1989 Honda Civic Problems
- Complaints
- 69filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 100,000miles, 3 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 1campaigns on record
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 29 mpgcombined, 1.5L 4-cyl FWD · 27 city / 33 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 1989 Honda Civic (complaints, recalls, investigations), EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of this model year most often write about the front seat belts, describing buckles or latch mechanisms that release or do not hold in a crash, followed by electrical problems that leave the car stalling or refusing to start. Complaints also describe sudden engine surging, cooling-system leaks, and fuel leaks. Reported mileage varies widely, but most complaints come in at or above 90,000 miles.
- Seat belts
Seat belt buckle releases or fails to hold
- 14 complaints (20%)
- median 90,000 mi at 14.9 yrs old (1 states mileage, few)
- 7 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 1995–2006
Owners describe front seat belts that come unbuckled on their own or fail to latch in a collision. Several complaints involve the motorized automatic belts, where the belt released after the battery was disconnected in a crash. Others say the buckle locking mechanism broke or the shoulder belt did not retract, and that the dealer either could not reproduce the problem or replaced components without resolving it. Reported across a wide mileage range, from cars with roughly 90,000 miles up to higher-mileage examples, in both routine driving and crash situations.
What to check: Test both front buckles several times, including the automatic belt motors, and ask whether the belt buckle recall work was completed and documented. Check that the belts latch firmly with a clear click.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“The 1989 Honda Civic dx uses motorized seat belts. My niece was in an accident this weekend, hit a freeway railing that caused the battery to become disconnected; upon its disconnect, the motorized seat belts were released which resulted in my niece being ejected from the vehicle. She was killed in subject accident. Is there any automotive recall or litigation information available about similar accidents? Have there been similar litigations?”
NHTSA complaint #716861, filed 2000-01“I had auto accident, I was going 15 to 20 miles an hour. When I hit small tree. The steering wheel crushed my chest and I suffered a spinal cord injury at the t~2 level and now I'm now a quadriplegic. My seat belt failed to hold, the seat belt assembly had been recalled mine was replaced under recall. In 1996 recall no.- 95-028 I was still having trouble with the belt latch not staying fastened called the Honda company to correct the problem they didn't help me at all. …”
NHTSA complaint #10156742, filed 2006-05 - Electrical system
Stalling and no-start from ignition and electrical faults
- 6 complaints (9%)
- median 100,000 mi at 17.4 yrs old (1 states mileage, few)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 1996–2006
Complaints describe engines cutting out at speed, hard starting or no-start after sitting, and stalling that returns after parts are replaced. Owners mention ignition distributors, igniters, and main relays, and in some cases a mechanic traced the fault to the electrical system only after a timing belt replacement did not help. A few reports describe stalling followed by smoke and fire under the hood. Mostly reported between roughly 90,000 and 100,000 miles, with some cars stalling intermittently for years before a cause was found.
What to check: Ask whether the distributor, igniter, and main relay have been replaced and when. Start the car cold and after it has sat hot, and check for intermittent dash lights or hard starting.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Within the first year after purchase the vehicle on three separate occasions stalled and would not restart (temporarily)while moving. One one occasion merely waiting at curbside about 25 minutes was sufficient to allow car to restart. No dashboard lights indicated any problem. The situation repeated itself on at least two occasions. On the final occasion (1990) it was accompanied by an intense electrical burning smell. No fuses blew that I could tell. Thereafter I have never experienced another stalling episode of this type. …”
NHTSA complaint #706821, filed 1999-05“Previousy vehicle has had problems with intermittently not starting and stalling at any speed. Vehicle had been at dealer several times, and dealer never made consumer aware of a recall. Igniter was replaced with a update piece.”
NHTSA complaint #897392, filed 2001-10 - Vehicle speed control
Engine surges or races unexpectedly
Mentioned in 5 of 33 sampled complaints
Owners report the engine revving on its own while idling or shortly after a restart, sometimes lurching the car forward. In a few reports the car accelerated unexpectedly when the shift lever was moved into gear, and one owner linked gasoline spraying from the throttle body onto the engine computer. Several say the behavior persisted and no shop could explain it. Described at idle and after restarts on cars of varying age, with some owners reporting the behavior for years.
What to check: Sit with the car idling and watch the tachometer for a wandering or high idle, and check the throttle body and linkage for sticking or fuel residue. Ask whether the throttle body or idle controls have been serviced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Engine revs and surges forward. This is especially bad when in idle or when restarting after having been driven. Several times this high revving has caused the car to lurch forward, and in a couple of instances has almost caused car to hit auto in front of it. This has happened since purchase three years ago and continues to this day. No one has been able to explain to me why nor been able to fix. This condition causes high fuel consumption as well as being a safety factor.”
NHTSA complaint #10075237, filed 2004-06“Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration while in a parking lot causing collison, the impact was so great that the occupant of the vehicle sustained a broken shoulder blade. Nlm”
NHTSA complaint #554504, filed 2000-09
Buying note. Check the seat belts and buckles carefully and confirm any recall work was completed, since that is what owners of this model year write about most. Also budget for age-related electrical, cooling, and fuel-system attention on a car this old, and have a mechanic inspect the radiator, ignition components, and fuel tank before purchase.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 33 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 69 consumer complaints for the 1989 Honda Civic. 3 of the complaints include a mileage, and 0% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 100,000 miles. Of all complaints, 15 involved a crash, 2 a fire, 18 an injury, 2 a death, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign and 0 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Seat belts18 26%
- Electrical system11 16%
- Engine cooling8 12%
- Fuel system7 10%
- Seats4 5.8%
- Brakes3 4.3%
- Suspension3 4.3%
- Tires3 4.3%
Also reported: Equipment (2), Steering (2), Body and structure (2), Transmission and drivetrain (2), Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (2), Exterior lighting (1), Other or unknown (1).
Example complaints
Seat belts: “My Civic collided with the side of another vehicle at approximately 40mph. The lap component of my seatbelt engaged allowing only minor bruising/cuts to my knees which hit the dash. The shoulder belt, however, did not engage causing my chest to slam into the steering column causing a deep chest contusion. My insurance co's appraiser tested the belt but claims it catches when tugged on. The local dealership claims seatbelts are to keep you in the car, not to prevent you from hitting the steering wheel/dash/windshield.”
NHTSA complaint #704555, filed 1999-03Electrical system: “The contact stated the engine revved while the vehicle idled in park. The check engine light would illuminate and the gears were hard to shift. While driving at various speeds the vehicle gradually lost power and then stalled. The vehicle was inspected by an independent repair shop for the stalling issue. The mechanic replaced the timing belt, however the problem continued. During the second inspection the mechanic determined there was an electrical issue. The vehicle has not been repaired.”
NHTSA complaint #10151024, filed 2006-02, 100,000 milesVehicle speed control: “Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration when consumer put shift lever into reverse causing broken bones and several other injuries to the occupants. Nlm”
NHTSA complaint #551407, filed 2000-03Engine cooling: “I spoke with repair facilities and other Civic owners who say this is a common problem. The repair centers said they always replace the cracked plastic radiator with a metal radiator. Honda should install a metal radiator to begin with and this would not be a problem.”
NHTSA complaint #752252, filed 2001-09Mileage when problems were reported
0% of the 3 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 90,000 and 192,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: stable. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 1989 Honda Civic version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civic FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 4-speed manual | 29 | 35 | 31 | $2,150 |
| Civic FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 27 | 33 | 29 | $2,300 |
| Civic FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 23 | 29 | 26 | $2,600 |
| Civic FWD | 1.6L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 24 | 30 | 26 | $2,600 |
| Civic CRX FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 29 | 37 | 32 | $2,100 |
| Civic CRX FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 25 | 33 | 28 | $2,400 |
| Civic CRX FWD | 1.6L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 24 | 30 | 26 | $2,600 |
| Civic CRX HF FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 41 | 49 | 44 | $1,500 |
| Civic CRX HF FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 37 | 47 | 41 | $1,650 |
| Civic Wagon FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 26 | 32 | 29 | $2,300 |
| Civic Wagon FWD | 1.5L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 23 | 29 | 26 | $2,600 |
| Civic Wagon 4WD | 1.6L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 21 | 25 | 23 | $2,900 |
| Civic Wagon 4WD | 1.6L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | 22 | 24 | 23 | $2,900 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- 95V103001May 24, 1995Seat belts › Front › Buckle assemblyCovers: Honda Civic 1986–1991, Accord 1986–1991, Prelude 1986–1991 +3 more
The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "press." if a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to operate improperly.
