This guide is based on a detailed look at each Honda Civic model from 2001 to the latest version.
This guide will break down Honda Civics latest generations. I will determine the best Honda Civic years for you to purchase and the worst Honda Civic Years to avoid.
I’ll use authoritative sources such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power to shed light on the evolution, performance, and reliability of various Civic generations. I will shed some light on how the Civic has evolved in terms of performance and reliability.
You’ll learn which Honda Civic year has the best AC and reliability, as well as which Honda Civic model years suffer from AC issues.
Let’s get right into it.
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Honda Civic Generations
In 1972, the Honda Civic was introduced. It is a compact car that has become a classic. Honda Civic’s first generation was revolutionary for the automobile industry. It provided fuel-efficient and affordable transportation in an age of energy crisis.
The table below provides an overview on Honda Civic models from 2001 until today:
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | The Year |
|---|---|
| 7th generation (ES/EN) | 2001-2005 |
| 8th generation (FA1) | 2006-2011 |
| 9th generation (FB) | 2012-2015 |
| 10th generation (FC1/FC2/FC5) | 2016-2021 |
| 11th generation (FE) | 2022-Present |
Understanding the differences between model years is important, as certain upgrades and changes may be a deciding factor to many potential Civic buyers.
Honda Civic Best Years, Neutral Years, and the Worst Years
Our rankings of the Honda Civic’s best, neutral and worst years are based on an array of factors including, but not limited:
- Owner-reported reliability surveys
- Maintenance costs
- Safety Ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability score
- Consumer Reports scores of owner satisfaction
- NHTSA investigations, recalls and complaints
- Edmunds Owner Ratings
- JD Power Owner Ratings
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- Owner ratings for VehicleHistory
- Owner ratings on Cars.com
We’ll show you a combined view of the ratings across the various platforms in the graph below.
The table below shows the top, middle, and bottom Honda Civic models by year.
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | Best Years | Neutral Years | The Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7th generation (ES/EN) | 2004 2005 | N/A | 2001 2002 2003 |
| 8th generation (FA1) | 2009 2010 2011 | N/A | 2006 2007 2008 |
| 9th generation (FB) | 2013 2014 2015 | N/A | 2012 |
| 10th generation (FC1/FC2/FC5) | 2019 2020 2021 | 2017 2018 | 2016 |
| 11th generation (FE) | 2023 | N/A | 2022 |
Model years classified as “Neutral Years”, were not particularly notable in any direction. They weren’t the most popular, but they didn’t receive significant criticism or problems.
Our evaluations are affected by certain factors. The reliability of a car is always affected by the number and severity of recalls.
Let’s now dive in to the specs of the Honda Civic years that were the most popular, the neutral and the least popular.
Honda Civic 7th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2001-2005).
In 2000, the 7th Generation of Honda Civic was launched. It marked a significant shift for the Honda Civic line, with an obvious change in engineering and design.
Honda Civic Years to Avoid: The Honda Civic is best in the later years of this generation. 2001, 2002 and 2003 may need more caution and are therefore the years that should be avoided.
The Best Years 2004 and 2005
The best Honda Civics of the current generation are 2004 and 2005. With fuel efficiency figures as high as 21 mpg in the city, and 40 mpg on the highway and Edmunds scores that were outstanding, these years have undoubtedly been the most successful.
These vehicles were powered by a variety of engines, with the most common being the 1.5L SoHC VTEC. The cars were equipped with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
From the entry-level DX model to the sporty Si, consumers can find trims that match their needs and budget.
These years have seen the development of new technologies such as improved audio systems and air conditioners.
Safety features include dual airbags in the front and anti-locking brakes as standard. The EX trim offers side airbags.
It’s important to note that despite their success, these years weren’t without some minor problems. Some owners have reported minor electronic problems, particularly with the radio or power windows.
The worst years: 2001,2002,2003
Honda Civics from 2001-2003 are prone to transmission issues and expensive repairs.
Some owners reported experiencing slipping transmissions and delays in changing gears. In severe cases, transmissions failed completely.
