anyone to come to the Protege topic and act like a know-it-all, so I refrain from doing that here. BTW, I think Honda did a great job with the Civic remodel in 2001. I would appreciate any feedback that you or the other regulars would care to share.

>What were the three top reasons for purchasing your current car? I'm assuming if your a regular in the Honda Civic Discussion you own a small sedan of some type. I'm interested in, what sold you on your current car!<

>I'll go 1st. These were the qualities, I looked for when shopping.<

1.) Roomy Interior-
2.) Value Pricing-
3.) Attractive Styling-

Thank you in advance!

Respectfully,
Larry

silver_bullet · October 2001

I'm no longer in the market for a small sedan of any brand (my fiancee decided to keep what she has), so I'll just keep quiet and see what others have to say

bordsource · October 2001

I was sold by the Civic's gas mileage, first and foremost. Most little cars can barely muster 32 on the highway, much less on the highway. Secondly, I was interested in safety. I actuall got my car before any crash tests were released; I guess the gamble was worth it. After those two, I was wanting reliability and roominess. At the time, the only cars as roomy as the Civic were the Focus and Protege, neither of which had the Civic's gas mileage or "promised" safety. Driving kind of took a back seat to all this stuff. Oh well.

sobers · October 2001

I guess some anit-Honda guys doing propaganda due to shift from Bones to Struts ! I have driven civic lx/ex several times (helped 5 friends in buying process) & I would say that Civic scores 7 on the range of 1 to 10 for fun to drive. The rear suspension is bouncy on the potholes but not on regular rode. SO on the curves Civic performs very well. I know Protege handles a bit beter but has a bit of 'busy' steering which gets annoying after a while. I have not cared to test drive a focus so do not know about it. Ford does not respect their own cars so I find it difficult to give any attention to it.

just_228 · October 2001

I waited for the 2002's because of the suspension changes (and the armrest). Sure is a firm ride. I've been driving like an old lady for this first 200 miles and the trans is annoying. I am hoping it will be more fun when I drive it harder. I can't believe there is no shroud inside the front fenderwells to help keep ice, salt and water from the throttle linkage, wires and other junk hanging behind the motor. I can see straight through the car. I was hoping to drive the wheels off of it. Any problems and this will be my last Civic.

I enjoyed driving the Protege but the Honda may be safer and hopefully more dependable. I drove a Focus, noisy and cheap looking inside.

rfruth · October 2001

Have a 00 Civic hatch (1st Honda for me) and so far its been great ! The upcoming Civic sedan hybrid sure sounds tempting for the next time around but I haven't heard the MSRP yet, has anyone ? Rob Fruth Houston

jjpcat · October 2001

Do you have auto or manual transmission with your 2002 Civic? Why did you say it's annoying?

bordsource · October 2001

I saw a Ruby Red Civic a few days ago. Very pretty color. Think of it as the red version of Eternal Blue and you won't be far off. It's a big improvement over that Vintage Plum, by the way.

Oh, and the white Civic EXs look good too.

leerosenberg · October 2001

Hi, I know that the 02 EX has the white faced gauges, but does the LX as well? Thanks

[Deleted User] · October 2001

Hi 'leerosenberg' - I just bought a 2002 LX Sedan and yes, it has the white faced gauges. I think they look pretty nice. Easy to read during the day and when back lit at night.

[Deleted User] · October 2001

Hi - The contributors on this forum really helped me by sharing their 2001 owner/test driving experiences, sharing early 2002 invoice pricing before Edmunds had them posted, and by sharing their personal purchase pricing. I really appreciated it. I'd like to return the favor by sharing my recent purchase pricing and initial ownership experiences...

South East Michigan Area: Made an in-person visit to a local dealer and was quoted credit union member price of 3% over invoice. The next day, I bounced that price off a slightly more distant dealer I had contacted through the internet this past Summer regarding a 2001 and they beat the price by almost $140. Not a huge savings but enough considering their quick, courteous, no hassle, and free ability to discuss prices via e-mail/phone - very quick and to the point. Also, they were very careful to understand I wanted a car right off the truck and didn't think it was a silly request to want a car that hadn't even been test-driven. Made all the arrangements on the phone and we picked up the car the next day where the internet salesman came in on Saturday to complete the deal when he normally only works Mon-Fri.

