1997 Honda Civic used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Airbag warning light70 owner complaints, usually around 78,000 miles, owners paid about $500

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Airbags did not deploy in a crash22 owner complaints

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Check engine light20 owner complaints, usually around 95,890 miles, owners paid about $700

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 20V026000, Jan 17, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 97V193000, Nov 1, 1997

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Due to the floor design, a mispositioned floor mat could prevent the accelerator pedal from returning to...Sep 21, 2016
• Troubleshooting tips for DTC P1381Sep 1, 2005
• Transferring odometer mileage at odometer r&rApr 16, 2005
• Rough idle at cold start; malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) comes on with diagnostic P0107 or P0108Aug 10, 2004
• Poor radio reception, seek-stop testJul 16, 2004
• DTC P1381 set check the ignition coil shieldJul 1, 2004

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.