Used 2004 Honda Civic Consumer Reviews
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More comfort than a box of rocks!
moitz, 01/27/2011
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
67 of 67 people found this review helpful
Well, it's been 5 years since I purchased this car used, with 32k on the clock. It now has 145k on it, and I'm expecting to own it another 3 years and 60k. So that right there should tell you something about it. This gen of Civic is, quite simply put, the ideal commuter and city car. The engine is reasonably smooth and peppy. Very low road noise with Goodyear Affinity Triple-treads. Steering is nicely weighted for city driving. Ride quality is sportier than it's American counterparts, and build quailty is far and above the class leader. 5 adults will fit if needed. Sunroof and power gizmos abound. Repairs are infrequent and cheap. 36 highway, 30 city. How can you go wrong?
Hybrid in disguise--UPDATE! (~7 years later)
illili, 11/20/2018
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
40 of 41 people found this review helpful
I wrote a review with the same title when I purchased the car. I'm still driving it today and have a few updates I think are worth noting. I don't expect many more people to buy this car, but hey, I might as well share what I know. The biggest mechanical issues have been that the check engine light came on around 130,000 and intermittently has gone off and on again since. There is a software fix, but it cuts your MPG from what I had heard so I've just dealt with the light since then. One of the front wheel bearings went out as well as the sway bar end links, those things are pieces of junk but cheap to replace. The AC compressor and radiator developed problems and needed to be replaced around 200,000. The IMA battery light finally came on for me but not until about 215,000 miles. The tell tale sign it's on the horizon is a constant "recalibration" the car does where the battery will "drain" all of its bars even if you aren't accelerating, and then start to charge again. You can note this process happening as well because even with the pedal to the floor, no assist will kick in. Bumblebee batteries makes some great replacements, but for me I've just dealt with the old one. I'm still using the original clutch, but the ISB in the transmission developed some noise like the other models in this year range. No oil leaks/burn to report yet. My MPG when I got the car was mid upper 40s in a rural area with no mountains. I now live in an area with mountains and I use the car to go over passes and have a mountain bike strapped to it frequently. My *worst* MPG average over a tank was about 35 in the 7+ years I've owned the car but now averages around 38-40. Overall, I think this car was pretty solid for an older hybrid. It's efficient, cheap to maintain and buy, and as long as it's standard a blast to drive. For a car that's driven across the country, through countless mountain passes with thousands of feet of gain, on forest service roads and more, I can't ask for more from the $6000 it cost me in 2010.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
This car is a tank.
Rachel Day, 12/23/2017
2004 Honda Civic LX 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
This is the most reliable little car! I love my Honda Civic--granted it isn't the quietest ride and definitely has to gather itself before accelerating on the freeway on ramp, BUT I've had this car for many years and now at a little over 150K miles it still is the most reliable car I've owned! Just have to check the oil every 1500 miles and it's good to keep on going. They just don't make them like this one anymore! If you need a basic, simple car this is a great choice!
Best Car Ever!
wrogers3087, 09/14/2011
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in 2006 with 30,000 miles on it. I did not get a carfax and after I bought it, I found out that it had been in a front ender. I now have over 140,000 miles on it, and it has been through ONE set of brakes, and TWO sets of tires. Nothing else, ever. I have not been very kind to this car. I forget to get oil changes, and I have wrecked it six times. You cannot kill this car if you tried. I am finally buying a new car for better looks, but I am passing this car on to another family member who can easily get another 100,000 miles out of it. BEST CAR EVER!
Awesome on the highway if you drive slow
hovsolo, 04/03/2009
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for my 65 mile round trip commute. It's awesome on the highway if I drive at a constant speed. Going 80, I'll get about 42 mpg. 65-70 mph and it will be around 45-48 mpg. Be a pain to everyone else (55-60mph) and get 49-52 mpg. Acceleration is horrible, and so is the throttle response when trying to stomp on the accelerator pedal. Overall, this car does what it is intended to, be a great commuter. In addition, it is easy to drive at the limits because the low rolling resistance tires are always screaming at you.
