Used 2009 Honda Civic Consumer Reviews
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Safe, solid, satisfied
I have owned a 2006 Honda Accord since new, and have been very pleased. Along came cash for clunkers, and I happened to have a '94 Explorer that I was ready to junk, and lo and behold, $4500 was too much to pass up for a new car. This '09 lx-s sedan is really the ticket! It's solid and responsive. The black interior is unique to other civics, and really sets it apart. Both the '06 and the '09 are white. Seems to be the best color for looking sharp and to keep clean, although I do like black. Have had the car for a couple of months, get 30 mpg average, and really like driving it. I've learned to keep my right knee away from the emergency brake handle. It bothered me at first.
Fun/practical the perfect mix
I've had my Si sedan for only a week, but I can tell you that this a special car. The suspension is both compliant and firm, brakes are excellent, steering is quick and precise, clutch and drive-train are easy and smooth in stop and go traffic or in spirited driving. Mid-RPM range power delivery is good and it keeps getting better as you pass 5000 rpm. The engine is marvelous.
- LX-S SedanMSRP: $8,500172 mi away
- LX-S SedanMSRP: $10,019107 mi away
- EX SedanMSRP: $8,975176 mi away
Gobs of Fun To Drive
Have the car for 7 months, for the price no other car company can match it for performance, styling, fun meter level. The Civic-EX isn't even close in matching the Si's performance... no auto tranny may be the reason for not getting Si for many buyers. About 6.6 seconds to 60 mph with a 4 cyl. engine (no turbo), and only 197 hp, 139 ft.lbs of torque! I'm getting about 25 mpg overall with about 60% city driving. You have to rev this car above 6k rpm to find its "sweet" spot. If you want less 4.0 sec to 60 mph, then buy a Vette for $80+K! One car magazine rates it #17 for the most fun to drive for ALL cars on the road (including BMW, Audi, etc.) that are priced 2x+ the Si's sticker.
Hard to Beat
I have over 4K miles on my LX and am averaging 35.4 mpg after running 10 tanks of gas through it. Ran it through it's first snow the other day and it handled remarkably well. My only regret is not having opted for the LX-S version, 'cause I'd like to have the alloy wheels.
One recommendation not mentioned...
The car is pretty everything everyone says it is. It is my 5th Civic and so far, the best of them all. One thing I can attest to is the ride quality if your lower the air pressure by two pounds. It calls for 32psi, but at that level the ride is rather stiff. If you lower the air pressure down to 30psi, you will find the ride quality greatly improved without a loss in fuel economy. Since these tires do not last for much more than 30K, you will not lose any wear in dropping the pressure by 2 pounds. It will make a huge difference in the ride quality. Try it and you will see for yourself.
Best Bang For Your Buck!
I went to the dealership to talk them out of their last S2000, however, they were still very proud of it, although it was a brand new 2008 model, and I was trying to purchase it in June 2009. I test drove many vehicles. I had previously owned an RX8 and had already wanted a NA high rev. engine. After I test drove the SI I was sold. Fun to drive, affordable, cheap insurance, great build quality. The car has a great platform to add aftermarket parts at a reasonable price. Maintenance is so much more reasonable than the RX8. Granted, the RX8 is unique and handles like a dream. The Honda is just a great value for the price!
Excellent choice
In my opinion this is best value for the money car on the market. The fit and finish of the leather and the whole interior is top-notch, and clearly beats out the 2009 Corolla that I test drove. Both the Corolla and Civic are very close, but Honda has the edge in appearance inside and out, as well as build quality. The doors have a nice thud to it, almost like a luxury car, while the Corolla had a slight rattle every timed you closed the driver side door. It's those little things that made me give Honda my cash. Both Honda and Toyota are rated #1 and #2 in reliability so it's hard to go wrong...
Awesome car!!!
I've had my 2009 EX for 3 months now and love it! Much more comfortable than the Corolla that I used to have. No complaints from me. There are times when I start it up it takes a couple of extra seconds to get the engine running. I've discovered if I park on the smallest hill sometimes there's a 'clunking' noise as I shift from P to R, also there are times when I shift from R to D I've noticed the engine accelerates a little as the tachometer indicates, but other than those minor things the '09 Civic is definitely an awesome car to own!!!
Mileage?
Not sure if the city mileage rating is for less densely packed urban areas, but I drive around Chicago all day and get about 18 mpg in the city. I haven't done much highway driving yet, but those times where I have, I'm pretty sure I'm getting over 30 mpg. My Civic only has about 700 miles on it (it's hard to rack up miles in the city), so I'm hoping once it's fully broken in the mpg will get a little better. It's still a lot better than my old '95 Explorer which got about 8 mpg in downtown Chicago.
