9.4
really awfulTypical Repair Cost:
$2,481.00
Average Mileage:
94,829 miles
Total Complaints:
82 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace transmission (49 reports)
- not sure (12 reports)
- rebuild transmission (11 reports)
- replaced transmission, Honda covered cost of parts (8 reports)
- replaced wire harness (1 reports)
- transmission screen blew with compressed air to clear (1 reports)
transmission problem
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Honda dealer.
Helpful Websites About 2002 Honda Civic transmission failure
2009Oct 12
Civic EX 1.7L V-Tech
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
Our family has owned seven Hondas -- 1988 Prelude, 1989 Accord, 1990 Accord,
1991 Accord, 2002 Civc, 2003 Civic, 2004 Civic. All Civics are used and purchased within the last two years. The '02 just suffered complete transmission failure. We had no clue when we switched to the Civics that this was a problem. The dealership first said that there were no problems with Civic transmissions. Then they said that Honda used two different transmissions over the years, and they had problems with one, but not the one that's in our car. Then they said that since the car was used, there was no way of knowing how the previous owners took care of the car. Mind you, we purchased this car from this very dealership. They had the car fax with the service record, and they were supposed to have maintenanced the car before selling it, and told us it was clean. As a goodwill, they'll knock off a whopping 20% to replace the transmission. We have 3 more years to pay on this car, and now will have to finance another $1800 to fix it. We haven't yet called corporate, but judging from the other complaints, it will be to no avail. The reason we have purchased Hondas is because they have been a great value. If corporate does not do better than this on the transmission, this is the last Honda we will ever purchase!
2009Sep 18
Civic LX-G 1.7L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 89,167 miles
My '02 Honda civic transmission failed 3 days ago (Sept 25, 2009). I am the only owner of this car bought from Honda Way in Abbotsford Auto Mall (BC) in 2001 Sept. Always dealer maintained. I had placed couple of complains in the past about the fuel consumption and was not taken cared by the dealer satisfactory. The latest car serviced at the dealer was on 4/25/09 in Abbotsford (Type E paid $717.37). Broght the car to Winnipeg in July 2009. On Waverly Road - strange noise while still in speed, slowly released the accelerator and parked to John Angus. Then the gear did not engage at any gear while the engine could start without any problem. Toed to the FOrt Richmond Transmissions. - have not heard back so far from them. Will update when I hear. I wanted to check if there is any recall for this vehicle.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Aug 24
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 133,778 miles
Well, I just took my car in for an oil change in august, then again just a couple of weeks ago. They were real quick to tell me everything I needed to have repaired when I went in for my oil change, left a rag in my engine and everything. This was at the dealership. When I went in for the 1000 dollars worth of other repairs, I told them it had started to make a noise. They even drove the car... and not one person stated anything was wrong. Repaired my lower front bushings, my cam end oil plug, and something else, i can't even remember any more, but not one person stated anything else was wrong. Mind you, I just had my belts repaired so I thought that could be the problem. Come to find out, my transmission is failing and it is going to cost me $1800 to get fixed.
I called honda for the "goodwill repair".. and that was a joke. Honda won't help me at all because it is out of warranty and there was no recall for my particular vehicle. Followed the scheduled maintenence and this is what happens.
2009Sep 08
Civic EX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
I got in my car last night to come home from work and as soon as I put the car in Reverse I felt a hard jolt, and the transmission was gone. It no longer goes into 1st or 2nd gear. My car only has 82,000 miles on it and I've never had, heard, or felt any problems with the transmission before. The D for Drive on the instrument panel now constantly flashes with a green box around it, and my mechanic tells me that this is very common with Hondas. My estimate to rebuild the transmission is $2,400. How's that for a nice punch to the gut.
I was raised around Hondas and this was the first one I bought for myself (new) in 2001. I bought the name, and along with it, the expectation that it would last a long time without all the problems that American cars seemed to have. The reality is that my gas mileage isn't as spectacular as is perceived, I have an SRS error problem that I'm ignoring (and probably risking my life), and now my transmission just spontaneously collapsed. I regret buying this car and this brand that apparently no longer owns up to its historical levels of quality. I can see no reason to buy another Honda at inflated sticker prices when the warranties are bad, the quality is bad, the features are plain vanilla, and it will randomly break down when you least expect it.
How in the world can Honda not recall major problems that will alienate its most loyal customers? If they owned up to it, then myself and others would likely buy and recommend many more Honda cars for ourselves, kids, and friends over the coming years. Instead, we're all disillusioned that we believed the marketing hype and will not look to Honda again for our transportation needs.
Update from Sep 29, 2009: I'm writing to recant my complaint about the transmission. After the transmission had appeared to fail, I called Honda corporate and asked them for goodwill help. They said they couldn't forward the case to a regional manager until I took it into a Honda dealership and had them diagnose the problem. I got quotes from two different Honda dealers, and took it to the nearest one that had quoted me $3,080 to rebuild the transmission. I called Honda corporate back and explained my situation and again asked for goodwill assistance, to which they replied that they would forward the case on to a regional contact. The car sat at the dealer for a few days, and finally someone from the service department called me back and said that the Honda regional guy had called him and offered $1,000 goodwill assistance toward a rebuilt transmission. However, if they helped, the warranty from the dealer would be reduced from 3 years / 36,000 miles to 1 year / 10,000 miles. I told him to go ahead with it.
A couple days later he called back and said that he did additional testing on the car and found that the readings indicated something could be wrong with the wire harness, either in addition to the transmission or instead of it. He said Honda would pay to replace that (I'm not sure why) and see if that fixed the problem. He called back two days later and said that the problem was fixed, and they only thing they did was replace the wire harness. I've had my car back for a week and everything seems to be normal. The happy ending to the story is that I didn't pay a penny at the dealer, the service team spent extra time to solve the problem, and for the time being my car is fixed. Honda corporate called up today to see if I was happy with my service (of course I was!). I still don't understand exactly how I didn't end up paying anything... I have suspicions that Honda knows they have problems with the wire harness or something like that and decided to take care of it, even though it wasn't an official recall... maybe? Either way, I'm glad I still have $2,000 in my pocket and a car that works.
2009Aug 18
Civic EX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 101,000 miles
Driving down the road transmission was not quite shifting right, but then it straighten out, Got down the interstate just fine, got off the exit, engine light came on, transmission failed. Had to coast around a corner. Would not move. Cost over $1700.00 to have the Torque Converter fixed, Master overhaul kit, new filter, and forward Drum. There was no warning of any transmission problem before this. It happens in just an hour's time. I own a Honda Accord before never had any problems, and it was a 1993, I put had over a 100,000 plus and it was still running great, but traded it in for a Honda Civic. Bad mistake.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Feb 10
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
It's all been said here, so...