Excellent Reliability, Excellent Mileage
oldmandasilva, 05/31/2010
2004 Honda Civic LX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
I purchase this car new based on the reliability and gas mileage reports and have not been disappointed in the least. In the 6+ years that I have owned it I have put on 144,000 miles, mostly commuting (86 miles round trip) to and from work. I regularly get 43-45 mpg. Granted, I am gas mileage conscious and try not to drive over 60 mph, avoid "jack rabbit" starts and constant braking and maintain the tires a little over-inflated. All I have spent on this car in the 6+ years I have owned it, besides gas and regular oil changes, has been to replace the front brakes and, at 125,000 miles, replacing the original Bridgestone tires (which provided good gas mileage but were mediocre in the snow).
So... why are people buying hybrids?
fronteeer, 01/24/2011
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
I've owned six cars in my life: two Chryslers, one Chevrolet, two Volkswagens, and this is my second Honda Civic. My first Civic, a 1996, made me a Honda fan for life. I'm actually embarrassed for having bought into the "German engineering" hype, because neither of my VWs was that great of a car, and as for the Chev and Chryslers, well... we all make mistakes. My wife and I have two other vehicles, but because my Civic (past and present) has comfortable front seats, lots of room for the kids, tons of trunk space, a decent stereo, phenomenal fuel economy and bulletproof reliability, we always seem to take it everywhere. The 1.7L VTEC engine is a perfect blend of economy and performance.
The IMA Battery
Pete, 06/03/2008
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
44 of 51 people found this review helpful
The IMA light came on, so I took it to the Dealer to check. The IMA system was not charging, so they had to order a new one for me. The cost of replacement was $5000, which I did not have to pay, as they are warrantied for 10 years. I wanted to know if this is a common problem with The Honda Hybrid, as mine is less than 4 years old.
Great car but
jpc477, 04/20/2010
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd review. Bought in Jan of 09 w/ 59k miles, now has 78k. Gas mileage is wonderful. Handling is solid, engine runs smoothly and transmission shifts smoothly. When I first got the car power wasn't quite what I wanted. A cool air intake, header, and performance exhaust helped. However I've had some unexpected issues. Fuel door cable broke - $300 to fix! O2 sensor failed, over $260 to fix, front control arm bushings replaced for $300. Not things I would expect from a Honda at the age / mileage it is. Overall I still think Honda is an excellent product but I will probably at least look at reviews more closely when I eventually replace my car - which I'm not planning on for a while.
Hybrid in disguise
illili, 01/07/2011
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because I commute too many miles a week for a 4.0 v6 to cut it. I drove the car back from Chesapeake VA to the top corner of Pennsylvania and it drove wonderfully. The gas mileage is superb; I get mid-upper 40's in my area (This will vary greatly for anyone looking to buy one based on elevation changes on driving route, habits, ethanol in gas, etc.) during the dead of winter. The comfort is just about the same as my truck, however I'm more into functionality than luxury when it comes to vehicles, so if you need clouds to sit on, this isn't your car. The car has little passing power unless you shift down a few gears, but that's not what it's designed for.
2004 Honda Hybrid
carol, 04/14/2010
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
This was my first Honda that I ever owned. I currently have over 170,000 miles on it and it still is running strong. I drive 140 miles round trip to work from the mountains at 6,000 feet to sea level 4 days a week. My gas mileage averages about 40 mpg. I did replace the IMA battery at just under 150,000 and the cost was covered under CA law, lucky me! I love this car.
Hybrid for sale!!!!
CRA, 05/25/2006
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
$4300!!!! That's the price quoted by the dealership to replace the hybrid battery if it fails after the 80K warranty. 40.4!!!! That's my average MPG since I purchased my hybrid. Not quite 50/49 MPG. Consider the negatives before you buy a hybrid. Go for the standard engine!!!!
Tough Act to Beat!
cidarcca, 12/29/2003
2004 Honda Civic EX 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I spent several months researching all cars in this class and chose the 2004 model even though 2003's are cheaper. It's got great reliability, resale value, and exceptional build quality. Also, it's got comfy seats and a real smooth engine/transmission combo. The 2004 EX model upgrades make it more distinctive (new alloys, front/rear lights & bumpers, antilock brakes, stereo & sound insullation, driver's seat adjustment, new center console) plus the new Magnesium color looks great! The power moonroof eats up a lot of headroom but I'm 6-1" and can still fit but it's a little snug - thank goodness the driver's seat adjusts up and down!