In the early years, recalls also caused concern. For example, the 2001 model was subject to recalls relating to exterior lighting, fuel pumps, and other issues that could cause sudden engine stalls.
Honda tried to fix the problems in 2002 and 2003 Civics, but there were still concerns about CVT and electrical issues.
They also had some merits such as a good design and fuel economy.
NHTSA Honda Civic Recalls and Complaints 2001, 2002 2003 2004, 2005
Honda Civic 8th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2006-2011).
In 2006, the eighth generation Honda Civic was introduced. It featured a futuristic design with a double-tiered dashboard and aggressive body lines.
Honda Civic 8th generation – the early years 2006, 2007 and 2008 were the worst years for the Honda Civic. However, 2009, 2010 and 2011 are the most successful years.
Best Year: 2009, 2010 and 2011
The 2011 Honda Civic is the best year for this generation, mainly because of its improved fuel efficiency. The 8th generation Honda Civic is also available in 2009 or 2010.
The 1.8L SoHC iVTEC engines were paired with either a manual or automatic 5-speed transmission to offer optimal fuel economy and impressive horsepower.
The trim levels are diverse and include the DX base, LX well-equipped EX variant, as well as the sporty Si.
In these years, the Civic Hybrid with an Integrated Motor Assist System, as well as the GX natural gas-powered variant were introduced. The GX was hailed by many to be one of the most environmentally friendly internal combustion cars.
Fuel efficiency has been increased further to an average of 19 mpg in the city, and 45 mpg on highways.
Even mid-tier models now offer advanced navigation systems, USB interfaces and stability controls.
The worst years: 2006, 2007 and 2008
Honda Civics from 2006, 2007 and 2008 should be avoided like the plague due to engine cracks that can lead to leaks of coolant and other serious problems.
Honda did not issue an official recall, but they admitted it when they settled a lawsuit that resulted to many owners receiving new engines.
Owners often reported excessive tire wear caused by an abnormal rear camber due to rear control arm problems.
The recalls of vehicles were another source of frustration. The issues ranged from problems with critical components such as the suspension and engine to lighting on exterior.
View NHTSA 2006, 2007 and 2008 Honda Civic complaints.
Honda Civic 9th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2012-2015).
The Honda Civic, 9th Generation, was introduced in 2012. It underwent significant changes, improving its appearance and upgrading its technological capabilities.
In terms of reliability and affordability, the 9th-generation Honda Civic is one of the most reliable generations. In this Honda Civic generation, only 2012 should be avoided. The most reliable years are 2013, 2014 and 2015.
The best years: 2013 2014 2015
2013-2015 are the most impressive years for the Honda Civic. They have received high ratings on platforms such as Consumer Reports and VehicleHistory.
These years featured an four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or CVT, which balanced fuel economy and performance.
The trims continue to be diverse, with the base LX being joined by a more-feature-packed EX and the sporty Si. Fuel-efficient HF is also available, as well as a top-tier EXL.
The 2013 Civic has received an exterior makeover that is more refined, which addresses the criticisms about the dull aesthetics of the previous model.
Interiors have also been upgraded with better materials, ergonomic improvements, and a more advanced infotainment.
The infotainment, ” HondaLink” was introduced in 2014. It enabled smartphone integration and provided features such as navigation, audio streaming, and voice search functionality.
In 2014, the safety of drivers was enhanced by the introduction of ” Honda LaneWatch“.
Some users complained about the CVT’s response, as they found it to be a bit sluggish.
The worst years: 2012
Why should you avoid buying the Honda Civic 2012? As in previous years of introduction, 2012 saw a few teething issues addressed by the subsequent models. The 2012 Honda Civic has some problems.
Critics have often described the design of the 2012 model as being uninspired. While the 1.8L was reliable in terms of performance, there were some issues with the ride and noise insulation inside the cabin.
Power steering problems, transmission issues, and electrical snags were among the concerns raised by owners.
A recall was issued for a left driveshaft that, on rare occasions, can separate, resulting in a loss of power.
