This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Honda dealer.
9.0
really awfulTypical Repair Cost:
$4,269.00
Average Mileage:
78,973 miles
Total Complaints:
112 complaints
Most common solutions:
- get new engine (39 reports)
- not sure (26 reports)
- replace short block (19 reports)
- replaced engine (12 reports)
- honda paid for full repair (5 reports)
- get a new car (2 reports)
engine problem
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A free service from MechanicAdvisor.comHelpful websites
- Honda extends warranty on r18 block effective aug 17th. - I've been looking at carcomplaints for a while, as i own this model civic but have had no problems. But this guy said he's a master tech and honda recently extended their warranty to 8 years from orig. purchase date. site has the bulletin number posted, but it's only for honda techs. still it might help for all of you to call honda about reimbursements!
2011Oct 05
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
Not happy with Honda at all. Just call the dealer and there is a recall for this problem.
I am not sure what will happen next. For now I am stuck with this BAD Honda car.
2011May 23
Civic DX-G 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 51,148 miles
2006 honda cicic - 82234 km---could not start the car -- dealer checked --- cracked engine block --replaced new engine under standand warantty - replaced ignition coil paid by my self
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Jul 01
Civic
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
I think I have the standard engine block crack that everyone else seems to be having. I went to get an oil change and they told me I was leaking coolant from somewhere they couldn't see. I tried to take it to the nearest Honda shop but it suddenly shot up to red (as hot as it could get) and when I tried to pull over it was dead. I'm taking it in a couple days and crossing my fingers for a new engine paid by Honda.
Update from Jul 13, 2011: I took my car to Honda of Sumner because my local Honda shop kept trying to make it sound like it was my fault since the car wouldn't even start. The engine was apparently ruined due to it over heating but Honda of Sumner is getting me a new engine for free and they're even paying for a retal for me! They've been awesome so I suggest anyone with the same problem in my area to go to Honda of Sumner.
2011Jul 01
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 91,000 miles
Found Coolant on my garage floor after I pulled car out of garage. Looks like it is leaking from the engine block! Taking to the dealer next Tuesday.. Now I have to take a day off from work...What a Headache!!!
2011Jun 05
Civic LX 1.8L
- Manual transmission
- 24,171 miles
I got my civic serviced at dealer Magnum Honda. Within 48 hours and 48 kilometers, the engine emitted huge smoke and knocking sound and it just blocked. When I got the car towed to the same dealer, I saw a hole right in the middle of the engine block. I was informed by the dealer that water had entered the engine block. When I asked the dealer to verify if the condition of car if it looks like it has been into too deep water or does it look tempered or did the mileage show I have driven far enough to a place that was flooded or was there any flood in Bangalore in those 2 days? I failed to get any response. The car was doing perfectly fine for last nearly 5 years. It never had any problem or met with any accident and the condition is as close to new as it can be.
I just been robbed off a car either by Honda or by the dealer. I am not sure of the ability of a car to run well after its engine has been done. I have never driven a car whose engine has been done. And I can not risk driving with my family at odd hours in a car that breaks down. Besides, the repair will cost as much as the resale value of the car.
Is there any was that Honda looks at this complaint and does something. Reaching Honda helpline in India meant wasting more than 2 weeks to get back to the same dealer who again gave the same answer. I did not get the answer why and how did water went inside. It could only have been done during servicing with happened just before the breakdown.
Please ask Honda guys to examine the car objectively and replace the car immediately. For more than 3 weeks, the car is lying in the workshop.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Feb 18
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 146,000 miles
My car overheated after driving to St. Petersburg and back to Winter Haven fl. I had it checked at a mom and pop auto repair and was told my engine block was cracked and needed a new engine. I then googled the issue and found tha honda was extending warranty on cracked engine blocks to 8 years/ unlimited mileage. I took my car to the dealership and they confirmed that Honda would pay for the repairs. I requested a rental car reimbursement/loaner car and was denied one. No biggie as I was happy that I did not have to get a new engine with the one I have running at 146000 miles!
Not sure if they will replace engine or just the block. The service advisor told me they would replace the "small block".
2011Apr 05
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
I bought my car with 35000 miles 2 yrs ago thinking I got away with a deal...up til yesterday when I got out of my car and smelled engine coolant. sure enough my engine block is cracked on the front side of the engine on the right side of the manifold.call mall of georgia and they told me to bring it in to be fixed,but will not offer of a free rental.just know this needs to be reported so others can be protected.
2010Dec 22
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
I THINK HONDA KNOWS THERE IS A PROBLEM!!! THEY NEED TO STAND BEHIND THERE PRODUCT AND BITE THE BULLET AND FIX IT!!!! I BOUGHT A HONDA KNOWING HOW RELIABLE THEY ARE! NOT!!!! IF THERE WAS NOT A PROBLEM THEN WHY IS EVERYONE SAYING THE SAME THING ABOUT THEIR HONDAS! IF I HAVE TO GET EVERY NEWS STATION ON THIS I WILL! THIS IS BULL POOP!
Update from Mar 13, 2011: We contacted Pensacola Honda and they took care of the problem free of charge no questions asked. I am totally satisfied with the Job Pensacola Honda, Pensacola Florida has done
2008Oct 18
Civic LX
- Automatic transmission
- 84,000 miles
My husband was driving his car home from work and it overheated on the freeway. Cracked engine block at 84,000. Honda refused to even discuss it, much less pay for any of it. Went to small claims court, got rent-a-judge. Found several California laws that Honda had violated, including failing to extend warranty due to hidden defect when purchased. Judge refused to hear the laws, refused to read his copy of the salient laws. We tried mediation outside the courtroom first. Took Honda nearly 3 hours of internal discussions to make an offer: a free tune-up. Since we didn't use Honda dealer for maintenance,(used a private mechanic who is certified), judge ignored all the laws and split the difference. So we were stuck with paying $2000 for a NEARLY new engine that still had a warranty. Outrageous from beginning to end.
This must be stopped. It is dangerous. It is expensive. It can prevent someone from getting to work which would result is a lost job, foreclosure, losing everything. Why NHTSA is ignoring this is unknown, but their have been colluding with Honda. How many laws does a corporation have to break before they are held responsible? It is outrageous and evil. Honda actually said on the phone "We don't ever put anything in writing." They laughed at us. They lied to us. They stole our money. Where is the payback? Where is the legal system? Where the h is our government?
NHTSA should be abolished, the members sent to jail, and a REAL consumer protection agency set up to punish Honda and all the others who continue to perpetuate "goodwill" programs. My foot.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Jan 19
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
I was headed home from my office after dark in my 2006 Honda Civic when I heard a whistling noise. Pretty soon the temperature gauge was at the top. I was on a narrow winding road and pulled over the first place I could get off the road and shut it off. Steam was coming out from under the hood. After it had cooled down I open the hood and there was coolant splattered around the engine. There was no cell phone service in this remote area so I walked back down the road to a call box and they called a tow truck and the CHP to come look out for me as I was alone in this remote area with wild animals such as mountain lions and coyotes. It took over an hour for the tow truck to arrive and they towed about 8 miles back to the auto shop in the nearest town. The next day the auto shop told me that the block was cracked. They also told me they were very surprised to see this kind of problem in such a new car.
2010Nov 13
Civic 4 cylinder
- Automatic transmission
- 72,154 miles
Fracture in Block reported by Goodyear Service. Towed to Dealer. Waiting for the dealer to report back on severity, fix and cost. I see there may be a warranty extension on these cracked blocks. What would you suggest I do at this point?
2007Dec 15
Civic
- 39,000 miles
This 2006 Honda Civic is my second Honda, so being a Honda owner I figured I could trust the Honda name and get a safe reliable car. Day one of owning my vehicle the trunk latch broke, minor problem yet still a problem. At 17,000 miles the Left Rear wheel bearing broke loose, luckily a brake shop was open at 10 pm and was able to fix that for me no problem. At 39,000 miles I noticed coolant on my driveway, turns out it was a cracked block. Honda was awesome and fixed the problem with no questions (1 and a half weeks in the shop). When the block was replaced a refurbished pulley bolt was used instead of a new one, at 58000 miles the bolt snapped and the pulley broke loose (another few days in the shop). After the tensioner belt and pulley bolt were both replaced the car seemed to be running great minus the few cosmetic issues (broken seat slide bar and side bar and 3 new visors). At 70,000 miles my car stalled for the first time in the fast lane, no warning lights, I somehow made it to a safe part of the road, where my engine began smoking, Honda tried claiming my fluids were low and caused my engine to burn up even though they had done the routine oil and fluid change less than 3000 miles before, once again my engine was replaced. Less than 9000 miles later on another busy freeway a transmission electrical switch went out shutting all power to my car off completely, got towed to the dealer and it took them over a week to find the problem. They tried saying my care for my car was poor, even though I have receipts of every maintenance check on my car none of them being more than 4000 miles apart. It's sad that my local Honda dealer knows me by name. The last time my civic was in their shop they tried to get me to hand over my car and get a new one, they said they would "give me a good deal", funny it turns out they were going to charge me 4000 above sticker price for a new car. I told them I'll drive mine till it officially dies. Well now I'm at 88000 miles and guess what....the motor mount is cracked. I love my car but I think it's time for a new one. But don't worry, I can almost guarantee there will be a recall for the motor mount, right after every one of my problems has been fixed a recall for the broken part comes out. good luck to all you Civic owners
2010Nov 02
Civic
- 59,000 miles
Count me in the cracked engine block club for the 2006 Honda Civic LX! About two months ago I noticed my engine coolant was very low. Took the car into the dealer they said they checked it and found no leaks. They re-filled the coolant and off I went.
Fast forward to this morning on my way to work I noticed the thermostat maxed out into the red zone! And there was a burning smell coming from the hood. I called the dealership right away and had it towed in. The verdict: A cracked engine block and the short block is being replaced. They have to order the part so they will have my car about 3 to 4 days. In the meantime, I need wheels so had to get a rental car. The dealership at first did not want to cover my rental car. HAHA!! Ya right! I took a meeting with the service manager in his office and told him I would not have to pay for a rental car if this manufacturing defect weren't happening so, they are paying for my rental car. ALSO...I have the defective sun visor issue that is SO common with this car!! I've had EIGHT sun visors in 4 years! This is a 2006 vehicle with only 59K on it. It is also my FIRST HONDA EVER. And unfortunately, my last!! I found out Honda has known about this engine defect since 2008 but I did not get a letter about it until 5 weeks ago. ALSO...whenever it rains, my car makes this weird grinding noise on start-up, but only for a few seconds and only when it rains. Honda can-NOT figure out what this is. I loved my Honda the first 3 years! This is such a let-down. I'm grateful they are replacing my engine block for free, but I should have known about this before I was in "tow-truck country." I'm writing to the CEO that they suck and I'll never buy a Honda again. I'm so disappointed I have always heard that Hondas last a very long time. :(
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2010Oct 16
Civic EX 1.8
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
Took vehicle for oil change this last weekend and my mechanic notified me about a crack in my engine that is leaking antifreeze. I searched online and found out that this is a fairly common problem. I will be calling Honda to see in what way they can help with this problem. I'm very surprised by this as I've known this brand to be very reliable. My first 2002 Honda Civic (R.I.P. totaled in a 2007 accident) never gave me any problems.
