2003 Honda Civic Consumer Discussions

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Honda Goodwill

  Written by: surk on Jan 18, 2012 8:48:06 AM

  My 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Check Engine Light and IMA came on together a week ago. Beyond the original warranty period, and with 118,000 miles on the car I feared the worst. To my pleasant surprise, my local Honda dealership (where I bought the car and have had it serviced) readily secured "goodwill" from Honda and replaced my IMA at no cost. Whew! The car runs great now. (But I'm curious ... Read More

Older Civic Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Flickering Dashboard on a 2003 Honda Civic [michkk]

  Written by: abckat on Jan 9, 2012 2:40:54 PM

  my battery was 3 or 4 yrs old. I replaced that. The light occasionaly goes dim in the area between 40-60mph on speedometer and the whole fuel level. sometimes one or the other are dim a or both are lit up normally. There doesn't seem to be rhyme or reason to it. after changing the battery Its only had the issue where the car "stalls" when when trying to speed up ... Read More

• Re: Flickering Dashboard on a 2003 Honda Civic [ala06003]

  Written by: michkk on Jan 9, 2012 12:04:05 PM

  did you find out the problem ,because I have a 2001 honda civic and it does the same thing and I cant figure it out .I will check in to see your response thanks mich

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: 2005 hch IMA batteries [ativar]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Dec 3, 2011 4:57:59 AM

  2003-2005 Civics are a different car than 2006-2009 Civics. The "update" that the 2006-2009 owners are having trouble with is not the same as the maintenance update they put in your car. The latest update for the 2003-2005 Civics concentrates on keeping the battery half full. Gas mileage is affected slightly if you tend to drive fast or lots of local driving or lots of acceleration (if your battery isn't normally ... Read More

• P1600 and P1449 Codes

  Written by: sak6 on Nov 30, 2011 9:35:16 AM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Automatic at 107k miles on it. I was driving Home and all of sudden in middle of drive, IMA and CEL light came on. So I went direct to Autozone to check code. The Codes were, P1600 and P1449. The Vehicle runs fine with Charge and Assist happening, but the Hybrid battery charge level indication is showing full and goes to half way and ... Read More

Older Civic Maintenance and Repair

• Honda problems

  Written by: dlamcpa on Feb 23, 2010 3:20:02 PM

  I have a 2001 Honda Civic who has more undisclosed problems than any other vehicles I owed. I owed many vehicles over my life and I found Honda has more problems and very slow to correct or choose not to correct it. On this 2001, it has bad transmission design from day one and was redesigned in 2003. But they fail to correct the flaw and fail to disclose this design ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: Still not happy, but... [muse50]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Oct 27, 2011 2:13:58 AM

  Your 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid has an 8 year/ 84,000 mile warranty. That is 8 years from the in-service date (date originally sold). If you were under the time and mileage when you went to the dealer, you are covered. If you are under the date but over mileage but still under 88,200 miles, (5% over), then Honda will give you a 50% "goodwill" price ($1500), but only if you get ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: givanovi on Oct 17, 2011 11:45:46 AM

  im not getting any CVT dtcs , i think if the battery is malfunctioning, the ecm will be put it into a limp/not drivable mode. im also getting P1600- IMA system malfunction which is a serial comm failure, which caused the P700 to trip also, which is a A/T SystemMalfuction code saying the trans lost communciton with the engine/battery.

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [givanovi]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Oct 17, 2011 8:50:32 AM

  In my opinion, you need to resolve your drivetrain issue before tackling the battery. All the codes you mentioned signify a bad battery, but none of them will keep the car from moving. Check your front axles to see if one is broken. If not, you may have a transmission problem.

Honda Civic Hybrid Catalytic Converter Failures

• Re: very relevant reading [03civichybrd]

  Written by: rileyyh on Nov 20, 2009 12:23:43 PM

  Hi, I'd suggest you consider the following questions before going along with what the dealer says you need to do: 1) What will happen if I don't replace the Cat Conv? Will my car stop running? 2) Why do I need to replace the battery? Will my car stop working? I understand why a lot of people post about the troubles that everyone is facing with these parts, but it's not ... Read More

Help Me Choose!

• Re: $ budget auto for teen driving LOTS of miles [podunk1]

  Written by: igozoomzoom on Sep 24, 2011 10:04:01 PM

  As an insurance agent, I get this sort of question all the time. Customers will ask my opinion on what vehicle they should get for their teenage kids. I keep a list of cars to recommend based (in order of importance) on safety, reliability, performance (as in "lack of") and fuel economy. It amazes me how many parents gravitate toward SUVs (especially mid/full-sized ones) thinking they're the best choice of vehcile ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [sak6]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Sep 21, 2011 1:54:37 AM

  Sorry about that. I'll check the status tomorrow.

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: sak6 on Sep 20, 2011 10:00:59 AM

  I sent email for MCM module and still waiting for paypal link to be emailed to me. I would appreciate if you could please check and update me..