Grandama demanded the Civic VIP
Davie Boy, 07/30/2015
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
21 of 25 people found this review helpful
This model is a good used choice car for those looking for basic transportation. Replacement parts availability is excellent. Heads-up - this car has a timing belt which requires replacement at 105,000 miles (not a chain). I would only buy a used civic that has less then 55,000 miles. Back in 2004 my 80 year old mother needed a new car and demanded the CIVIC with manual windows so I got her a brand new 2004 VIP. The car cost $15,000 OTD with no trade-in. It is a very basic car but that's what she wanted. Since then she has put only 12,000 miles on it and the only time it was in the shop was for the airbag recall. It runs and drives like new after 11 years. This car feels quite "tinny" although it's fit and finish are flawless. The designers clearly focused on interior room, fuel efficiency, reliability and the driver's outward visibility. The designers sacrificed suspension, breaking, acceleration, cornering/steering, cabin soundproofing and the overall fun driving experience. The rear suspension, in particular, has been crammed into a small space to make the trunk bigger, yielding an oddly bouncy ride. The rear brakes are drum which make for very poor stopping capability and the single overhead cam engine is quite pathetic. That said, it's amazingly reliable, economical, well assembled, easy to drive with excellent outward visibility and boring - which is, apparently, what must drivers demand judging from this car's popularity.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I LOVE THIS CAR!
Aimee Riley Mcffee, 02/23/2016
2004 Honda Civic DX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
The 2004 Honda Civic EX couple has been my stalwart baby car, the first I ever purchased on my own. She's dependable, very economical and never had a problem with her. I have maintained her exactly according to the recommendations in the owner's manual and she performs like a champ day after day. Whether in the city or on a road trip, she's a dream. I highly recommend this car. The only reason I even consider moving on (to another Honda, of course) is because it's a two-door coupe and my family is expanding. This car is a single person car and super fun to drive!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great engineering and design
Hoosier Grandpa, 06/08/2010
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought used with 50,000 miles. Driven a lot of cars in my life, enjoyed most. This one is well designed and well made. No, it's not an expensive luxury nor full bore sports car - but very well appointed and suspension, steering, high revving engine definitely provide sports car feel when pushed hard! Mileage on highway at 80 mph is fabulous at 40-42 mpg, in town 33-36 depending on traffic stop'n'go (tip, be sure to use good fuel injector cleaner every 4000 miles)
Fix the problems with the engine light
kat, 10/12/2008
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Since the car reached about 80,000 miles the service engine light comes on at least once a month... It has had a new computer chip, catalytic converter, and transmission clutch box. Now they tell me it needs another catalytic converter $1100. The mechanic told me that Honda has not been able to find a fix for this issue but now it is no longer in warranty. I have had all recommended maintenance which costs between $200-400 each time. I would think that the car would not be falling apart. I have a friend who had to replace the transmission just after 100000.
What a great car
Rich JC, 09/22/2003
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I drive more than 150 miles a day and this car is quiet smooth and comfortable. On top of that, I get between 45 and 50 miles per gallon and more than half of the trip is at 70 MPH. The car now has over 9,000 miles on it and so far I have had no unscheduled maintenance and no failures. I've driven into the mountains, out to the desert, and all over town and I look forward to my daily drive.
The Complete Civic
Roy Persson Jr., 12/19/2004
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I refer to my 2004 Honda Civic as the "complete civic". Whatever you are looking for in a compact vehicle the civic has it. Fuel economy? I'm saving a bundle. Interior room? I'm 6'0 230lbs and I have plenty of head, shoulder, hip room. Extras? My VP came equiped with auto transmission, CD, air, tinted windows etc. at no extra cost or hidden add on charges. In the city I slip into spaces that other vehicles have to pass up, Yet I have plenty of trunk room and fold down seats that allow me to carry Xmas trees if necessary. I have owned muscle cars ('71 SS 396 Nova) and the civic on the highway has enough pep when you need it, also, no mechanical problems at all since I've owned the Civic.
