Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (engine, cooling system, oil leaks, timing chain, exhaust).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1996 Honda Civic owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
My 1996 Honda Civic's engine turns off while driving. There was just a recall for the newer versions(2016 Honda civics) for the same problem. I cannot find any recalls online about 1996 Honda civics shutting off while driving though. I have had this problem for about a year now.
I was driving and the auto just stopped. This was fixed and less then 2 years later the same thing happen I was driving and the enjine stopped. The same thing has been replaced twice. I find it unusual that they are willing to fix this under another recall for emission warranty , when I submitted to be reinbursed it was denied. The first time the mechanic said that the coils and inginition looked as if it had caught on fire. I am getting concerned over this and the future of this ignitions.
Engine failed due to faulty key mount on crankshaft, and 2 belts came off pulley, vehicle loss control resulting in an accident. Also, replaced windshield wiper/washer, exhaust system, throttle cable, emissions, axles, brakes, cv boots, and floor mat. 8jb
8/4/2014 dear American Honda motor company, inc. I am a proud Honda owner, and I chose Honda as my auto of choice for its compact size, its known reliability as well as great gas mileage. I have been holding on your customer service line @ [phone] for quite a while and a few days, and I have been unable to speak to a customer service representative, so I am in this letter corresponding my concerns to you. I own a 1997 Honda Civic lx which I purchase in 6/12/2006 new. My Honda has just legitimately clocked 90 thousand miles as of 8/4/2014, so I am queried I would be having problems. I was recently informed by a Honda dealer as well as I checked and read on line that Honda issued a recall on these models for transmission problems as well as the paint chipping off in several areas. …
My car has a new timing belt, a new ignition control module " ignitor" new plugs, and fuel is getting to the engine and fire is going to plugs but my car still will not start. Is it possible that there is a sensor that will will cause the car not to start.? I have just become aware of the throttle problem and it was a recall but I did not receive notice. Is this the problem? At the botttom pulley of the timing belt there is a sensor, will that cause my car not to start. I need help and when I went to Honda here in columbia south carolina on greystone blvd the parts department had no idea what I needed or even what a ignition control module was....I need asstsance witht his matter and I expect for someone to contact me asap....thank you for your time.
Vehicle was idling roughly and experiencing vibration. The belts were adjusted. On another occasion, the vehicle made a horrific sound. Vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who advised that the harmonic balance screw had come out and damaged the balancer with possible damage to the crankshaft. The balancer was replaced. Consumer, still concerned about the defect, brought vehicle in to the local dealership where they charged for cleaning the fuel injectors, having a valve adjustment and for replacement of spark plugs. A month later the problem reoccured. The engine was replaced. Consumer states with the new engine, the vehicle drives better than it ever has.
The computer control issue is unresolved. The factory default settings for the air conditioning were lost after a battery exchange. Expensive charges for hourly fishing expeditions have not appealed to me. The air conditioner works it just doesn't apply to the appropriate buttons on the control panel they settings are off line. Honda was no help to me. Today, my ignition coil went. Honda said it was not covered via factory service bulletin although the accord was.
With only 32,808 miles on my vehicle, I am replacing both the front and the rear oxygen sensors. This repair carries a price tag of over $500. I am out of warranty as the vehicle was purchased in April of 1996. There was a recall on the emissions system, but when I responded to the recall and visited the Honda dealer in my area, I was told to bring it back between the mileage range of 50,000 to 75,000 miles.
My engine starts to overheat while idling for periods longer than a few minutes, especially when it's hot out. Using the A/C tremendously speeds up the overheating process. Turning on the heater cools it down back to normal. I have checked the fluids and performed a radiator flush, as well as checking belts and the fan.
While driving 60 MPH vehicle vibrated uncontrollably. Driver was able to maintain control of the vehicle ,and pulled over. The check engine light appeared on the dashboard and remained on. Vehicle was towed to a dealer for inspection. The cause has not been determined at this time.
Engine complaints in other Civic years
Frequently asked questions
How common are engine problems on the 1996 Honda Civic?
NHTSA has 29 complaints about the engine & cooling of the 1996 Honda Civic, 10% of the model year's 305 complaints. The component named most often is engine (7 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1996 Honda Civic engine problems?
No. NHTSA lists no engine & cooling recall for the 1996 Honda Civic, though it has 2 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1996 Honda Civic engine problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 224,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 2 crashes, 2 fires and 0 injuries to engine & cooling problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.