2003 Honda Civic
Price Range: Not Available
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly engines, roomy interior, reputation for durability, impressive crash test scores.
Cons
- Antilock brakes not available on DX or LX.
What’s new
A host of minor changes bring the Civic into 2003. On the inside, all models gain improved seat fabrics, rear adjustable outboard headrests and new four-spoke steering wheels. On HX, LX and EX Civics, you'll find improved gauge illumination. There's a new center console for LX and EX, and a CD player is standard for HX and LX. On the outside, the 2003 Honda Civic has freshened taillamps and new wheel designs. Also, there is a Hybrid Civic available for the 2003 model year.
Edmunds says
If you're shopping for a small car and you skip the 2003 Honda Civic, you're doing yourself a tremendous disservice.
Vehicle overview
Model HistoryEver since its introduction in 1973, the Honda Civic has been one of America's most popular cars. Thanks to its frugal and clean engines, spunky performance and reputation for excellent reliability and durability, the Civic has been a consistent benchmark for the economy car class. It was last redesigned in 2001 and was the best-selling small car for that year. For 2003, the Civic Hybrid will bolster the Civic's already high prestige.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and OptionsFor now, the Civic Hybrid is offered in sedan format only. In terms of features, the Hybrid is similar to the regular EX trim. Nearly everything is standard, including power doors, locks and mirrors; automatic climate control; a CD player; keyless entry; and cruise control.
Powertrains and PerformanceThe concept for the 2003 Civic Hybrid's powertrain is grounded in simplicity -- use a highly efficient gasoline engine and supplement the performance with an electric motor. On the surface, the system may appear complex, but the Civic Hybrid powertrain provides a simple solution for the seemingly incompatible task of combining both efficiency and performance.
Honda's solution is its Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, which is also referred to as a "hybrid" system because it uses two power sources -- gasoline and electricity. This system first appeared on the Honda Insight. It allows the Civic Hybrid to use a smaller gasoline engine (compared to other Civics') without any significant loss of performance.
The Civic Hybrid IMA system is more advanced than the Insight's, though it is still comprised of the same basic components: a gasoline engine, an electric motor and an energy storage device. The engine is a 1.3-liter four-cylinder. Though it has one overhead camshaft and just two valves per cylinder (when was the last time you heard of a Honda car engine with just eight valves?), the engine is one of Honda's most advanced creations. Nearly everything on it has been designed to promote combustion efficiency and low fuel consumption. It even goes as far as shutting down up to three cylinders during deceleration to improve recharging. By itself, the engine develops 85 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque.
The electric motor is positioned between the engine and transmission. With its 13 horsepower and 46 lb-ft of torque, the motor assists the engine when accelerating and recaptures energy when braking or decelerating (regenerative braking). The nickel-metal hydride battery, contained within what Honda calls the Intelligent Processing Unit (IPU), is located between the rear seats and trunk.
Most of the vehicle's propulsion comes from the gasoline engine with the electric motor providing assist as needed. Combined, the engine and motor put out 93 hp at 5,700 rpm and 116 lb-ft of torque at 1,500 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a continuously variable transmission is offered as an option. If the CVT is ordered, torque output drops to 105.
Though no speedster, the Civic Hybrid's acceleration is comparable to a regular Civic's. Equipped with a manual transmission, the car averages 46 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway. Cars with the CVT have a 48/47 mpg rating. The EPA has certified the Civic Hybrid as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV).
SafetyThough the Civic Hybrid has not been tested by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Civic sedan in general has earned very high marks in crash testing. It has a five-star rating for frontal impacts and a four-star rating for side impacts. The IIHS has given the Civic a "good" rating for frontal offset crash results. Standard safety features include dual-stage front airbags, side airbags and antilock brakes.
Interior Design and Special FeaturesOne of the main attractions for the Civic Hybrid is that its interior is virtually identical to a regular Civic's. This means plenty of room for front-and-rear passengers, pleasing ergonomics and high-quality interior materials. Exclusive Hybrid interior features include a digital and analog gauge cluster with an IMA system display, a two-tone dash, special console trim and premium seat fabrics. The only noticeable sacrifice is trunk space -- the Hybrid's trunk holds 10.1 cubic feet of cargo, while a regular Civic sedan can hold 12.9 cubic feet.
Driving Impressions/OpinionsUnlike the two previous hybrid vehicles offered in the U.S. -- the Insight and Toyota Prius -- the Civic Hybrid is a fully functional vehicle for everyday use. Road feel in the Civic Hybrid is comparable to that of other Hondas of this ilk -- a little on the numb side, despite stiffened springs and increased shock-damping rates. On tight mountain curves, there is some body roll, though this is expected considering that the Civic Hybrid is about 200 pounds heavier than the Civic LX. Overall, though, the ride is very comfortable. This Hybrid uses the same MacPherson strut front suspension and reactive-link double-wishbone rear suspension as other Civic models.
The IMA's operation is transparent to the driver; just push on the accelerator and the car goes. And just like the Insight, the Civic Hybrid features an Idle Stop feature. This feature automatically turns off the gasoline engine during complete stops under most circumstances, allowing the Hybrid to use even less fuel and emit fewer emissions.
If you're fond of new technologies, the Civic Hybrid will likely satisfy. It's clean, frugal, well equipped and drives pretty much like a regular Civic. It also qualifies for a $2,000 federal tax deduction. Be aware, however, that if gas prices stay low, the financial gains from the Hybrid's increased fuel mileage are offset by the car's more expensive MSRP. For comparison, a 2002 Civic HX coupe has a 36/44 mpg rating, ULEV certification and costs about $6,000 less.
Reliability
The 2003 Honda Civic has 28 recalls.
Recalls
28 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 19V501000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- E5D, X5C
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-10-16 to 2004-12-13
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1657752
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are E5D and X5C.
- Recall Number:
- 19V499000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- Q5A, Y58
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-08-22 to 2002-08-22
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 3947
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2003-2006 MDX, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Defect Consequence:
- An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are Q5A and Y58.
- Recall Number:
- 19V182000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- U40,M45,O4
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-08-12 to 2005-09-02
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1101534
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
- Defect Consequence:
- An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning on April 17, 2019, however, dealers are ready to begin repairs immediately. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.
- Recall Number:
- 15V370000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- JS1, JS2
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-03-21 to 2001-09-10
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 2300000
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic vehicles manufactured March 21, 2000, to January 20, 2005, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX vehicles manufactured June 14, 2000, to August 19, 2004, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid vehicles manufactured February 24, 2002, to January 18, 2005, 2003-2007 Honda Accord vehicles manufactured February 21, 2002, to August 28, 2007, 2002-2004 Honda CR-V vehicles, 2002-2003 Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured June 19, 2001, to July 12, 2003, 2003 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 19, 2002, to June 19, 2003, 2003 Honda Element vehicles manufactured June 25, 2002, to July 31, 2003, and 2003 Honda Pilot vehicles manufactured November 26, 2001, to August 21, 2003. The affected vehicles have a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture upon its deployment.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the passenger seat occupant or other occupants possibly causing serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JS1 and JS2. Note: Vehicles that have already received a replacement passenger air bag inflator as part of the recall remedy for an earlier campaign such as 14V353 or 14V700 (Honda recall numbers S95, JH6, JH7, JH8, JH9, JJ0, JJ1, JJ2, JJ6, JM5 and JM6) are not included in this recall. However, this recall does supersede 13V132 and 14V349. Note: On December 18, 2015 Honda informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2004 Honda CR-V vehicles in addition to additional model year 2003 CR-V vehicles.
- Recall Number:
- 15V320000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 5100000
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2003-2006 Acura MDX, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238, select option 4. Note: Vehicles that have had their driver frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy prior to September 12, 2014 need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Vehicles that, on or after September 12, 2014, received a remedy for a prior driver frontal air bag inflator recall already received an inflator of a different design, and therefore are not included in this recall and do not require additional servicing. Note: This recall fully supersedes recalls 08V-593, 09V-259, 10V-041, 11V-260, 14V-351 and 15V-153.