Called Honda Motors America to see if they would help. They told me that they'd pay $500 to help pay for the repair, which left me with a $2310 repair. Only problem I've ever had with the car, and the first thing that goes is the transmission??? They said since I'm the "third owner" (first owner transferred ownership to his son, who lived in the same house), and since the transmission fluid hadn't been changed at the December 2008 mark (apparently either 8 years OR 120k miles--mine had 80k)--it failed totally in February--they "can't help me any more than that." Right. Driving it like a granny for the last 40k miles apparently was just too much for this "reliable" car. Oh--apparently they "know of no issues with this model and year transmission."
2005Feb 04
Civic EX 1.7L V4
- Automatic transmission
- 39,100 miles
HAHA, looks like i beat everyone in this forum! My transmission blew at 39,100miles! I bought my 2002 civic in Novemeber of 2001 brand new and got my regular routine checkups and oil changes, plus i drove my car very well and carefull. While driving to school one day, i noticed i was pressing the gas but it was just redlining. At first i thought i had gotten a flat tire, but soon realized my tran was blown. Called the tow truck and towed it to Gardena Honda Dealership.. they told me it would cost $3,400 to replace and my warranty would not cover the cost becuz it was a 3 year or 36,000 mile coverage whichever one came first..So i towed it to a local mechanic and i was planning on getting the tran rebuilt, but 2 days later Gardena Honda called me and said they called Honda headquarters and they agreed to cover my transmission 100% free. So i towed my car back to Gardena Honda and after 2days i had a new tranny. So at the end, i ended up paying nothing for my tranny since i got reimbersed for my towing by my insurance company, but time and stress can not make up for it. Now my car has almost 100,000 miles and i change my trans fluid every 20,000 miles, I plan on keeping this car for 1 more year, and i know i will never get a Honda again!
2009Jul 10
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 63,000 miles
My Honda CIVIC 2002 LX with 63,000 miles on it was being driven by my wife with my kids and it just suddenly stalled right in the middle of a major intersection. Thanks to a couple of good samaritans who helped pushed the car to a safe spot otherwise things could have turned seriously disastrous. Engine runs ok but transmission just died like it suffered a stroke. Had it towed to a Honda dealer and got the transmission replaced for almost $1,500*!!
What is even more frustrating is that I had the same problem with my other HONDA ODYSSEY just a year ago! Am I just so unlucky or HONDA vehicles are just plain piece of junk? Both of my HONDAS had to have their stupid transmissions replace below 70,000 miles!!!
( *CLUNKER HONDA USA shouldered half when I told them about my other HONDA CLUNKER ODYSSEY)
It is hard to admit but all those good things we've heard about HONDA QUALITY are all myths! Owning Two Honda cars with the same problem is just too much.
I am getting rid of these HONDA CLUNKERS and will probably go with real "Quality" made cars and not just hype. KIA and HYUNDAI are probable better with 100k warranty.
2009Jul 26
Civic EX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
I thought Hondas were trustworthy upto 150000 miles. I spent $1400 on a new AC unit just last month and now my car has a total transmission failure. My wife has a Toyota going on 129000 without giving any trouble. So I would say this is the last Honda I would ever buy.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jun 21
Civic EX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
I purchased a Honda Civic because I did not want to deal with the constant repair of major components that I had endured with my previous Ford & Mercury - each of which had to have the transmissions rebuilt twice.
Imagine my surprise and disgust when driving on the 5 North near San Juan Capistrano in CA, 60 miles from home and 100 miles from my destination, that my car suddenly would not shift gears, was redlining even with a light touch on the gas and was losing power. I was fortunate that I got off the freeway before the car died - right in the middle of Ortega Highway. I had faithfully had all maintenance and oil changes performed throughout the life of the car - and as recent as 6K miles ago for the 100K service and 2 weeks prior for an oil change. All in the last few years at the Honda Dealership. I loved my car as I never had to replace anything other than the drive boots (which was disappointing, but not outrageously expensive; same for the SRS computer issue for which Honda reimbursed me).
Now, after my hours at work were cut in half it is costing me more than a month's salary to have the transmission replaced + the cost of 2 others diagnosis + towing + rental car. And I'm throwing in the timing belt replacement that's coming up shortly to save on labor hours for that job.
The dealer and I both spoke to American Honda customer service and was told "too bad so sad." I'm not done fighting.
2009Jun 15
Civic LX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 148,000 miles
So much for reliability. Tough economic conditions, barely scraping by, and the car I count on failed me. Worse, I now have to rely on my 1996 Cadillac Deville (currently in shop for a new water pump) as my family vehicle. I should feel lucky as Ive read so many complaints on this site about the same problem at far less mileage.
On a routine trip to visit the relatives today, the car began having problems shifting gears. I would press the pedal but the car would not accelerate, nearly stalling us the highway. We were lucky to get home. Thats when I became aware i had a big problem, Ive been in shock all night to this point. Never saw this coming. Always 3-5k oil changes, all scheduled maintanence, timing belt at 106k, and a recent tuneup at 140k. Never had any major problems, a few dents maybe, the trunk lock and hood lock both broke, my door wound not lock, and the hood popped up on me obstructing my view while going 60mph on the highway. Other then that, I was living the dream, maybe become the Al Bundy of Civic owners and hit 1 million, but it doesnt look it. Three quotes and a mountain load of online info, it does not seem logical to invest (roughly $2500) any further in this vehicle. Whats next to go wrong? That all powerful 4 cylinder engine? I dont want to hate on Honda because 7 years was a nice run, but I am concerned with this defect and believe a class-action suit may be worth a try. SO what are my options?
Given that I live a mile away from the dealership I bought the car from, and after reading some of the success stories of individuals who contacted Honda America Corp. and asked for the "goodwill repair," I will be contacting them tomorow. Otherwise I will be selling off my parts for scraps or hopefully get work done at a VoTech (vocational auto-mechanic school).
I would also consider trading this junker in towards a lease at Honda. If they so accept this car as the deposit/fee. I would pay you 150 per month for an 08' and give it back to you in 36 months. Deal. Where do I sign. (Thats free market research for you there Honda)
But if none of the above prevails, I will be purchasing a Toyota or perhaps Hyundai with its warranty offer in the future. I will also no longer discount American cars, there are incentives to buy. The problem is that IM BROKE. How am I suppose to take out a loan in this economic climate?
2003Feb 12
Civic LX 1.7L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
Transmission failed 4 times and was covered 2 times under warranty. Now have fail again and guess what I'm SOL cause I have to pay for it. Its horrible and I feel we should get a class action going because there are so many people who are having the same problem. This should not be hard to do. Something really needs to be done. People getting stranded at night and with kids. Honda seem to have no consideration at all because if they did, they would hear the people cry for these sorry transmissions.