Very good, but still lacking
I got this car after owning many minivans. Most of the time I dont have my family onboard, so it is a waste of $ and fuel to drive around a bigger size vehicle. First time for me to own a foreign vehicle. Overall I am impressed with the quality of everything, everything works nicely together. I love the small sport-sized steering wheel, good handling (some body lean, though), no squeaks & rattles; overly well built. Fuel economy so far is not that great (about 23mpg average), but having just 1,700 miles, I hope it will improve with time. I miss the illuminated power window switches - mirror switches which I use once in a lifetime is lighted, but window switches are not (except driver's)!
Very nice car and 60% US part contents
Very nice car, very reliable, I don't even think will I make it anywhere. Great gas mileage. Assembled in East Liberty Ohio with 60% US part contents...check out some Pontiacs G3- G4s, etc. Some 100% Japan. The only bad thing I have to say about the Civic...that it wouldn't hurt to get some snow tires for snow, my escort handled better in the snow. Other then that, I always get people looking at my car, very nice looking car and great style.
Honda LX Sedan
This a very nice car for the money. It has good features at this price point and more standard features than the Nissan Sentra I owned previously.
Awesome Gas Mileage
I have 9000 miles on my Honda Civic. This is the 5th Honda I've owned and one of the best. I average 44 MPG after 9000 miles and yes I keep track after each fill-up. It's fun to drive and I really enjoy the split dash design. It has adequate low end pickup but highway passing won't set you back in the seat. The car excels in its mission of mixed highway and town driving. The ride is sport-like but some may call it harsh. It has a tight firm ride which I enjoy. The fit and finish of the interior is excellent. I would recommend more outlets in the front interior area, but this is a rather picky criticism.
Elegant feeling Civic
This vehicle replaces a 2000 Honda Accord I owned. I have been very happy with my previous car and having driven 6,000 miles with this current vehicle, I am very happy I purchased it. Though, small, the Civic feels very roomy and spacious for its size. The gauge layout is interesting, but has become very beneficial for me. The voice activated navigation is a great feature and being able to connect my phone for the hands free link is perfect for me. I am happy I stayed with Honda.
Awesome Sports Car!
For just under 22K in 2008 when they first came out (it's a 2009 remember), this car has been great! It's a sedan; so a family car that I have gotten up to 32mpg in! Five people can be worked out and 4 can be comfortable in the race-inspired seats. The seats go with the sweet interior, great sound system, almost heads up display, and all the buttons on the steering wheel. But it's also a race car! Stiffened suspension on the 17's and a 200hp engine work well to make a very fun practical car that's great for everyday!
Great car
I have only had this car for a couple of days, but I LOVE it. Fun to drive, sporty, great turn radius, and awesome visibility. It's a great time to buy. It was a steal at only $17,816.
AWESOME
Great car. Went from the luxury 07 Nissan Maxima to this Honda. Great choice. Gas mileage is awesome. Has all the toys (voice nav, bluetooth, XM). Can't beat that.
What can I say, it's made by Honda
I bought my Civic Si and 2 weeks later took it on a 3,000 mile journey. My gas mileage was low 30's and the seats were comfortable. I am very satisfied with my purchase and use it as my everyday ride.
Please note during break in period!!
This is a great car and I have posted before about the tire pressure, but it is important that you also DO NOT change the oil during the break in period until you get down to 10% oil change indicator. We are pushed to change the oil ASAP all the time, but on the first go around, FOLLOW THE MANUAL and get the most out of the break in additives from Honda. Just a great performing vehicle. Man, the money you can't beat the quality, reliability and durability!
More power than I expected
I only have the car for a week, this is my sixth Honda, first Hybrid. The car has ample acceleration and power, very quiet ride. Face it with the unstable oil market, it's time to make the change. I only leased the car for three years, who knows what type of power will be available in the future. I don't think the extra cost will pay for itself in three years, but I leased it to save gas, not money.
Economy, but not so much fun....
I have had this car for 5 months, great economy, not a pleasure to drive. The visibility on right side is none, you can't sit high enough to judge how close you are. Please when going up a hill stay in right lane, there is no power to pass or accelerate. The car is very low, can bottom out easy. I also get back aches from driving long distances. But it is what it is good on fuel. I will be heading to Florida soon, that will tell the story.