Honda Civic Hybrid Catalytic Converter Failures

• Re: Product Advisory Notice from Honda [mellowpro]

  Written by: ilikecake on Sep 16, 2011 10:11:55 AM

  I received the letter a few days ago too. My check engine light has been on since January. Honda told me to replace the catalytic converter. I didn't since it was a small fortune and the light would be on for 100-1000 miles then go off for another 100-1000 miles, back-and-forth continually. I told Honda I doubt it was the CC so I've lived with the flakey light. I had to ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [sak6]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Sep 8, 2011 11:59:05 AM

  As I said, under load the battery is dropping way below 7V, but when you turn off the car, the voltage pops back up. The voltmeter that they are using is a very light load. You have one or more bad sticks in your battery, but if you want to be sure, contact me by email and borrow an MCM. DO NOT SPEND $2400 for something you don't need. I have ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: sak6 on Sep 8, 2011 11:06:24 AM

  Thanks for the Quick update... I got the Diagnose detail for P1570 from dealer and as per diagnosis, the tested voltage and everything where above 7V. Since they fon't have known good MCM, they wanted to buy new one and so they are charging me 2400 ( 1970 part + labor). if replacing MCM didn't solve problem what other reason could be?

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid [sak6]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Sep 8, 2011 10:24:32 AM

  P1570 is a low voltage on one of the pairs of sticks of battery cells. While it can be caused by a broken wire or a bad socket in the MCM, it is usually caused by a worn battery and is triggered either by the car sitting for days, or by heat. The procedure to test it is to check all the voltages on the sticks and make sure they are ... Read More

• 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid

  Written by: sak6 on Sep 8, 2011 10:01:24 AM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Automatica at 106085 miles on it. I moved to OK few days before and here it was record heat of 115. Until last week everything were fine and when i started my car i did see Check Engine light/IMA Light and Battery light ON. I took to AutoZone to check the codes and they were P1600 and P1570. Next day i took it to ... Read More

Repeated failure: head gasket 99 civic

• Re: Repeated failure: head gasket 99 civic [jen61]

  Written by: isellhondas on Aug 8, 2011 9:16:56 AM

  Well, if I understand your post correctly, you bouight a 99 Civic in 2003 and shortly thereafter had to have the head and head gasket replaced because of overheating? This is not common at all on those. It must have REALLY overheated to do that. Then 8 years later, it needs another head gasket? Again, this isn't common on those so I would investigate the cause of it overheating. 8 years ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Nightmare [coffeebean10]

  Written by: jawilson on Jul 10, 2011 1:51:32 PM

  Coffebean 10 (I'll just call you "CB"), My clutch failed at 25K miles and many others failed at 40K, 50K, 75K etc. In an 8-year old civic hybrid, your most likely failure is the battery pack. In a manual transmission, over 100K miles is usually time for the clutch pad replacement. I'm not sure how the Prius is doing, but I don't hear much about CVT failures there. On the other ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Nightmare [wds13196]

  Written by: coffeebean10 on Jul 8, 2011 6:58:38 AM

  Sorry to be a bother, but I took my car to Honda and they said that the issue is I need a new start clutch kit. The car has 119K on it and I was told that the TSB 07-049 does not apply in this case due to the miles on the car. Are they right as this is all new to me (again, my aplogies)? Also, should I have not ... Read More

2012 Honda Civic

• Why Civic?

  Written by: mrtinspection on May 23, 2011 5:21:06 PM

  I cannot understand why everybody is talking up Honda so much. I can tell, from being a soon to be ex-owner of a 7th Gen, 2003 LX, manual, there is much that stinks about Honda anymore. First the new car. Why did they not tweak the engine for at least 10-15 HP and TQ? Where is the 6 speed auto that Ford and Chevy now have? Why is the interior even ... Read More

Honda Civic Cooling Problems

• Re: My 2003 Honda is over heating, any help please [iiwakoll]

  Written by: sacchamp on May 18, 2011 5:14:16 PM

  Did you ever get an answer to your question about your 2003 Civic? My car has identical symptoms. What do I do?

Honda Civic 2000-2005 Problems

• Re: Slow, unfound coolant leak, 2002 Civic [chiburbs]

  Written by: mrposey on May 8, 2011 10:18:53 PM

  Hello, Sorry to bother you. I was wondering if you ever located that leak. I have a 2003 honda civic and I and 2 other mechanics cannot locate the leak. I can get about 120 miles out of it till it overheats/runs out of coolant. I changed the radiator cap because the reservoir was filling up and I changed the thermostat just because.

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 hch trans problem [nypeach]

  Written by: suckered3 on May 5, 2011 6:50:59 AM

  My 2004 honda civic hybrid transmission has just bit the dust and matt cattrucci said that honda won't even consider helping me with it. Don't waste your money with either of these companies!

• 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Nightmare

  Written by: wds13196 on Mar 28, 2011 12:05:58 PM

  I’ll try and make a long story short. Run away from the 2003-05 Civic Hybrid, 01-05 HX, 01-05 GX and early Insights. If you already have one the below may help. When starting from a stop the car feels like it is going over a cobble stone street for first few MPH. Also when coasting thru a turn never coming to a stop and without applying the brakes the car stated ... Read More

• Re: 2003 hch trans problem [goinnuts]

  Written by: nypeach on Mar 26, 2011 7:10:16 AM

  run, don't walk, away from this car. If you want to preserve your friendship, do not buy this car. It is a LEMON. the transmission will go, that is for sure. Buy anything BUT a honda civic hybrid.

