How economical and reliable is the 2009 Honda Civic?

Just wondering how reliable and enjoyable to own a 2009 Honda Civic 1.4 would be. Have driven Mazdas, Toyotas and a Ford Focus - any comparisons?

Eamonn Connolly (Naas)

May 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Eamonn,

Honda is justly famed for the reliability of its cars and you shouldn't experience any major problems. The paint on some Civics can be a bit on the thin side, which means that, where it wears, you can actually get a bit of surface rust appearing, which will need attention. Engine management system glitches can lead to a drained battery if the car is left sitting for a week or two as well. Other than that, there seem to be no other major issues. 

Compared to a Focus, you'll find the ride and handling a touch flat-footed, as Honda went with a cheaper torsion bar rear suspension, but it should compare very favourably to a Mazda or Toyota - Hondas generally feel noticeably more 'premium' than either of those brands.

Hope that helps

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe