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1991 Honda Civic Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 1991 Honda Civic belongs to the fourth generation (1988-1991). It's available in body styles including hatchback, sedan, and wagon. Key trims include the base model, DX, LX, and Si. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling, it was a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. The '91 Civic stood out due to its practical design and reputation for longevity. Original pricing ranged from around $7,000 to $12,000.
The Good

The 1991 Honda Civic offered excellent reliability and fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its nimble handling and available Si trim provided a sporty driving experience for those seeking fun. The simple, clean design and comfortable interior made it a value-packed and enjoyable daily driver. Overall a well-rounded and dependable option.

The Bad

Common issues for the 1991 Honda Civic include rust, particularly in areas with road salt. Oil leaks and worn suspension components are also potential problems. The manual transmission can experience wear, and finding parts for specific trims, like the Si, can be challenging due to their age.

1991 Honda Civic: Quick Overview

1991 Honda Civic Key Specs:

  • Engine Options:
    • 1.5L SOHC 16-valve I4 (Base, DX)
    • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve I4 (LX)
    • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve I4 (Si)
  • Horsepower:
    • Base/DX: 70 hp
    • LX: 92 hp
    • Si: 105 hp
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • Base/DX: 32 mpg city / 38 mpg highway
    • LX: 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
    • Si: 27 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • Base/DX: 12+ seconds
    • LX: 10-11 seconds
    • Si: 8-9 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Basic features, manual transmission, limited options.
    • DX: Adds some basic features like rear wiper (hatchback).
    • LX: Upgraded interior, power windows/locks, upgraded stereo.
    • Si: Sport-tuned suspension, more powerful engine, sunroof, sport seats, alloy wheels, and specific styling cues.

Additional Notes:
The Si trim was the performance-oriented model, offering a significantly sportier driving experience compared to the other trims. Fuel economy figures are estimates and can vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance. The lack of towing capacity reflects the Civic's small size and focus on fuel efficiency and practicality.

1991 Honda Civic Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 1991
Make Honda
Model Civic
Trim -
Style -
Type Hatchback
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City ALLISTON
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.5 L 4-Cyl.
Engine Size 1.5L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 4 Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 1991 Honda Civic Have?

Frequently reported problems with the 1991 Honda Civic often relate to age and wear. Rust is a major concern, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt use. Areas around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage are particularly susceptible. Oil leaks from the engine and transmission are also common as seals and gaskets degrade over time.

Suspension components, such as ball joints, bushings, and shocks/struts, are prone to wear, leading to diminished handling and ride quality. The manual transmission, especially in higher-mileage examples, can experience synchro wear, making shifting difficult.

Electrical issues, such as faulty sensors and wiring problems, can also arise due to age and corrosion. Specific recalls from that era would need to be verified through NHTSA, but common areas of concern for vehicles of this age often involve safety equipment.

Long-term reliability largely depends on maintenance history. Well-maintained Civics can last for many years, but neglected examples will likely suffer from increased component failures. Issues with the cooling system (radiator, hoses, water pump) and fuel system (fuel pump, injectors) can also occur as the car ages. Regular inspections and timely repairs are crucial to maintaining its reliability.

How long will the 1991 Honda Civic last?

A 1991 Honda Civic, if well-maintained, could potentially reach 250,000 miles or more. Many have exceeded this mark with diligent care. However, age is a factor. Even with good maintenance, rubber components, seals, and electronics will degrade. Poor maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan, leading to major mechanical failures well before 200,000 miles. Rust is a primary enemy, impacting structural integrity. The engine and transmission are generally durable if serviced regularly, but neglecting fluid changes and addressing minor issues can accelerate wear and tear.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 1991 Honda Civic was a product of its time, so built-in tech, entertainment, and driver-assistance features were fairly basic. Standard features included an AM/FM radio, and higher trims like the LX might have included a cassette player. Power windows and locks were optional on some trims and standard on the LX.

Driver-assistance features were limited to power steering (on some trims) and effective brakes. Safety features included seatbelts for all occupants and basic crumple zones. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were not widely available on this generation of Civic.

Crash-test ratings for the 1991 Honda Civic are difficult to find using modern testing standards. Vehicles of this era generally offered less crash protection compared to newer models. Safety standards and technology have advanced significantly since then. The focus was primarily on basic occupant protection rather than advanced safety systems. Airbags were not standard equipment in 1991 Civics. Optional features included air conditioning and upgraded stereo systems. Considering the age, expectations for tech and safety should be tempered.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Rio Red
Flint Black Metallic
Tahitian Green Pearl
Polar White
Geneva Green Metallic
Phoenix Beige Metallic
Quartz Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Grey
Light Brown

1991 Honda Civic Prices and Market Value

When new, the 1991 Honda Civic ranged from approximately $7,000 to $12,000 depending on the trim level and options. Today, used market prices vary greatly based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 for a running example, with exceptionally clean or rare Si models potentially fetching higher prices. Depreciation has been significant, but well-maintained examples retain some value due to their reliability and cult following. Factors affecting resale value include rust, mechanical condition, original parts, and overall cleanliness. Low-mileage examples are more desirable.