• 2003 hch trans problem

  Written by: goinnuts on Mar 25, 2011 7:11:37 PM

  After reading about tran problems I am reconsidering the purchase of a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid from a friend who said it 'growls'. I was going to test it this weekend and thought I would look up problems with trans. It has 120,000 mi. and she said she just put 3500 in car but was told tran could go out today, next week or next year. I haven't had a good ... Read More

• Re: known defect??? [deweyfan]

  Written by: hjb417 on Mar 11, 2011 6:52:06 PM

  I filed a complaint with The Center For Auto Safety @ http://www.autosafety.org/fileacomplaint Also, the NHTSA has 62 complaints for the 03 civic hybrid CVT transmission @ http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints/complaintresults.cfm?start=1&SearchType=- DrillDown&type=1&year=2003&make=HONDA&model=CIVIC-HYBRID&component_id=180&summar- y=true&PrintVersion=YES and http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints/complaintresults.cfm?start=1&SearchType=- DrillDown&type=1&year=2003&make=HONDA&model=CIVIC-HYBRID&component_id=171&summar- y=true&PrintVersion=YES and http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints/complaintresults.cfm?start=1&SearchType=- DrillDown&type=1&year=2003&make=HONDA&model=CIVIC-HYBRID&component_id=172&summar- y=true&PrintVersion=YES

• Civic Hybrid 2003 transmission

  Written by: 49ers1 on Feb 22, 2011 4:40:36 PM

  I am about to buy a 2003 Civic hybrid, a honda dealership just replaced the transmission last year. Should I be skeptical about it, or once they fix it once is it good to go?

• Re: known defect??? [ovationgirl]

  Written by: hjb417 on Feb 18, 2011 7:29:27 AM

  A class action would be great. The NTSHA has 50 logged complaints so far (http://www.aboutautomobile.com/Complaint/2003/Honda/Civic-Hybrid/Automatic+Tran- - smission). Mine failed this week at 181K miles, but I've been experiencing transmission problems since I bought the car. I just wasn't aware at the time that the transmission was faulty since this was my first vehicle. (I bought the car new, it's a 2003 HCH)

Honda Civic Hybrid Catalytic Converter Failures

• Is it an engineering or design defect?

  Written by: eirrom on Jul 30, 2009 8:41:54 AM

  We've just been told that our 2nd Catalytic Converter in our 2003 Honda Hybrid is bad. The first one was replaced at 92K by Honda for free after we raised hell about since it had failed in 2007, within 4 years of the so called 8-year warranty, although our mileage had been to 92K. We've had nothing but periodic "check engine" warning light since then...the last time, about 4 weeks ago, ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: Replaced IMA not by Honda [action21]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Jan 2, 2011 7:15:39 AM

  How is your new battery working? Unlike the people who are having problems with the software update, you have a Gen 1 Civic. It has not had this update issued because it is a very different car -no PTZEV mode, no AC during auto-stop, a smaller IMA battery, a lighter car, etc. At 268,000 miles, your battery simply wore out. Most 2003-2005 Civics last 120,000 - 160,000 miles before their batteries ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid

• Honda Hybrid Transmission problems

  Written by: austex1 on Dec 22, 2010 7:41:16 AM

  My 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid has a little over 91,000 miles and the transmission is going out. I am totally disgusted. I have suffered through 2 or 3 recalls already and now the car has become a bucket of bolts. The only bright spot is that the dealer has been cooperative and offered to offset some of the charges but here is the real issue: I was told that the CVT ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: Replaced IMA not by Honda [action21]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Dec 13, 2010 11:01:02 AM

  Congrats. Please let us know if you have a Gen I (2003-2005) or Gen II (2006+) Civic. The batteries are quite different. Also, did they provide you with instructions?

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: Is my transmission on the edge of big trouble? [jerryr4]

  Written by: bobguynn on Dec 11, 2010 3:13:29 AM

  Dear "Just a girl": Trust me, you're at no greater disadvantage in dealing with Honda than anyone else. Their handling of the CVT transmission fiasco appears to have been pretty consistent regardless of owner gender or other demographic factors...TOTALLY IRRESPONSIBLE...unless you live in Japan, where you would have benefitted by a recall. I had a 2003 HONDA Civic Hybrid in the traditional tan tone for 6+ years. I started having judder ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: NiMH Battery Life [bossless]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Nov 9, 2010 6:34:18 PM

  What is your definition of "permanent"? 100k miles? 200k? Nothing lasts forever. The batteries are covered for 80K (or 150K in CA) miles. What is acceptable? 120k? 160k? The gen-I Civics that I see are all high mileage (lots of highway) cars because all the rest are still under warranty. The 2003-2005 batteries seem to last either 90k or 120k or 160k. I think 160k is a reasonable life for a ... Read More

Honda Civic Cooling Problems

• overheating

  Written by: jessical01 on Oct 21, 2010 10:38:53 PM

  i have on 2003 honda civic ex. ive replaced two hoses, theromstat, and radiator cap. car is still overheating. i have to keep putting coolant in it, however every time i pop the hood to put coolant in it the overflow is full to the top of coolant. it wont run hot for a couple of days the driving the gage will start going up. i always pull over it never ... Read More

• My 2003 Honda is over heating, any help please

  Written by: iiwakoll on Oct 13, 2010 1:30:28 PM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic, I notice that it only takes a few seconds for my vehicle to warm up to normal. I can drive my vehicle for approximately 30 miles before I can see that it starts to over heat, once I exit the freeway it jumps all the way to the top. I have replaced the thermostat twice, just replaced spark plugs and had oil changed, not milky. ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 honda civic hybrid trans failure [rikfre]