Update from Oct 27, 2010: Called Honda of America and confirmed the extension of the warranty. Took the car to dealer and they took care of the problem by replacing the whole engine block. Process took about 3 1/2 days. Very happy with results.
2010Sep 15
Civic DX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I just bought this 2006 civic from a private party and 3days (right after an oil change) i smelled something burning, the next morning there was blue fluid on my drive way...i thought it was washer fluid since i just had the oil changed (and they topped of the washer fluid) just half a day before i noticed the fluid in my driveway. Long Story short it was a cracked engine! I just bought the car 4 days ago WTF! He must have known before he sold it to me...im so upset. Needles to say I already knew what the mechanic was going to tell me after reading these complaints and made arrangements with M & G auto dismantlers and repair in Rancho Cordova, Ca for a used engine to be put in for 900$ out the door.
They also had done my daughters Transmission on her 2003 Civic for a great price. If you live in Cali and need great service at a great price I recommend them.
This all comes at the same time my 2003 Honda Pilot's transmission went out at 115k. im re-thinking ever buying another Honda! Mt Toyota Solara is still running strong with not a problem in sight! Next will be a toyota for me... for sure!
2010Sep 10
Civic
- Automatic transmission
- 52,000 miles
Driving down the highway car engine all of a sudden white smoke everywhere. Pulled off to the side of the road. Car Died. Like Dead on Arrival - Dead! Luckily I was 8 miles from the dealership. Had the car towed. Then they told me about the "non recall" but extended warrantee...I had only gone 52000 miles! I was highly impressed with the friendly and quick service of South Tacoma Honda. If this had not been covered I would have been in serious trouble.
Now Im concerned. If honda knows this is a problem why do you have to wait until the engine actually cracks, and leaves you stranded. My sister bought the same car the same year she has gone 82,000 miles. The extended "warrantee" only goes up to 80,000. Shame on Honda for not recalling the defective product. These cars should go an easy 150000 miles. Since hers in not yet cracked they are playing their odds, and now she is over the warrantee. It makes her want to buy another kind of vehicle and unfortunately for them Not a honda. Bad Service = no service.
2010Sep 09
Civic EX 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
I think it is sad that a 4yr old car has engine block problems. I'm hoping to get goodwill service on it...
2010Sep 07
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 35,000 miles
I have not yet experienced a cracked block but am very concerned about the letter I just recieved from Honda regarding the issue. They extended the warranty to 8 years but for someone like myself who is only putting about 8,000 miles a year on my car, I'm concerned that if I keep the car for any longer than 8 years, that I'm on my own. I'm also very concerned that the value of my car is diminished because this is a major mechanical issue and any one purchasing my car whether individual or dealership will certainly expect to pay less in case they are left stuck with the block repair.
In short, because Honda chose to extend the warranty instead of issuing a recall, consumers could face financial damages. I will give Honda credit for at least admitting the issue exists. My previous car, a Toyota also had a defective block and Toyota new about it and didn't disclose it to consumers. My block blew right at warranty expiration. Toyota re-blocked the car but then everything else attached to the engine started failing and it was sucking the money and life out of me so at 53,000 miles I had to get rid of a perfectly maintained vehicle. I'll never buy another Toyota. I went back to Honda based on my first Honda which I drove for 9 years with absolutely no problems. It was a perfect car!!
2010Aug 01
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
I noticed smell of coolant, couldn't find the leak, so I called my neighborhood mechanic. He gave me the great news that my engine block was cracked and it seems to be pretty common for the 06 Civic. Pretty much sucks. The engine is being replaced with a used engine of the same year. Looking forward to it happening again in a few thousand miles.
2010Aug 15
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 77,000 miles
Started with a blue dye stain on the garage floor and become a trickle and lastly a puddle. Because of this I checked the level and it was low I told my wife to frequently check the temperature gauge. She said that it went to the next highest mark and that the air conditioning quit but since nothing was flashing or making a noise she dove on. When she told me about it I told her not to drive it anymore until I had checked it out. I searched on 2006 Honda civic coolant leak and found this sight a several others. I suspected that this was also a cracked engine block issue. I checked and no hoses looked bad, nor any other cooling system components. I jacked up the car and looked at it from the cabin side of the engine. From below all I could see was a drip line of the blue dye coming from the middle area of the engine and reaching the exhaust in the center. The odd coolant must be used to refill it, so we called and they advised a that it be towed into the dealership. The dealer confirmed the cracked engine block failure and started the analysis and repair.
