So im looking at buying a 96-00 civic (i already have one i plan on getting), is there anything specific to look for on these cars as far as trouble spots? Ive had many DA integras and we have the passenger side wiper cowl leak, tail light gasket leaks, Main relay and 3rd gear trans grind. Coming over to civics though im pretty clueless. Is there anything else you guys can suggest i pay special attention to? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

Check extra carefully for knock.

 

Sounds about the same problems you have experienced with DA's.

 

Rear wheel cancer (although more common in 92-95's), check the rear trailing arm bushings.

Cannot think of anything else, but a lot of the other things to check for what you would normally look at when buying a used car.

 

there's been a recall on ignition switches for that generation civic. that's something to remember

 

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I'd also recommend not even considering purchases from 16 year old kids that stumble over their own lies.

Common sense in general.

 

Hacked up wiring-interior and under-hood. Missing bolts. Leaks. Make sure ALL systems are working. I mean ALL OF THEM (windows, sunroof, A/C, lights, blinkers, no CELS, CEL actually works). Run the engine. Take it for MORE than just a ride around the block. Make sure it isn't smoking. Look under the car. make them jack it up is you have to. Check all bushings and every bit of the suspension components. Do not buy a car with no-name Ebay stuff on it. Correct engine/ECU for the car.

 

All great advice! I really appreciate it guys. I definitely look over cars pretty well (atleast i think so haha). When im looking at a car i like to go prepared and know what to look for. I also ask ALOT of questions, that usually a good gauge about how well someone actually knows the car. This car will be my new daily so i need something reliable thats not a piece of junk. How would i check for the ignition problem? Are there any particular symptoms or does it just happen all of a sudden?

 

I think trailing arm bushings are going to be torn in most 92-00. My hatch had new OE trailing arm bushings and they were torn within 3 years. My ex had the same OE bushings installed in 06 and they were torn by 09. And those were installed at the dealer lol.