1987 Honda Civic Reliability ReportKeepScore 88/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Honda Civic
- Outscores the 1985 Honda Civic by 16 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: body & chassis rust (critical severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seat belts:front:buckle assembly.
1987 Honda Civic: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Honda Civic stands as a testament to Japanese engineering, offering remarkable long-term durability and economical operation, especially considering its age. If you can find a well-maintained, rust-free example, you're looking at one of the most mechanically robust and straightforward used cars available that can still serve as a reliable daily driver or project car. Its simplicity is its strength, minimizing complex failures that plague many contemporaries.
If you're seeking a classic, economical, and mechanically sound compact car that's easy to maintain, the 1987 Honda Civic is an excellent choice. Its robust D-series engine and simple drivetrain offer incredible longevity, making it a surprisingly viable daily driver or a fantastic platform for light modification or…
Best Model Years
The entire third generation (1984-1987) is generally regarded as highly reliable. Condition and maintenance history outweigh specific year differences.
Years to Avoid
No specific years to avoid within this generation, but cars from 'rust belt' states or those with obvious body panel repairs should be approached with extreme caution.
Biggest Strengths
- Legendary D-series engine durability and fuel efficiency
- Simple, robust mechanical systems are easy to maintain and repair
- Excellent parts availability for core mechanical components
1987 Honda Civic — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Honda Civic, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Severe rust commonly affects rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe mounting points, and floorboards, especially in areas exposed to road salt. This compromises structural integrity and can make repairs difficult or uneconomical.
After 35+ years, wiring harnesses degrade, leading to intermittent issues with lights, gauges, power accessories (if equipped), and ignition components. Alternator and starter motors are common wear items, and corroded ground connections…
Rubber components throughout the suspension (control arm bushings, sway bar end links, strut mounts) and steering system (tie rod ends, steering rack boots) are prone to drying, cracking, and deterioration, leading to clunks, squeaks, an…
1987 Honda Civic Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Honda Civic most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, typically only routine fluid changes and basic checks are needed. Any issues are likely isolated manufacturing defects or previous neglect, which would be rare for a low-mileage example.
Maintenance Zone
This is often the critical interval for the first timing belt and water pump replacement. Neglecting this service can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Other rubber components (belts, hoses) may also begin to show age.
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect to address wear items like suspension bushings, ball joints, and potentially the first signs of electrical system degradation (alternator, starter). Rust should be carefully monitored and addressed.
High Risk Zone
At these mileages, nearly all rubber and wear components will have reached their service life. Comprehensive assessment of the entire vehicle, including fuel/brake lines and electrical harnesses, is essential. Ongoing rust management bec…
1987 Honda Civic Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Honda Civic on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$300-500
Moderate Repairs
$400-800 occasionally for aging components like alternator or suspension work
How Long Does the 1987 Honda Civic Last?
For the 1987 Civic, maintenance history and present condition are far more indicative of reliability than raw mileage; a well-cared-for 200,000-mile example is often a safer bet than a neglected 80,000-mile one.
What 1987 Honda Civic Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Outstanding fuel economy for its era (30-40+ MPG)
- Legendary mechanical reliability and low cost of maintenance if rust-free
- Surprisingly spacious and practical interior for a compact car
- Engaging driving dynamics and lightweight feel
Common Frustrations
- Severe rust issues are common, especially in northern climates
- Lack of modern safety features (airbags, ABS)
- Road noise and vibration levels are higher than modern vehicles
- Finding replacement interior/trim pieces can be challenging
Who Should Buy the 1987 Honda Civic?
Best For
- Budget-conscious commuters seeking ultra-low running costs
- First-time car owners or those learning to drive a manual transmission
- Automotive enthusiasts who appreciate simple, reliable mechanics and easy DIY repairs
Not Ideal For
- Drivers prioritizing modern safety features and crash protection
- Anyone living in a region with heavy road salt who cannot inspect for or mitigate rust
How the 1987 Honda Civic Compares to Rivals
The 1987 Civic stands out for its exceptional blend of simple engineering, surprising interior space, and fuel efficiency, often outlasting many of its direct competitors in terms of fundamental mechanical reliability, though rust prevention was not its strong suit compared to…
More Reliable Than
- Many American compacts of its era (e.g., Chevrolet Cavalier)
- Many European compacts of its era (e.g., Volkswagen Golf, in terms of long-term mechanical simplicity)
- Early Hyundai/Kia models
Comparable To
- Toyota Corolla (AE82/AE92 generation)
- Nissan Sentra (B12 generation)
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Honda Civic
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTACT UNIT COULD LOOSEN AND BECOME DISLODGED.
What breaks on the 1987 Honda Civic?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 1987 Honda Civic? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Honda Civic — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Civic. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Honda Civic
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Honda Civic
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 1987 Honda Civic? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Honda Civic's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Honda Civic
Honda Civic Common Problems and Repair Costs
Identify common Honda Civic problems and their repair costs with our expert guide to budget wisely and keep your car reliable, saving you money.
How Long Does a Honda Civic Last? (Real Owner Data)
See how long a Honda Civic truly lasts with real owner data, revealing the average mileage and expected lifespan for your reliable vehicle.
Honda Civic Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Uncover the definitive ranking of Honda Civic years to avoid and the top models worth buying, ensuring you choose the most reliable Civic.