  Written by: 200sxvshonda on Oct 7, 2010 7:09:17 AM

  see im a nissan man thats what i race and build my girl bought this cause she dont know no better i was in prison lol and when it comes to cars she thought she was gettin a good car see i dont mess with hondas anyway but im glad this forum is here cause it really help i took it to the shop yesterday they called this morning and told ... Read More

• Re: 2003 honda civic hybrid trans failure [200sxvshonda]

  Written by: rikfre on Oct 7, 2010 6:19:19 AM

  what can I say. If the transmission was properly maintained..this should not happen. The transmission is defective..they know it..and now they will try to sell you another. If I were you (not knowing where you live) I would hit the phone book and see if you can find a nearby transmission shop that can fix CVT transmissions. Good Luck

• 2003 honda civic hybrid trans failure

  Written by: 200sxvshonda on Oct 6, 2010 5:03:48 PM

  look last night my trans died at a redlight i didnt even know till the light turned green and the car didnt move all itdid waas rev up. need help wat do yall think it is. shop said they had a similar car do the same thing said the torque converter was stripped . the car didnt even give me a warning or nothin it was runnin fine. please comment with ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Tire/Wheel Questions

• Uneven wear and cupping

  Written by: phbmrgn on Jul 1, 2009 1:45:09 PM

  I own a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid. I have had the car serviced at the dealer as per the manual specifications. I check the tire pressure with each fill up and have never had a tire below recommended PSI. In 2005 at 3100 miles I had to replace the original tires due to uneven wear and cupping. I purchased Sears tires with 75,000 mile warranty. In 2008 Sears replaced one tire ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: class action? [hawks3]

  Written by: ovationgirl on Oct 5, 2010 1:32:03 AM

  I am wondering about all of this. I was in and out of my dealership beginnning in 2003 as my car would not go back into gear if I had to suddenly slow down, as when you get behind a schoolbus on a freeway on ramp. It would just not get up to speed and created a dangerous situation. Meanwhile other issues included never having the warning signal go off when ... Read More

• known defect???

  Written by: ovationgirl on Oct 5, 2010 12:22:06 AM

  The transmission issue has been listed by Honda as a "known defect" for at least three years. I have been able to pull out my ignition key in drive from the get go, and have had my 2003 Honda civic hybrid into the dealership for transmission gear switching issues since I hit 50,000 miles. The car now has albout 135,000 mils and the trnsmission which had continued to give me issues, ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: Heat Related IMA Problems/Solutions [sholmes717]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Aug 12, 2010 1:14:24 PM

  > But remove the elec motor & I'm sorry but its dangerous. And the general public would agree, it's simply unsafe. Nope. Power to weight is measured as lbs/hp (when you compare gas to gas engines). The 2006 HCH is 93 HP and 2877 lbs. That's 31lbs/hp. That is wimpy, but here are some other production cars that are not considered unsafe: 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid with depleted battery (gas only): ... Read More

• Re: Sudden discharge of IMA battery [mainiax]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Aug 11, 2010 4:45:00 PM

  > That may be true but in my opinion the current HCH-II is equivalent to the Model A Ford and with all of us owners of a Honda Civic Hybrid acting as beta testers the hybrids in 2018 may actually be a reliable vehicle but it isn't now. Okay, but from my experience, the gen 1 cars (2000-2006 Insight, 2003-2005 Civic, 2005-2007 Accord) are extremely reliable. They need battery work every ... Read More

• Re: This problem affects EVERYONE [shonda3]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Aug 2, 2010 5:48:55 AM

  >This Ogre guy runs a battery replacement center. His car must be constantly worked on because he is the only person in the world whose car gets 2500 miles per gallon. Don't pay him any mind. Honda must pay him handsomely. That's right, attack the only person here that's trying to help. Your battery is a part that is going to wear out. How you use it will determine if it ... Read More

• Re: Honda Civic Hybrid 2004 Car not starting [action21]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Jul 22, 2010 11:31:12 AM

  >Found 2 places that will repair my IMA battery for anywhere from apx $800 - $1250 which is far better than the $2700 the dealer wants. One will even give a loaner battery. Lookup REVOLT. Waiting on a list because I want it all replaced and not just the bad cells. Disclaimer: I am affiliated with Hybrid-Battery-Repair.com You're mixing the offerings of the two companies Hybrid-Battery-Repair has those prices for repairs. ... Read More

• Re: Sudden discharge of IMA battery [mainiax]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Jul 22, 2010 4:40:34 PM

  >but then the SoC began dropping rapidly from a good charge to 1 or 2 bars. It would recover after 2 to 3 miles of driving It takes about two-three minutes to complete a recal (a little longer if you're pushing the engine). That is probably equal to your 2 to 3 miles of driving. >Until stored DTC can be pulled indicating IMA battery needs replacing no replacement authorized by Honda ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Pack Questions

• Re: How-to article describing Civic hybrid battery pack rebuild [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: sarcodont on Jul 18, 2010 9:23:50 AM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid with 97,000 miles on it. I would like the information on how to rebuild the IMA battery pack myself. I understand the magazine article was not accurate. Can you either send me the upgrade instructions by email, or tell me where I can get it? Thank you so much.