Civic LX Sedan w/Automatic, Clover Green Pearl/Beige Interior with Floor Mats = $15,423 before taxes, title, and registration. Actually, it was $15,383 but they charged me a $40 document fee to which I gave in since I had tried to talk the first dealer out of charging me this and he kept insisting that evey Honda dealer I'll come across charges it and not waive it (I know, goes against the Edmunds buying advice but this is my first Honda and it appeared to be true). My total out the door price was $16,367.38 (includes $925.38 MI sales tax and $19 title/transfer). My calculations show the total dealer invoice to be $15,068.22 (LX Sedan w/auto=$14,543.10 + Floor Mats=$85.12 + Destination=$440). This puts the dealer profit at $354.78 or 2.35% above dealer invoice. I thought it was a fair price considering Honda appears to be a surprisingly strong seller in the heartland of the Big Three with plenty of buyers snapping up their products. Even with the slower economy, we were surprised to hear the paperwork person at the dealership say their Honda sales are up 11% over last year's record numbers and they seem busier than ever even since the Sept. 11 tragedy.

I've always been a strict GM product owner for many years but after experiencing too many recalls and other "annoyances" from Chevy, Pontiac, and Cadillac lines (I've never owned a Cadillac but I've experienced enough from driving my parents Cadillac and listened to their many service/design problems), I finally decided GM's low resale values are what they are for a reason and it's time to try something else.

Already after only a week, I can say I really like my Honda Civic. It's just a plain, fun car to drive. It seems to express quality and efficiency in its every aspect. Nice tight steering, very smooth and quiet acceleration, no bounding jolts or bounce as I've heard described in earlier posts about the 2001, very nice visibility, clean lines outside and inside, tight construction with good solid door-closing "thud" even my Cadillac owning Mother liked, and apparent high build quality based on symetry of gaps and fit. The Clover Green Pearl with beige interior almost gives it a VW or BMW style look. My first idea was to get the Titanium Metallic or Silver since I thought they'd be easier to keep clean than the dark colors I've always leaned towards. I also thought they looked classy. However, the darker color actually shows off the shiny chrome pieces better and really makes the red tail lights stand out on the rear. Also, the green seems to visually "lower" the roof line which I think makes the car look a little less "bubble rounded" as I see the Titanium and Silver - though, they have their own unique class - It must be just how each of our own eyes perceives or likes certain colors in relation to shapes and highlighting - can't go wrong with any of the colors as far as I can tell.

The simplicity of the interior highlights the act of just driving with very easy ability to change the radio or climate controls without all the "bells and whistles" I've come to expect on GM cars which more often than not in my experience, just provide more to go wrong later. The open feel of the car really is nice in comparison to Toyota's Corolla which does seem a bit dated now. Though, recent Corolla 0% financing might have changed my mind if it had been offered a week ago. However, I still think the Civic's Best Pick rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (www.hwysafety.org) makes my higher financed purchase worth it. My son and his booster seat fit nicely inside and I like knowing it's LATCH compatible so I can buy the easier to install-type childseat once my daughter is old enough to need the upgrade.

The only initial "issues" were the battery "eye" was dark when the salesman gave me the new car "orientation" by showing off the engine compartment - The "eye" went to the normal "green" indicator after a couple days of driving the car. The other thing was I thought there was a slight rattle in the rear windows on it's first drive home from the dealer but I determined it to be a film on the window which must make a rattle-type rubbing sound against a plastic strip which splits the rear window glass from the rear-most tiny glass section that doesn't move. I've not heard the "rattle" it in the last few days and I don't think it's temperature/humidity related since recent temps/conditions have offered chances to retest. I'm hopefull the "rattle" is gone from here. Also, I thought there was a loose "flap" behind the gas filling cap that slightly fluttered every time I closed any of the four doors. However, I surmised it's a designed "cabin pressure" release flap since it doesn't do it when the trunk is open.

