Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Honda Civic Reliability Report
The 2018 Honda Civic scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 605 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
4
Complaints
605
Complaint Rate
18.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$368
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,650–$2,750
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- STEERING (253)
- FUEL SYSTEM (94)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (56)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is year 3 of the Tenth generation.
- Redesigned for the 2016 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 10th generation Civic (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2016: Tenth generation Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is year 3 of the Tenth generation.
Should You Buy the 2018 Honda Civic?
At 71/100, the 2018 Honda Civic lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is year 3 of the Tenth generation.
Owners log 605 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to steering (226). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Honda Civic, which scored 4 points higher.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$158 cheaper to maintain than avg compact cars
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (10%)
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −STEERING: Steering wheel becoming sticky or notchy, making it difficult to maintain a... (253 complaints)
- −FUEL SYSTEM: Recall where the necessary repair parts are unavailable (94 complaints)
Compare 2018 Honda Civic With

2018 KIA Forte
Reliability: 66/100

2018 Toyota Corolla
Reliability: 80/100

2018 Hyundai Elantra
Reliability: 76/100

2018 Nissan Sentra
Reliability: 77/100

2018 Volkswagen Golf
Reliability: 69/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STEERING (253)
- FUEL SYSTEM (94)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2018 Honda Civic. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
18.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 24.9
Safety Incidents
26
Crashes
4
Fires
21
Injuries
1
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Honda Civic Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Honda Civic. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Acura NSX, 2019 Acura RDX, RLX and RLX Sport Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R and HR-V, 2019-2020 Insight and 2019 Fit vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Honda will notify owners and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 22, 2020. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138.
EQUIPMENT
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Honda Civic Hatchback and Civic Type R vehicles. The owners guide in these vehicles may not have been included or if included, the owner's guide may not have been properly provided required information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
Consequence
If the information is missing or improper, it can increase the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the owners information kit, free of charge. The recall began January 9, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O3A.
STEERING
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Honda Civic and CR-V vehicles. The magnet that controls the torque sensor output signal for the electronic power steering system may not be properly secured, allowing the magnet to become dislodged. During a full lock turn, the dislodged magnet may cause steering assist to be applied in the opposite direction.
Consequence
The unintended steering input reduces vehicle maneuverability and increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gearbox assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 9, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are C2N, P2O.
Buying a used 2018 Honda Civic? Check its history first
Every 2018 Honda Civic has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Honda Civic NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.5%
Safety Technologies
Honda CivicRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$368
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
10%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
25–36 MPG
Running cost: $2,000–$3,100/yr
Fuel + repair
22–32 city / 28–42 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civic 4Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 32 | 42 | 36 | $1,650 |
| Civic 2Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 31 | 40 | 35 | $1,700 |
| Civic 2Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 30 | 41 | 35 | $1,700 |
| Civic 4Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 31 | 42 | 35 | $1,700 |
| Civic 2Dr 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 30 | 39 | 34 | $1,750 |
| Civic 4Dr 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 31 | 40 | 34 | $1,750 |
| Civic 5Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 31 | 40 | 34 | $1,750 |
| Civic 5Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 29 | 38 | 33 | $1,800 |
| Civic 2Dr 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 28 | 39 | 32 | $1,850 |
| Civic 4Dr 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 28 | 40 | 32 | $1,850 |
| Civic 5Dr Sport 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 29 | 38 | 33 | $2,100 |
| Civic 5Dr Sport 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S7) | 30 | 36 | 32 | $2,150 |
| Civic Si 2Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 28 | 38 | 32 | $2,150 |
| Civic Si 4Dr 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 28 | 38 | 32 | $2,150 |
| Civic 5Dr - Type R 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 22 | 28 | 25 | $2,750 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Honda Civic.
Test steering for stickiness at highway speeds
Check for AC cooling issues and inspect for leaks
Verify fuel pump recall completion and inspect for stalling
Inspect for paint peeling, especially on hood and doors
Test infotainment system for black screen or unresponsiveness
2018 Honda Civic Common Problems by Component
605 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
253 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2018 Honda Civic often experiences issues with the steering system, primarily involving the steering wheel becoming sticky or notchy, making it difficult to maintain a straight line or make smooth adjustments. Complaints frequently mention the steering wheel sticking, being hard to maneuver, and occasionally making clicking noises, with these symptoms worsening in warm weather or after extended driving. The problem appears across a range of mileages, from as low as 30,000 miles to over 150,000 miles. Some reports indicate that these steering issues have led to crashes, highlighting potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware that while some vehicles are covered under recalls or service bulletins, others with similar symptoms are not, potentially leading to significant repair costs.
FUEL SYSTEM
94 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the fuel system in the 2018 Honda Civic, primarily related to a recall where the necessary repair parts are unavailable. Complaints frequently mention stalling while driving, difficulty starting the vehicle, and hesitation during acceleration, with some issues occurring around 48,000 to 100,000 miles. Two incidents involve crashes, with one resulting in injuries when the vehicle stalled and lost power steering, leading to a collision. Buyers should be aware of the potential for unresolved fuel system issues and the current delays in obtaining repair parts.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
90 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report significant issues with the 2018 Honda Civic's air conditioning system, often involving failures of the compressor, evaporator, and condenser, leading to leaking refrigerant and a lack of cooling. These problems frequently occur in vehicles with less than 60,000 miles and can result in unpleasant odors, dizziness, or lightheadedness due to refrigerant leaks into the cabin. Additionally, multiple complaints highlight issues with the fuel pump, which can cause the vehicle to become inoperable without prior warning, contributing to safety concerns due to unexpected stalling or inability to start. Paint peeling and flaking is also noted, particularly on side mirrors, with no specific mileage or timeline patterns. Safety implications include potential exposure to harmful fumes and the risk of being stranded due to fuel pump failures.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (43 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
43 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Honda Civic frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the body control module (BCM) and battery failures. Symptoms commonly described include dashboard warning lights flashing, key fob malfunctions, and unexpected battery drainage. Complaints often arise around or after 50,000 miles, with some owners experiencing repeated air conditioning failures linked to the electrical system. Safety concerns are noted, including instances of the vehicle not starting or shutting down properly, and one report involves a fire. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential electrical system issues and the associated repair costs that may arise.
ENGINE (30 complaints)
ENGINE
30 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the 2018 Honda Civic's engine, primarily involving cylinder misfires, oil dilution, and air conditioning failures. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as engine stalling, loss of power, and a strong fuel odor in the cabin, often linked to oil dilution with fuel. These issues are observed at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 1,585 miles. Safety implications include engine failure while driving, which could lead to loss of vehicle control, and one report of a fire following engine stalling and smoke emission. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring problems and the potential for significant repair costs.
AIR BAGS (19 complaints)
AIR BAGS
19 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Honda Civic frequently report unexpected airbag deployments without any preceding impact, often leading to injuries. Common symptoms include airbags deploying while driving at low speeds or during minor incidents, sometimes accompanied by smoke or metal fragments causing cuts. Several complaints involve airbags failing to deploy during crashes, with some incidents resulting in significant injuries. The mileage at which these issues occur varies, but one report mentions approximately 156,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and injuries resulting from both unexpected deployments and non-deployments. These patterns suggest potential airbag system reliability concerns that prospective buyers should consider.
STRUCTURE (14 complaints)
STRUCTURE
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2018 Honda Civic frequently experiences issues with paint peeling and chipping, particularly on the hood and doors. Complaints describe paint bubbling, clear coat lifting, and premature chipping, with some cases leading to corrosion and structural concerns. These paint issues often emerge within the first few years of ownership, regardless of regular maintenance or garage storage. Additionally, some owners mention problems with the sunroof and back windshield shattering without impact, and unsecured front bumpers that could detach at high speeds. Safety implications include a reported crash with one injury, though the details are not specified. These issues may affect the resale value and durability of the vehicle.
POWER TRAIN (12 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
12 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Honda Civic frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving manual transmission problems such as difficulty shifting gears, gears grinding, and not engaging properly. Symptoms often include stuttering during acceleration and random loss of power, with some reports mentioning the car jerking violently and misfiring in cylinder 1. These issues are noted across various mileage ranges, but some occur as early as 16,500 miles. Safety implications are present, with one incident involving the vehicle rolling down an incline and crashing into a tree, and another report of a fire occurring while driving. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential issues, especially regarding manual transmission performance and unexpected mechanical failures.
SEATS (7 complaints)
SEATS
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Honda Civic report several issues related to the seats, with some complaints highlighting mechanical problems and safety concerns. Multiple owners describe issues with the driver's seat adjustment mechanism, mentioning grinding or stripping noises and difficulty in adjusting seat height. There are reports of the passenger seat alerting with a dinging sound and interior light activation during turns or when weight shifts, which can be distracting. Safety implications are noted, including a crash where the seat bracket bent, causing injury, and an instance of seat heaters causing burns. These reports occur at varying times, with some issues appearing within months of purchase, indicating potential early onset of these problems.
SERVICE BRAKES (6 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Honda Civic report several issues with the service brakes, with some complaints involving significant safety concerns. A pattern emerges where multiple owners describe the brake pedal becoming soft or unresponsive, sometimes leading to crashes, as seen in a report where the vehicle failed to stop, resulting in a rear-end collision. Other complaints highlight issues with the brake hold system, where the vehicle unexpectedly rolls despite the system being engaged, posing a risk of accidents in situations such as parking or waiting in line. Additionally, there are reports of the emergency brake not engaging as expected, causing the vehicle to roll when parked. These problems are reported at varied mileages, ranging from around 30,000 to over 88,000 miles, indicating potential reliability concerns over time.
When Do 2018 Honda Civic Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Honda Civic Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Honda Civic Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Honda Civic year is 2025 with a reliability score of 84/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (81/100) and 2021 (81/100).
Honda Civic Years to Avoid
The worst Honda Civic year is 2022 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to steering (790) issues.
Honda Civic Reliability Score Trend
Honda Civic reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 84/100 | Excellent |
Honda Civic Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 80/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 7 |
| 2025 | 84/100 | +3 | Excellent | 5 | 49 |
| 2024 | 81/100 | +7 | Excellent | 5 | 131 |
| 2023 | 74/100 | +8 | Good | 7 | 315 |
| 2022 | 66/100 | -15 | Good | 3 | 935 |
| 2021 | 81/100 | +3 | Excellent | 3 | 118 |
| 2020 | 78/100 | +3 | Good | 8 | 405 |
| 2019 | 75/100 | +4 | Good | 2 | 356 |
| 2018(selected) | 71/100 | — | Good | 4 | 605 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Honda Civic reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Honda Civic?
How many recalls does the 2018 Honda Civic have?
Is the 2018 Honda Civic expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Honda Civic without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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