Still a solid, everyday car
Purchased the Civic based on its reputation above all else. Wanted a reliable, fuel-efficient, decent sized starter car. To this point it has not disappointed. It has a fairly roomy interior (can comfortably fit 4 people who are under 6 feet tall). The dashboard design is useful with the mph gauge sitting above the rpm gauge--have had no problems with it. If anything, it is more convenient because your eyes barely have to glance down to see your speed. I have been getting mileage along the lines expected: 28ish city/traffic driving and 36ish highway. The drive and handling is smooth enough, but I'm no expert on that.
Gas mileage???
After over a year of research and shopping we decided it was a no-brainer to go with the Civic. The car has 1500 miles on it, and the best mpg we got was 25.4. The mix is about 70% highway, 30% around town. Honda customer care and the dealership both say the mileage should improve after or around the 1st oil change. 5000 miles. We both work at home so we won't find out until next year about August. Sounds like I'm getting the run-a-round from both. We like everything else about the car, but we bought it mainly because of it's great gas mileage.
No remote trunk access on LX?
I bought my Civic LX two weeks ago and am generally very pleased with it. BUT, I am disappointed that Honda has not entered the 21st century along with Saturn and other cars by providing remote trunk access with their Civic LX. The apparent reason: to provide a disincentive to buy the LX, and push you to buy an EX for $2000 more. So, if you have kids, if you shop and appreciate easy trunk access as you lug items to the car, buy another car. Is remote trunk access worth $2000? Not in my book. Next car will be a Toyota.
Solid little car with one nagging issue!
I've had my LX-S sedan for a few months now, and all has gone well except for one persistent issue that has popped up since the weather has become cold. When the car has been sitting for a few hours in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the car will often not start on the first try, or the car will start and then die out. The indicator window on the battery states that the battery is fine. On a brand new car, this is unacceptable. Come on Honda don't skimp on batteries with decent cold cranking amps.
Novelty has worn off a little
OK - so with 8500 miles, the novelty has worn off a little. It's still a great commuter, but I agree with many of the other reviews: 1) comfortable on short rides; painful on anything more than 2 hours; 2) horrible power on hills, especially if stopped at a stop light and you have to start on an incline (takes about 3-5 seconds to really "get going"); 3) very loud on anything over 3000 rpm (aka hills). I put on aftermaket wheels b/c I didn't like the stock - looks great, but did subtract 3 MPG (but worth it IMO); I've averaged 37.5 MPG over the past 3,000 miles (and that does involve crossing a 9% incline daily to work). Bottom line - great for MPG; lacks power / comfort.
Battery Problems
With less than 4500 miles, twice my IMA and check engine light came on. The first time they replaced the battery, second time had to do some updates (there is a TSB out regarding the problem). I like the better mileage 37- 38 but was hoping I would get more MPG. I drive mostly in the city. It takes a long time, 5 to 10 minutes of driving time, for the heat to get warm. When going from a full stop, 5-7 seconds to get going.
Good lil hybrid
I'm more of the high HP kind of guy but was looking to get as far away as possible from my WRX. So going to a hybrid was quite the step down in the motor dep. I must say I'm really impressed in this lil EZ-go car! The power is less then seat pounding but other then that I love it. The inside is well made and there's plenty of storage space. The ride is fairly good. I'm looking to up-grade the sound deading abilities... I drive from Houston, TX to Lincoln, NE quite a bit in a given year. I have had this car for about 6-7 months now and I'm trying to pick it apart it's quite hard to find anything to nit pick. Just keep in mind this IS a hybrid. The tech is pretty new to the market.
Impressive for a small car
This is my 3rd Honda preceded by an '06 Accord and '07 Ridgeline. The Civic is impressive for an economy car and is inexpensive enough that I don't feel guilty about it being my daily driver. When I feel to drive a big, quiet, comfortable vehicle with a V8 I'll just take my '09 Silverado out for a spin.
Honda 2009 3 month review
The Honda Civic is a great car to drive. It handles well and it is fun to drive. The air conditioning on warm days takes a little while to get cool. Have not experienced the mileage that Honda claims the car gets. The Ipod connection is great. I am experiencing a noise that is coming from the passenger side dashboard that I cannot locate. Taking back to Honda to see what their service people tell me. Once this issue is corrected I would recommend this car to anyone.
Settled for better
I bought a Civic after reviewing every other car in its class. I used my NRA discount and saved another $1700.00. I was thinking I was settling when in reality I traded up. This car is solid, reliable, gets great mileage with my lead foot, is fun to drive, and comfortable on long trips. The USB port works with ipod, flash drives and external USB hard drives. The center console holds my work gear easily. The remote is handy and the open roof is great here in the south, as it lets out the heat. I just wish I could open it with the remote. I would love more power, and could have gone with the Si, but insurance costs are much higher. My EX only raised my rates a few dollars.