Honda Civic SI 2004
zanoomac, 05/04/2009
2004 Honda Civic Si 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
11 of 14 people found this review helpful
What you should know. First the car is a blast to drive. I have driven RSXs, Mazda 3s, and Corollas. The SI is my favorite to drive. It handles well and the rally shifter helps make you feel like you are in control on your car. The SI transmission is touchy so you have to master it but when you do driving it becomes even better. Acceleration is moderate, although when you hit about 40mph then the car goes. It's roomy for a small car, people sit back there and always tell me how comfy and how much leg space is back there. Plus the seats in the back come down for when you want to transport a lot of your junk. And trust me I have done that a lot. All in all a great car almost about to hit 60000.
cvt transmission not worth the savings
virginia3881, 02/08/2013
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
15 of 20 people found this review helpful
I have had 2 civic hybrids. while the gas mileage is good the fact that BOTH of the hybrids transmissions are trash. and to buy a remanufacture one is not an option. No one wants to do the work I have scoured the country for remanufactured cvt transmission for either with no luck and the savings in gas mileage is not worth the trouble I have now. so think before you buy a vehicle with a cvt transmissionl.
My 04 Civic is a dream
em7rulez, 07/10/2014
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I remember when I wanted this car it was all i could think about. Owning a 1992 Camaro prior to this car made me appreciate the value this car offers. The civic is a VP and this model does a good job at offering great gas mileage, speed, handling, and overall quality. The previous reviews on this car is exactly right this car is the most efficient coupe you can buy today period. You can mod it to make it even better than what it is. I drive to work and I only have to fill up at least every other week and a half. I can go two weeks and 3 days without filling this car up. I purchased this car used at 65,000 miles and i have 86,000 miles and i plan to never get rid of this car.
Honda Civic Sedan EX
VictorP, 12/04/2003
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan w/Side Airbags (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have been pleasantly surprized by this honda civic sedan ex, it's acceleration has been better than I thought it would be and milage is better than 32mpg. It feels good inside and is not as noisy as some econo cars that I test drove. Overall better than a 30+mpg car should feel. I am very pleased.
Very pleased
Mack1212, 07/04/2004
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Traded in my SUV for this car because gas was killing me. MPG is incredible in this car. Between 35-40 on the highway.
Great First Car
WSUguy, 07/14/2009
2004 Honda Civic LX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We bought my civic a year used from friends who were moving on to a Prius. It was a great first car, everything just worked. I never had a problem outside of a flat tire. I only filled it up once or twice a month, and with its 12 gallon tank that was really amazing. It has a really fun ride and did a great job getting me through high school. My sister is now driving it, and there still is yet to be a mechanical issue!
perfect car for recent college grad
trogdor1, 04/30/2014
2004 Honda Civic Si 2dr Hatchback w/Side Airbags (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car has everything I want. The lack of rear doors is compensated by the folding back seats. I can easily fit skis and snowboards in there. The mileage is obviously less than advertised. I get about 24/34 city/highway, while redlining it after every red light and toll booth. The goofy-looking thing has its own personality. It feels like a puppy who wants to sprint, just give it a little incentive. The shifter is easy to reach and the suspension is not too rough and hugs corners swimmingly. I have easily fit 3 people in the back, and the front bucket racing seats are amazing. No other car I have driven has the same sporty feel as this one. And i owned VW's, mercedes, ford, and acuras.
Truth in advertising?
Liszt, 08/20/2005
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I like the car a lot. Not a lot of power, but solid. The sticker says 47/48 mpg but I average 38-42 mpg consistently. I can't imagine how these other owners are getting over 50 mpg unless they are driving only downhill and with no wind resistance... I wish I really got 47/48 mpg as it says on the sticker. I really baby the car and am aware how to obtain the best mileage possible, but it just doesn't happen.
Nice little car
Salsstar, 01/17/2004
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
If you compare the Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic...the Civic is far superior to anything up against it.
fun to drive
robb., 11/08/2005
2004 Honda Civic Si 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love driving this car. It is even more satisfying knowing that it's good on gas. I get better than rated mileage in this car. I haven't even modified it. This car is great for people who enjoy driving and who have needs beyond merely getting there. It's nice to have a spacious small car that still performs and isn't that expensive.
impressed
vtgumby, 02/23/2004
2004 Honda Civic LX 4dr Sedan w/Side Airbags (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I wasn't expecting to buy a civic. Nor was I expecting to like the new civic! I've usually bought used cars, but decided to go with a newer one with less features. Don't miss the sunroof or alloy wheels, but love the handling, fuel economy and surprisingly enough the peppiness.
all the car you need
commutative, 09/25/2012
2004 Honda Civic EX 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I managed to score a decent used one of these with 80k miles and drove it cross country last summer; I have been enjoying it ever since. Yes, the interior is rather basic, and it's a little buzzy at highway speeds... but in every other respect, a really solid car and great value. Nimble handling, slick shifter, quite peppy with the manual transmission and VTEC engine, reasonable stereo. Also consistently gets 35-40 mpg. Hard to go wrong!
