Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (automatic and manual transmissions, CVT, axles, driveshaft, 4WD/AWD).
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).
Gear shift was stuck after vehicle was turned on while sitting at a railroad crossing. When the motor was turned on, three minutes later, the gear shifter jammed. The consumer then placed the gear into neutral and restarted the vehicle. The vehicle bolted into another vehicle which was traveling in the opposite direction. The gear shift was replaced by the dealer. Jb
I just bought this car from the dealer last week (96 Honda Civic with 140,000 mi). I noticed right away that when I press the gas, it revs up a little and catches. Basically, its choppy when I press onto the gas and it sounds like the common recall. It seems dangerous bc it shakes the vehicle a bit.
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. …
After slowing to make a turn or other maneuver, transmission shifts roughly as you accelerate unless the gas pedal is depressed very slowly and carefully. I'm assuming the car is downshifted to 1st or 2nd gear, but there's a violent jerk as you increase the speed from there and I'm afraid this might harm my transmission, so I try to "baby" it, but I hate that I can't accelerate normally.
Transmission intermttently, when in reverse, 1st,$2nd gear will make noises or will not move ( gear shift will be in gear but car won,t go. )willkept taken car back, cuz of same problems .vista more last would not do anything took it to oxnard Honda they found it had the wrong oil in the transmission. Then find out oxnard say's it's not under warrenty, so I had to pay $70.00
I wanted to warranty my transmission, but the dealer would have to charge me just to check it out. My tranny grinds in 3rd when I shift. I replaced cupholder 3 times already. My front bumper is starting to peel. I just wanted my car warrantied. My car is in emaculate condition.
Transmission blewout. Honda made this type of transmission for only one year. Consumer was unable to purchase another transmission for vehicle. Only Honda could repair this component for $ 4000.00.
The gear shifter became stuck, which caused the vehicle to surge forward and caused an accident. The vehicle had to be started in overdrive.
The transmission input shaft bearing is having issues. Makes noise when clutch is not pressed in but its OK when pressed. I heard Honda did recall for this issue.. Need help to fix it..
Transmission complaints in other Civic years
Frequently asked questions
How common are transmission problems on the 1996 Honda Civic?
NHTSA has 25 complaints about the transmission & drivetrain of the 1996 Honda Civic, 8% of the model year's 305 complaints. The component named most often is automatic transmission (8 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1996 Honda Civic transmission problems?
No. NHTSA lists no transmission & drivetrain 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 transmission problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 135,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 5 crashes, 0 fires and 2 injuries to transmission & drivetrain 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.