Overall, a really nice car and I'm very pleased with my decision to buy it as my commuting and around town car. If you're in SE MI and looking for a no-hassle salesman/dealership from which to purchase, I'll watch for any inquiry posts here for the next week or two and I'll be happy to refer you to my dealership...of course, that's assuming the price I paid isn't too overblown and someone actually cares to get a similar deal. :-)

Thanks again for everyone's input (positive and negative) in this forum as it really made me more confident about such an important purchase.

bordsource · October 2001

I parked my car directly behind a Ford Focus a few days ago. I had long wondered why the Civic didn't look quite as tall and quirky as the Focus, even though it was about the same height. The answer lies in how tall the actual body is. The Civic rides closer to the ground, and the actual bodywork is taller than the that of the Focus. In addition to that, that low nose really does wonders for the balance of the car. It's a pain sometimes because it scrapes curbs, but it really makes sure the car doesn't look dorky.

isellhondas · October 2001

I'm surprised that you would consider the battery "eye" being dark as an "issue".

Simply meant the battery had lost some of it's charge due to the car sitting around. Usually the color comes back after driving the car a bit.

Not a big deal...

patrick45 · October 2001

Just out of curiosity, what does your VIN start with, a "J", "1", or "2"? Thanks.

In my test drive between a 2001 and 2002 Civic, I liked the 2002 much better. The Civic is a really tightly built and solid car and I love the tight steering compared to my 1999 Camry. The Camry's steering is extremely numb and light. Absolutely no road feel whatsoever!

[Deleted User] · October 2001

My Honda salesman was the one who considered it a potential "issue", not me. I was the one to suggest it's probably to be expected considering it was a new battery off the line and put to work with little chance to charge with only the factory 3 miles on the car. I took the chance that I was right rather than allow the salesman to drive it into their service area. I had my two young children with me who had very patiently waited for me to finish the purchase and I had to quickly get them home for an afternoon nap. I initially began to doubt myself a little bit after the 35 minute, highway drive home from the dealer only to find the "eye" was still black and the next time I started the car it hesitated a little bit turning over. However, it went green after a couple more drives and proved like you said, "Not a big deal..."

I speculate it must be satisfying for you to sell a quality product such as Honda. Contrary to the weeks following my many prior new GM product purchases, each passing day of my Honda ownership experience is making me happier and happier about my Honda purchase. It's nice to finally experience the Honda quality of well designed fit and function so many smart buyers have been touting for so many years. All the while, I've been blindly buying mediocre, hit 'n miss quality in the name of "supporting" GM on the brainwashing basis that my parents have always said if it weren't for GM, our family wouldn't be since my grandfathers both worked for GM their entire lives. That is true and I'm sure they built quality products for their time just as Honda is building quality products for our time and is a company also providing jobs to many more grandfathers-to-be as well. I guess I've finally wised up enough to realize that it's my obligation to my own family to pay my hard-earned money to whatever company best provides the highest quality, safest product I can afford. I think my grandfathers wouldn't disagree with my decision.

Best of luck to you on your 2002 Honda sales - I hope you'll be busy.

[Deleted User] · October 2001

The VIN starts with a '1'. May I ask what that VIN digit identifies?

I agree the '02 Civic is very tight with a noticable solid build and has nimble steering. I know comparing it to a '97 Chevy Monte Carlo is like comparing riding a skateboard to riding an elephant but it is such a joy manuvering my Civic around the parking structure at work now. I can easily turn and slip into tight parking spots, quietly dash quickly in and out of congested downtown traffic without ever feeling like the engine is "struggling" to move a large mass, and all the while I can actually see who's around me without feeling like I'm stuck looking out from inside a large, dark cave as was the feeling with the Monte. In addition, the Civic gives me walking room in front and back when parked in my garage but still has more usable interior space than that extra long Monte Carlo - Amazing! I highly recommend the Civic Sedan as an around-town, practical commuting/family automobile.