2009May 01
Civic SI 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
When I purchased my Honda Civic with 35,000 miles I went to the dealership to have all my fluids changed. The dealership mechanic said I would be wasting my money changing the transmission fluid and informed me the recommended interval service is 55,000miles! I didn’t believe it until I saw the Honda vehicle maintenance manual that stated a transmission service is recommend at 55,000miles then every 2 years after. I called another dealership and they also relayed the same information. I still couldn’t believe that Honda would recommend a transmission service at such a high mileage. I wasn’t comfortable with the recommendation so I changed the fluid anyways. Since then I have experienced the odd slip and a delay going into gear during extreme cold temperatures that require the car to be warmed up for a few minutes. I am currently approaching 80,000 miles, mostly city, and haven’t had a major issue as of yet.
For those individuals whose transmissions haven’t failed I would recommend to change the fluid every 15-20,000miles or 2 years, which every comes first. The recommendation of a first transmission fluid change at 55,000miles is ridiculous. What I find most disturbing is reading the comments of the transmission not containing a filter. Honda expects their transmission to last with a recommendation of 55,000miles before a fluid change with no filter! Somebody at Honda did not do their homework when it came to determining the fluid service intervals along with the poor engineering choice of creating a transmission with no filter.
Another recommendation I would like to make is driving the car in 3rd gear in heavy traffic or areas that you don’t maintain a constant speed under 30mph. The reason for this is because every time an automatic has to switch gears it produces additional heat and unneeded gear change. In bumper to bumper traffic you don’t need your transmission cycling through 4 gears when you only need 2. An example is if I’m driving in residential areas I keep my car in 3rd if I know I wont be exceeding 30mph, if I’m driving at constant speed than I will pop into to drive. I haven’t looked into it but I’m sure somebody on a Honda Tech Forum has created a modification to add a filter onto the transmission using the existing lines so you may want to check on that. I hope these “reliability” recommendations help and I guess only time will tell.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009May 02
Civic LX 1.7L Sohc
- Automatic transmission
- 96,962 miles
My story is like all of the rest on here. I had taken my wife to work which is about 15 minutes from our house (so we could leave straight from there and take a trip out of town). By the time I returned home, the transmission all but refused to go into gear while accelerating. I took it to the shop and by the time they had test driven it, it wouldn't even go into gear. The silver lining is that the transmission didn't fail when we were 300 miles away from home, but it still failed below 100K miles. If you are looking to buy an '02 Civic take special care in looking into the transmission before you buy it. If it makes any sort of whining noise or doesn't shift completely smoothly, you should probably stay away.
2009Apr 04
Civic LX 4 Clyn
- Automatic transmission
- 114,800 miles
Last year the Transmission started shifting hard in the cold weather but I just thought it was because the cold weather.(The car had about 90K on it) Then this winter when the car was cold the transmission would slip between 20-40mph so I started warming it up in the morning longer then normal as the months went on it kept slipping more. Then the car started to make a whining noise when you started it until it warmed up. Finally I came to the conclusion that before next winter I needed to replace the car which was a big let down, I bought the car brand new and maintained it because I planned on keeping it after I had my last Honda for 180,000 miles. Then in April one night while I was driving home it kept slipping gears until I would hit 50mph. The next day I reversed out of my driveway to find out it would not go in Drive. I let it run a while longer and kept shifting thru the gears and I got it down to my mechanic. The car had 114,000 on it at this point my mechanic tried everything possible to see if he could salvage it but it just wasn't worth it. My best option was a remanufactured Honda Transmission with a 3 year 36K warranty. The car was too bad to trade it or sell myself and I didn't want to take out a new auto loan yet because I am buying a house so I went with fixing the car. The Transmission was $2500 and then I had some additional work done since I am going to keep the car longer now that its fixed. It killed me to put this money into the car but on the bright side the car drives like new and hasn't driven this good since about 2 or 3 years ago. The Transmission was deteriorating for a while but because I drove the car all the time I just got use to it.
Its a real disappointment that my 2002 Honda needed this repair my family and I have had a great Honda Track record with a 1988 Accord (155K), 1991 Accord (180K), 1998 Accord (135K and still going), and a 2000 Accord (220K) all these cars were sold and had no major problems when we got rid of them. I am thinking I am keeping this car for a while but when I replace it I am not sure if I want another Honda, I am thinking about trying out Toyota to see if I have better luck. I see I am not the only person who has had this problem and the people who bought the 2001 Honda Civics seem to have even more problems.
2009Apr 14
Civic LX V4 V-Tech
- Automatic transmission
- 125,480 miles
Bought 2002 Civic LX(automatic) in December 2002 paid it off December 2007 currently has 125480 all highway miles owned the car 6 years and 5 months(not very long). My transmission just like the others on April 14TH 2009 started to miss 2ND and 3RD gear then eventually no forward speed at all. What I found out the transmission has a screen inside it (like a screen on your front door/window) and it was clogged and not letting the fluid/pressure get to the torque converter which is what you transmission needs to shift gears. Now most Honda dealers will tell you your transmission is shot and you need a new or rebuilt transmission for the cost of $2000-3000. I agree with this but it is not the transmission it is the screen blocking the fluid. Unfortunately the screen is located inside the transmission which you would have to take apart the whole transmission just to get to the screen to clean so you are screwed either way. I have a very smart friend who knew what exactly what was wrong and this is what we did. Drained all transmission fluid (by the way if you do not replace and drain the transmission fluid every 10000-15000 miles you need to drain it immediately before it is to late I do not care anymore what the dealers recommend 90000 is bullxxxx). I am not talking about a transmission flush for $200 I am talking about draining your current transmission fluid and replacing it with new just like your oil. This was our temporary fix for this. Drain all transmission fluid and look at the transmission bolt it is magnetized and probably has all kind of metal shavings on it clean it. There is a small bolt(mine was marked with a blue color) on top of the engine just to the left of the spark plugs and we removed this which was the transmission line that provides the pressure and fluid to the to torque converter. What my smart friend did next is he made a special tool where he put a small hose in the hole(where the blue bolt was) on top of the engine and used compressed air to blow out the clogged screen. After we did this we put new fluid in ran it and WALAAAA we had movement again. We took it one step further we ran it for about 15 minutes re-did the above process again and I took it for a drive and it is running like new.**NOTE** this may work for a week or last a year I do not know IT HAS BEEN A DAY but I do know I will be replacing my fluid every 10000-15000 miles to prevent anymore clogging. I am not a mechanic by any means my friend is and what gets me why did Honda make the transmissions without any filters instead of the screens it beyond me. I hope you find this all useful info. This is my 3RD owned Honda but I am losing faith in their product. The car is 6 years old and to have this major of a repair is ridiculous. I got off cheap this time but eventually hopefully at 200,000 miles I will be getting a rebuilt transmission and not have any more issue like this one.