- Recall Number:
- 14V700000
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-02-21 to 2005-03-30
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger+s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 14V353000
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-08-12 to 2004-09-24
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Company, Inc.?s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Element, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and model year 2005 Acura RL vehicles originally sold, or
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the vehicle occupants.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during July 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 14V351000
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Company, Inc. (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2001-2007 Accord (4-cylinder), 2001-2002 Accord (V6), 2001-2005 Civic, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2007 Pilot, 2006 Ri
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the vehicle occupants.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 14V349000
- Defect Description:
- American Honda Motor Company (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Civic, CR-V and Odyssey vehicles, and model year 2003 Accord, Element, Pilot, and Acura MDX vehicles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
- Corrective Action:
- Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on July 21, 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009. Note: This is an expansion of NHTSA Recall
- Recall Number:
- 13V132000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- S95
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-03-05 to 2003-04-18
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 561422
- Defect Description:
- Honda is recalling certain model year 2001-2003 Civic, model year 2002-2003 CR-V, and model year 2002 Odyssey vehicles to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag. This recall addresses both the passenger side frontal air bags that were originally installed in the vehicles, as well as replacement air bags that may have been installed as replacement service parts. A replacement air bag may have been installed, as one example, if a vehicle had been in a crash necessitating the replacement of the passenger side frontal air bag.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the passenger seat occupant or other occupants.
- Corrective Action:
- Owners of all vehicles on which a defective air bag may have been installed either as original equipment, or as a replacement, will be notified. Dealers will inspect vehicles, and where a defective air bag inflator is identified, the inflator will be replaced, free of charge. The safety recall will begin on May 11, 2013. Owners may contact Honda automobile customer service at 1-800-999-1009. Honda's recall campaign number is S95.
- Recall Number:
- 12V136000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- S34, S51
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-03-05 to 2003-09-11
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1375217
- Defect Description:
- HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 CR-V; MODEL YEAR 2003 THROUGH 2005 PILOT; AND MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 CIVIC VEHICLES. IN MARCH 2012, HONDA FILED A DEFECT REPORT TO RECALL CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 CR-V AND CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 PILOT VEHICLES. IN AUGUST 2012, HONDA INFORMED THE AGENCY THAT IT WAS INCLUDING AN ADDITIONAL 820,789 VEHICLES INCLUDING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AND 2005 PILOTS AND MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 CIVICS. THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VEHICLES BEING RECALLED IS NOW 1,375,217. DUE TO TENSION FROM THE COMBINATION SWITCH WIRING HARNESS, WEAR ON THE SURFACE OF THE ELECTRICAL TERMINAL CAN OCCUR, YIELDING COPPER OXIDE, WHICH INCREASES ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE. INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE MAY CAUSE THE TERMINAL ENDS TO MELT WITHIN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THE TERMINAL ENDS MELT WITHIN THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR, THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE, REDUCING DRIVER VISIBILITY AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- HONDA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE LOW BEAM TERMINAL HARNESS OR REPLACE THE LIGHTING SWITCH AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE ORIGINAL RECALL BEGAN IN APRIL 2012. OWNERS OF VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THE SEPTEMBER 2012 EXPANSION WILL BE NOTIFIED IN SEPTEMBER 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 11V260000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1709477