patrick45 · October 2001

The first letter or number of the VIN indicates where the vehicle was assembled. "1" and "4" indicated built in the U.S. Your Civic LX was assembled in East Liberty, OH. "2" indicates it was assembled in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. "J" indicates is was assembled in Japan. Anymore it really does not matter where a Honda is assembled. The quality is still going to be the same, because the Honda corporate office in Japan wouldn't tolerate anything else! In fact, I recently spoke with a Honda service manager in Olympia, WA and he used to work in the Honda assembly plant in Marysville, OH where the Accord, and Acura CL and TL are manufactured. He said he would rank the U.S and Canadian Honda plants ahead of Japan as far as quality and craftsmanship. But he also added that all the Honda plants are so close in this respect, probably within tenths of each other. For comparison reasons, I've test driven several Civic's made in all 3 countries, and I notice no difference whatsoever. In fact, it's hard to find a Honda product made in Japan anymore. Most are manufactured either in the U.S. or Canada. About 2 years ago they started making Accords in Mexico or least they started shipping them here from Mexico, probably because of the high demand for them here. Enjoy your new 2002 Civic. You should get many, many years and miles out of it. By the way, in case you didn't know, Honda builds the best engines in the world, in fact, they are the largest engine builder in the world. Honda and GM just recently formed a partnership where GM will purchase a number of V-6 engines from Honda and Honda will purchase some diesel engines for some of their European cars from GM owned Isuzu. Happy motoring!

hvtec2000 · October 2001

It was crazy when the dealer changed the front springs for my 01 civic last week. I had them changed my engine mounts and struts three months ago. I think Honda don't put in good parts for this car. Rattle noise always happen like some of you had explained. This prolem only happens when the spring, struts, or engine mounts go bad or weak. It will cost alot of money to replace these parts. I would say that Honda can't afford for all these parts so they just go with the flow. If any one find out then they will only change new parts for that person.
Have any one changed the speakers for this Honda Civic. I bought the 6 1/2 speakers for front and rear but they don't fit at all. It seem like I need a 7" speakers but no way on earth I can get 7". This is making me crazy about this car. Nothing is right about this car compare to the old models.

dabimmer · October 2001

Took delivery of the aforementioned Civic EX eleven days ago as a replacement for a '97
Civic LX sedan that we had for 4 years. I loved that car in every respect, ride,handling,quality
of build,gas mileage consistently at 40mpg and especially dependability. The new Civic has all
of this and more. I needed an auto instead of stick as in the '97 and am very pleased so far with
this iteration. Am very glad that we did not get a 2001 with all the problems I've seen posted
here. Drove Corolla,Jetta,Passat,Elantra( which I loved also but had issues with dependability
so decided on the Civic), Protoge,Suburu, and Sentra. This car has the Firestone FR 690 tires which
I will probably retain as I had the 680's on the last car and they were excellent.

dabimmer · October 2001

Forgot to say that the color is Radiant Ruby Pearl which reminds me of a color in an Accord of a few years. It is a fantastic color and very,very shiny. The tires are set off
with Honda 15" alloy wheels which set off the ride handily.

pallove · October 2001

I think you made a good decision waiting for the 2002 model. I have a 2001 model and troubles left and right with the car.

My major problem is stalling and hesitation.

mackos48 · October 2001

I have 2001 EX with 8500 miles on it. Brought it in to the dealer with check engine light. They say it's the torque converter. They are going to replace it. I've had minor problems before but now I'am beginning to wonder. Love the car I hope they don't butcher it. My first honda.

dido1 · October 2001

Any recent purchases of the 2002 Ciciv EX. I will be shopping for one this weekend. I stopped by a couple of dealers so far (Chicagoland) and left with disappointment. Any suggestion on which dealer to go.

dave210 · October 2001

I don't know what the Chicagoland dealers are doing now, but my son got his 2001 EX Auto 4DR with Side SRS for $159 over invoice or $17,003 including destination at Schaumburg Honda.

Considering the '02 models went up, you shoudl shoot for about $17,200, and that's including the $440 destination charge. You also might want to try Rosen Honda in Gurnee. I've been told they give great deals also. Hope this helps!

carguy62 · November 2001

I would suggest O'Hare Honda in Des Plaines. They are a huge volume dealer and usually you can get a pretty good deal (I'd go for invoice, maybe plus a few bucks but it's up to you where to negotiate). There are too many dealers in the Chicago area not to get a good deal on a commodity vehicle like the Civic. Even if you don't buy from O'Hare I find it quite fun to look at all the cars they have in their lots (yes they have so many cars they have a remote area they keep the overflows). Good luck.

jfong · November 2001

What do you think is a fair price for a '02 Honda Civic LX 4dr including the $440 destination charge and without SRS? I live in Nashville, TN.

