Used 2009 Honda Civic Sedan Consumer Reviews
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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.
Civic
This is absolutely the best car. The car not only looks great, but it is very comfortable to ride and drive. It has so many nice features inside the vehicle. If you are still not sure if you want to buy a civic, think no more, go for it, you will not regret it.
- LX SedanMSRP: $4,50038 mi away
- EX-L SedanMSRP: $5,50067 mi away
- EX SedanMSRP: $5,90071 mi away
Clunker Trade for a Tall Person
We were lured into a new car thanks to the CARS programs. We looked at many small cars, and found stock shortages at most big three dealerships. I am 6'4 and this car has lots of headroom, but not quite as much leg room as desired. My right leg rests uncomfortably on the hand brake. But not enough of an issue to not go for it. Was more comfortable in the Fit, but the discounts on the civic were greater.
I LOVE It!!!
This car is great. It is my first car and I love it. It looks great and it is actually kinda strong for a 1.8 L engine. Its better than a lot of 2.0 L engines because it preforms better on gas but has as much power as a 2.0 L engine. Its fun to drive and the speedometer is soooooo unique. Everyone that rides in my car loves it. This car is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to spend so much money on gas and perfect for someone that wants a car that's worth your money, not to mention how long this car will last. I JUST LOVE IT.
2009 honda civic Lx 4 dr.sedan ,1.8L 4cy
I have owned my civic for 2 weeks. I did not test drive the car. I wish I did. I don't like the braking takes too long to stop. The wind takes the car. I had a 2002 civic, I loved it. I just turned in my accord. I am so sorry I didn't get another one. I am stuck with it for 3 yrs. lease.
Love it!
Traded my 2004 Impala with 90.000 miles for the civic lx-s, with 134 miles on I had a little (or big) problem, the engine stopped responding to the accelerator, I kept on pumping the pedal and downshifting (just in case) on the way down to 1st gear and it got going again, took to the dealer and did not find any problems, I just have to learn to trust again, but, I love the sporty feel of the car as a whole, steering wheel, dash, outside, dont care for the wheel covers (will probably fit some nice alloys). Love the happy revving engine and the Goodyears are just ok, but for what the car was design for, it is fitting. Over 300 miles now, loving it.
Nice but gas mileage better on my 1999!
This car is nice looking, it is comfortable and the interior is a lot of bang for the buck considering the price. However, I do feel the engine is lacking a big, at only 2,500 miles I already feel a little idle rumble when I start the car and it's not nearly as good on gas as my 99 Civic EX which I also still have. That's a big disappointment to me. The brakes also seem like they are working super hard all the time and they make an awful noise when breaking on any type of hill. I don't believe they are going to last too long. Those are my only gripes, it's a nice little car.
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!!!
Great Car... But Room For Improvements
Overall satisfaction is great, just a bit upset about the MPG, getting an average of 26 mpg with normal driving. Car handles very well and the steering is tight and responsive. Engine could use just a bit more power, but still not bad. Cold morning start is a bit rough. Road noise is present, but not too bad. Very reliable car, wish it had a better warranty just for the piece of mind, needs to be 5year/60k bumper to bumper especially for the price.
It is a good car!
This is my first new Honda for me. I commute about 100 miles/day. I tell you what. I get about 31-35 miles per gallon. Handling is good and fun to drive. However, road noise is high when you are on highway.
DX-VP VP=very primitive
First new car I've ever bought. I had driven multiple cars, and did not realize this did not have keyless entry, no arm rest, not even floor mats until I was driving it home. I was furious. I brought it back. But they wanted an additional $4000 for the keyless entry and armrest. We were hoping to get the cash for clunkers, but they decided they couldn't do it because the computer system was overloaded. Then we were supposed to get 3.9% financing, but despite our exclnt credit we didn't qualify? We were at the dealership for five hours waiting for the car to be readied. During the test drive the salesman pointed out the adjustable steering wheel, but didn't mention all it lacked. Very unhappy.
Good Car, Some quirks
I've had my Civic for about 2 months now and I really enjoy it. I did a lot of research prior to purchasing this vehicle and it has lived up to almost everything I heard/read. I love both the interior and exterior styling -- the two tier dash is my favorite. The quality of the interior materials is far beyond that of some of its competitors, namely the Toyota Corolla. I read some other reviews that complained about the lack of a remote trunk release, 60/40 rear split seats, and outside temperature gauge: All of these features are available on the EX trim. My only complaint is the gas mileage...I average about 27 mpg. Based on my research, I was expecting better fuel economy.
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.
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.
Exceeding my expectations
The build quality of the '09 LX is equal to my last C Class Mercedes and the reliability will be much better at half the price. This vehicle is a solid, comfortable, quiet fun car to drive. When I pause to think about what I paid for this wonderful car I just have to laugh. The LX is a wonderful value, while also being lots of fun to drive. I'm so happy that I bought this car and wonder others pay so much more for those "high priced" brands.
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.
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.
