How many miles can an 8th gen Civic last?

The 8th generation Honda Civic is generally a dependable car but there are some noteworthy issues to look out for, particularly on the 2006 R18A1-powered models. The most alarming issue is the aluminum alloy engine block that is susceptible to cracking without warning or error signals. No recall was issued for the Honda Civic's cracked engine block, but it's an issue that was so severe that it pushed the brand to extend the powertrain warranty to 10 years with unlimited mileage. It is understood that most Civics of this generation have had this issue resolved, but some existing owners note that the issue still stands. Honda has not declared what caused this concerning issue but it could be due to a manufacturing defect that causes the block to overheat. To prevent this, keep a close eye on the coolant and oil levels. Some mechanical engine-block, head-gasket, overheating, and coolant problems are prevalent on 2006 and 2007 Honda Civic models but not so much on the 2008, 2009, and 2010 models.

Owners of this generation have also become frustrated with flailing Honda Civic sun visor problems to the point where a class-action lawsuit was issued for affected units. There is no recall for the Honda Civic's visor, but you may need to look at replacing this during your ownership experience with a replacement part that will cost about $50 excluding installation.

An additional class-action lawsuit was issued for 2006 and 2007 Civic models that relate to premature brake pad wearing that suggests the manufacturer installed a rear upper control arm that is too short and subjects the rear tire to misalignment. This also results in rear tire wear problems for the 2006 and 2008 Honda Civic models. No recall for the Honda Civic's rear control arm, brakes, or wheel bearing was issued, but to resolve this, you'll need to replace the rear control arms with a correct unit that costs $176.

The eighth-generation 2006 - 2011 Honda Civic recalls are abundant, mainly because it was the unfortunate victim of the Takata airbag recall. The 2006 model is subject to 15 recalls six of which are due to the faulty airbag. It was also recalled for an untrustworthy steering column due to a manufacturing fault that saw an overuse of silicone grease. This would drip onto the brake light bulb switch resulting in an operational failure.

260,000 units produced in 2006 and 2007 were potentially affected by a rear-wheel speed sensor which can cause the wheel to fall off while driving. A total of 774 Honda Civic FG2 coupe units are affected by a recall that relates to a poor installation of the rear window and rear quarter-glass panel which can cause the part to separate from the car while driving. A small number of Civic units were also recalled for the installation of incorrect amber front and side reflectors that could decrease visibility to other drivers.

25,298 units of the 2006 model specifically were recalled for an incorrectly installed accelerator pedal that could disconnect from the floor mounting or could even cause the throttle to get stuck. A handful of 2008 and 2009 Honda Civic models were recalled for a fuel hose connector bracket that could loosen and result in a fuel leak. This is because assembly, a nut holding the component was not installed. The 2011 model was called back due to a fuel leakage issue as well due to improper ultrasonic welding of the plastic case that covers the fuel pump module.

31,123 Honda Civic Hybrids were recalled for the IMA battery terminal that may come into contact with the metal cover. This can lead to a catastrophic electrical shortage that can blow the fuse of the IMA which can bring the powertrain to a stall and increase the risk of crashing. A plastic cover is attached to the bracket to ensure that this contact isn't made.

2006 to 2011 Honda Civics, including the coupe and LX, were not subjected to belt-tensioner, overheating from a damaged head gasket, ignition switch, power-steering pump, starter, air-conditioning - or AC - compressor, transmission, wiper-motor, oil-leak, or water-pump recalls, despite the rare problem with some of these systems.

The 2008 Honda Civic is a compact car offered as both a coupe and sedan with a price range of $5,339 to $10,616. Although the Civic ranks highly, we recommend buyers avoid the 2008 model year due to the high number of problems.

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Owner Reviews

562

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Models & Specs

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How many miles can an 8th gen Civic last?

carAlternative Exterior (20)carDashboard Interior (18)colorPalette Colors (5)

likeFilled The Good

Performance is better than other compact cars on the market, there’s more technology available than most rivals, and the sedan has outstanding room for the class.

dislikeFilled The Bad

Engine failures are more common on the 2008 model than other years, there are defects in the paint, and the digital gauge cluster is complicated compared to other compact cars.

2008 Honda Civic: Quick Overview

  • Reliability ratings are average and a 2008 Civic can last over 200,000 miles. There are some reports of cracking engine blocks, but there are fewer failures than the 2007 model.
  • Two engine choices are available. Both have 4-cylinders and the one in the Si model has good power for the class.
  • Fuel economy is great, ranking 1st out of 30 compact cars from 2008 and has a combined rating of up to 29 miles per gallon.
  • Safety ratings are average for the class, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
  • The 2008 Honda Civic ranks 7th out of 29 compact cars based on owner reviews. Although the Civic ranks well, 2008 is a bad year for the Civic, and we recommend going with a 2010 or newer model since there are fewer problems and only cost $750 more.

Expert Ratings

Kelley Blue Book

4.5/5

US News

9.4/10

Cars.com

4.4/5

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle April A

The make and year of the car and last owner and the miles on it.

1its small enough for me and my family.. 2 I like the style and color.. 3. I like that I have no problems with the car.

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accountCircle NATASHA S

It's my baby. It is very dependable and durable. Great for road trips and one that has a job that requires heavy travel.

I like the fact that I travel often and the mileage never interferes with the stability of the car. Durability! Haven't had a complaint.

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accountCircle Rachel V

It is really good on gas mileage and it has not given me any mechanical issues.

I like my car because it has not had any care problems since I bought it. I dislike this vehicle because the paint is peeling off and the inside is falling apart.

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accountCircle Summer K

Car is very reliable and easy to maintain.

Very reliable and fun to drive. I absolutely love my Honda it is the third I have owned. Could be better on gas but I drive far so it is ok. It's a great car, haven't had any problems with it so far but I regularly get the oil changed. Car is very easy and cheap to maintain.

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accountCircle Mickey W

It is a Honda civic 2008 and the color is sunburst.

I have not really had any serious problems with it. I love my car. It has been very reliable and comfortable. It has only required regular maintenance and upkeep as any car does. However my car door is starting to rust at the bottom but I guess that is my own fault for not cleaning it enough after the salt from the winter.

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accountCircle Re C

2008 Honda Civic 4 door lx.

My Honda is compact, reliable, gets great gas mileage, great in weather conditions. Comes in good colors, one downside of my model is the exhaust system is one pipe which was a bit expensive to fix. Would definitely buy another Honda Civic. Love all the compact yet spacious interior.

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accountCircle Allison M

Make sure you do not hit any pot holes, messes up the tires.

It's sort of old but it is still running amazing and never gives me any problems! The seats are comfortable even on long car rides my back does not ache. I should really bring it somewhere to get detailed soon but I haven't gotten around to it. There aren't any cool features since it is from 2008, 4 door, aux.

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accountCircle Mary D

My car is clean and well-maintained.

The Honda accord is a very reliable vehicle. The gas mileage is acceptable. Road noise while driving is my only complaint about this vehicle.

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Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Amy D

Honda civic seemed affordable but was a lemon.

The brakes wear out too quickly. They have been replaced twice already and mileage is less than 130,000. The air conditioning does not blow cold air. The front passenger window is not operational. Visors are defective. Airbag was recalled along with visors.

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accountCircle Alex G

Honda Civic - paint does not stay.

The vehicle is older, 2008. My steering never seems quite right and it always seems to be making sudden movements. The painting peels easily as I have noticed with all Hondas of the same male/year that I see around.

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accountCircle Laura S

Hate my Honda Civic coupe. 2 doors are the most uncomfortable feature.

The seats are very uncomfortable, it is an inconvenience for long trips. Also is a 2 door car which make it a problem when having more than 2 people and they have to get in and out, Very low, so getting in and out is not easy, especially when using skirts and high heels.