Recall details for the 1989 Honda Civic → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
NHTSA investigations
Technical service bulletins
No technical service bulletins are on record for the 1989 Honda Civic.
Other model years of the Honda Civic
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 32 | 300 | 0 | 5 | 34 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2025 | 77 | 7,278 | 2 | 5 | 34 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2024 | 125 | 11,000 | 3 | 5 | 33 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2023 | 259 | 10,000 | 4 | 5 | 33 | 64 · Typical | Too new |
| 2022 | 886 | 27,000 | 4 | 5 | 33 | 100 · More | Rising |
| 2021 | 147 | 30,000 | 4 | 5 | 33 | 10 · Fewer | Rising |
| 2020 | 234 | 15,400 | 5 | 5 | 32 | 49 · Typical | Rising |
| 2019 | 443 | 16,200 | 4 | 5 | 33 | 48 · Typical | Rising |
| 2018 | 747 | 32,508 | 6 | 5 | 33 | 61 · Typical | Rising |
| 2017 | 602 | 23,066 | 6 | 5 | 34 | 66 · More | Rising |
| 2016 | 1,082 | 30,000 | 5 | 5 | 34 | 84 · More | Stable |
| 2015 | 381 | 50,000 | 1 | 4–5 | 32 | 5 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2014 | 293 | 32,570 | 2 | 4–5 | 32 | 15 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2013 | 319 | 24,000 | 0 | 4–5 | 32 | 1 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2012 | 456 | 30,150 | 3 | 4–5 | 31 | 51 · Typical | Stable |
| 2011 | 169 | 31,500 | 9 | 3 | 29 | 30 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2010 | 397 | 39,960 | 8 | — | 29 | 48 · Typical | Falling |
| 2009 | 396 | 31,000 | 8 | — | 29 | 74 · More | Falling |
| 2008 | 916 | 50,000 | 7 | — | 29 | 78 · More | Falling |
| 2007 | 1,204 | 45,000 | 9 | — | 29 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 1,404 | 60,000 | 13 | — | 29 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 316 | 65,000 | 10 | — | 30 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 350 | 82,000 | 10 | — | 30 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2003 | 499 | 76,000 | 11 | — | 30 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2002 | 702 | 90,000 | 11 | — | 30 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2001 | 1,079 | 89,320 | 14 | — | 31 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2000 | 287 | 74,000 | 6 | — | 30 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1999 | 338 | 120,000 | 3 | — | 28 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1998 | 435 | 95,000 | 4 | — | 28 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1997 | 373 | 88,000 | 2 | — | 30 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1996 | 305 | 100,500 | 2 | — | 31 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1995 | 199 | 131,000 | 0 | — | 28 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1994 | 135 | 133,050 | 2 | — | 28 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1993 | 146 | 139,500 | 1 | — | 31 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1992 | 98 | 116,754 | 1 | — | 37 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1991 | 110 | 150,000 | 1 | — | 29 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 1990 | 91 | 156,931 | 3 | — | 29 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1989 | 69 | 100,000 | 1 | — | 29 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1988 | 46 | 150,000 | 3 | — | 29 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1987 | 39 | 157,000 | 3 | — | 28 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1986 | 35 | 107,684 | 3 | — | 28 | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 1985 | 15 | — | 2 | — | 29 | — | Stable |
| 1984 | 5 | — | 3 | — | 29 | — | Not enough data |
| 1983 | 9 | — | 0 | — | — | — | Not enough data |
All Honda Civic model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 1989 Honda Civic?
Owners of this model year most often write about the front seat belts, describing buckles or latch mechanisms that release or do not hold in a crash, followed by electrical problems that leave the car stalling or refusing to start. The issues reported most often: Seat belt buckle releases or fails to hold; Stalling and no-start from ignition and electrical faults; Engine surges or races unexpectedly.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 1989 Honda Civic have?
NHTSA recorded 69 consumer complaints for the 1989 Honda Civic as of Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 1989 Honda Civic is reported most often?
Seat belts is named most often, in 18 complaints (26% of the total), followed by electrical system with 11.
Has the 1989 Honda Civic been recalled?
NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 1989 Honda Civic get?
The EPA rates the 1989 Honda Civic (Civic, 1.5L 4-cyl) at 29 mpg combined, 27 city and 33 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,300 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 1989 Honda Civic reported?
Among the 3 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 100,000 miles and the middle half falls between 90,000 and 192,000 miles; 0% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.