The 1990 Honda Civic is a compact car that was part of the fourth generation (1988-1991). It's available in various body styles, including hatchback, sedan, and wagon. Key trims included the base model, DX, LX, and Si (for the hatchback). Pricing when new ranged roughly from $6,000 to $12,000. It stands out for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and fun-to-drive nature, making it incredibly popular then and a cult classic now.
The Good
The 1990 Honda Civic offered a compelling mix of practicality and driving enjoyment. Its reputation for exceptional reliability appealed to the practical buyer. The zippy engines and agile handling made it fun to drive (especially the Si), offering an emotional connection. Fuel efficiency was excellent. It also had a simple but functional interior design. It was an excellent value for the money.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 1990 Honda Civic include rust, especially in areas with road salt. Oil leaks are also relatively common, particularly in older models. Suspension components may wear out over time, leading to handling issues. Watch for worn synchros in the manual transmissions, especially in the Si trim. Also, due to their age, finding parts can sometimes be a challenge.
1990 Honda Civic: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.5L SOHC 16-valve inline-4 (Base, DX, LX): Typically produced around 70-92 horsepower, depending on the specific variant and emissions equipment.
- 1.6L SOHC 16-valve inline-4 (Si): Produced around 105-108 horsepower.
- Horsepower:
- Base/DX/LX: 70-92 hp
- Si: 105-108 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- Base/DX/LX: EPA estimated around 29-34 mpg city / 35-42 mpg highway (depending on transmission and model)
- Si: EPA estimated around 27-32 mpg city / 34-39 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- Base/DX/LX: Roughly 11-13 seconds
- Si: Around 8.5-9.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Minimal features, often with manual everything.
- DX: Offered a bit more equipment, such as a rear window defroster and improved interior trim.
- LX: Included features like power windows, power locks, and upgraded upholstery.
- Si (Hatchback only): Sport-tuned suspension, sunroof, sport seats, unique alloy wheels, and a more powerful engine (1.6L).
1990 Honda Civic Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1990 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Civic |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon Wagon |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | SUZUKA |
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 | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
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History
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Events
Events
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Listings
Listings
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1990 Honda Civic Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 1990 Honda Civic often revolve around age-related wear and tear. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in areas exposed to road salt during winter. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the windshield. Oil leaks, especially from the valve cover gasket and distributor, are common. Suspension components like struts, bushings, and ball joints wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride and compromised handling.
The manual transmissions, especially in the Si models, are known for synchro wear, which can lead to grinding during gear changes. Electrical issues, such as faulty sensors and wiring corrosion, can also occur. Recalls for the 1990 Civic were relatively limited, but it's important to check the VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily stem from age and lack of maintenance. Neglecting regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and other preventative maintenance can significantly shorten the lifespan of the engine and other components. Coolant leaks are also common, especially from hoses and the water pump. Also, the distributor can have issues. Generally, no specific problems were uniquely identified to the 1990 model year versus the rest of the fourth generation; issues are fairly consistent.
The manual transmissions, especially in the Si models, are known for synchro wear, which can lead to grinding during gear changes. Electrical issues, such as faulty sensors and wiring corrosion, can also occur. Recalls for the 1990 Civic were relatively limited, but it's important to check the VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily stem from age and lack of maintenance. Neglecting regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and other preventative maintenance can significantly shorten the lifespan of the engine and other components. Coolant leaks are also common, especially from hoses and the water pump. Also, the distributor can have issues. Generally, no specific problems were uniquely identified to the 1990 model year versus the rest of the fourth generation; issues are fairly consistent.
How long will the 1990 Honda Civic last?
A well-maintained 1990 Honda Civic can easily reach 250,000 miles or more. With regular servicing and proactive repairs, many owners have reported exceeding 300,000 miles. Years of service heavily depend on usage and climate, but 20-30+ years is achievable. Long-term durability hinges on rust prevention and addressing oil leaks promptly. Weaknesses over time include suspension wear, transmission synchro issues (manuals), and potential electrical problems. Neglecting maintenance will drastically reduce lifespan and reliability.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1990 Honda Civic was relatively basic in terms of technology compared to modern vehicles. Built-in tech was limited; most models came with a basic AM/FM radio. Higher trims like the LX might have included a cassette player. There were no built-in navigation systems, and driver-assistance features were non-existent. Safety features were also basic, consisting primarily of seatbelts. Airbags were not standard; some models might have had a driver-side airbag as an option later in the production run.
Entertainment was limited to the radio and possibly a cassette player. Optional features included air conditioning, which was not standard on all trims. Power windows and locks were available on the LX trim. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA are available, but should be interpreted with caution due to the age of the vehicle and changes in testing methodologies. Generally, small cars of that era did not perform as well in crash tests as modern vehicles due to less sophisticated safety technology and structural design. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were not commonly available. Side impact protection was minimal. Because of this, its safety standards are far lower than modern vehicles.