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accountCircle andy estwani

I will never buy

I will never buy this brand dealer wont do any thank GARBEG. Break problem pull to one side and only less 3000 km on it cos also paint peal

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accountCircle Leo

Horrible!

Had at least one expensive major repair every year since it hit 75,000 miles. Painful to get in and out and hard to see out of with the deep dashboard and massive pillars. It feels big and clunky and cheap. Excellent acceleration is its sole strong point. All the repair people have told me this was a bad model/year. I'm surprised at all the positive ratings.

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accountCircle Stephanie W

There are soooo many great things about my car.

I have a Civic Hybrid, which wasn't an available option when telling what type of car I own. I love my car. It's reliable, has great additional features that just add to how great it is. Probably the one thing that is bothersome is that the blind spot feels larger than other cars.

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accountCircle fin p

Great gas mileage. Easy to park. Small. Semi reliable.

Old, needs updates and newer features. Miles are getting up there too.

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accountCircle Brendan W

It's durable. But better for small people.

It's too small. Other than that i like it. It's reliable. But i hate the size.

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What Problems Does the 2008 Honda Civic Have?

The 2008 Honda Civic has more complaints than other compact cars from the same year. The 2010 model is a much better choice with less serious mechanical problems.

Cracking and peeling clear coats are the most common complaint. As the car ages the paint frequently starts to peel off due to poor adhesion. The only way to fix the problem is to repaint the affected panels, costing $750 to $1,200 per panel.

Sun visors falling off are another very common problem. The visors falling off is a widespread issue and there was a class action lawsuit to repair or replace the visors. If your visor fails and is out of the extended warranty, they cost about $60 to replace.

Cracking engine blocks are another problem on 2006 through 2009 Civics. Honda extended the warranty on the engine due to a coolant issue, so some replacements are done free of charge. Replacing an engine block out of warranty costs about $3,000, depending on local labor rates.

There are 7 recalls, average compared to other compact cars from the same year. The recalls include a fuel hose connector bracket, as well as six for various air bag inflators. The fuel hose bracket is the most important to reduce the risk of a fire, and air bag inflators help protect passengers in the car.

What is the 2008 Honda Civic Worth?

The 2008 Honda Civic is more expensive than many other compact cars on the market, with a price range of $5,339 to $10,616, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $14,810 to $29,500. Depreciation is better than other compact cars, only dropping about 12% in value each year on the used market.

What Are the Models & Specs?

  • DX is the entry-level model and has 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power windows, and a manual adjustable driver’s seat.
  • LX is next in the lineup with 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, power door locks, keyless entry, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 4 speakers.
  • EX falls in the middle with 16-inch alloy wheels, folding rear seats, sunroof, and improved stereo system with 6 speakers.
  • EX-L is the luxury model and adds leather seating, interior trim improvements, as well as heated front seats.
  • Si focuses on performance with a larger engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, limited slip differential, sport suspension, rear spoiler, and unique sport cloth seating.

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DX Coupe

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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DX Sedan

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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LX Coupe

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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LX Sedan

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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EX Coupe

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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EX Sedan

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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EX-L Coupe

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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EX-L Sedan

140 HP 30-31 MPG

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How Long Will the 2008 Honda Civic Last?

A properly cared for 2008 Honda Civic will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for the class. There are some engine problems with the 2006 through 2009 model years, and can mechanically total some Civics. Repair Pal estimates regular annual maintenance costs to be $361 per year, cheaper than some competitors.