Recent Convert
My chief priority in my purchase this time was fuel economy. I was a little nervous going from my large sedan (Ford 500) to a smaller economy type car. After driving several makes and models, I decided to go with the Civic. I am not disappointed at all. I went with the LX-S because I liked the black interior and some of the extras it came with. The car handles great and the 4 cylinder has surprising power. The fuel economy is better than expected. 4 fill ups and I have been getting 30 + mpg with over 70% being city driving. The interior is very roomy even for my 6'3 frame. The car feels very solid and just a lot better quality then all the competition I looked at. New Honda convert.
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.
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)!
New Civic Believer
I traded in my Expedition for this Civic as a means to get rid of my truck and to resell the Civic with no problem. At first I was just going to keep it until I found something else that I was interested in, but not anymore. I am more than pleased with the purchase of this car. Before it was just an in-between car, but now the more and more I drive it, I couldn't believe why it took me so long to realize this is the best car for your dollar overall. It's so fun to drive, styling is amazing, interior feels like you are in a cockpit of a jet and best of all it is so practical for almost any occasion. My suggestion to anyone thinking of buying one is too buy it and never look back!
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.
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 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.
Pluses and Minuses
Overall, a good commuter car with good mileage. Averaging 30 mph for mixed driving and have gotten 42 on a road trip with no AC going. Has some mechanical\design issues.
Fun car!
Bought this a week ago and love it! So much fun to drive. Heated leather seats are great in the cold the weather, love the one-touch sunroof. At first I wasn't sure about the split dash when I was shopping around, but after driving it it's so easy to get used and actually a lot better for checking your speed. Great on gas too.
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.
Love my Honda
This is the first Honda I have ever owned and I LOVE IT! I was driving a van and getting 22 mpg. It was costing me a bundle so after researching fuel efficient cars I decided on the Civic. It's getting 36 mpg right out of the gate! I'm thrilled with my decision and if it holds up like everyone says, then my daughter who will be driving in 5 years will be thrilled with it too. It holds my four kids comfortably and is roomy enough for my husband to drive and not feel cramped.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
New LX Sport
The new LX Sport is for those who do not want an EX (sunroof) but want upgraded class vs the LX. Just over 100 miles so far so good. Very peppy, comfy ride, handles very well.
A More reliable Merceds C Class
My 2009 Civic LX feels as good if not better than my previous Mercedes C Class cars. The Civic is all grown up, providing plenty of comfort and space. The build quality is exceptional. This car feels very solid yet eats up the local mountain roads. The handling feels planted and sure footed. The steering response is positive and easy to judge. Pure pleasure on a twisty road. My only complaint is the radio. The speakers lack dynamic range. They sound muddy. I believe that the LX is a 4 speaker audio without a tweeter. The bass and mid range are also not very clean and sharp. I have tried to adjust the bass, and tweeter but the speakers stink! I love the Civic, except for the speakers.
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
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.
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.
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).
Impressive Compact
I've only had my Civic LX sedan (automatic) one day but this is one impressive car. I love the way this car looks, handles, and rides. This generation of Civics reminds me of the Accords from years ago, and this is one thing that attracted me to the new Civic. I test drove an Accord LX this week and it was a great large car, but the Civic's handling blew away the Accord's. Overall, this car looks and drives like it should be far more expensive.
Luv my Civic
After driving the Chevy Cobalt, Corolla and Aveo I tried this car and there is no comparison hands down, the Civic won me over. I have had no problems at all. Very little road noise. This car is sharp inside and out and excellent on gas. Very solid and stable performance. I'm looking for reasons to drive it. This is my first non GM car and now I see why GM is slipping. Only Honda for me from now on. The A/c will freeze you out!
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 !!!!!
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.
Happy Owner
I read so many reviews on this car. Some bad and some good. But, I would like to offer my assessment. Be real to yourself when deciding which car to buy. Mine are 1) fuel economy 2) resale value 3) reliability 4) style 5) fun to drive. Honda Civic beat out Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla-S, and Nissan Sentra. So far, I avg 35 mpg with mix hwy/city driving. I am not a heavy foot pedal, so power is good enough. It's really fun to drive. Overall, I know I had made a right choice. :=))
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.
In luv with my 09
My exl 09 Honda Civic is more than I expected. I'm adding mudguards, window visors, moonroof visor, door guards, fitted floor mats, rear spoiler, garmin navigation. Went from VA. To Penn. Two days after buying my car and couldn't believe how great it runs.
The Most Fun Value
I was skeptical at first about a Civic. I previously drove a 2005 Corolla and wanted to "step up." I thought the Civic would not really be a step up. I drove many other cars from Toyota, VW and Acura first. Then I drove a Civic. Loved it. Has great steering, handling, ride and is pretty quiet. I have almost 1000 miles on my silver 09 civic ex manual and I couldn't be happier with my car or my payment. And I rest easy knowing that I'll be happy with a car that will most likely have few or no problems for many years to come. It's a great car. Go drive one!