1991 Honda Civic Cost of Ownership

The 1991 Honda Civic is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and value. Fuel economy is excellent, reducing running costs. Maintenance is relatively simple and affordable, though parts availability for some specific trims might be a challenge. Repairs can be inexpensive if you're comfortable with DIY work. Rust repair can be costly, so addressing it early is crucial. Overall, it's a budget-friendly car for those seeking basic transportation, but unexpected repairs can occur due to age.

1991 Honda Civic Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

1991 Honda Civic Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

1991 Honda Civic Recalls & Defects

Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date 1995-05-24
Recall no. 95v103001
Source NHTSA
Summary THE Front Safety Belt Buckle Release Buttons CAN Break. These RED Plastic Release Buttons ARE Marked "press." IF A Button Breaks, Pieces CAN Fall Into THE Buckle Assembly Causing THE Buckle TO Operate Improperly.
Consequence THE Safety Belts Would NOT Provide Adequate Protection TO AN Occupant IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Owners Should Promptly Check THE Condition and Operation OF Both Front Safety Belt Buckles. Carefully Inspect THE RED Release Button FOR ANY Breaks or Cracks. Check That Both Buckles ARE Operating Properly BY Inserting Each Latch Plate Into ITS Buckle, TUG ON THE Belt TO Make Sure THE Latch IS Securely Locked, Then Press THE Release Button. THE Latch Plate Should POP OUT OF THE Buckle When THE Button IS Pressed. IF Either Release Button Shows ANY Sign OF Breakage or Cracking, or IF Either Buckle Fails TO Operate Properly, Promptly Contact Your Authorized Honda/Acura Dealer TO Schedule AN Appointment TO Have THE Buckle Replaced or Repaired, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer IS Developing A Remedy Designed TO Prevent THE Failure OF THE Buttons That ARE NOT Currently Broken.
Notes System: Interior; Seat Belts; Belt Buckles.vehicle Description: 2-Door, 4-Door and 5-door Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Safety Belts Made BY Takata Corporation.note: IF Your Vehicle IS Presented TO AN Authorized Dealer AT AN Agreed Upon Service Date and THE Remedy IS NOT Provided Free OF Charge Within A Reasonabletime, Please Contact Honda/Acura AT 1-800-999-1009. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-05-15
Recall no. 06e040000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain E Speed Racing Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy E Speed Racing Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began MAY 10, 2006. Owners MAY Contact E Speed Racing 909-923-3636.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO E Speed Racing Aftermarket Combination Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-04-18
Recall no. 06e032000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Eagle Eyes and Sonar Headlights and Corner Lights Sold AS Aftermarket FOR USE ON 1988-2005 Honda Civic, 1990-2005 Honda Accord, and 1990-2001 Acura Integra Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Headlights and Corner Lights That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy TOM Motorsport Will Notify Owners and Offer Reimbursement FOR THE Purchase OF Noncompliant Lights. THE Recall Began April 17, 2006. Owners MAY Contact TOM Motorsport AT 626-968-4007.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Lights and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON ANY Vehicles Manufactured BY American Honda Motor Company.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-05-24
Recall no. 06e049000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain CK Motorsports Combination Headlights, Clear Corner, Bumper, and Side Marker Lights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy CK Motorsport Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Noncompliant Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 1, 2006. Owners MAY Contact CK Motorsport AT 1-909-610-7211.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY THE Vehicle Manufacturers.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-03-23
Recall no. 06e026000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2008-08-11
Recall no. 08e050000
Source NHTSA
Summary K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2009-04-07
Recall no. 09e012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2009-05-11
Recall no. 09e025000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

1991 Honda Civic Insurance

Insurance for a 1991 Honda Civic is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 1991 Honda Civic Compare to Other Hatchback?

The 1991 Honda Civic competed with vehicles like the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323, and Ford Escort. In terms of reliability, the Civic and Corolla were generally considered top contenders, surpassing the Sentra and Escort. Performance-wise, the Civic Si offered a sportier experience than many rivals, though some might find the Mazda 323 more engaging. Feature-wise, the Civic was competitive for its time, though some rivals offered more standard equipment.

Price-wise, the Civic was typically affordable, though the Corolla often held its value better. For those seeking similar reliability and fuel economy, the Toyota Corolla of the same era is a comparable alternative. If more emphasis is placed on sportier handling, the Mazda 323 or even a used Acura Integra (sharing components with the Civic) could be considered. However, for a balance of reliability, affordability, and a decent driving experience, the 1991 Civic remains a solid choice. Newer vehicles will undoubtedly offer better safety and technology, but come at a higher price point. Choosing between these options depends on the buyer's priorities and budget.

Ranks #407 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
407 1991 Honda Civic (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 1991 Honda Civic a Good Hatchback?

The 1991 Honda Civic is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable and fuel-efficient transportation. It's a good choice for students, commuters, or those needing a simple and affordable car. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on its condition. A well-maintained example with minimal rust is a better investment than a cheaper, neglected one. The Si trim offers a more engaging driving experience but may be harder to find in good condition. Buying used is the only option. Thorough inspection for rust and mechanical issues is crucial before making a purchase. It's a good, basic, and economical car for the right person and under the right conditions.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.