The Honda Civic has long been one of the most popular compact sedans, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and solid build quality. The 2021-Present model of the Honda Civic sedan continues this tradition while introducing a fresh design, updated tech features, and improved driving dynamics. However, like any car, the Civic sedan isn’t immune to common problems. In this article, we’ll explore the issues that owners have reported with the 2021 and later Honda Civic sedans, offer tips on what to check when buying a used model, discuss the cost of ownership, and suggest some alternative vehicles you may want to consider.
Common Problems of the HONDA Civic Sedan 2021-Present
While the Honda Civic 2021 and later is generally well-regarded for its quality and reliability, some owners have experienced a few common issues. These problems, though not overly widespread, are worth noting for those considering purchasing or owning one.
1. Infotainment System Glitches
One of the most commonly reported issues with the new Civic sedan involves its infotainment system. The system, which comes standard with a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity features, but it has had some reliability issues in certain models.
Common Infotainment Issues:
- Unresponsive touchscreens: Some users have complained that the touchscreen occasionally freezes or becomes unresponsive, requiring a restart of the system to regain functionality.
- Connectivity problems: Connectivity between the car and devices like smartphones may sometimes fail, causing issues with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto.
- Audio glitches: Some owners have reported intermittent audio cut-outs, where the sound cuts off unexpectedly or is distorted.
What to Look For:
- Test the infotainment system: During your test drive, check that the touchscreen responds quickly and accurately. Try pairing a smartphone via Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay to see if the connection is stable.
- Audio quality: Test the audio system to ensure the sound is clear and without distortion. Listen for any unexpected cut-outs or strange sounds.
2. Transmission Shuddering (CVT Models)
The Honda Civic Sedan offers two transmission options: a 6-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the manual transmission is generally free from issues, the CVT in some 2021 models has been reported to exhibit shuddering or hesitation, particularly during low-speed acceleration.
Symptoms of CVT Problems:
- Shuddering or jerking: When accelerating at low speeds, some owners have noted a jerking or shuddering sensation as the transmission shifts.
- Delayed acceleration: Some drivers experience a noticeable delay or hesitation when pressing the accelerator, which can make the car feel less responsive, especially in city driving.
What to Look For:
- Test the CVT: Take the car for a test drive and pay attention to how the transmission responds. If you feel any jolts, hesitation, or shuddering, it could be a sign of a problem with the CVT.
- Listen for unusual sounds: Any grinding, whining, or strange noises during acceleration could also indicate an issue with the CVT.
3. Engine Vibration at Idle
A few owners of the 2021 Honda Civic sedan have reported engine vibrations at idle, particularly in models with the 2.0L engine. The vibrations can sometimes be felt in the cabin, especially when stopped at traffic lights or idling in heavy traffic.
Cause of Vibration: This issue is generally caused by engine mounts that are either defective or not aligned properly. When engine mounts wear out or become misaligned, the engine can vibrate more than usual, transmitting these vibrations into the cabin.
What to Look For:
- Engine vibration test: While idling, place your hand on the steering wheel or center console to check for unusual vibrations. You can also feel the vibrations on the gearshift lever or armrest if they’re significant.
- Listen for any unusual noises: If the vibration is accompanied by strange sounds (such as clunking or rattling), it could indicate a problem with the engine mounts or other components.
4. Brake Squeaking and Wear
While the Honda Civic has generally good brakes, some owners of the 2021 model have noted excessive brake squeaking or premature brake pad wear. This issue could be more prevalent in certain driving conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go traffic or driving in high humidity areas.
Symptoms of Brake Problems:
- Squeaking or squealing: The brakes may produce a high-pitched squeaking sound, even if the brake pads are not worn out. This could be due to dust buildup or the use of harder brake pad materials that generate noise.
- Premature brake pad wear: Some owners have experienced faster-than-usual brake pad wear, requiring replacements more frequently than expected.
What to Look For:
- Brake test: During the test drive, listen carefully for any squeaking or squealing sounds when applying the brakes. These can be an indication of issues with the brake pads or rotors.
- Check brake pads: Ask the seller for the brake history and if possible, inspect the brake pads to see if they have excessive wear.
5. Suspension Noises
Another common issue reported by some Honda Civic owners involves noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps or potholes. The 2021 Civic’s suspension is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, but premature wear on components such as the shocks, struts, or bushings has been noted in certain models.
Common Symptoms:
- Clunking or rattling sounds: A noticeable clunking sound when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces could indicate wear in the suspension components.