Although our oil was broken down the engine did not have further damage and the block was replaced in 3 days. We have been driving it for 2 days now and it is running very well, and very quietly. We received a list of parts that were replaced and told of the extension of our power train warranty. We are glad that this happened while under warranty. It seemed to be caused by the hottest week of the summer.
2010Aug 03
Civic
- Automatic transmission
- 160,000 miles
Cracked engine block. Dealer said it was cracked where there wasn't any way it could have been my fault, but Honda would not pay. They wanted $3800 to fix. I found this site and called Honda with knowledge of this being a known problem. I also got another dealer involved. Honda finally paid full amount!
Now, here's a new wrinkle: APPARENTLY HONDA IS ISSUING A SERVICE BULLETIN LATER THIS MONTH INDICATING A CRACKED ENGINE BLOCK FOR 2006-2009 CIVIC'S IS TO BE COVERED BY HONDA!!
If you have a problem, call Honda and tell thenm you know about service bulletins! Thanks to all of you who posted--you helped get my problem fixed without cost. For those of you who paid for repairs, I would go back to Honda and try to get reimbursed!
2010Jul 26
Civic LX 1.8L V4
- Manual transmission
- 100,000 miles
I have discovered last week to my great surprise that my supposedly reliable 06 Civic with 100k miles had a cracked engine block. It started leaking coolant in my driveway. I drove it to the dealer to hear that I had a problem already known by Honda.
Before even getting an estimate for the cost of the repair, I got an offer from my dealer to share the cost 50/50. It feels like they are sorry for our trouble but 50/50 is not an acceptable offer for a design or manufacturing flaw from a company that pride itself in it mission statement to be supplying products of the highest quality. I will post results.
2010Aug 03
Civic LX 1.8L
- Manual transmission
- 71,718 miles
As I can see now, I am clearly not the only one with this issue. As I was driving home yesterday my car started spewing out the same sweet smelling smoke everyone else mentioned. I immediately went to my garage (Not Honda) and they graciously took me in even though it was after hours. They told me this morning it was a cracked engine block and after reviewing my maintenance receipts that the issue was not at all my fault. I called Honda immediately, I refuse to pay one penny for this. The man on the phone was not helpful at all, refused to connect me to a manager or give me any number that would connect me with anyone in a management position. He did tell me that I will get a Regional Case Manager and gave me a case #, but of course, I cannot contact this person. He also told me that until I brought it to a Honda affiliated garage that they would not accept the diagnosis. I just now found out that Honda is covering 95% and my rental until my poor car is fixed. I had to push very hard to get my word out there, I have owned only one other Honda before this and it never gave me one issue. I highly suggest all of you push Honda to the limits, this is not our faults at all!!!
2007Apr 07
Civic DX 1.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
After smelling that sweet pancake syrup smell that you only smell under the hood of the car when antifreeze is leaking/burning ....I brought my car to the Honda Dealership. There they found that there was a hairline crack in the block. They said it was a "casting" defect. Although it was technically just out of the standard warranty, Honda did repair it under warranty replacing the block. But everyone who heard of the problem was so shocked....Honda's are such reliable cars!?? I got a lemon... several other issues have come up since which I will document here.
2010Jun 25
Civic EX 1.8L V4
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Car overheated. I was very worried...filled the coolant back up(completely empty!) Drove on. I kept checking it every time I stopped. I noticed coolant leaking from under the car, but it was coming from behind the engine. Upon further inspection I noticed the oil had mixed with the coolant...Uhh Ohh. Pulled the oil fill cap off, and noticed the oil literally had turned into mayo type substance. Decided it was best to not drive it anymore. Called my local dealer and had them tow it in. A day later they said, "Sir there is nothing wrong with your vehicle, you will have to pay for the towing and service"...ohh really so water was leaking from my car??? Drove the car off the lot and literally made it halfway, the car overheated again, I took it back in and about an hour later they said, "Do you have a ride home".... cracked engine block, just as I had told them to begin with, luckily I was covered under warranty 57000 miles. I haven't gotten my car back yet, but hopefully it purrs like a kitten again.
2010Jul 28
Civic LX
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
My story is the same as all the rest. However, I appear to have the happiest ending. I also had an out-of-warranty car which has been well taken care of and that ended up with a cracked engine block. Completely stunned. I took it to my dealer, who has handled the other unfortunate things that happened under warranty, and they called to tell me American Honda is taking care of everything - no charge to me. A complete new engine at a value of $6000. I am still flabbergasted. But also very grateful. I'm sorry for all the trouble everyone on this site has had and all they had to pay, but perhaps Honda is getting closer to acknowledging this is a real problem they must fix.
2010Jul 16
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 73,000 miles
Well i found a leak this morning when i got to work(a 28 mile highway drive) thought it looked like washer fluid but smelled like burning antifreeze. i checked coolant level and decided i had enough to get back home and do some more detailed investigations in my driveway. made it home ok no overheating looked for leaking hoses etc. nothing but couldn't understand the steady drip from under engine. I keep saying to myself this is why you bought a brand new Honda???? Then came inside and googled my issue and found this site needless to say i'm not very excited. i will be bringing the car to the dealership i purchased the vehicle from and have it serviced at tomorrow morning and update this post later. i am praying i have some positive things to say soon!
