So I just bought a 97 Civic with a few issues. I got it for 1800 and just needed something quick so I took it.

Problems:
Heater blows cold/warmish. AC works fine (i know this problem could be any number of things)

Front driver's side door will not lock. I can't lock it with the key from the outside, nor can I lock it manually or automatically from the inside

Windshield wiper fluid does not work

Front dash light does not work

Thanks a lot. Very glad I found this forum, great info.

 

Download a service manual. If you follow the directions you could probably fix all these yourself for little of no money.

 

Yea I know, I'm just not very mechanically inclined, nor do I have many tools. I figured out how to lock the door though. It's weird, the door has to be closed and then I can lock it by hand from the outside. Annoying but I can deal with it.

I'm not sure I could fix the heat problem, but definitely the dash lights.

 

you can basicly take your whole car apart with a 10mm 12mm 14mm and a 17mm wrench or socket


its really not very difficult dont let it scare you away

 

Try holding the door handle open when locking it. It's a security feature to help you not lock your keys in your car.

As for your heat, does your car reach operating temperature? The heater and A/C are completely different pieces of hardware - one doesn't affect the other.

As for your dash lights and wiper fluid not working, check every fuse under the hood, as well as under the dash. Good chance you have more than a few blown.