Transmission failure with the Honda Civic is a widespread problem in models made from the early 2000s. The 2001 Honda Civic appears to be the worst year for transmission failure
Many of the transmission failure complaints are caused by the torque converter failing - the engine will rev up but the car won't shift into gear or move. In some reports, the torque converter burned up the transmission fluid which ruined the transmission. Which exactly what happened to me.
Currently there is no recall for the transmission defect, because it is not a safety issue (according to the NHTSA). So far, a class action lawsuit has not been filed.
However Honda has offered some Civic owners out-of-warranty compensation for the transmission repairs. Rather than going through your local dealership, it's best to contact Honda Customer Service at (800) 999-1009 and ask for a "goodwill repair".
2009Mar 20
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 95,500 miles
I have a 2002 Civic LX that I just payed off in June 2008. I was so happy; I just bought new rims and tires, new suspension strut bars for the front and rear, a new DVD player, a new paint job just like the original with blue flakes. My car looks sweet - two days before my transmission crapped out. I spent all day cleaning the under body and repainting it so it looks brand new. Then dooms day...
I spent $2,000 to replace the timing belt, getting the A/C fixed, repairing an oil leak, changed sensors and some other sh*t. I called Honda $5,000: $3,500 for the new transmission, $700 for replacing the radiator fans, another oil leak on the head and that's NOT including labor. I live in Guam, so to get a new on would require me to pay cash up front and then it would take two months to get it here. It comes by the slowest ship in the world and that sucks ass! Honda said they would call me back, and it's been a week and I haven't heard sh*t. I have to stay up until two in the morning to even call them due to the time difference.
I'm thinking that if Honda doesn't pay for the replacement, I'm getting my camera and I'm going to blow up my car and post it on YouTube. I will keep everyone updated if it happens. Thanks for reading.
2009Apr 02
Civic EX 4 cyl.
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
Can you imagine??? Another 2002 Civic with only 82,000 miles and a dead auto. transmission??? Who woulda' thunk it???
Repair estimate (dealer) $2370 (remanufactured tranny)
Can anyone guess why Hundai is seeing a sales increase during these bad economic times? BECAUSE THEY STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCTS! 100,000 mile drive train warranty and and "job loss" program.
I wish my daughter had not bought this car, and had stuck with Toyota like she grew up with. But, she wanted a Civic. Well, she got one just last summer. Her first ever car. Now, she'll need to spend another $2400 to keep it running.
For the same $2400 on top of what she paid for the Civic she could have bought a 2 year newer Toyota Corolla to begin with.
Honda had one try at her as a lifetime customer, and they blew it miserably...Forever.
2008Dec 02
Civic EX 2.1L V4
- Automatic transmission
- 114,000 miles
Same as everyone else, I tapped my bank account, got a loan, and put it all in for a newer Honda Civic, a good reliable car, or so I thought.
When coming home from the airport, 100 miles from home, the car died at a stop light. We had to have AAA tow the car to a scummy place in Queens and rented a car to get home. After doing research online and fearing everyone in NYC would try to rip me off, I decided to have it done at a transmission chain store, Lee Myles. $3500 was the final cost including a 3yr/36k mile warranty. I called American Honda to complain and file a claim for a goodwill repair. When the finally got back to me almost a month later, their final deal was to give me $1000. Better than nothing, but barely a dent in what I paid out of pocket. Worst of all, I felt like I was being pressured into accepting the $1000 instead of holding out for the full price of the transmission. They demanded to know if I was satisfied with their payout. I felt like if I said no, I would have got nothing, so I sold out and told them that they had done a good job and that I would buy another Honda. NO FREAKING WAY!!!! is what I really thought. They also acted like this was an isolated incident because they have no evidence in their systems that conclude there is a recurring problem with these Hondas, despite this website.
2009Mar 20
Civic LX
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
I bought this car new and have diligently kept up on the maintenance and services. Same exact story as everyone else... Transmission slipping in the mornings for about 6 months. Southern CA dealer told me that I needed to let the car "warm up". This led to total transmission failure on the 405 freeway in rush hour traffic! I had the car towed to a transmission specialist, since the dealer was no help and couldn't even diagnose the problem. Close to $3K later, I have my used car back with a new transmission. Thanks Honda!
2009Mar 12
Civic LX
- Automatic transmission
- 93,000 miles
My 2002 Honda Civic stranded me 60 miles away from my home. I was driving and suddenly it felt like I was driving in neutral. I was pressing my foot down on the gas and the car was making revving noises. I pulled over and called AAA; they towed me to the Honda Dealership.
The Honda Dealership in Salem, Oregon sucked. They told me that my transmission had a defect and it was going to cost me $2,750. They explained that my car will not work because of the the transmission, but they did not stop there. They also told me that I needed a $150 LED switch and a $150 alignment procedure. That's $3,000 dollars.
I couldn't stop crying. The stupid Honda people told me to have a great day 5 times while tears were pouring out of my eyes.
I was waiting for my boyfriend so that I could get a ride home. I saw him drive by, so I ran out of the Honda dealership to flag him down. The stupid Honda employees followed me out of the dealership. The guy said to me, "So are you going to fix your car?" and I was like "No, I don't have $3,000!"
Then the Honda employee said,"It's going to cost you way more than $3,000".
So I had my car towed back to Portland (60 miles). I called Honda America and asked if they would consider helping me out with a goodwill repair. The guys spend about 20 minutes reviewing my case. He finally said no. This is why...
1. I never got my car serviced at the Honda Dealership in Portland
2. I towed my car away from the Honda Dealership in Salem
3. My car is out of warranty
I will never buy another Honda. I will devote my life to spreading the truth about my 2002 Japanese piece of crap. I was always told that Honda's were dependable, I feel so betrayed.
For the record, this was not the first time that my Honda Civic stranded me in an undesirable location.
2008Sep 15
Civic LX
- Automatic transmission
- 95,000 miles
Tranny failed on this cheap-ass disposable, over-rated Honda Civic. Had the trans rebuilt twice and finally sold the car for next to nothing. Yeah... "great resale, high quality, reliable Honda?" American cars are not as bad as they say after all. That's what I get for listening to others about what car to buy. Never had this type of problem with any of the American cars I have owned. Guess where all the Civics end up after they have trans fixed or replaced? They get sold or traded in before the second or third trans fails, so then some other poor sap buys them from the used car dealers just to have the same problems all over again. Mechanics say the remanufactured transmissions last only 20-30 thousand miles and they fail too. Rebuilding them is even worse. If you have a Civic, dump it now before it "grenades" too.
2008Nov 15
Civic EX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
I was driving on the highway and suddenly my transmission started to slip. I exited the highway about a 1/4 mile from where it first slipped. At the end of the exit ramp, I had to stop at a traffic light. When it turned green I barely was able to get the car going again... it would only do about 5 MPH. I pulled into a gas station within about 500 ft and checked the level of the transmission oil and it looked okay, but I tried adding a little bit anyway, that's when I noticed that the fluid that was in there was brown. I let it sit a bit in case it needed to cool off or something. I started it up about 15-20 minutes later and it wouldn't even move. I called AAA and had it towed and was told that I needed to get the transmission rebuilt.
2009Mar 09
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 83,000 miles
Add another one to list all of a sudden having problems accelerating on way to work.
2009Mar 04
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 80,269 miles
the day after i booked my non-refundable trip to Las Vegas, my transmission went on my car! i bought the car in 2005 with 40k miles on it, it now has 80,260. i was driving when i stepped on the gas to speed up, and my car stayed at 20mph, but the rpm's shot up. when stopped at a red light, i went to go, and the car stayed at 0, as the rpms shot up. my car would not go into any gear! i was stuck in the middle of a main road! i had to get towed and found out the next morning that i needed a new transmission! i just payed for a non-refundable trip to Vegas! i don't have the money to fix it, nor can i borrow it. my extended warranty ended 6 months ago, and i still have a year and a half left to pay on it. i read this website and contacted American Honda and asked for a goodwill repair. i had my car towed to a Honda dealership and i am awaiting to see if they will help me...if they don't, i will lose all faith in what i thought was supposed to be a reliable car, Honda, and i will never purchase a Honda again! i will keep you posted on if my repairs will be covered...if they are not, i am definitely interested in a civil action suit!
Update from Jun 6, 2009: okay.....so to continue my last complaint, America Honda got back to me and told me that i need my transmission completely replaced, it couldn't even be rebuilt! the cost is $2600...America Honda is holding me responsible for $1880 plus tax. that does not satisfy me by any means! i will NEVER purchase a Honda EVER EVER EVER again! Toyota here i come! if there is ever a civil action suite on Honda's crappy transmissions, im in! this is sooooo not fair! reliable my eye! i'm done with Honda!
2009Feb 09
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 151,000 miles
Ok, It all starts in late April of 2006.
My current car had been making one too many strange noises, so I decided to buy my first real car. By real car I mean $13,000 worth, where I had to get a loan to pay for it. I did my research, and it seemed like Honda's lasted forever and a day,and they got really good gas mileage ( I live in the sticks... no really...13 miles from the closet gas station) so I found my car and bought it.
The first day I get my 2002 Honda Civic EX home, I notice a flat tire. Ok, so I take it back and they tell me they "forgot" to put a valve stem on it. Isn't that like the first day in "Automotive Technician School"? How to inflate a tire? Whatever, they fix it, it's under warranty.
A few months later, the trunk latch breaks. Ok, take it back and have it fixed. Still under warranty.
Few months later (do you see a pattern here?) the alternator belt starts making that wonderful sound they are know to make (like you closed a cat in a trash compactor... and it's screaming). Take it to Honda. No longer under warranty. Ok, I can live with the noise. Try Ivory soap, tightening it, loosing it. Nothing. Fine. Replace the belt myself. Car is good for about a week, then, back comes the screeching cat under my hood. It's definitely something more.
Then the breaks went. Luckily I noticed it before it was the rotors too. Get the breaks fixed.
Then the 2 front struts went. Replaced them myself (since it's no longer under warranty). Then the caster bushings went. No one I have talked to even know what these are! They rot through so very rarely, that no body know how to fix them. Fine, pull it apart, and do it myself. Notice while I'm under there, that the tie rods are bad. Fix those too.
By now I have no idea how much I have spent on fixing my "certified" Honda.
Everything is great.
Then I notice the gears are slipping in between 1st and second, and the engine is revving until it catches. Take it to Honda. They find nothing wrong with it, but suggest flushing the fluid. Fine. $400, please. Also,they tell me I need another new tie rod. Great. I'll do that next week. Take it home. Still slipping. Maybe it always did this and I just never noticed.
Boyfriend is driving it to work, when the alternator belt goes. Tow it to my uncle's garage, and replace the belt again. While we're under there, we notice that the tie rod isn't bad, it just need a bolt tightened. IDIOTS! Now I know they are just trying to get money from me. Still can't find exactly why the belt is doing what it's doing. I'll just have to be diligent and replace it often.
Brakes go again. Take it in and have them done professionally (way too cold outside to be messing around with the car at home).
3 days later notice a grinding noise and burning smell. Take it back to Honda, the caliper is frozen and they can't get the part for at least 24 hours. (yes, this is a dealership...with no parts!) Get a rental car for the night to get to work and back. Pick up the car the next day. Now the check engine light is on. Turns out it's just the gas cap, but is still pretty frustrating!
Trunk latch breaks again. Perfect. Now I get to drive around with bungie cords holding my car together, since I will never go back to the dealership. Classy.
Car is good for most of the winter.
Monday Feb 9. All that changes.
Boyfriend is driving to a doctor's appointment, when the car stops shifting all together. Pulls over and hitches home (on the way some 70 year old lady in an Oldsmobile flips him the bird...perfect).
Get it towed to my uncle's garage.
Need a new transmission.
JOY!
Apparently, this is a common problem, so they used transmissions are few, far between and at least $1200. Any other car it would only be $600. Thank you Honda. I can replace the transmission myself (with a bit of help), but I will have no guarantee that it won't blow up within a week. Rebuilding it will cost $1200 to $2200. Honda says they can put a new tranny in for $3500. I tell them to go to hell. Still owe about $8000 on the damn thing! Can't even get a crappy car and transfer the payments because I still owe so much on it. My only option is to have it rebuilt, and take the 12,000 mile warranty.
I have lost all hope for Honda, they didn't even pretend to be sympathetic to my problems. They just want the money.
Hope this helps somebody. It the transmission is slipping, take it to a transmission place and have them pull it apart to look at it, don't just take their word that it's fine.
Good luck!
2007May 01
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
Since about 20k miles, when slowing down almost to a stop then pressing the gas, the engine would violently jerk as the transmission tried to downshift. I learned to apply the gas very very gently in this situation to give it time to pick the right gear. I lived with this for the next 40k miles.
Transmission finally died at 60k miles. Had delayed shifts from 1st to 2nd gear and sometimes from 2nd to 3rd. This went on for about a year and was worse during winter. Eventually developed a whining noise for a few months. Wife was going up a hill one day and it completely gave out.