2010May 14
Civic LX 2DR CPE 1.8L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 102,000 miles
Well, after reading each post, I'd have to say that I am also a Honda Civic owner that is encountering the same problem. Before finding out about this coolant leakage, I tried to locate where the leak was, but was unsuccessful. I then went to the Honda dealer last week and purchased a new OEM water pump to replace the old one, thinking that the water pump may be bad. After discovering that the water pump was still good and not leaking, I had to call my cousin over, which is an ASE Certified Automobile Technician at Carmax. He quickly spotted the cracked block leaking coolant after I started up the car. We researched and found that Honda had a service bulletin on this issue under TSB 08-044. This is really ridiculous, knowing the fact that Honda put together these cars like this! They shouldn't even be advertising that these cars are reliable because they are not!!!
I just took my Civic into my local Honda dealer, Elk Grove Honda, for that coolant leakage and my oil change. I advise them of the problem I found and also the TSB, but the Service Advisor stated that they will still have to look at it to determine the coolant leakage. The Service Advisor said that there wasn't going to be any cost for Honda to try to detect the problem and that the Civic would have to stay there for the day and contact me once they've located the problem.
My 2006 Honda Civic has about 102k miles currently and way out of the manufacturer's warranty, but this is an issue not to blamed on me nor others having this specific problem. If nothing gets done about this, my next step is to contact Kurt, a news reporter on Channel 13 News in Sacramento CA, who my neighbor knows well to report this LEMON Honda Civic. This is not my only Honda I've owned, but it'll probably be the last. My other car is a Honda S2000 and thank goodness nothings gone bad on that one; otherwise, I would be pissed! And also, these repairs are very costly and I can not certainly afford that at this time! I'll keep everyone posted on what the outcome is as to what the Honda dealer finds or determines.
Update from Aug 5, 2010: So here's my outcome from my 2006 Honda Civic LX Coupe cracked block and leaking coolant. The later that day in the evening, I get a call from the Sr Service Advisor. He stated, "Well, we found the leaking coolant was due to cracked block located at front right and also at the rear of the engine block, but we've contacted American Honda and they will send us all parts and we'll replace the block and other parts FREE-OF-CHARGE." I'm delighted to hear such GOOD NEWS. So, approximately 2 days later, I received my Civic back and sure enough, new engine block and also new water pump attached to the engine block. A very happy ending here and HAPPY CAMPER TOO!
2010Jul 12
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 116,000 miles
Driving home from work in 100 degree weather. The AC goes out, I turn the AC off and roll down the windows. The temperature gauge reaches HOT, I pull over and call AAA and had my my car towed home. My brother looked at my car today and said I have a cracked block where antifreeze is leaking out. So this brings me to this point of looking this problem up online and discovering that I am not alone. The problem for me is that this is the 3rd MAJOR problem I've had with my Honda. I was certainly not expecting these problems when I purchased my vehicle. Not a happy camper!! I will be calling corporate, but don't expect much.
2010Jul 09
Civic 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
I am a divorce mother of two... Struggling to make ends meet. I purchased a Honda Civic knowing that Hondas are know for making quality cars that will last a very long time. I am a commuter and I need this car to get me back and forth to work... I don't know much about cars.. but on the 1st day of this nightmare... I smelled coolant leaking.. Did not pay much attention cuz, no engine lights came on telling me to do anything. So the next day I set out for work and not more than a few blocks from my house white smoke began coming from the under the hood and the temp gage was off the chart.. I stopped and opened the hood and smoke everywhere... Took it to two 3 cert mech and they both were dumbfounded that this could happen on this year of car.. they both said their was a crack in the engine.. Took it to Honda Dealers and they laughed in my face and said their hands were tied... They could do nothing for me...
I am in the process of getting an Attorney and filing suit... I am going to name everyone that I came in contact with that lied to my face knowing of this problem but just dismissed me as being a Stupid and unfortunate woman... I am going back to the dealer to demand help.. Then calling the US Atty and Atty General and the Dept of Justice... We cannot Let Honda get away with knowing this... This Vehicle should be RECALLED.
Update from Jul 19, 2010:
2010May 14
Civic LX 4
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
Cracked Engine Block
I went to work on a Friday and apparently, my car had been leaking anti-freeze which I was not aware of. I was going to run an errand at which time my car starting smoking. I had no idea why! I had my stepfather meet me and take a look at the car. He performed a temporary fix to ensure that I could make it home safely. The following day, I took the car to Pep Boys. A few days later, they informed me that the issue was not a waterpump as my stepfather had assumed. I was subsequently informed that the car had a cracked engine block and I needed a new engine which would cost approximately $4,000. The car has 80,000 miles but Hondas are supposed to be reliable cars.
I decided that if I were going to come out of pocket $4,000-$5,000 I might as well purchase a new car versus repairing this car that will inevitably require more costly repair. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER CIVIC!!!
2010Jun 29
Civic EX 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
So, I loved my Honda civic 06. I bought it in Dec. 2005 after my dodge neon was 4,000 in repairs. I was so excited to have a car that would last me "forever"...or at least 15 years! I trusted in the Honda experiences I had heard for years.
First, April 2010 my air conditioner went out, only blowing hot air. I figured there was a leak so proceeded to take it to a small shop where they refilled with refrigerant. It lasted two weeks and hot air again. Took it to Honda where they said it would cost me $200 to look at it and up to $750 to fix it. I did not have the money to do that at the time of the oil change so I told them I would wait and use the windows.