Reliable and fuel efficient US made auto
Just passed 15,000 miles and still pleased. We average 36 MPG. The car is comfy. Four can travel on long trips without much trouble. Five is OK for short trips. Leg room in back is very good. I like the split dash as everything is right there. The road noise can get loud sometimes, but it's mostly only noticed when the radio is off. If you want a solid fuel efficient, US made, worry free auto - you can't go wrong with a Civic.
Civic Surprise
Over the last 15 years I have owned Audis, BMWs, Acuras and Mitsubishis. I have always been trying to find the right car for the small daily commutes and riding around town on small tasks. I always thought having a luxury car was the answer. I traded in my 2006 Acura TSX for the Civic. I was so surprised by this car. I have just enough creature comforts to get by but the ride is very surprising. The room inside is much bigger than I thought. Overall compared to all my other cars I have owned this is the right match for me. Love the gas mileage, comfort and overall use for this small sedan. As reviewed the Civic does have some road noise but it is no louder than an Acura and BMW is louder
Aweful Fuel Economy- 25 MPG average
Purchased Honda Civic LX sedan in September 2009. EPA mileage estimates were 25-36 MPG. I have had Honda Civics for the past 14 years and have averaged 36 MPG. This car has had awful fuel economy. My main reason for purchasing a Civic was for fuel economy. Contacted dealership- "nothing they can do"; contacted Honda USA case manager- "can't make any promises they can do anything about it". 22-25 MPG is what I am getting with this car, not the average of 36 MPG on my previous Civics. If it cannot be corrected, I will have to get rid of the car.
Okay
Car has moderate road noise; seems poorly insulated. Bluetooth calls can easily be heard outside of vehicle. The ride is pretty rough; can feel every road imperfection. Take corners at posted speed; otherwise car feels like it is slipping. The auto tranny is awful. If you don't make complete stops, the tranny will jerk into gear when you push the throttle. Downshifts are not subtle, either. Build quality is less than expected. Rear bumper fitment was off, paint scratches very easily, several plastic interior components replaced under warranty already
2009 Honda Civic Si Coupe
The 2009 Honda Civic Si Coupe is a real bargain for an under $25,000 car. I never tire from driving it. The seats are pleasing to look at; however, I sometimes have a difficult time finding a comfortable seating position. Below 5,800 rpms there is not much power. I usually reach i-VTEC in first and second gear, but that is usually it unless I want to obtain a speeding ticket. On the streets I have only been able to redline the car in first gear because it already brings me to 55 mph. Honda should increase the power, so it can be accessible earlier. The transmission is smooth, and I am able to shift the gears effortlessly although fifth and sixth gears are mostly useless.
Tire Problems??
For starters, you don't buy a Honda for a comfortable ride. Hondas are purchased for reliability and gas mileage - GOT IT! I have owned a Honda for 25 years and currently own 5 Civics. I purchased a 2009 Civic EX-L in 8/09. After 7000 mls, had to put 2 tires on the rear & get 4 wheel alignment. At 14500 mls had to put 2 tires on rear & get 4 wheel alignment. The car seems to be eating more tread than gas. With that said, my dealership has not charged for the problem, but has not yet offered a fix. We'll see if this becomes an issue when we reach 36000 and the warranty runs out. Also, Honda engineers, why did you place the e- brake so close to your knee? Confidant Honda will fix the issue.
Nice looking car but very bad city MPG
I had purchased this vehicle after my friends told me it was good on gas. Well I got a civic 2009 EX and the MPG is horrible. I am getting 23 miles per gallon on this car. My tank is half empty with only 110 miles. I wish I can take it back for a more economical one. Not to mention the price. Too high for this car. Honda, you're going cheap to improve gas efficiency on brand new cars. People you will not be happy paying over 20,000 for this MPG. I am not a rough rider either.
Good, Not Great Car
I have owned my 2009 LX-S for 6 months now and I am pretty happy with it. It is excellent on gas I average about 33 MPG overall, I love the styling (both inside and out), it is smooth, reliable and has plenty of room for most anyone (I am 6'3" and I fit with ease) even the back has better space than most all the other cars I test drove. I am still kicking myself for not dishing out the extra cash for the Si (the car is fun but i can just imagine what those extra 57 horses could do).
So Far So Good
So far I am pretty happy with my purchase of a Civic. Overall, it's what I expected. There are a few surprising issues. Most notably, the car has a tough time starting when its cold out (under 20 degrees). I live in the Northeast and that has been rather often this winter. The windshield washer nozzles have also been freezing up since I've had the car. It doesn't handle well in the snow but I expected that since it's so light. I do like the reliability that comes with the Civic and it does ride well. Also, the gas gauge seems to underestimate the amount of gas in the tank. I actually was driving with no bars on the gas gauge, so I rushed to fill the tank and I still had about 2 gallons left.
Love it!
I've had a 99' Honda Civic before this - just the basic model- and it was a really reliable car, compared to an 06' liberty I drove. I've only had my 09' CIVIC for a week and I love it, I can hardly wait to drive it every day. I bought the EX-L version because I wanted all the bells and whistles, and I don't regret getting this one. It honestly drives like a BMW - loads of fun to drive, even if you are just cruising and very comfortable to ride in. I always turn heads in this car. Perfect for a college student looking for a sporty, luxury, economical, reliable car.
Great Little Car!
I have been waiting about three months to purchase my new vehicle and I finally decided on a Civic. I had purchased a brand new one back in 2002 and this 2009 is by far a much nicer car, the visibility, comfort and build quality.
Excellent car for the money
I average about 30.5 mpg with a heavy foot in hwy and city driving. This car meets all my needs and I love my dealer added XM radio w/the display. This baby keeps up with the fast cars. A quiet ride and stylish- I like the fact that Honda re-added the silver strip to the back of the car like the old Civics had. I love Hondas and would re-purchase this one.
Horrible fuel economy
I have owned 2 previous Honda Civics in the past 14 years. Got a 2009 Civic recently, and it is getting horrible fuel economy. This one is only getting average of 24 MPG, whereas my previous Civics got 36 MPG. American Honda says there is nothing wrong with the car, so now I am stuck with a gas guzzzler car. NO MORE HONDAS FOR ME EVER AGAIN !!!!!
Extremely Pleased
I was coming off of a horrible Chevy experience. I had two vehicles back to back and they were awful. My Equinox was free and clear and I still decided to purchase the '09 Civic. I am very happy with this car!! I am 34 and past the need for looks and frills and wanted something I could put 150-200k on and I think I've found it with this vehicle. At 70k I've only needed front brakes. I do the normal tire rotation,oil and filter changes and it runs very smooth. My friend needed to borrow it and he commented on how well it brakes,the easy steering and overall handling. So far I can say that Honda has me for life,and I could not be happier!!!
Si
I just traded mi EX for this Si. I have to say that is a very impressive car. You get a sedan and a sporty car at the same time. well balanced, great fun, great sound system. If anyone asks me one thing to change, i would change: Some features in the outside more than the Si badge or the spoiler. Maybe change the tail-lights or the thunk..i don't know, i just don't like the fact that sometimes people thinks my car is an EX and i just added a spoiler and bought a set of Si rims. I just love the way it feels and looks. I made a great purchase.
Toyota Lost!
I've been a Toyota fan for a while, but when I was in the market for a coupe, I was not impressed with Toyota (scion). Everything I wanted was an upgrade on the scion and by the time I got what I wanted, the civic had it, (and then some) at a better price then the scion. I am very happy with the civic. I traded in my corolla for the civic. My wife drives a 2004 acura TL and she always asks me to trade with her, I tell her no, it's mine!
4Dr Si
The most fun car to drive I ever drove & I have a quick BMW also. Fit & finish are excellent. I have 5200 miles on it and thus far no problems. I get 25 MPG combined hwy & town even when I drive it hard. Excellent value
Not For Me
Mileage is excellent (37 combined) and the engine and transmission are smooth and will last. But the interior design is so poor that I got rid of the car already. Shifter is so far forward that you have to continually reach for it. Between the seats needs an arm rest. Seat belts bind.
Fun to drive, but BUYER BEWARE!
The car is fun to drive. It has good acceleration and corners very well. Gas mileage is pretty good, averaging around 33 mpg combined city and highway driving. BUYER BEWARE THE A/C CONDENSER. A week ago, I noticed that my A/C was not cooling. Called the dealership and they said that it was possibly a rock through the condenser. I took it in, and sure enough, a big hole in the A/C condenser. Cost of repair, $576. I did a Google search and apparently this is a common event that Honda will not address as a problem, not only on civic, but also accord and odyssey. They tell you to file a claim with your insurance company for their poor design. This is not what I expected from a Honda.