Tips and mods to make your honda hybrid run as should be

• tips and mods to make your honda hybrid run as should be

  Written by: aquatradewind on Jun 22, 2010 5:45:20 PM

  hi guys, new here,first thanks for the information on this site,and I would like to share my experience back, I just pick up a used 2003 honda civic hybrid here in honolulu. dealer wanted 9,500 deal it down to 8,300, out the door,very happy with the car. as used hybrid are hard to come by here. they hold on to it. reason he dropped it was because I was going and ... Read More

Older Civic Maintenance and Repair

• Suggested Service Schedule

  Written by: rway on Jun 17, 2010 1:07:48 PM

  How much should I expect to pay to have the timing belt replaced on my 2001 Honda Civic 5sp? Mileage is 111K. Is it necessary to replace the timing belt at this mileage? Should I also pay for a "tune-up" as the dealer suggests, as well as a valve adjustment and new valve cover gasket? What does a tune-up include? Why do mechanics replace valve cover gaskets? What about the water ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Catalytic Converter Failures

• Third CC replacement for 2003 HCH

  Written by: pkikel on Jun 15, 2010 7:54:16 PM

  I've been told I need to replace the catalytic converter for my 2003 Civic Hybrid for the THIRD time at a cost of $1,800. I had it replaced the first time in November, 2006 at 67,178 miles. The cost for this replacement was covered by the original vehicle warranty. In January, 2009 at 109,580 miles it needed to be replace again. A little over two years and only 42,402 miles had ... Read More

Honda Extended Warranties Pricing and Info

• Honda Accord vs Toyota Camry 2011

  Written by: honeysuckle on May 24, 2010 8:54:04 AM

  Hi. I am new to this forum, but I am in a quandry over which car to choose! I currently own a Honda Accord Special edition 2002. We also have a Honda Civic 2003 so I would say we have been okay with Hondas. However, we decided to look at both the 2011 Honda Accord and the Camry this weekend. I like the spacious feel of the Camry, and they're giving ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Pack Questions

• How-to article describing Civic hybrid battery pack rebuild

  Written by: massey4 on May 3, 2010 3:53:08 AM

  The June/July issue (#137) of Home Power magazine has all the steps and tools described for replacing the battery pack of a 2003 Civic Hybrid. In it Mike said "The Honda dealership wanted $3,200 to replace the battery pack with a factory-refurbished one" yet in the end he did it for $380 using a "Used battery pack from junkyard ($315), Charger/reconditioner, iMax B6 ($55), Torx socket, #30 ($6) and Electrical energy ... Read More

• Hybrid-Battery-Repair.com a life saver

  Written by: bigredone on May 2, 2010 11:18:33 AM

  I wish I would have read this thread before purchasing a used Civic Hybrid. I am seeing a consistent message throughout, CVT failures and high cost of replacing a battery pack. Anyway, I just purchased a 2003 Civic with 119,000 miles [from a used car dealer] and thought I was really getting a good deal as I paid a couple of thousand under what most 03’s where going for. I drove ... Read More

• What is the peril?

  Written by: reberrowdy on Apr 23, 2010 7:15:44 PM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid with 108,000 miles on it. What I would like to know is if the hybrid battery dies, will I still be able to start and drive the car? I often drive to remote areas and in the back of my mind I worry about getting stranded. Any help? Thanks in advance.

Honda Civic Rust

• 2003 Civic

  Written by: crv16 on Apr 21, 2010 6:53:26 AM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic, purchased new 9/2003. Currently have 166k miles on it. Just noticed that the bottom edge of the drivers door is all rusty on the inside, just under the rubber seal. I'm disappointed as this is the first "problem" my Civic has ever had. :(

Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Pack Questions

• Civic Hybrid 2003 IMA Battery Replacement

  Written by: jrhefner on Apr 6, 2010 5:39:45 PM

  I haven't spent any time reading the posts here. There was another thread I was following before on IMA battery issues that I haven't been able to find my way back to, so if I repeat information that's been stated here I apologize. I purchased a used 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid back in 2007. It had roughly 30K mi then, and is now at 111K mi now. I had my IMA ... Read More

Honda Civic Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2010 Honda Civic Sedan LX Auto price and experience

  Written by: likemath on Feb 23, 2010 8:58:47 PM

  Dear Fellow Honda Drivers, Sympathizers or Prospective Buyers, Since I intensively read and used the information provided I think it is only fair to share my 2 cents and my price. Process: 1. I requested an Itemized OTD (Out-of-The-Door =drive out price) quote from all Honda dealers in the area (50 miles radius), except the closest one. About 8 in Cleveland area. 2. When they sent "c.ap" I had a short ... Read More

Honda Extended Warranties Pricing and Info

• Re: Did I over pay? [gsp408]

  Written by: odysseyba on Feb 20, 2010 9:20:33 AM

  Now moving from "price paid thread" to "honda care thread". Bought a Odyssey EX-L with NAV/RES last night for $33,500 + TTL. I also bought 8/120K 0 ded Honda Care for $1995. Two questions: 1. I know I paid a little bit too much, but how much did I over pay? Is it worth cancelling and looking around. How much are people typically paying in Bay Area? 2. Is it worth ... Read More

• Re: Honda Care for Civic 2010 overpaid - what options [happyaccord]

  Written by: jet10000 on Jan 20, 2010 11:13:13 AM

  Have anyone ever deal with Curry Honda about the EW? Please tell me your experience. I purchased a Honda Care from Curry in 2003. Everything went smoothly. In 2008, I traded in the car and the same rep who help sold it to me sent me the paperwork so that I could get the pro-rated amount left on the Honda Care.

Honda Civic Basic Maintenance Questions

• Re: Filters [sandman_6472]

  Written by: jet10000 on Feb 14, 2010 8:11:58 PM

  I think the way Honda's are engineered, you really don't have to change the oil that often. I remember the schedule on my 2003 Honda Civic was like an oil change every 10,000 miles if you can believe that. For severe conditions it was like every 5,000 miles. Even though I didn't drive in severe conditions, I usually followed that schedule. With the maintenance minder on my 2008, I think it ... Read More

Honda Civic 2006-2007 Issues

• Re: Are the 2010 Civics any good? [victorcharlie]

  Written by: targettuning on Jan 29, 2010 6:59:54 AM

  As the owner of a 2006 EX sedan we have had our share of some of the problems discussed here on this forum, though not the most severe ones i.e. cracked engine blocks or the defective rear control arms (yet..as the car has only 26K miles) but some of the problems we did have (plus those other more serious problems we didn't experience) were carried over into the 2007 and even ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: IMA problems, and check engine light [dwa2]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Jan 27, 2010 11:58:47 AM

  >My IMA light came on too. It also had a fail code of PO7AF. It only had 11,000 >miles on it! How in the world could the battery be shot!!! Seriously, how often do you drive your car that it only had 11,000 miles on it? The #1 killer of batteries is leaving the car to sit for weeks at a time. A single 90 day event is enough to guarantee ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: Huge expense for new transmission HCH 2007 [rikfre]

  Written by: luvhatehybrid on Jan 25, 2010 7:16:03 PM

  You have been taken to the cleaners my friend. I paid 800 for my new transmission. 2003 honda civic hybrid. Why is yours so expensive? Why I should have EVER had to pay even 800 dollars is a complete joke after only a year of driving my "honda certified" car. This morning I went to start it and the battery was dead. No lights on, nothing, just dead. Yet I get ... Read More

Older Civic Maintenance and Repair

• Flickering Dashboard on a 2003 Honda Civic

  Written by: ala06003 on Jan 11, 2010 2:17:33 PM

  Anyone who could help me would be very much appreciated. I drive a 2003 Honda Civic and every time it's cold out, the lights on the dashboard lights flicker, blink, or go out completely. The speedometer goes down to zero, the gas tank reads empty, and it says there's no heat. These gauges may go up and down or stay at 0, empty, or cold. When it's really cold out (iced ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Pack Questions

• Civic 2003 - IMA Light/engine light on

  Written by: myhybrid_issue on Jan 9, 2010 9:40:59 AM

  Had great luck with the hybrid until this week (7 years, 180,000 km). The dealer says the battery pack needs to be replaced @$5000 Can! Are there re-conditioned battery packs available somewhere? Any other suggestions? Does Honda care about this issue? I have seen a number of owners with this problem and it seems that the costs are exceptionally high (might be best to walk away??). The dealer told me that ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid On Life Support [geebot]

  Written by: cruthik3615 on Dec 6, 2009 6:48:22 PM

  You say your had your battery replaced? I have a 2003 HCH that has been out of commission for about a year cause the battery wont charge up and no one knows exactly what part of the battery has an issue and Honda wont do anything about it. What were your cars "symptoms" and where did you get a new battery? I'm 21 years old and spent basically my entire bank ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problem [shonda3]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Nov 30, 2009 6:28:36 PM

  If I climb a mountain in my Insight, I am likely to drain my battery before reaching the top. Does that mean that my car becomes a "menace" because it has no more assist? According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2006 gets slightly better mpg than the 2003-2005 models. The 2006 is 93 HP while the gen1 cars are 85 HP (and the gen1 insights are 68 HP but weigh less). If I ... Read More

• OBD code 1445 bad IMA batteries?

  Written by: rachetboy on Nov 17, 2009 12:05:37 PM

  I have a 2003 civic hybrid and my IMA system went dead a few weeks ago. I got the 1600 code telling me my IMA system is bad, and I also got the 1445 code, (the bypass contactor malfunction). My honda dealer said that the batteries need replacing, but this site and others have said the 1443 code is for the battery. So, I don't know. Is code 1445 electrical or ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2005 Civic Hybrid problems/transmission-class action suit? [hawks3]

  Written by: bobguynn on Oct 21, 2009 1:02:16 PM

  I purchased a 2003 HCH on 12/29/02. I had all the judder issues over the years that have been recounted by so many of us at this site. Did the "burnish" thing (at my expense - it seems that tranny oil isn't covered by the Honda extended warrantee) and still had the judder...Like you, I was less than pleased to Honda's response to the problem...and also that of my dealer/repairer. At ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Hybrid transmission failure [dmaclau]

  Written by: nypeach on Sep 21, 2009 6:41:43 PM

  I wrote a letter to American Honda detailing the problems I've had with the hybrid. I received a call from a customer service rep, Betty Mcdonald (800-999-1009), and she informed me that Honda would offer "assistance" by refunding me part of what I paid to have the air compressor and serpentine belt replaced. she said while Honda would consider doing this, HONDA'S GOOD WILL IS NOT AN ENTITLEMENT, and that if ... Read More