Honda Civic Hybrid still evolving
HotLanta, 11/11/2004
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall, I really like the car but it is a basic, no-frills vehicle. The interior is plastic, not leather, which scratches easily. The wind noise, when the back windows are down on the interstate, is deafening. The best fuel mileage has been 40 mpg (we average about 37 mpg), which is less than the 60 mpg fuel efficiency indicated on the dealer invoice. There is a blind spot with the side mirrors - a safety problem in highway traffic. The dealership indicated the brakes are half worn at 12,000 miles - I don't ride my brakes so not certain if it is due to an audible popping noise. Service department trips have been very time consuming and frustrating.
Good for trips
sjc355VT, 11/14/2008
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love this car on trips, but I should've gotten a 5 speed! I live where we have 8% grade mountains that I sometimes have to go down in winter. Most economy cars even in automatic have a 1st gear option that you can manually put the car into. This does NOT! And the fact that there are no ABS brakes means pumping the brakes on straight-aways then hoping you don't slide across the corner off the mountain. It's scary. I love this car, but that is reason enough for me to get something with 1st gear as an option. Also on dry straight-aways I tried it in 2nd gear and it didn't stay where it should - it picked up speed! Hello!
honda civic dx
tterry, 12/23/2003
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great car , Great style and fun to drive have made several long triops and even with a full load gets 38 -40 better than my motorcycle, if you want a sharp fun car that want send ya to the poor house this is it
GOOD TO GO
usmc2111, 11/22/2003
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This vehicle has performed flawlesy on a cross country trip from Illinois to California loaded down with three people and tons of luggage.
Expecting a little more from Honda!
Mike, 01/29/2007
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This was my 1st Honda. Gas mileage is great. It was the reason I bought it. Dealership not very inspiring. Had 2 electronic issues. Gas gauge faulty. When that was fixed I found out thru a safety inspection the rear lights didn't work. My mech traced the problem to behind the dash. At 1st Honda confirmed that fact but then said it was at the transmission. Wrote owner of dealership to complain but was told he would stand behind his staff. $700 later it was fixed. What was I thinking. The consumer is right?? My mechanic traced the problem and stated that the cell on the transmission was ok. Problem was behind the dash. Who did the work behind the dash? I'm getting the Mazda3 next week!
love my hybrid
demisim, 10/28/2004
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.3L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
i drive over 25000 miles a year, so saving an estimated $5,000 over 5 yrs in fuel costs. still getting 48.4 mpg, even though i beat on the car and average about 90mph on the freeway. yeah, im a speedfreak and the 85 horses still perform well at this consistant speed.
False Advertising
JScottS, 12/30/2003
2004 Honda Civic Si 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Where is the performance?! This is not the car I thought I was buying. Why did Europe get the Type R model? For all you people thinking that you got a great car go online and see the car Europe got. You will think twice about buying the Si. At highway speeds the transmission whines like a spoiled child. I keep reaching for another gear that does not exist. The ride is very rough. This is not a comfortable car for driving any kind of distance. Lousy fuel economy compared to the standard civic. The silver coating on the center console is cheap and easily scratches.
Does the job for the least money
GoingfromAtoBandBack, 01/07/2007
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Too many people marry for looks rather than moral character, and too many people get an unreliable car with the same superficial philosophy. We couldn't be happier with our base-model Honda Civic. My car is not my identity but simply a thing to take me from A to B and back. Over the last three years, our Civic has done the job flawlessly. And we got it for the least money long- term among compact cars, except for the Corolla, which is comparable. People don't need 6 or 8 cylinders, or a car that "looks good." As drivers, we need cars that will reliably drive us on paved roads without driving up our debt or driving us crazy with repairs. The Civic builds contentment and peace in our hearts.