Then June 29, 2010 I am driving to work, about 15 minutes into my drive my car makes the most horrible clanging sound I have heard, I thought it was the ols Buick next to me but it was my car!! It would die down and start again getting louder each time. Was it my AC? It stopped making noise when I was at a busy intersection stopped and once I accelerated just a bit it made a crashing sound, smoke came from my entire engine and it DIED. I was on the corner nothing even turned on!
Took it to firestone to get a diagnostic $106. Got a call back, the piston came off, went back inside the engine and cracked the engine block. I was literally on this website reading all the other stories that were exactly like mine and they told me I needed a new engine. When I saw the hole it was huge!
Called Honda where they told me I am 4,000 over my warranty and there is NOTHING they can do, their hands are tied. They also quoted me higher to get a new engine.
I went to the Hyundai dealer my parents recently went to and traded in my civic for a 2010 Hyundai Tuscon. I could not come up with $5,000 on the spot or another $750 for AC.
Now I have a 120,000 mile B2B warranty, and a life time warranty after that!!! Love my Tuscon
2010Jun 23
Civic ES V4
- Automatic transmission
- 95,000 miles
My four year old Honda Civic began smoking and leaking radiator fluid four days ago. We took it to a mechanic and the next day he reported that the car had a cracked engine block and needed to be taken to the dealership. I took it to the nearest Honda dealership and they said they had never heard of this problem in a Honda ( which I think may be a lie judging from all the complaints listed here about the same issue ). They checked it out the next day and agreed that the car did indeed have a cracked engine block. Since my civic has more than 60,000 miles they needed to check with corporate headquarters to see if they will pitch in toward it.
This happened on a Friday so we have to wait out the weekend for HQ to give their decision. I will fight tooth and nail to have Honda stand beside their work. I will update soon with the result.
2010Jun 21
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 61,000 miles
One warm June day, I was driving for about an hour and my air conditioner stopped working and was blowing out hot air. I fiddled around with it and then opened the windowsn. The next day, being summer, I didn't think anything about some fluid on the garage floor thinking it was water from my air conditioner. My husband point out that it was coolant. I made an appointment in the next 2 days with the Honda dealer.
The next day, I went to get new tires. The tire guy said they had a problem starting my engine and they had to add coolant. He told me if the temperature gauge got to halfway I needed to pull over and let the car cool down. I got the the second light and the gauge went all the way up to hot! As soon as the light turned green, I pulled into a parking lot and called AAA. Towed it to a Honda dealer. They called me the next day and said my block was cracked at 61,000 miles!
I had a Honda back in the earlt 80s that died on me and I vowed I'd never buy another. I drove Toyotas for 23 years and drove them for a LONG time before I'd get another one. Never had a cracked block even at 185,000 miles! Never another Honda. My husband has a 2007 Ridgeline that gets 12 miles to the gallon!!!
2010Jun 04
Civic ES 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
HAD HOT AIR FROM THE A/C A MONTH AGO TOOK TO DEALER SAID IT WAS THE AIR CONDITIONER SO HE "TWEAKED" THE COMPUTER CHANGED THE AIR FILTER AND SENT US ON THE WAY. NOW A MONTH LATER HOT AIR FROM A/C AGAIN AND UNABLE TO START ENGINE. TOWED TO DEALER AND TOLD CRACKED ENGINE BLOCK!
2010Feb 28
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 93,600 miles
Honda customer service has been pretty tight lipped on information . They were very emphatic that they would not approve any recovery amount unless the diagnosis went through one of their dealerships. My 2006 Civic was not under warranty so I took it to a radiator shop that fixed the cracked block with aluminum epoxy. After prepping the area that discover the block was not cracked but suffered from porous casting along the coolant jacket behind the exhaust manifold. The aluminum epoxy held and I have driven it thousands of miles with zero leakage.
2010Jun 03
Civic EX 4L
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
Have 110,000 miles on the car and got caught in rush hour traffic with a cracked engine block. Had the car towed. The dealership says that this has been a problem with that model of car. I looked it up on the internet and reviewed with the dealership what I discovered. The car is 4 years old and my 4th Honda. I have clocked way over 110K miles on previous cars with no major problem. The dealership is calling the area rep for an assist on this. I will call the corp. HQ tomorrow with my compliant and the complaints found posted on the net (various sites). I am hoping and praying for a resolution to this problem or it will be the last Honda I will ever purchase.
Update from Jun 7, 2010: Honda stepped up to the plate and the local dealership also went to bat for me. 90/10 split....with great relief. It was in the shop a total of 3 days and is working just fine. I am very happy with the result. My advice is to get the scheduled maintenance done and keep very accurate records. I would also suggest staying with a Honda mechanic and not a generic (like a lube 'n tune shop). I am pleased with the outcome. Thank you Honda for stepping up to the plate and working with me. It is important to back the product that you sell.
2010May 04
Civic EX 1.8L 4 cyl
- Automatic transmission
- 72,500 miles
just another in a long list of complaints about defective blocks on this model.haven't had it fixed yet.
