2002 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 light127 owner complaints, usually around 65,100 miles, owners paid about $600

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

• Complete transmission failure79 owner complaints, usually around 99,000 miles, owners paid about $2,933

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Headlights failing or too dim52 owner complaints, usually around 130,000 miles

  Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.

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 19V499000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V501000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V182000, Mar 6, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 18V268000, Apr 26, 2018
• Air bagsRecall number 15V370000, Jun 15, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 15V320000, May 28, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 14V700000, Nov 4, 2014
• Exterior lightingRecall number 12V136000, Mar 30, 2012
• Fuel system, otherRecall number 07V512000, Nov 1, 2007
• Exterior lightingRecall number 04V086000, Feb 24, 2004
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 01V329000, Oct 22, 2001

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• Dealer messageDec 19, 2017
• Advertisement in hawaiian newspapers to remind owners of the takata recall and to schedule an appointment...Aug 21, 2016
• Dealer message - this video from honda senior vice president bruce smith is in response to a recall...Mar 31, 2016
• Video - this video from honda senior vice president bruce smith is in response to a recall expansion that...Mar 31, 2016

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.