Can't feel the hype
lfas, 09/07/2014
updated 09/08/2016
2004 Honda Civic LX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 15 people found this review helpful
I owned this car in 4-door LX 4 speed auto guise for neigh on four years, and other than the fact that this little car handled like crazy and could take an off ramp at 60 mph with ease, that's where my admiration ends. Post ownership, and for the life of me I cannot grasp the Honda hype that led me to plunk down my cash on this vehicle. I just plainly don't know what sparks such admiration for Honda Civcs. The car was vastly underpowered for daily commuter driving around the Chicagoland area. I am fond of saying that Civics can't manage to get out of their own way. Was it the auto trans that muted power? The car had an all around anemic, fragile feel to me.
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
Great Job Honda!
kev1172, 06/23/2004
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall, this car is everything that a budget minded consumer wants for under $15000. Small, ecomonical, and a no nonsense approach to functionality, wrapped up in a fun to drive, sporty car thats not embarrasing to drive around town in. If your looking for a car without all the frills that you dont need, but need features like a/c and cd player, this really is the car for you.
How can so many people buy this junk?
Henry04, 07/07/2004
2004 Honda Civic LX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I really hate this car! Summer in Virginia is always hot, and this car has the worst AC I have seen in any of the car! Take >10 minutes to cool down even set at the maximum. I want to get rid of it ASAP!!!
Fantastic Car - Great Deal
RevKellie, 05/27/2004
2004 Honda Civic Value Package 2dr Coupe (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Looks great, handles like a dream and the gas mileage is super. In a day when gas is 2 bucks a gallon - the civit is fantastic. Have recieved many compliments on its sporty look - and because its a Honda - it will last until I die.
This a Great Little Car!
Robert Clarke, 07/11/2006
2004 Honda Civic Si 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Honda and so far it is the best. Fast, great seats and the shifter is perfect. 2000 miles so far and I get 33 mpg per tank. Braking is awesome and I need it because I drive it fast!
just a GOOD CAR
alex e, 07/08/2004
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
i'm an 18-year-old college student and this civic is my first band new car. it's so quiet in neutral that i didn't even realize it was running the first time i got in. i'm 6'3" and have no problem getting in or out of my car. i also fit quite comfortably in the back seats and headroom is not even an issue. very sleek, easy-to-work interior. never have to struggle up any grade hill with this manual transmission- gear engagement is smooth, and the clutch is very soft. engine boom starts becoming evident once you get past 4k rpms, but isn't a problem on the freeway since rpms stay at juuust under 4k going 85mph.(6th gear would help.)i get 33 mpg, LOVE the car!
Bragging rights
Milton S, 04/29/2004
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan w/Side Airbags (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The car drove like any other car except I saved LOTS of money.
The worst car
kydrizer, 03/31/2004
2004 Honda Civic LX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my first car.I chose honda civic because of brand power. But it is very noisy that really annoying me when accelating.It has real weak power than its competitor like hyundai elantra,toyota corolla.. And gas milage is not good especially in city as it is advertised. (genuine 25mpg)
Horrible Honda
Nomer, 05/01/2004
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan w/Side Airbags (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Never again, what a piece of junk. The transmission went out at a little over 5000 miles. The interior lights quit working. My dash lights flicker. The ride is less than comfortable and it doesnt have the get up and go I expected. No more Hondas for me!
I Love my Civic
MattB3901, 02/22/2006
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The wife and I bought a 2004 civic new, and love it. Fit and finish are excellent. Fuel economy is great I have averaged 37mpg (better than window sticker). I have put 58k on it in 18 months and only had to change the oil and buy a set of tires. This is the best car for the money. We bought it new for around 16K. Reliable and comfortable, and safe to, I was in two accidents and both times walked away fine (not fender benders were talking serous crumple zone work-6K in damage). The civic is a great commuter car.
Saves $$$ on Gas - But Crappy Car
Babu Bhai Patel, 03/18/2006
2004 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan (1.7L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The car is only good for its gas mileage. Otherwise it is a poorly manufactured vehicle. You have to crank the radio more than half way to hear anything since the car fails to block the road and engine noise. Speaking of engine noise, the engine is so loud even though the engine power is worse than my lawnmower. The car easily scratches internally and externally. The car is so compact and uncomfortable. Also, there is no door lock/unlock switch on the passenger side. What the hell was Honda thinking. It is common sense. It probably costs Honda only $2 to install that feature in the car. No space in the back seat.