Hello,

My 2009 Civic SI recently had clutch issues to the point where the car would barely move anymore. The engine was still running fine but I had to get it towed it to a local mechanic shop. They confirmed the clutch was the issue so I had them replace it. After a few days they called and told me the clutch was done but the engine wouldn't start. They did some compression tests and said it had only 30psi across all cylinders now. Their solution was to replace the engine because a used engine would be cheaper than stripping the engine down to locate and fix the problem. They assured me that one thing had nothing to do with the other and it's just a coincidence.

So my question is, could they have accidentally messed up the timing or anything else during a clutch replacement?

Thanks,
Ryan

 

It's always possible. And it's also interesting they want to do an engine swap. No evidence left for you to see if there was something awry that way.

I did the clutch on my 2007 Si myself and it was a long 8 day process. I really can't think how they could cause 30 psi on all 4 from doing a clutch job, but I also can't say it's not possible. The engine is supposed to stay in the car and be supported while only the transmission comes out. If they pulled the whole thing, who knows what was done.

If you do let them do the swap, keep the old engine, it's worth a bit, especially the RBC intake manifold and the head itself.

 

It's strange for sure. Have the car at home now and going to start tearing it down and see for myself.

Thanks.