2010May 11
Civic EX
- Automatic transmission
- 143,000 miles
I am the original owner of a 2006 Honda Civic and have had all the recommended scheduled maintenance at the dealership where I bought the car. With my long commute I'm up to 143,000 (highway) miles. I was on my way home from having their "B13" service when the engine light came on; it needs a new engine(!) They told me this is a common problem with 2006 Civics and that dealership has handled "several, one just this week", and that it manifests itself arbitrarily, "the engine is fine and then it just breaks". Most Civics less than 5 years old are still under warranty (or close enough) so I imagine that these people haven't felt the need to report this. But even with them managing to get Honda America to pay 25% of the cost I'll still pay over $3000 in repair costs. Hondas are "supposed" to be very reliable, so having a well-maintained engine die at less than 5 years old feels like I've been cheated. But more significantly, if Honda KNOWS this is a problem, I think they should take more action and responsibility about fixing it. Even with their "Service Bulletin" they said it won't be a recall unless it's a "safety issue" like seat belts. I don't think it's safe for people to be driving around Civics where the engine could fail at any moment without provocation.
Update from Sep 3, 2010: After talking with my dealership I called Honda America at 1-800-999-1009 about the extended warranty mentioned above. They assigned me a case number and had me fax in a copy of the repair invoice and a copy of the part of my credit card statement showing the payment. I'll update once again based on what happens next! (Note, when I called they asked for my VIN number so I was lucky I had my insurance card handy.) I thought I'd post now so others can "get the ball rolling" if they've already paid for this repair.
Update from Oct 18, 2010: I received my refund check from Honda for the full $3400, which included the new engine, radiator and starter that all died when the car overheated. I got a few calls updating me along the way from one of their national reps who was polite and helpful. I'm (back to being) a Honda customer for life!
2010May 20
Civic EX 1.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 52,000 miles
WHEN I WAS DRIVEN MY CAR SMOKE STARTED SMOKING SO I PULLED OVER COOLANT WAS EVERY WERE SO I TOOK IT TO WERE I WORK PULLED IT OVER A PIT AND COULD NOT FIND THE LEAK SO I TOOK IT TO ANOTHER SHOP WERE THEY SAID IT WAS A CRACKED ENGINE BLOCK A 3500 JOB SO I TOOK IT TO HONDA AND THEY WERE REALLY HELPFUL AND SAID THAT THATS BEEN GOING AROUND AND THAT IT WAS A RECALL SO THEY GAVE ME A 09 CIVIC TO DRIVE UNTIL THEY FINISHED WORKING ON IT
2010May 12
Civic ES 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 122,125 miles
Like complaint number 49, I was driving my son home and there was a terrible burnt rubber smell then an awful noice that sounded like a diesel engine gearing down super loudly, then smoke and my car died and rolled to the curb. I called my honda dealer and they sent a tow truck.
My car is in the shop right now. My mechanic called to say the "power steering pump" blew and threw two bolts into the engine block at an angle. He said he wasn't sure if it had cracked yet or not, he has to take a closer look at it and maybe he can drill them out of the engine block and fill the holes, other wise I have to replace the engine and the work alone will be $1000.00....
I just had the rear arms replaced and new tires put on due to that little issue honda would not cover two weeks after the warrantee ran out even though it was a known issue. The car is not under warrantee anymore and I still owe on the car....I thought honda's were built for drivers....but if that is true I am driving the blackest lemon this side of the planet around.
2010May 02
Civic EX-NAV 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
I noticed coolant leaking from my car and immediatly took it home (5 minutes away). I looked under the hood and a stream of coolant was spraying from my engine block. I called my local Honda dealership (Manly Honda Santa Rosa CA) and they told me to have it towed there. The service guy, Scott, was so nice he assured me it would be okay and Honda would help me with the cost because my car is out of warranty.
I bought this car becuase of Honda's good repuatation. We'll see how it goes and I will be updating this complaint.
Update from May 16, 2010: A few days after bringing my car to the dealership Scott called me to let me know the District Parts and Service Manager authorized a 25% discount on the repair. Ouch. I said that while I appreciated that, I would like them to consider at least 50% and I reminded him that I have all the service records for my car back to the day it came off the lot. A couple more days went by and Scott called again to tell me that the offer stands and no additional discount was approved. He said it was because I'm not the original owner, my car has 80,000, and it was not serviced at their dearlership in Santa Rosa. I was still nice about it but let them know I'd have to think about what to do before authorizing any work to be started on my car.
I called Honda Corporate and opened a 'goodwill consideration case'. The guy who took my request was a gerk and I was sure that I was screwed. I asked that Honda cover 75% because this is a well documented problem that Honda is very aware of, its a dangerous problem-they are lucky no one has been in a serious accident, and I also reminded the associate who took my complaint of how badly a problem like this went for Toyota and their Prius because they didn't take care of their customers.
A few days later Scott called and told me that Honda would pay for 100% of the repairs costs!!!!! AHHH!!!! Wow. I was so happy. My car has been at Honda for two weeks and I should have it back in 5 or 6 more days. I did have to pay for a rental ($35/day) but thats much better than $4,000! Overall Manly Honda and Corporate Honda did a great job handling this issue. I had to nicely but firmly stick to what I knew was right and it took a while but they came through for me. Thank you Manly Honda!
2010May 12
Civic
- Automatic transmission
- 69,000 miles
We purchased two new Honda Civics in 2006. BOTH of the engines in these cars have cracked! The first one was at <40,000 miles...the second car's engine cracked today at 69,000 miles. Honda wants us to pay 10% of the cost to fix THEIR defect. We have filed a complaint with Honda and I'm waiting to hear back from them. This problem should be a national RECALL.