Entertainment was limited to the radio and possibly a cassette player. Optional features included air conditioning, which was not standard on all trims. Power windows and locks were available on the LX trim. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA are available, but should be interpreted with caution due to the age of the vehicle and changes in testing methodologies. Generally, small cars of that era did not perform as well in crash tests as modern vehicles due to less sophisticated safety technology and structural design. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were not commonly available. Side impact protection was minimal. Because of this, its safety standards are far lower than modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Rio Red
Tahitian Green Pearl
Flint Black Metallic
Polar White
Geneva Green Metallic
Sebring Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Gray
Blue
1990 Honda Civic Prices and Market Value
The 1990 Honda Civic had a starting price around $6,500 when new, with higher trim levels reaching up to $12,000. Current used market prices vary greatly depending on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them anywhere from $1,000 to $8,000, with pristine examples commanding higher prices. Depreciation has been significant, but well-maintained examples, especially the Si, hold their value relatively well due to their cult following. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, rust, mileage, originality, and the presence of desirable options like a sunroof or Si trim.
1990 Honda Civic Cost of Ownership
The 1990 Honda Civic is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and value. Fuel efficiency is excellent. Maintenance is relatively simple and affordable, with readily available parts. However, repairs can become more frequent as the car ages. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on the condition of the vehicle and the owner's willingness to perform preventative maintenance. Rust repair can be a significant expense.
1990 Honda Civic Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1990 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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
1990-09-04
Recall no.
90v163000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
DUE TO AN Improperly Machined Internal Shaft IN THE Transmission, THE Pawl Mechanisim MAY NOT Fully Engage When Transmission IS IN THE Park Position.
Consequence
Vehicle Could Roll While THE Transmission IS IN THE Parkposition and A Crash Could Result.
Remedy
Install AN Improved Parking Pawl Shaft.
Notes
System: Transmission; Park Pawl.vehicle Description: DX and LX Sedans With Automatic Transmissions.
Visibility:windshield
Recall date
1990-07-10
Recall no.
90v126000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Poor Adhesion MAY Occur Between Paint Layers IN THE Windshield Mounting Area DUE TO Defective Paint Batches or Overspraying.
Consequence
Paint Separation IN THE Windshield Areas Would Leadto Non-Compliance With Fmvss 212 Retention Requirements. Loss OF Windshieldretention Ability Could Cause Winshield TO Separate From Vehicle Without Warningand Harm Vehicle Occupants and Others IN THE Vicinity.
Remedy
Reinstall Windshield TO Insure Proper Retention.
Notes
System: Windshield; Fmvss 212.vehicle Description: Passenger Cars; Dx/Lx Sedans.
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> .
1990 Honda Civic Insurance
Insurance for a 1990 Honda Civic is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1990 Honda Civic Compare to Other Wagon Wagon?
Key rivals to the 1990 Honda Civic included the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 323, Nissan Sentra, and Ford Escort. In terms of reliability, the Civic and Corolla were generally considered top-tier, surpassing the Mazda, Nissan, and Ford. The Civic Si offered a sportier driving experience than most of its competitors, especially compared to the base models of those cars. Feature-wise, most competitors offered similar levels of basic equipment. Pricing was competitive across the board.
The Corolla is a similar alternative, offering comparable reliability and fuel economy, but with a slightly less engaging driving experience. The Mazda 323 provided a more sporty feel than the base Civic but may not have been as reliable long-term. The Nissan Sentra was another decent option, but parts availability can sometimes be an issue now. The Ford Escort, while affordable, generally lacked the reliability and refinement of the Japanese competitors. If reliability and fuel economy are paramount, the Toyota Corolla is a comparable alternative. If driving fun is a priority and you're willing to potentially sacrifice some reliability, the Mazda 323 is worth considering.
The Corolla is a similar alternative, offering comparable reliability and fuel economy, but with a slightly less engaging driving experience. The Mazda 323 provided a more sporty feel than the base Civic but may not have been as reliable long-term. The Nissan Sentra was another decent option, but parts availability can sometimes be an issue now. The Ford Escort, while affordable, generally lacked the reliability and refinement of the Japanese competitors. If reliability and fuel economy are paramount, the Toyota Corolla is a comparable alternative. If driving fun is a priority and you're willing to potentially sacrifice some reliability, the Mazda 323 is worth considering.
Final Verdict: Is the 1990 Honda Civic a Good Wagon Wagon?
The 1990 Honda Civic is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient classic car. It's a good choice for someone who appreciates simple mechanics and is willing to perform basic maintenance. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on condition and price. Look for examples with minimal rust and a documented maintenance history. The Si trim is particularly desirable for enthusiasts. Avoid examples with excessive rust or signs of neglect. Due to its age, it's best suited as a secondary vehicle or a project car for someone mechanically inclined, not necessarily as a primary family car.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma