1997 Honda Civic Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 1997 Honda Civic?
The 1997 Honda Civic stands as one of the most dependable used compact cars you can acquire, offering exceptional longevity and incredibly low running costs. Its robust engine and straightforward design make it a steadfast companion for decades if properly maintained, making it an undeniable smart buy for the budget-conscious. While age brings a few predictable challenges, particularly with the automatic transmission and rust, its fundamental reliability is beyond question.
Biggest Strengths
- Legendary engine durability
- Exceptional fuel efficiency
- Low cost of ownership and repairs
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 1997 Honda Civic. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
16 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1998-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL and Acura MDX, 1998-2000 Honda Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Sedan, Odyssey and Acura 3.5RL, 1999-2000 Acura 3.2TL, 1996-2000 Civic Coupe, 1997-2000 CR-V, 1997-1998 EV Plus, and 1998-1999 Isuzu Oasis vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
What breaks on the 1997 Honda Civic?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Honda Civic by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Honda Civic. Click any year for its full report.
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