Some expensive services shoppers should prepare for around 100,000 miles include $1,200 clutch replacements on manual models, alternator replacements for $400, as well as A/C blend door actuators costing $200.

accountCircle Vickie M

I had it for 7 years and never had any major issues with it. Only has turn ups and oil changed and tires. Just the basic stuff done to maintain it.

accountCircle Josephine J

Yes. I have had no issues with the car. It is get to drive and everything works in the car. I wish my hybrid car would save more on gas or that I could plug it in for a quick charge.

accountCircle Molly V

Very reliable, I haven't had any issues with mine. Regular maintenance and always been fine. Very happy with it!

accountCircle Mika N

Yes, it is a very reliable and easy to drive vehicle. I have not had any major issues or problems with the car throughout the time that I have owned and driven it.

accountCircle Nicole H

It is reliable. The biggest problem is that it is not made for New England winters. It is low to the ground and the suspension takes a beating with potholes.

accountCircle Anthony B

I have had to fix my air conditioning, and the sound system is less than basic, but otherwise there are not big problems.

accountCircle john S

Yes transmission was just replaced couple of months ago.$2600.00. What a mistake.. I will refrain from spending much money on the vehicle again.

accountCircle Audrey N

Yes it is reliable. I personally have not had many problems with it. If you keep up the car and regular oil changes and tire changes, you shouldn't have any problems with it.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is very basic in the 2008 Honda Civic, but is similar to other compact cars from the same year.

  • Standard technology includes a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, and a 3.5mm AUX input.
  • Upgrades include an improved 6-speaker stereo system, and a 7-inch infotainment screen with satellite-based navigation.
  • Standard safety features include antilock brakes, airbags, and active head restraints. Stability control is available only on the Si model.

How many miles can an 8th gen Civic last?

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is good in the 2008 Honda Civic Si, and average in the other models. The larger motor found in the Si takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds, which is quick for the class.

  • The standard engine is a 1.8L 4-cylinder with 140 horsepower.
  • A 2.0L 4-cylinder is found in the Si models, and has 197 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How many miles can an 8th gen Civic last?

How Big is the Civic?

The 2008 Honda Civic is a compact car, and is offered as both a coupe and sedan. Passenger room is excellent in the back seats of the sedan, with more space than the competition. Legroom in the back seats of the coupe is cramped, and best suited for children. Cargo space is good for the class, fitting 3 suitcases in the 12 cubic feet of room in the trunk.

How many miles can an 8th gen Civic last?

How Does the 2008 Honda Civic Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 7th out of 29 compact cars based on owner reviews, the 2008 Honda Civic is in the upper third of the class.

A close competitor in the same price range is the Toyota Corolla. The Corolla offers better long term reliability with fewer complaints, and a smoother ride. Where the Civic stands out is with better technology, as well as a more fun and engaging driving experience in the Si model. Overall, the Corolla is a better choice since there are significantly fewer mechanical problems.

Another rival is the more affordable Mazda3. The Mazda has more practicality with the available hatchback, and offers a more powerful optional engine. On the other hand, the Civic comes out ahead with a more fuel-efficient engine, and more advanced technology available. Between the two cars, the Mazda3 wins, simply because there are less serious problems.

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Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Honda Civic a Good Car?

No, the 2008 Honda Civic is not a good car based on information including 56 verified owner reviews, and 17 government and automotive websites. Where the Civic excels is with a larger cabin than other compact cars, and an enjoyable driving experience. Downsides include engine problems, and a complicated gauge cluster. Overall, the 2008 Civic is a car buyers should avoid, and serious improvements show up on the 2010 model, which is only $500 to $1,000 more.

How long will a 8th gen Civic last?

You could get from 200,000 to 300,000 miles with a Honda Civic before it completely breaks down or requires extensive repairs.

How long do 8th gen Honda Civic Si last?

The Honda Civic is a durable vehicle that can last for about 20 years, with responsible use and maintenance. This means you can get around 200,000 to 300,000 miles of service from your Honda Civic before it breaks down completely.

What is the highest mileage on a Honda Civic?

As reported by Tire Meets Road, this 2022 Civic sedan for sale at a dealership in Dallas, Texas, has clocked an unbelievable 248,740 miles.

Are 08 Civics reliable?

Reliability ratings are average and a 2008 Civic can last over 200,000 miles. There are some reports of cracking engine blocks, but there are fewer failures than the 2007 model. Two engine choices are available. Both have 4-cylinders and the one in the Si model has good power for the class.