4 Star Reviews for 2003 Honda Civic

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 11 through 20 of 591.00
  • Still love my Civ - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Bought new in July 2003, have put 110k miles on in the last 7 years. Perfect little car for a guy like me looking for a reliable economical commuter. 36- 38 mpg on 50 mile round trip commute. 2- 3 times a year I travel to Tennessee and I always get 41-43 mpg on the trip, traveling 75-80 mph. That makes me happy, has been fairly trouble- free. Shop been saying for the last 3- 4 years that the front struts need to be replaced, but way too expensive, letting it go for now. Had to have the thermal protector for the a/c compressor replaced, wasnt too expensive. Front brakes done last year, rear brakes still pass inspection. Due for the 110k timing belt replace ($$$) : ( but overall a great car!

  • Good car - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Great car! After 7 years of owning this car, I have only replaced the struts, mirrors, gas cap lid cable, change draw spring and replaced washers underneath driver seat to stop it from rocking back and forth. Besides that I have done 1 tune up, change tires twice and the obvious oil changes. I figure thats all pretty normal stuff considering I am at 93,000 miles. This car has never stalled out, overheated or not started up. I would def purchase a Honda again.

  • Still running with new parts - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    I bought my civic used in 2005 with 37K miles and now have 158K. I have been a stickler with scheduled maintenance and have averaged between 33 and 38 mpg. I go on long drives once a month and it does well, but the seats are uncomfortable and you feel every pebble and crack and on the road. I replaced the ignition coils at 120K, the clutch at 153K and the head gasket replaced at 155K, which was hard to diagnose as the symptoms lead you to think the issue is elsewhere (overheating and heater malfunctioning), and the dealership was clueless. Otherwise it has been good to me. I would recommend buying this car, but if the miles are high look for one with new head gasket!

  • Decent but not great - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    This vehicle has been a pretty good day to day driver but the attention to detail is been lacking. Fuel economy is great and 7 years later feels tight and drives like new - but it is not without its issues. After two weeks of ownership, the interior fabric fell off the doors and need to be reglued. Stabilizer links failed at 80,000 km. Air conditioner failed at 90,000 km (55,000 miles). Exhaust manifold was cracked at 100,000 km (63,000 miles).

  • Worst Car Ive Ever Owned - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Ditched the car as soon as I found someone to take it. Transmission went at 30,000 miles, and started to go again at 60,000. Honda was only willing to help until 75,000 and then I would be responsible for each $4,000 transmission replacement. Only got 37 mpg because it didnt have the power to maintain higher freeway speeds in rural areas above 75 mph whereas my now regular civic gets 40-50 at those speeds. Avoid at all costs!

  • It has survived me so far with 200k+ - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    Ive enjoyed driving the car, mileage is great, especially since I drive a lot of miles, but I have had my problems with the car: alternator went at 90k, the trans had a bearing go at 135k (replacement required), paint started peeling at year 4, ECCM (computer) went at 197k, the fabric on the doors started coming off (glue degraded). The engine is still. Though this car hasnt been as worry free as hoped, but with the high mileage accumulated as quick as it was, I would say it has handled as well could be expected with any car, Ill compare my next car when I get one, until then.

  • Very nice econo ride - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    I purchased this auto when gas prices started rising sharply. My other 3 cars have V-8s, so I needed a daily driver that was economical and reliable. It took a while to adjust to the 4 cyl. and how light this car was. No secret these are compromise for the gas mileage. I adjusted quickly when I could fill the tank with 10 gallons and drive 300 to 370 miles. The best mileage I got was 37 MPG running 80 MPH on interstate and worst was 30 MPG locally. I also installed a set of Eibach sway bars that were well worth the cost. Over the past year and a half I have become attached to my little Honda. The seats are a little rough for long rides and it is a bit noisy but remember this is a econo car.

  • Great car cheap reliable car - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    The car has served my family well. No problems we have had it for a year and were at 25,000 miles and no problems. The performance is nothing special, but ride an comfort is great. Gas mileage is a dream even with the gas prices were they are.

  • Good Car for Morning Drive - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    This Civic has been a great little vehicle for my morning, and afternoon, drive to work. The fuel economy is excellent, mid to high 30s. The vehicle has been very reliable, has required no maintenance other then routine and no repairs. I live in Houston and I chuckle every time I drive past a huge SUV or truck at a gas station. I drive 26 miles to work each morning and another 26 home each afternoon. I fill up each Monday, for 8-9 gallons.

  • Honda Civic vs Toyota Corolla - 2003 Honda Civic
    By -

    My actual test drive of the Honda Civic: The ride was loud, the acceleration was great past 50. The car hesitates at start up and pull off. The brakes seemed a little too soft (I actually was nervous). The styling looks almost good but it doesnt look so good that you know it automatically when you step to the car. The creme interior is just ugly. The interior looks cheap but the steering wheel is better than the Honda Accord. The sunroof doesnt add anything to the car. Based upon my test drive, I would definitely choose the Honda Civic over the Toyota Corolla

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