- Defect Description:
- IN DECEMBER 2011, THIS RECALL WAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE AN ADDITIONAL 272,779 VEHICLES AND 640 AIR BAGS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT PARTS. BECAUSE HONDA IS UNABLE TO ASCERTAIN ON WHICH VEHICLES THE 604 REPLACEMENT AIR BAGS WERE INSTALLED, AN ADDITIONAL 603,241 VEHICLES ARE ALSO BEING RECALLED. THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VEHICLES BEING RECALLED IS NOW 1,709,477. THIS RECALL CONCERNS CERTAIN VEHICLES FALLING WITHIN THE FOLLOWING MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR POPULATIONS, INCLUSIVE OF THIS EXPANSION: MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 HONDA ACCORD, MODEL YEAR 2001-2003 CIVIC 2-DOOR AND 4-DOOR MODEL, MODEL YEAR 2002-2003 CR-V, MODEL YEAR 2001-2003 ODYSSEY, MODEL YEAR 2003 ACURA CL, MODEL YEAR 2003 PILOT AND MODEL YEAR 2002-2003 ACURA TL VEHICLES. THIS RECALL IS RELATED TO A SERIES OF RECALLS ON THESE VEHICLES IN WHICH HONDA IS REPLACING THE INFLATORS WITHIN THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG TO ADDRESS A DEFECTIVE CONDITION. THIS RECALL ADDRESSES BOTH AIR BAGS THAT WERE ORIGINALLY INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLES, AS WELL AS REPLACEMENT AIR BAGS THAT MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED AS REPLACEMENT SERVICE PARTS. A REPLACEMENT AIR BAG MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED, AS ONE EXAMPLE, IF A VEHICLE HAD BEEN IN A CRASH NECESSITATING THE REPLACEMENT OF THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH NECESSITATING DEPLOYMENT OF THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG, THE INFLATOR COULD PRODUCE EXCESSIVE INTERNAL PRESSURE THAT COULD CAUSE THE INFLATOR TO RUPTURE WITH METAL FRAGMENTS STRIKING AND INJURING THE DRIVER OR OTHER OCCUPANTS.
- Corrective Action:
- OWNERS OF ALL VEHICLES ON WHICH A REPLACEMENT SERVICE AIR BAG MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED WILL BE NOTIFIED. DEALERS WILL INSPECT VEHICLES, AND WHERE A DEFECTIVE AIR BAG INFLATOR IS IDENTIFIED, THE INFLATOR WILL BE REPLACED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 27, 2011. OWNERS OF VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THE DECEMBER 2011 EXPANSION WILL BE NOTIFIED IN DECEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009. THIS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN IS RELATED TO RECALLS 08V-593, 09V-259, AND 10V-041.
- Recall Number:
- 10V364000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- R44
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-02-13 to 2003-09-11
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 551498
- Defect Description:
- HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003 HONDA ACCORD, CIVIC TWO AND FOUR DOOR, AND MODEL YEAR 2003-2004 HONDA ELEMENT VEHICLES. THE INTERLOCK LEVER OF THE IGNITION SWITCH MAY UNEXPECTEDLY DEFORM, WHICH CAN ALLOW THE INTERLOCK FUNCTION OF A VEHICLE WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TO BE DEFEATED.
- Defect Consequence:
- REMOVAL OF THE IGNITION KEY WHEN THE GEAR SELECTOR OF A VEHICLE WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS NOT BEEN SHIFTED TO THE PARK POSITION CAN ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE ORIGINAL INTERLOCK PIN AND LEVER WITHIN THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND REPLACE THEM WITH NEW, DESIGNED COMPONENTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 10V041000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- Q96 & R13
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 379000
- Defect Description:
- HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 HONDA ACCORD AND CIVIC, MODEL YEAR 2002 CR-V AND ODYSSEY, MODEL YEAR 2002-2003 3.2TL AND ONE VEHICLE FOR MODEL YEAR 2003 HONDA PILOT, CIVIC AND ACURA 3.2CL PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG INFLATOR COULD PRODUCE EXCESSIVE INTERNAL PRESSURE. IF AN AFFECTED AIRBAG DEPLOYS, THE INCREASED INTERNAL PRESSURE MAY CAUSE THE INFLATOR TO RUPTURE.
- Defect Consequence:
- METAL FRAGMENTS COULD PASS THROUGH THE AIRBAG CUSHION MATERIAL POSSIBLY CAUSING INJURY OR FATALITY TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIRBAG INFLATOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 26, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AUTOMOBILE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 09E025000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 42540
- Defect Description:
- DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Recall Number:
- 09E012000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 16270
- Defect Description:
- SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Defect Consequence:
- DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Recall Number:
- 08E050000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1921
- Defect Description:
- K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
- Recall Number:
- 07V512000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- Q63
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-05-21 to 2003-08-08
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 6545
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) VEHICLES, IN THE EVENT OF A SEVERE INTERIOR FIRE IN THE AREA OF THE REAR SEAT, THE CNG TANK MAY BE HEATED UNEVENLY, PREVENTING THE PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE FROM VENTING THE CONTENTS OF THE TANK AS DESIGNED.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS COULD RESULT IN A TANK RUPTURE, EXPLOSION, AND EJECTION OF THE TANK FROM THE VEHICLE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A HEAT INSULATOR MATERIAL TO THE REAR SEAT BACK. AN INTERIM OWNER LETTER WAS MAILED TO OWNERS BEGINNING NOVEMBER 26, 2007. WHEN PARTS ARE AVAILABLE, OWNERS WILL BE RENOTIFIED ASKING THEM TO BRING IN THEIR VEHICLE FOR REPAIR. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.
- Recall Number:
- 07E104000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1657
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
- Corrective Action:
- SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
- Recall Number:
- 06E064000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 4029
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
- Recall Number:
- 06E060000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 87745
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Defect Consequence:
- LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Corrective Action:
- AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Recall Number:
- 06E044000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1215
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT J & A AUTO ACCESSORIES AT 310-327-4981.
- Recall Number:
- 06E040000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1648
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN E SPEED RACING COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- E SPEED RACING WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT E SPEED RACING 909-923-3636.
- Recall Number:
- 06E038000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 724
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- ALFAOTTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ALFAOTTO AT 626-656-2992 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.ALFAOTTO.COM.
- Recall Number:
- 06E032000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 845
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN EAGLE EYES AND SONAR HEADLIGHTS AND CORNER LIGHTS SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE ON 1988-2005 HONDA CIVIC, 1990-2005 HONDA ACCORD, AND 1990-2001 ACURA INTEGRA PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. HEADLIGHTS AND CORNER LIGHTS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- TOM MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF NONCOMPLIANT LIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN APRIL 17, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOM MOTORSPORT AT 626-968-4007.
- Recall Number:
- 06E026000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 61944
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Recall Number:
- 06E025000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1450
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN POLI-AUTO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. 11-728, 11-728D, 11-710, 11-419, 11-713, 11-703, 11-704, 11-708P, 11-735, 11-725, 11-726, 11-716 (P&C), 11-721-1, 11-733, 11-729, 11-730, AND 11-732, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- POLI-AUTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS AT ITS ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT POLI-AUTO AT 305-477-1356.
- Recall Number:
- 06E023000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 292000
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
Compare the Honda Civic
Honda Civic- Add any vehicle to compare
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test | Not Tested |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated | Not Tested |
| Side Impact Test – Original | Not Tested |
| Side Impact Test – Updated | Not Tested |
| Roof Strength Test | Not Tested |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Poor |
FAQ
Is the Honda Civic a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2003 Civic both on the road and at the track. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2003 Civic gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on undefined reviews) And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Honda Civic. Learn more
Is the Honda Civic reliable?
To determine whether the Honda Civic is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Civic. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Civic's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2003 Honda Civic a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2003 Honda Civic is a good car. Our consumer reviews show that the 2003 Civic gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on undefined reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2003 Civic is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2003 Honda Civic?
The least-expensive 2003 Honda Civic is the 2003 Honda Civic . Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $0.
Other versions include:
What are the different models of Honda Civic?
If you're interested in the Honda Civic, the next question is, which Civic model is right for you? Civic variants include . For a full list of Civic models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas
$160/mo for Civic DX
Civic DX
vs
$223/mo
Avg. Compact Car
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