I changed the tranny fluid with Honda genuine ATF every 25k miles (instead of the 100k miles they suggest thinking it would last longer). Turns out this was a waste of $7/quart for fluid that made no difference. I ended up paying for labor while Honda picked up the parts. I wonder how long my rebuilt replacement will last. My friends and family have purchased Honda's based on my previous good experience with a 1990 Accord. I am no longer recommending Honda and feel bad for those that bought them.
2005Dec 08
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 77,000 miles
I AM AMAZED TO READ ALL THESE COMPLAINTS. I AM CHANGING CARS BECAUSE I CHANGED MY TRANS AT APPROXIMATELY 77000 MILES AND NOW AT 178000 MILES. THIS IS REASON FOR CONCERN. I FEEL THAT HONDA KNEW/KNOWS THIS IS A PROBLEM. I DEFINITELY SUPPORT A CLASS ACTION SUIT. COUNT ME IN. AS A WOMAN A FELT SO VULNERABLE.. THE CAR RUNS WELL EXCEPT FOR THE TRANSMISSION
2009Feb 05
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
While driving home from the airport in middle of the night, my car starting revving really hard without accelerating. I found the only way to stop it sporadically revving was to run under 2k RPM or 20 mph.
I felt I had this issue in a very minor sense. At rare occasions, my car would rev up really high as if it had down shifted, then it would return to normal. And now it's constantly doing this.
I was extremely worried about the car, so I towed it to the nearest dealership, and they called me back today saying the transmission needs to be replaced for $3500. First time
I've had a single car fix costing more than $1k, and I don't think its worth it. Especially if models like mine are having the same issue in masses.
2009Feb 02
Civic LX
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
Same problem as all the other civic owners-total transmission failure. Yes, I have a lot of miles on the car but I do almost zero city driving. This car should have done 200k with no issues. I drive with a light foot andI take great care of it with all scheduled maintenance completed. The thing that kills me the most is that Honda acts like this is an isolated issue. And to make matters worse, I also own an Odyssey that I've learned fom this site has the same issues-WONDERFUL! I've bought 3 hondas over the last 12 years but never again. This is not the same company that it once was.
2009Jan 14
Civic EX 1.7L I4
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
Tranny blew up entering the driveway. Called Honda Corporate. Towed the car to the dealer. During the week got a few calls from the case manager who was doing the investigation. At the end of the week got a call from the case manager asking what I was looking for, eventually agreed that Honda would cover everything except for $1,200.
Final cost: $1,200 for repairs + ~$100 for tow + ~$100 for taxes + the need to get a spare car for 1.5 weeks. The work came with a warranty for 36,000 miles/3 years.
Factors that helped our case: Bought the car brand new from the dealer we towed the car to. Owned nothing but Hondas and Acuras for 10 years(some used/some new). Had some maintenance receipts(although didn't need to fax them since none of them were related to transmission). Very low mileage - 50,000, was told that these trannies should last at least 100,000.
Factor that might have helped the case: a few months ago emailed the dealers for a quote on a new civic, but decided to wait till the summer to buy it. Didn't list my last name, so the guy would have needed to connect my account on Owners Link with the email used to contact the dealer.
Will we still get that new Honda in the summer? Yes, but instead of buying, we'll lease...since a single repair can wipe out all savings from long-term owning.
2009Jan 21
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 138,000 miles
It has been 4 days since the transmission failed. I could tell my car was sounding different for over a month, but not a major noise. A week ago I looked up to see when my next oil change was so that I could have it looked at then. Jan. 21st I reversed out of my driveway and could not get it to go in a driving gear. After a while, I got it in D3 and went a little way and turned around so that I was safe in my driveway instead of on the side of the road in 30 degree temps. Praise God for where it happened! I had the car towed to the Honda dealership and I went to work. They called and said my transmission went out (internal part failure). Two months ago I spent $860 to replace timing belt, water pump, battery, etc. I heard them say over $2000.
I can get a new from Honda for $2900.
Other options outside Honda:
I can get a used in for $1200.
I can get a rebuilt for $1700.
Of course I can trade my car in for a new Honda (they will give $1200 trade value). I decided I would replace the transmission with Honda and get at least 3 years out of the car. That is when I discovered that they would have to order the transmission and there are NONE available right now. They do not know when one will be. I would have to rent a car until WHEN????? I am glad I found this website. I have called American Honda to file a complaint (dealership has already on my behalf and they said they would not assist). I should hear from them tomorrow. I have had a Honda for 17 years. I am now looking at others.
2009Jan 12
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 87,000 miles
My girlfriend's civic started making a weird vibrating noise from the transmission whenever in park or stopped in drive. about a week later, she was driving out of her neighborhood and her car would rev almost to redline, but it wouldn't go any faster than 20mph. once she got on the interstate tho, she said the problem went away, and the rest of the day it didn't come back. After telling me about it, i looked it up online and found all the complaints on here about the same problem. Sure enough, the next day when we tried to drive it to the Honda dealership to get it looked at, the transmission went out before we got out of the neighborhood and the car wouldn't move at all. we got the car towed, ASKED THE DEALERSHIP about the goodwill program, and they looked into it for us. Told us that we were approved, but still had to pay $2000??? i thought that was bull****, but i guess its better than $3200... i feel Honda's lost any bragging rights it had over American cars after this. i now feel better about owning my mustangs
2009Jan 06
Civic V4
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
My Honda had been over-reving when I first started off in the mornings. Mind you, I live in Florida so no need for pre-warming should happen around here. My engine light came on and I took the car diligently to the Honda dealership and told them of the over-reving and the light. The light indicated that my gas cap was bad so I had it replaced and since I was at the notorious 100K, I had the serpentine belts all changed out. No mention of the over-reving. This was back in August of 2008. Well around 5K miles later, I am hearing a whining like a top being pulled when I reved into second gear. This was added with the over-reving again when it was cold. I had placed an appointment to take my car back to the dealship to look it over again and replace the transmission fluid for me. Two days later I am driving to work and about halfway to my work it is really over-reving, but finally engaging in gear and keeping me moving forward. I stopped at a stop sign and pulled out into a busy road and the car would only go 20 miles an hour and hard rev. I hit the gas pedal, it reved and I kept going only 20 miles an hour. Mind you, people are now behind me honking their horns as this is supposed to be a 60 mile an hour zone. I pull of to the side and stop. Now, when I start the car up again after a few minutes, the car goes forward like nothing is wrong. Afraid that this might happen again, I try to limp my way to my work where at least I can call and have the car towed. I pull into my work driveway and now I am not geting any response to my gas pedal. Dead in the water. Luckily right in front of my work. I get the car towed and get a call from the dealership and they tell me that this is a very odd problem and is not like most failures they see in the transmission. Normally it would have problems when it gets warm they tell me. They gave me two options for transmissions, a used one with 30K miles on it from a car that got into a wreck with a 1 year warranty or a used shell with all new components inside with a 3 year warranty. The new one being more than $1000 more in cost and would take a week to get since it is a made to order part. The used one would take a few days to get here. I had asked if the failure was due to the fluid or some type of maintance issue that was my fault. They said these things just happen. After reading the other 45 people that had complaints just like mine on here, it does look to just happen to this 2002 transmission. I noticed when reading the issues there was a "goodwill" option a person had received that took care of the transmission and all he had to pay for was the labor. I am going to try that route since the total cost of the used transmisson and labor is looking to run me around $3K. I am also going to ask about what year is the used transmission coming out of as I don't want to have this happen again. Does anyone know if this issue is only for the 2002 or other years of the civic? Very curious to know. I will also be putting my info into the other site that was mentioned. I am happy that it was just me on a sunny morning, rather than my wife and our kids at night on the freeway like another person had. Oh, as an added note, when I asked if the replacing the transmission would fix the issue, they told me they were not sure. They needed to replace it and clear the computer and see what other issues might come up. Was NOT happy about that statement. Told the service agent that I was pissed that they did not find anything on the first time I was in on August. He told me that since there was 5K miles put on that this was a seperate issue. I guess I should have really pushed the issue with the over-reving at that time. Of course, it this has always been an issue for the 2002 transmissions, they already knew and hoped that it would just die and they could say that "this just happens".