• 2003 Hybrid transmission failure

  Written by: dmaclau on Sep 21, 2009 11:25:30 AM

  I am trying to reach the Honda DPSM (District Parts and Service Manager). I have a 2003 Civic Hybrid whose transmission has failed. We have brought this car into Honda service at least 3 times with the same problem with assurances each time that there was no problem. Now that the warranty has expired we're told that the transmission has failed and we're responsible for the repairs. They further tell me ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: 2003 HCH doing just fine [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: shonda3 on Sep 20, 2009 2:27:52 PM

  Dear Ogre: You sound like you work for Honda or own stock in the company. The reality is that people have paid good money and received a hell of a lot less than promised. The car has design and drivability problems that I suspect Honda is unwilling to fix. They are just patching things until the customer goes away in frustration. You can call it a recal, crash or just plain ... Read More

• Re: Honda Civic IMA problems [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: rchertzy on Sep 17, 2009 10:44:07 AM

  "If you are near 80,000 miles, then please let me know and I'll give you tips on how to preserve your warranty rights, but otherwise, just sit back and wait for it to fail. When the recals get to several a day, you are usually very close to a P1433 or P1447 error." Our 2003 HCH is just past 80,000 miles (near 84K) and the IMA light is now on. Honda ... Read More

• Problem with Honda Civic 2009 IMA

  Written by: jorgenchr on May 21, 2009 8:55:30 PM

  I need some help!. Am I the only one having this type of problem? I consider myself an experience Honda Civic Hybrid owner. I had an older 2003 Model and I loved it!. So I went ahead and purchased a new 2009 model. What a difference!. It drives and acts completely different from the old model I had. I am told, this is due to all the changes Honda did to ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 Civic Hybrid, I mean! [pwebb]

  Written by: stephonda on Sep 11, 2009 6:16:58 PM

  Hi, my Daughter has a 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid and when you put it in Gear, drive or Reverse, step on the gas, it makes a big bang and the car jerks, then takes off. I took it to my local Honda Dealer & he said it had a transmission(Automatic) problem & a clutch problem. it has just barely over 105,000 miles on it and they told me their was a ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Civic HCH CVT Transmission problems [sandybeach2]

  Written by: irisheyes785 on Sep 11, 2009 3:34:25 PM

  the tech at honda will do all of that at once... there's not really any benefit to doing it by yourself, since there's an extended warranty for that Honda HAS to do it for free.

• Re: 2003 Civic Hybrid, I mean! [rikfre]

  Written by: targettuning on Sep 11, 2009 8:46:26 AM

  Just a general comment, a disagreement if you will, the CVT transmission is NOT a transmission for a scooter stuck into a car. It is also considerably different (totally in fact, with as much similarity as a bananna to a submarine) from a 10 speed bicycle gear system with the "key word" being GEAR in as much as the CVT system has NO gears but instead an infinitely variable range of ... Read More

• 2003 Civic HCH CVT Transmission problems

  Written by: sandybeach2 on Sep 11, 2009 5:13:01 AM

  Does anyone know how to upgrade the TCM software and to do a system reset after the TCM upgrade? I am going to do the burnishment of the clutch because of the slippage and I guess I need to do this. I will never buy a Honda again with all the trouble I have had with this car.

Honda Civic Hybrid IMA Problems

• Re: Honda Civic IMA problems [shonda3]

  Written by: Ogre_GEV on Sep 10, 2009 1:27:29 PM

  Relax. The "crashes" are recals. Your battery is failing, but is not yet dead. When it gets bad enough, the car will light the IMA light and then they will replace the battery under warranty. At this point, the car is attempting to adjust for the deteriorating battery and the recals ("crashes") are it testing the capacity of the battery. While it tests it, there is no IMA available, so you ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Still waiting...

  Written by: jvee on Aug 19, 2009 6:24:48 AM

  It looks as though my mom just slipped in before the transmission warrantee expired on her 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid CVT. The recall service(s) would not have been affected by an expired warrantee. They did the recall item, burnishing (whatever the hell that is), and had no luck fixing the delay or the grinding. They have ordered the new "star" clutch and will install it soon, a two-day job. I really ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Civic Hybrid, I mean! [pwebb]

  Written by: rikfre on Aug 18, 2009 3:04:35 PM

  The CVT transmission is basically a tranny for a motorcycle/scooter and they stuck it in a car. The best way I can describe it is like a ten speed bike gear system. They know its defective and do take advantage. since you do not specifically mention the problems. I have no idea what it is. google "system re-set for Honda Hybrids" sometimes the dealers do not reset the system (if needed). ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Civic Hybrid, I mean! [jvee]

  Written by: pwebb on Aug 18, 2009 2:30:43 PM

  I am so glad I found this site. I have a 2004 Civic Hybrid which I took in at 45000 miles(I purchased an extended warranty when I purchased the car) with transmission problems. The tech at the dealer said the car needed a new transmission at that time, but Honda decided to replace something. They kept my car for two weeks! When I found out they had not replaced the transmission ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Tire/Wheel Questions

• Re: 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid - Unusual tire wear [hybridnomore]

  Written by: phbmrgn on Aug 17, 2009 4:14:35 PM

  I can only give you a "reality check" and say that I had the same experience with my 2003 Hybrid. After reading the related posts, I decided it was time to trade the Civic for an Insight. I used my knowledge of the tire wear problem as leverage in negotiating the trade in value of the Civic. Good luck!

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Failure. [bbb99]

  Written by: rikfre on Aug 10, 2009 5:45:28 PM

  what does the original hybrid battery have to do with the tranny..?