2010Feb 10
Civic 2.4L V4
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
cracked block and over the miles, what should i do i cxan't afford it!!!!, and dealer will not accept the cost
2010Apr 17
Civic DX
- Automatic transmission
- 66,624 miles
I have never driven this car hard. I always have the servicing and oil changed when it should be and always by the Honda dealership. I am really surprised and annoyed. Especially when I see this has become a known, common complaint with this model. This is my 3rd Honda civic. My 86 model went for +250K miles before I replaced it with a 1998 model that I replaced in 2006. Depending on how Honda of America handles this, it may be the first time in 20 years that I go to look at an American brand car.
2010Apr 17
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 56,300 miles
I noticed the smell of anti-freeze for a couple of days before discovering the blue coolant dripping from the underside of my 2006 Civic EX with 56,300 miles on it. It never overheated or quit running so I was lucky in that respect. I brought it to my Honda dealer where they found that the block had cracked. They are replacing the short block under warranty and they gave me a free loaner. I should have the car back in 4-5 business days.
I was unaware that there was an issue with blocks cracking in 2006-2008 Civics until after it happened to me. I am just grateful that it happened while my car was still under warranty. Hopefully they will be replacing the block with the newly designed one that they started using in the 2009 Civics.
2010Mar 28
Civic EX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
Cracked engine block.
I noticed something was unusual over the weekend when my heater did not work, which has never happened. Occasionally the heat would come in, faintly, and when it did, I smelled that sweet, maple syrup smell of coolant. (I did not know it was coolant at the time, however.) The following day, on a simple drive, my car overheated without warning. The temp gauge was maxed out and steam started rising from the passenger side of the hood.
An acquaintance believed the antifreeze was leaking and so we put in at least a gallon just to replenish it to a normal level. (At that point, the heater started working.) Since it was a Sunday, I called my nearby Honda dealer the next morning and was told to bring it the next day. After quoting me $97 for a diagnostic, several hours later the service guy called me with "good news and bad news."
I asked for the bad news first: "You have a cracked engine block," he said. My mind blurred because my warranty had just expired and I'm about a year away from having the car paid off.
The good news: I only have to pay $135 to replace it with a new block. (On top of the diagnostic fee and having to pay for a rental car at $33/day until its fixed, which will supposedly take a week or so.) He said Honda agreed to pay 95% of the whole repair and replacement because it's "aware" of the issue. Also, because I'm just over the warranty and got the "goodwill" consideration.
The guy also mentioned that he's "seen a few" other Civics with this problem at the dealer. In my own case, many of my miles are highway-driven and I've kept up on all scheduled maintenance and just a few months earlier purchased a new set of factory tires at the dealer.
Like most people, I got a Civic because of its reliability and am surprised that I've had to lose sleep over a car with less than 70,000 miles on it.
But was I relieved that the nice service man quoted me $135? YES. It could've been a LOT worse. So part of me wants to complain that I have to pay anything at all for this defect, and the other, pragmatic side is just thanking God that I'm not on the hook for $4,000, which is the cost the service guy said it would've normally been.
I feel badly for some of the other people on this board who totally got screwed.
Update from Apr 8, 2010: My repair only took three days and the total cost for the whole thing, including a rental car, ended up being $240. For a new engine block replacement, I'll take that and run!
2010Mar 26
Civic LX 1.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 103,500 miles
I do not know what Honda is going to do about my misfortune. By the looks of it, not much. Between my wife and I, we have owned eight Honda vehicles. We are a Honda family to say the least. To their credit, this is the only one we have had an issue with. This is a big issue. Looking at the complaints, it seems Honda does not want to pay up for replacing the engine. I would like to see them at least sell me the block at cost and I would pay for the labor. Anything to help supplement and or defray this large expense would go a long way in my mind whether to purchase another Honda in the future or not. I just found out about the crack today. I will call my dealer tomorrow to see if there is anything they are willing to do to keep coming back and purchasing more Honda's. I am not holding my breath. Shame on Honda for not taking a more pro active role in confronting this problem.
2010Mar 26
Civic EX 1.5L 4 cyl
- Manual transmission
- 73,000 miles
Two nights ago, I noticed a sweet burning smell and a puff of steam coming from under the hood of my 2006 Civic. Up to that point, the car has been trouble free and I was a happy owner (long time honda owner) -- next day on the way to work the same thing happened again, so I took it directly to the dealer. Got called a couple of hours later telling me I HAD A CRACKED BLOCK and the car needed a NEW SHORT BLOCK. Dealer offered NO HELP (KEYES WOODLAND HILLS HONDA) - so I called American Honda -- still waiting to hear back from a case worker.
I AM SHOCKED at the number of owners of 2006 Honda Civics who have suffered the same failure! THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2011Sep 01
Civic 1.8L
THIS CAR NEED NEW MOTOR THIS MONOBLOCK IS RUPTURE FOR FABRIC NO GOOD QUALITY, IS A DEFECT OF MANUFACTURE HONDA IS NOT GOOD CAR AND NOY GOOD FOR PERSONAL INJURE FOR TOXIC GAS IN PASAGER CAB, VERY TOXIC. PENALITY CRIMINAL COMPANY.
oscarorozco
Metepec, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
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