Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2009 Honda Civic Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

88/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: A-

A top-tier choice for reliability and economy, but be diligent about inspecting the engine block, AC, and cosmetic flaws.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2009 Honda Civic

  • Has 8 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
  • Outscores the 2008 Honda Civic by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
  • The system most likely to surface first: engine block (1.8l r18a1) (critical severity).

Should You Buy the 2009 Honda Civic?

The 2009 Honda Civic stands as one of the most dependable compact cars of its era, offering exceptional long-term value and remarkably low running costs. While a few specific flaws, like the infamous cracked engine block for some 1.8L models and AC compressor issues, demand careful pre-purchase inspection, this vehicle is an outstanding choice for anyone prioritizing bulletproof reliability and efficiency.

Biggest Strengths

  • Exceptional fuel economy for its class
  • Generally robust powertrain with proper maintenance
  • Strong resale value and widespread parts availability

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2009 Honda Civic. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine Block (1.8L R18A1)critical
2
A/C Systemmajor
3
Exterior & Interior Cosmeticsmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

8 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2012 Honda Accord and Pilot, 2010 Accord Crosstour, 2001-2011 Civic, 2002-2011 CR-V, 2003-2004, 2006-2008 and 2011 Element, 2007 and 2009-2013 Fit, 2010-2012 Insight, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2012 Ridgeline vehicles. The front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly during replacement.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon, 2010-2013 ZDX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Civic and Civic Hybrid, 2008-2010 Civic GX NGV, 2012-2015 Crosstour, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2009-2013 Fit, 2014 Fit EV, 2010-2014 Insight, and 2009-2015 Pilot vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

What breaks on the 2009 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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Honda Civic. Click any year for its full report.

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