2009Jan 05
Civic LS
- Automatic transmission
- 87,000 miles
My daughter told me about her engine revving in the morning when she drove her car but it went away. She was going to take it to a repair shop when the worst happened. Last night while driving home from work her car wouldn't go over 20 miles an hour. She managed to take backroads to her sons daycare to pick him up but couldn't drive the car home. We had to pay $240 to have her car towed to a dealership. The tow truck driver was very helpful and checked the transmission fluid for her. It was very low even though she had had her car serviced recently and all the fluids were fine. Today the dealership called and told her that her transmission was shot and needed to be replaced. Cost to replace will be $3100!!! After reading the complaints on this website I am pissed!!! She doesn't have the money to pay for this so guess who it falls on. I thought when she bought the Honda from my parents she would have a dependable car for years. I will definitely be calling Honda America tomorrow to see if they will assist in paying for the repairs. What is even more b.s. is that for that much money you can only get a rebuilt transmission, not a new one. She only has 87,000 miles on it so we expected a lot more from Honda. I have almost 90,000 miles on my Nissan XTerra and have never had a problem with it. You can bet I'm sticking with Nissan and her next car won't be a Honda.
2008Dec 15
Civic EX 1.7L V4
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
Transmission was slipping a little so I took it to my Honda dealer for service. They called and said the transmission fluid was black and smelled burnt. They changed it as well as giving me a timing belt service package ($635) and sparkplug change ($200). Upon taking it for a test drive, it stopped working. After a restart they managed to get it back to the dealership where it gave the error code corresponding to "Improper Gear Ratio" which in turn translated to Complete and Total Transmission Failure. I did some digging and found very similar problems with other Civics and Accords. I filed a complaint with Honda of America and after a WEEK of review they called to tell me that they would discount $700 off of a new transmission...so I'm still out $2,500.
2008Dec 25
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
The day before x-mas I noticed that it would start revving, almost redlining, when I hadn't accelerated. It only did it a couple of times so I thought I would take it in the day after x-mas. Well I ended up stranded on x-mas night! When I first started driving I couldn't go over 20mph without redlining for a couple of minutes and then it seemed ok. When I got off the freeway I had to stop at a redlight and from there I would hit the gas and it wouldn't move. Spent x-mas night having strangers push my car to a gas station. The transmission light didn't even come on until the car wouldn't move. Checked the fluid and it was fine. Next day I towed it to the dealership and they said I needed a whole new transmission. I was so upset due to thinking I had a dependable car that would last for years and I still have another year left of payments. My last car, a Mitsubishi Diamante, went up to 191,000 before having any major problems. I praise the service guys at the dealership though because I didn't know about good will repairs and they offered to contact American Honda for me to try to get a discount, otherwise it would be about $3500. I spent a couple of days stressing, especially after finding this site and hearing about so many who didn't get help from Honda. I found out today that Honda will cover the entire cost of the transmission, $2500, and I'll have to pay for the labor, $900. I bought the car used from a Honda dealership, had all my maintenance done at Honda, and have never been late on a payment so I think these factors may have influenced their decision. While the service department was great in telling me about goodwill repairs and arranging it, I'm still disappointed in Honda because I really thought they were dependable and this site proves that they have a major flaw in their transmissions and I still have to spend way more $ than I ever planned at such low mileage. If you've got one of these lemons take it to Honda for maintenance because it may help to get a goodwill repair when your transmission goes. I'll never buy another Honda and once this gets fixed, I'm considering selling it before the new transmission goes.
2008Dec 22
Civic LX 4cyl. 1.7L
- Manual transmission
- 78,000 miles
This is the first problem (not self inflicted) I have had with my Honda and I have beat this thing to death. I did damage the front struts but I did that taking a hard right at 40 mph, so I can't really blame the car for that. I am disappointed to have such a major mechanical failure at 78,000 miles. I have an excellent mechanic with great prices that is going to replace the transmission with a used one for about 700 - 800 parts and labor. I just moved into a sales position, so I will be leasing cars from now on. I do not think I will ever buy another Honda. I will buy a toyota or lease a car instead.
2008Dec 27
Civic EX Vtec
- Automatic transmission
- 94,500 miles
Like many others here, I've taken good care of my Civic, drive conservatively, and perform regular maintenance as suggested. So when my transmission gave out this past weekend, I was pretty disappointed with the fabled "Civic that lasts forever."
I'll probably end up dumping the car for about 1/4 of the blue book just to get rid of the problem. I'd rather make payments on a new car than to pour another $3000 into a car that's barely worth $6k and take a chance on something happening again.
I did file a complaint on the website: www.nhtsa.dot.gov and hope everyone else will too.
2008Dec 19
Civic DX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 56,731 miles
On a very cold day, I started the car to warm it up. Left running for 15 minutes, then drove 1/2 mile, placed in park, and let run for another 10 minutes. When I got back into the vehicle to drive away, it would not shift into gear. No warning - no noises, odors etc. I checked the transmission fluid and it was full, clean and correct color. Had to get it towed to a transmission shop where I was informed that the transmission needs replacing for $3500. I bought this car used 2 years ago thinking that Hondas are reliable cars. I drive it carefully and maintain regularly. The transmission shop cannot find a reason for why this happened. Now upon researching this problem, I find this is a common problem among 2001/2002 Civics. I cannot believe that at such low mileage, the transmission would suddenly die with no cause. Now I am left without a vehicle for several weeks and no way to get to work, while the transmission suppliers close down for the holidays. Thanks a lot Honda!! So much for their reliable reputation. In the past I owned two Mazda's that reached over 275,000 km before any major problems occurred. I will never buy another Honda again unless they do the right thing and recall these Civics.
