2003 Honda Civic Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
591 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A host of minor changes bring the Civic into 2003. On the inside, all models gain improved seat fabrics, rear adjustable outboard headrests and new four-spoke steering wheels. On HX, LX and EX Civics, you'll find improved gauge illumination. There's a new center console for LX and EX, and a CD player is standard for HX and LX. On the outside, the 2003 Honda Civic has freshened taillamps and new wheel designs. Also, there is a Hybrid Civic available for the 2003 model year.

Pros:
  • Fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly engines, roomy interior, reputation for durability, impressive crash test scores.
Cons:
  • Antilock brakes not available on DX or LX.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 80 of 591.00
  • fun car - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    This car is a blast to drive. It is not a sports car, but handles well and is a lot of fun.

  • Great Car - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    I got this car used, to replace my 97 Accord. I really like this car. it has about 25k miles on without even the hint of a problem. Ironically enough I was rear ended (correction- Plowed through) 4 days after I bought the car. I was rear ended at about 30 mph by a brand new Chevy Malibu. Her car was totalled. Mine had 7k worth of damage. I am very impressed at how well my Civic stood up in that accident for being such a small car. Anyways, it took them about 3 weeks to fix my car and its as good as new. If your looking for a semi-inexpensive car that has very low operating cost, high reliability and is also fun then go with a Civic. You just cant go wrong with a Honda

  • 165,000 mile review - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    i purchased it new back in 03. i now have a little over 175,000 miles on it. its been the most dependable car. i still drive it hard... dirt roads, 120 degree heat, 1200 mile trips in 8 yrs. few yrs ago, i was rear-ended on the freeway resulting in some extensive damage, but still runs strong despite virtually no maintenance work on it.. so far, Ive changed brake pads once, spark plugs once, air filter twice, and last few times, Ive gone over 9000 miles between oil changes. havent done any tune ups, alignment, radiator flushes, or clutch work done yet. Im averaging 32-34 miles with 70/30 city/freeway driving.

  • You cant go wrong in a Honda - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    This review may be biased since Ive always owned Hondas (Civic 90 Hatchback, Integra LX 93, CR-V EX 99). Regardless, the 2003 CIVIC EX is a remarkable car if you were to drive it yourself. Honda reputation is alive and well in the 2003 Civic: performance, refinement, reliability, and value. Improvements over 2002 model are: center storage console with built- in armrest. Slightly redesigned tail- lights.

  • CVT transmission - Good luck - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Transmission died on a busy highway at 34K almost killed myself trying to get off the road. Honda had it for 12 days saying it needed a new trans and then gave it back saying nothing was wrong. Had it in again at 36K 50K 61K 81K and finally at 110k brought it in for a oil change and they finally checked my mileage saw I was over 100k and admitted something was wrong with the slipping transmission. Honda Care could care less and the case manager told me they werent willing to pay a dime for the $4600 trans the dealership said they would take 10% off for my trouble. This car should have been recalled day one. Please dont buy this car. It is a danger to drive. I have some advice sell it quickly.

  • No complaints - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Sorry to hear about all the transmission problems. I have 83k on mine and no signs of auto tranny slippage. Averaging 35mpg city and 40+ highway. Ive found that if you drive above 70 on the highway, mpg declines dramatically. Bought the extended warranty in august of 2003 and never used it. Only complaint is that Im replacing the brake pads every 25k miles without intensive use.

  • Transmission/Clutch Recall Info - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    There was a recall on the transmission (Judder Slippage - the car rumbles when accelerating, esp noticeable going uphill). According to protocol, they have to do this "burnishing procedure" 3 times, at which point they will replace the entire clutch on your transmission (for free, under the recall). You also need to be under 100K mi to be eligible. My car is at 98K....theyre just about to replace my clutch, so Im very excited about that. Other than this one issue, my car has been running perfectly. Ive been keeping track of MPG for over 10K, and Im averaging 46.5 MPG. Im absolutely thrilled (and confused that some people claim to get only 35 MPG).

  • A Very Good Car - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    I have owned this car for six months and have had no problems. I would expect a better sound system in the EX class. A good car overall.

  • Mixed review - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Bought new in 9/03. Front passenger strut failed at approx 4k. Clutch started making squeaking noise at 25k. At 60k had clutched inspected, not an issue that has to be fixed but would cost $600 to eliminate the squeak. Driver door lock worn out at around 60k making it embarrassing when trying to get in the car if I actually locked the door. Cheap paint chips and scratches easy. Dents really easy. Not having ABS is a little dangerous, and the car for being so lite weight lacks breaking power.

  • New Hybrid Owner - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    I just bought my Hybrid this weekend but so far I think its fantastic compared to the Kia Sportage that I did have. I bought it for $19,200 but I had to add a little on since I was upside down on my Kia (a $10,000 depreciation in a little over a year!) I was scared it wouldnt have much power but it has more get-up-and-go than my Kia did, plus its so quiet and smooth. I drive 35 miles one way to work and averaged 45.6mpg (17mpg with my Kia).

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area