The 2012 Honda Civic was rated well by J.D. While the 2012 Honda Civic did well in some ratings, such as J.D.
NHTSA 2012 Honda Civic Recalls and Complaints
Honda Civic 10th Generation: Best, Neutral and Worst Years (2016-2021).
Honda launched its 10th Generation Civic in 2016. The redesign was radical, futuristic, and innovative.
Honda Civic models from 2019 to 2021 are the best years, and 2016 is the least desirable.
The best years: 2019 2020 2021
2019 2020 and 2021 were the best years to buy a Honda Civic 10th Generation, according to platforms such as Consumer Reports VehicleHistory Cars.com and KelleyBlueBook.
The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine was the most popular, delivering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The turbocharged 1.5L four cylinder delivered an exciting drive while maintaining exemplary fuel efficiency.
The trim level and personal preference will determine whether these engines are paired with either a 6-speed automatic transmission or a -CVT.
Honda offers a wide range of trims, from the LX to the Sport and EX. The EX is packed with features, while the EX-L has a fuel-efficient engine.
This year, the Honda Sensing Suite was introduced, with features such as collision-mitigation braking and adaptive cruise control.
This system has seen a major upgrade. It now features a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android auto as well as improved voice recognition.
2017 and 2018: The Neutral Years
Civics 2017 and 2018 were transitional years. They worked out the bugs from 2016 and laid the foundation for future excellence.
The engine options were largely unchanged, but a small emphasis was placed on improving the CVT’s responsiveness in response to user feedback.
Honda has continued its investment in safety by slowly integrating Honda Sensing across trim levels.
After a ten-year hiatus the Hatchback was introduced, bringing versatility and European flair to Civic’s lineup.
The worst years: 2016
This is why the 2016 Honda Civic should be avoided. The 2016 Honda Civic is a bad buy.
Many owners have complained about steering wheels that are jerky and sticky, causing an unpleasant drive.
Many users reported malfunctions in the AC system and Freon leaks across all Civic models of tenth generation.
Honda took proactive steps to address the issue, including the Civic Condenser Warranty Extension.
The infotainment systems, although advanced, were often slow or had unexpected bugs.
View NHTSA 2016,, 2017, and 2018, Honda Civic complaints.
Honda Civic 11th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2022-2023).
The 11th generation Honda Civic has been launched in a more refined and mature manner, moving from the bolder and aggressive design of the previous generation.
Honda Civic owners should avoid 2022 due to a high volume of complaints.
The best years: 2023
Honda Civic cemented its leadership position in 2023. Model featured an exterior that was redefined with cleaner lines and a mature, elegant stance.
The interiors were also given a facelift, with a minimalistic design, better ergonomics and heightened tactile feedback.
Civic Hatchback has four trims: LX Sport EX Touring. The Civic Hatchback trim levels are largely the same, but they’re called LX Sport EX-L and Sport Touring.
LX, Sport and Touring have 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, while EX has a 1.5-liter.
Standard on all sedans and liftbacks is a VCT. Liftback models can also be fitted with 6-speed Manual Transmission.
Fuel efficiency was impressive, with the model achieving a staggering 44 mpg on highways and 23 mpg in city traffic.
The worst years: 2022
Honda Civic 2022, the first year of the 11th-generation, had some teething problems.
Most notable was that the steering wheel remained sticky, a problem which had been present in previous generations. This raised questions about drivability as well as the overall driving experience.
Some users also reported intermittent system malfunctions. These were primarily related the adaptive cruise control and the Collision Mitigation Systems.
NHTSA Honda Civic 2022 Recalls and Complaints
Honda Civic Average Resale Values
This graph shows the Honda Civic resale value over time.
The conclusion of the article is:
After our in-depth look at the Honda Civic, we’ve concluded that the years 2011 to 2015, 2017 to 2023, are the most desirable.
What Honda Civic model do you prefer? Have you experienced any of the findings for yourself?
Comment below to share your experiences and thoughts!