- Reduced ride comfort: If the car feels bouncy or uncomfortable, this could be a sign of deteriorating suspension parts that need attention.
What to Look For:
- Suspension test: During a test drive, drive over various bumps and uneven surfaces to see if any clunking, rattling, or excessive noise comes from the suspension.
- Handling assessment: Check how the car handles turns and curves. If the car feels loose or unstable, it may be a sign of suspension wear.
6. Air Conditioning System Issues
Some owners of the 2021 Honda Civic have experienced issues with the air conditioning system. These problems are not universal, but they are worth noting, especially during hot months.
Symptoms:
- Weak airflow: Some owners have reported that the air conditioning system produces weak airflow, especially when set to a low temperature.
- Failure to cool: In some cases, the air conditioning may fail to cool the cabin properly, which could be due to low refrigerant levels or a malfunctioning compressor.
What to Look For:
- Test the air conditioning: Run the air conditioning during your test drive, ensuring that the airflow is strong and the cabin cools down quickly. Listen for any unusual noises, such as a loud fan or strange sounds coming from the system.
- Monitor cooling performance: Ensure that the car cools effectively within a reasonable amount of time. Weak or inconsistent cooling could signal a potential issue.
What to Look for When Buying a HONDA Civic Sedan 2021-Present
When purchasing a used 2021 or newer Honda Civic sedan, there are several factors to consider to ensure you're getting a reliable vehicle:
- Vehicle History Report: Always request a detailed vehicle history report to check for accidents, maintenance records, or any previous issues. A clean history report gives you peace of mind.
- Check for Recalls: The 2021 Honda Civic may have had some recalls during its production run. Make sure any recall repairs or maintenance have been addressed before purchasing.
- Infotainment System: As the infotainment system can be prone to glitches, test it thoroughly to ensure it’s responsive and free of issues, particularly with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto functionality.
- Suspension and Brake Condition: Given the potential for suspension wear and brake issues, inspect the brakes and suspension carefully. Ensure there’s no excessive wear on the brake pads or any suspension noises during a test drive.
How Expensive is It to Own a HONDA Civic Sedan 2021-Present?
The Honda Civic sedan is generally affordable to maintain, and ownership costs are in line with other vehicles in its class. However, certain factors could impact the overall cost of ownership:
- Fuel Economy: The 2021 Honda Civic sedan offers excellent fuel economy, with estimates ranging between 30-38 mpg depending on the engine and driving conditions.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the Honda Civic are relatively affordable compared to other compact sedans, though it may vary depending on your location, age, and driving history.
- Maintenance Costs: Routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements are generally inexpensive. However, certain issues like CVT transmission repairs or suspension replacements can become costly if they arise outside of warranty.
- Depreciation: As with most Honda models, the Civic holds its value well over time, which helps reduce the total cost of ownership.
Better Alternatives to the HONDA Civic Sedan 2021-Present
If you’re considering other options, here are some great alternatives to the 2021 Honda Civic sedan:
- Toyota Corolla (2021-Present): Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Corolla is a direct competitor to the Civic. It offers a smooth ride, advanced safety features, and a strong reputation for longevity.
- Mazda3 (2021-Present): The Mazda3 provides sportier handling and a more premium interior than the Civic, while still maintaining a reasonable price tag and solid reliability.
- Hyundai Elantra (2021-Present): The Hyundai Elantra offers excellent value for money with its bold styling, modern technology, and warranty coverage. It’s a worthy alternative to the Civic, especially if you’re looking for something with more features for the price.
- Kia Forte (2021-Present): With a low starting price, solid performance, and a user-friendly interior, the Kia Forte is an excellent alternative if you want a well-rounded compact sedan with great value.
- Nissan Sentra (2021-Present): The Nissan Sentra is another compact sedan with good reliability, an attractive design, and user-friendly features. It’s slightly less sporty than the Civic but can be an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers.
Conclusion
The 2021-Present Honda Civic sedan is a reliable, efficient, and comfortable vehicle that’s well-suited for those seeking a practical compact car. While the car generally offers excellent performance, fuel economy, and value, potential buyers should be aware of common issues like infotainment glitches, CVT transmission problems, engine vibrations, and suspension wear.
Despite these potential issues, the Civic remains a strong contender in the compact sedan market. However, if you’re looking for a car with fewer reported problems or different driving dynamics, alternatives like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, or Hyundai Elantra might be worth considering.