2008Dec 01
Civic EX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 98,177 miles
I owned this Honda Civic EX 2002 about 20 months and the transmission just broke, starting with an annoying buzz sound. After 2 weeks of the sound was noticed, the transmission just no longer work and the car does not move forward or backwards. I had to contact a Honda dealer in Mexico to replace the transmission since I have heard bad comments about Honda Civic transmissions. In fact, I owned a Honda Accord LX 1988 wich had kind of the same problem but at that time I found a used and cheap transmission, wich is not this case. Honda dealer in Mexico is replacing the transmission with 1 year warranty. I hope I can sell this car before the warranty end or before the replaced transmission start failing as well.
I am loosing faith in Honda due to automatic transmissions.
2008Dec 13
Civic EX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
another victim. bought used at 68K, now has 106K. noticed a hard down shift in the car every once in a while soon after purchase, but didn't think too much off it. on the day of the transmission failure, i noticed the car had a hard time going into second gear, but like one of the complaints on here, thought it was because i didn't let the car heat up enough before driving away. drove about 30 miles and the transmission completely failed. no gears. going to take it to a shop tomorrow. don't have a good feeling. still upside down $2000 in the car. sick.
2008Nov 24
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 119,321 miles
I too have a 2002 Honda Civic LX. Two days before my meltdown, my transmission began I guess what is called slipping or stalling. I took it as maybe I didn't let my car warm up fully, because those two mornings it was very cold and the problem ended minutes later. Well needless to say on the third day, as I was leaving home to go to Firestone for an oil change and to get my transmission checked it began to slip everytime it attempted to go into the next gear. Needless to say I did not make it Firestone. The car stopped accelerating at the light. I was able to put it into a low gear and move it to get out the middle of the roadway. It then went backwards, and that was it. My car had to be towed, the Monday before Thanksgiving, as I was preparing to travel out of state to visit family for the holidays. Very disappointing! I took it to a transmission specialists,via tow truck, and the first thing he says is "I work on a lot of Honda's (ummm Honda, just a side note, ummm that's not a statement you want coming out of a mechanics mouth), therefore, I am very much aware of the problem." I thought to myself "okay good" that is until he told me it will cost at a discounted rate between $1,200 and $2,000. Oh My Goodness. Yes, my car has 119k miles, and yes, I have had it since 2003; but, I thought Honda's were reliable and dependable cars. I was told, correct me if I'm wrong, that Honda's should last a good 16 to 18 years, and go far beyond 130K miles before needing major work. I am not pleased. Then I am told that rebuilding the transmission or having a re manufactured one is only going to last maybe another 1.5 to 2 years. Unacceptable!! Help. Does anyone know of Honda recalling these transmissions? I am aware of the recall on the Accords and Honda Manual transmissions, but are they recalling or assisting with the cost of repairing their poor 2002 Honda Civic LX Automatic Transmissions?
2008Oct 26
Civic LX 1.7L V4
- Automatic transmission
- 113,000 miles
Another victim at 113,000 Mi.- Transmission completely went out, no warning. I bought this car with 40K and never changed the fluid. Luckily, my most excellent neighbor (a former mechanic)said he knew a little trick that might work. I was skeptical but figured it was worth a try. In less than 30 minutes my transmission worked again. Fluid was changed about a week later. Its been about six weeks and so far so good. I dont know if this is a long term fix, I just wanted to add to the complaints about an obvious problem with 01 and 02 Civics here that from what Im seeing, replacement is the most common solution. The procedure that was done cost me a 12 pack. I want to give my neighbor a chance to patent this procedure, that is why I am not being specific about what was done at this time. All I know is he saved me $2500-$3500.
2008Nov 25
Civic EX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 123,528 miles
My wife had been complaining about hard shifting and the transmission slipping from time to time. The problem got worse until the car stranded my wife and kid on the freeway at night. The transmission completely failed. The car will not go into any gear.
The dealer does not want to cover repairs even though there numerous complaints about the transmission failing on 2001 and 2002 civics. The cost if I choose to repair it will be $2,700.
2008Nov 04
Civic LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
A car with 74,000 miles should not have the transmission go out. Honda is notorious for this and they should extend their warranty. They extended it for the transmissions up to the 2001 model. My car was manufactured in August 2001 and must have received one of these delightfully horrible transmissions. I will never buy a Honda product again!
2008Nov 12
Civic LX 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 100,800 miles
the transmission failed waiting to hear back about goodwill repair..
2008Nov 01
Civic LX 1.7L
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
Another Honda Civic Transmission Victim!!!
My transmission failed TOTALLY!!!!
Called Honda but they refused to cover any expense. But was told that there is a campaign beneficial to Odyssey and Accord owners.
Why not Civic?
We need to file a class suit against Honda about this transmission defect.
2008Sep 19
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 66,670 miles
We were on our way to pick our son after work and my wife mentioned the valet said there may be something wrong with our transmission. Sure enough, just then the car wouldn't shift into 3rd, then it wouldn't go at all. We coasted down 14th street in DC and came to a stop outside the Department of Commerce. When we stopped it would engage in reverse, but no forward motion at all.
We had the car towed to a Honda dealership who called the next day to tell us the transmission fluid had metal in it and we'd need a new transmission. Awesome! It would only cost $2500 (his estimate then).
We're shopping repair shops now, hoping to find a lower price, but it looks like we're going to be stuck paying 1/3 what we paid for the car - used - three months ago. From the looks of what everyone else has gone through, especially the 2001 group, it looks like we're stuck.
If there is indeed a class action complaint about Honda trannies, count me in!
Read the next 32 complaints »
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Dec 15
Civic LX 1.7L
I purchased my Honda civic august 2002 brand new. Previously had owned a 1990 civic 4 speed 1.5 liter , great car. drove it 125000 miles with minor repairs. sold it for 1600 bucks half of what i paid for it.
My 2002 Honda civic has a 1.7 auto trans, had maintenance done regularly, oil . every 3000- 3500 , trans fluid every 30,000 an one day it started to slip so had the fluid changed, three days later broke down in rush hour traffic, had to get towed. My mechanic had a hard time finding a used transmission , so I located one paid fot it an had it shipped to him. He installed it ,ran great had tranmission fluid changed three times using Honda fluid . total cost 1,958 bucks. now its october 15 transmission is slipping out of gear .or wont go in either drive, I need my car every day for my work so I'm having it rebuild by a transmissions specialist, cost 2,850 with a 3year 50,000 warranty . Wish me luck. Thank Honda !!
skypagerv
South Amboy, New Jersey, USA
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