Thanks.

Joe

jfong · November 2001

Have you added a Keyless Entry System to your LX Sedan? Did you do it yourself or let the dealer do it? If you did it yourself, where did you buy your Keyless Entry (any website)? On the other hand, if you let the dealer took care of it, approximately how much did they charge for both the Keyless Entry and Labor?

Thanks.
Joe

hvtec2000 · November 2001

I did the keyless by myself and it is very easy. Go here to buy and they will give you the instructions to install. Any Question just email me at maivu98@yahoo.com.

http://www.handa-accessories.com/

bordsource · November 2001

I had to get my car aligned today. What a transformation. Anyway, back to the point. They had an '02 Civic on the showroom floor that was identical to mine. I noticed the new gauges; I don't like them as I don't find them as legible. I also noticed the door handles. They didn't spiff up the interior as much as I thought they would. What did it for me was the cupholder covers. They really did alot to add some class. On the other hand, I worry that the mechanism will eventually go bad, parituclarly since they're basically spring operated. I've seen several of those springs go bad and, wham! You can never close the cupholder again.

Most importantly, though, and the entire reason I was writing, is that they redesigned one particular part. The area where the power outlet is now has two blanks instead of one large one. That blank in the 2001 is for the foglights. Why do they need two for the 2002?

Any insights?

dave210 · November 2001

I believe those two blanks are for the heated seat switches available on the Canadian Acura EL. It's basically a Civic with leather and alloy wheels. I remember when I went onto the EL website, they showed the heated seat switches in that very spot.

patrick45 · November 2001

I picked up the 2002 Consumer Reports 2002 Auto Preview last night at B&N. I turned to the Honda Civic page and low and behold Consumer Reports "predicted" reliability for the Civic was a clear dot instead of the usual red dot. This is like the first time in 15 plus years that the Civic has not had a red dot in Consumer Reports for predicted reliability. The Civic has truly fallen from grace. What is happening with Honda? Are they going the way of the domestics? I sure hope not! Maybe anymore Toyota's the only viable option.

britton2 · November 2001

did the Consumer Reports you picked up have a review of the Toyota Corolla? thank you

patrick45 · November 2001

Consumer Reports did have a review of the 2002 Corolla. The Corolla's predicted reliability was a red dot (very reliable), but the article did state that the Corolla was no longer a stand out in the compact car segment because of newer, updated cars like the Civic, Sentra, and Focus. As you may or may not already know, the Corolla is slated for a complete redesign for the 2003 model year. From what I hear the 2002 Corolla production will end in November and that the all new 2003 Corolla is to debut sometime in January or February 2002. From what I've read, the 2003 Corolla for the U.S. market is going to look very much like the Japanese version of the Corolla. You can visit Toyota of Japan's website and check out some of the pics. The interior looks a lot like the all new 2002 Toyota Camry. The interior looks like a big improvement over the current Corolla.

britton2 · November 2001

hey thanks - I have a '01 Corolla LE which I am very pleased with - used to subscribe to Consumer Reports years ago but haven't read one since - I did see pics of the 2003 Corolla somewhere - pretty cool.

dave210 · November 2001

Some of you may or may not know that my son has a 2001 Civic that has been just OK. I thought today, me and him would just go out and see if the 2002's were really that much better.

Improvements:

1. Tighter Steering (not as loose as the 2001)

2. A LITTLE better ride

3. A LITTLE more composed on rough roads

4. Cover over cup holder, white gauges, chrome door handles

So in a nut shell, it wasn't AS bouncy as my son's 2001, but it wasn't like it was that different. It wasn't a big enough change for him to go out and buy a new one. He and I both noticed that the only REAL big change was the tighter steering which could be a good or bad thing depending on your tastes.

I just thought I'd let all of you discouraged 2001 owners know that the 2002's are not that different form the 2001's. When Honda said they enhanced the 2002's suspension, they seemed to do so minimally. Although, I still like them both. Just thought I'd let you know.

Honda Civic 2005 and earlier

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