2017-2021 (10th generation) - 1.5L L15B7 turbocharged petrol (182 hp)
Popular sporty hatchback with sharp handling and strong fuel economy. The 1.5 turbo engine is generally reliable, with many examples exceeding 200,000 km without major powertrain issues. Known concerns: oil dilution in cold climates (software fix available), AC compressor shaft seal leaks (warranty extended to 10 years), and CVT transmission longevity if fluid changes are neglected. Manual gearbox versions are more reliable than CVT. Honda has issued multiple recalls for fuel pump and steering - verify all completed before purchase.
Unburned fuel mixes with engine oil, especially in cold climates and short trips · more· less
The most widely reported issue with the 1.5 turbo engine. Unburned fuel gets past piston rings and dilutes the engine oil, causing the dipstick to show rising oil levels and a gasoline smell. Most common on 2016-2018 models in cold climates with frequent short trips. Honda issued TSB 18-114 with an ECU software update that helps the engine warm up faster. If your car hasn't had this update, request it from Honda. With the fix applied and regular oil changes every 8,000-10,000 km, this is largely a non-issue. Despite widespread reports, actual engine failures from oil dilution remain extremely rare.
AC compressor shaft seal leak€0 - €1,500
Compressor seal leaks refrigerant, causing AC to stop cooling · more· less
Honda has acknowledged this issue and extended the warranty on the AC compressor shaft seal to 10 years with no mileage limit (Service Bulletin 23-039). If your AC stops cooling or you notice oily residue around the compressor, this is likely the cause. Repair involves replacing the compressor and recharging the system. If within the extended warranty period, the repair is free. Out of warranty, expect €1,200-1,500 at a dealer, or €600-900 at an independent shop. A Honda Master Tech noted that either the compressor, condenser, or evaporator tends to leak within the first 100,000 km on these cars.
CVT can fail prematurely if fluid changes are neglected · more· less
Honda's CVT is generally robust (shared with the Accord), but requires proper maintenance. Change CVT fluid every 50,000-60,000 km or every 4 years. Neglected fluid overheats and causes internal wear. Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, hesitation, or complete failure. Early failures at 80,000-100,000 km have been reported when fluid was never changed. A CVT fluid change costs €100-150. Complete transmission replacement runs €5,000-8,000. Manual gearbox versions are significantly more reliable. Many well-maintained CVTs exceed 300,000 km.
Turbocharger failure€1,500 - €3,000
Turbo can fail from oil starvation or carbon buildup · more· less
Turbo failures are uncommon on the 1.5T but do occur, typically after 100,000+ km. Symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke, whining noise, or EPC warning light. Most failures result from oil starvation (extended oil change intervals) or carbon buildup in the wastegate actuator. German forums report some failures at 80,000-100,000 km. Dealer quotes range from €2,000-3,500 for replacement. Independent shops charge €1,500-2,500 using aftermarket turbos (€800-1,200 for the part). Let the engine idle for 30 seconds before shutdown to protect the turbo bearings.
Head gasket failure€1,500 - €4,000
Coolant can leak through head gasket causing engine damage · more· less
A class action lawsuit has been filed in Canada and the US alleging defective head gaskets in the 1.5 turbo engine. The lawsuit claims that the engine cannot properly manage the heat and compression of turbocharging, causing coolant to leak through the gasket. This can lead to misfires, overheating, and engine damage. While the lawsuit names 2016-2022 Civics, actual failure rates appear to be low. Symptoms include coolant loss without visible leaks, white smoke from exhaust, and engine overheating. Honda has not issued a recall. If affected, repair costs run €1,500-4,000 depending on severity.
Door lock actuator failure€100 - €300
Door or hatch lock stops responding to remote, often intermittent · more· less
Multiple owners report door lock actuator failures, particularly on the driver's door and rear hatch. The problem is often intermittent - working fine when cold but failing after driving. Symptoms include doors not unlocking with the remote, doors locking/unlocking by themselves, or the hatch refusing to open. The actuator is part of the door latch assembly. Parts cost €40-80, and the repair takes 1-2 hours. Some dealers may cover this under warranty even on slightly older vehicles if you negotiate.
Infotainment system glitches€0 - €400
Android Auto/Apple CarPlay disconnects, screen freezes, Bluetooth issues · more· less
The 10th gen Civic's infotainment system runs Android and can behave like a glitchy smartphone. Common complaints include Android Auto/Apple CarPlay randomly disconnecting, screen freezing, Bluetooth audio cutting out, and the navigation going dark. Most issues can be resolved by rebooting the head unit (hold the volume knob until it restarts) or performing a factory reset. In severe cases, the head unit may need replacement (€300-500). Always try software solutions first - a battery disconnect for 10 minutes often clears persistent issues.
Stabilizer bar end links€100 - €200
Front and rear end links wear out causing clunking over bumps · more· less
Normal wear item that typically needs replacement between 80,000-120,000 km. Symptoms include clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps, especially at low speeds. The noise often disappears at higher speeds. Parts are inexpensive (€20-50 per pair) and labor is straightforward (1-2 hours). Some owners report needing replacement as early as 50,000 km if driving on rough roads frequently.
Generally reliable with proper maintenance
The Honda Civic FK7 1.5 VTEC Turbo is one of the more reliable compact cars on the market. The engine can easily exceed 250,000 km with proper oil changes and the software update for oil dilution. Avoid cars with neglected CVT fluid if automatic. Main expenses are standard wear items rather than major failures. Choose manual transmission for lowest long-term risk.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (every 10,000-15,000 km).
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch, especially around wheel arches.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds. Get the engine and transmission fully warm.
Specific for this vehicle
Check oil level and smell
Pull dipstick - oil should not smell strongly of gasoline. Level should not be above the max mark (indicates fuel dilution).
Test AC system thoroughly
Run AC on max cold for 10 minutes. Should blow cold consistently. Check for oily residue around AC compressor.
CVT transmission behavior (if automatic)
Drive for 15+ minutes. Watch for shuddering, hesitation, or slipping. Check CVT fluid color - should be pink/red, not brown.
Verify software update applied
Ask for service records showing TSB 18-114 or 19-033 was performed (oil dilution software fix).
Test all door locks with remote
Lock and unlock all doors multiple times. Pay attention to driver's door and rear hatch.
Check infotainment system
Connect your phone via USB and Bluetooth. Test Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Navigate through all menus.
Listen for suspension noises
Drive slowly over speed bumps. Clunking indicates worn stabilizer links.
AC compressor shaft seal (2016-2021)10-year warranty extension
Enter your VIN at owners.honda.com/servicemaintenance/recalls to verify all recalls have been completed. The fuel pump recall (23V-858) is particularly important as it can cause stalling while driving.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on most FK7s
Powertrain warranty (5 years / 100,000 km)Check with VIN
AC compressor extended warranty10 years, no mileage limit
Most 2017-2019 FK7s are now outside standard warranty. The AC compressor warranty extension applies regardless of mileage for 10 years from original purchase date. Contact Honda with VIN to verify your specific coverage.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.