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Failure. [twizb]

  Written by: bbb99 on Aug 10, 2009 4:15:47 PM

  Flush the tranny fluid, once I did that the judder went away. Are you on the original hybrid battery?

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Failure. [dorado]

  Written by: twizb on Aug 10, 2009 2:40:13 PM

  I have a 2004 HCH that I bought used in 2007. I've had the transmission clutch cleaned (I don't know for sure what they do) about seven months or so ago. It did a rumble thing when I'd take off. Well, now it's hesitating to shift when I first start out and doing the grumble thing again. Any ideas what I should do? I don't have warranty on it - there's ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Tire/Wheel Questions

• Uneven wear and cupping HCH 2008

  Written by: tgbuilder on Jul 24, 2009 4:32:24 PM

  I own a 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid and am experiencing uneven rear tire wear and cupping. The tire life is reduced to 20,000 miles.The car came equipped with the upper rear control arm that was supposed to fix this problem. Obviously, that did not fix the problem. I'm on my second set of tires now. I've read the messages on this forum and it appears this problem has existed at least ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Transmission Problems

• Transmission Breakdown

  Written by: caveat_emptor on Jul 16, 2009 6:12:20 AM

  I purchased a new 2003 Civic Hybrid. My maintenance schedule was maintained. The vehicle experience: Warranty service was provided for transmission Judder and Slippage. 2008 Hybrid Battery replaced. 2009 Transmission replaced. Conclusion: No more Hondas.

Honda Civic Hybrid Catalytic Converter Failures

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid code P1420 - catalytic converter [rileyyh]

  Written by: tomjwhite on Jun 15, 2009 11:58:32 AM

  Thanks for your note. My CheckEngine light did go out, after more than a week. It has not relit. So, I'm with you, I'm going to drive the car until circumstances say otherwise. Given that the light went out, I wonder whether the Honda dealer really understood the implications of the diagnostics, much less the ridiculousness of handing me an $1100 estimate for a repair that doesn't seem necessary. If my ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid code P1420 - catalytic converter [tomjwhite]

  Written by: rileyyh on Jun 14, 2009 8:51:23 PM

  I have a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid with close to 140k miles. I got the update and I still get the Check Engine light after a a few weeks of having the light turned off. I've probably driven at least 80k miles with the "Check Engine" light coming on and my car has had no problems at all. 80k miles ago, the dealership said I needed to replace my 2 catalytic ... Read More

Honda Civic Tires and Wheels

• Re: 16" Steel Wheels or Alloys on Civic LX/LX-S [chicago1985guy]

  Written by: ruking1 on May 24, 2009 6:51:08 AM

  Actually you have to weight them (each set/one) to really know. There are some "enthusiasts' " sites that actually keep this "informal" non official data. I even think that if you went to your local (in your example Honda) dealer, to get the official data, it would take a while to get the correct answers, if they knew at all. As you suspect, this is a huge clue why the data ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Catalytic Converter Failures

• 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid code P1420 - catalytic converter

  Written by: tomjwhite on May 16, 2009 7:05:09 PM

  Hi all, Just found this consumer group on the Internet and I'm impressed with the wealth of information exchanged. Thanks everyone. Now to the point. Our 2003 Civic Hybrid has a 98,600 miles and the Check Engine light came on. Drove for three days as recommended in the manual, but the light did not go off. Took car to the Honda dealer and was awarded an estimate of $1110.42 to replace ... Read More

• Re: Civic Hydrid Catalytic Converter Failure

  Written by: elcholopizon on May 11, 2009 6:07:37 PM

  SO I have 84,500 miles on my Civic Hybrid and I am out of warranty when the lovely P2000 code showed up last week. I refuse to pay $900+ labor for an OEM converter from honda so I found a great alternative: I purchased a new OEM Style replacement direct fit bolt-on DAVICO brand, made in USA Catalytic Converter for 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid 1.3L Engine on ebay and it swapped ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Pack Questions

• Re: New problem - could be the battery 2003 Civic Hybrid [Ogre_GEV]

  Written by: evelyn6 on Apr 10, 2009 6:52:51 PM

  I'm at 154k now, and I had the dealer diagnose the check engine light when it was staying on; the code said hybrid battery would soon need replacement. They cleared ck. engine light but it came back almost immediately, followed by the IMA light.... both went out on their own, about 500 miles later. Currently, I see (at least 1000 miles after code was read at dealership) that the indicator shows ... Read More

Help Me Choose!

• Don't know where to start

  Written by: macmacmoo on Mar 25, 2009 8:00:28 PM

  DH and I want to buy a minivan. now it's up for grabs on whether we really need one or not, DS was born recently and we are sort of musing over having another DC in the next year. DH is currently deployed. when he get back in May we get to move from Atlanta to Seattle. We currently have a Honda Civic and a Saturn SL2 both are 2002's or ... Read More

Honda Civic Hybrid Battery Pack Questions

• Re: New problem - could be the battery 2003 Civic Hybrid [stan29]

  Written by: ericzundel on Mar 24, 2009 4:04:28 AM

  I enjoyed reading everyone else's anecdotes (enjoy isn't really the right word), so I thought I'd post my experience. My 2003 had a transmission problem at about 32k miles. It was out of warranty, but the dealership (Curry Honda in Atlanta) replaced the starter clutch for free - they said there was a bulletin on the problem, and the technician, who seemed knowledgeable about the hybrid (this was in 2006) came ... Read More