Other cars Decisions, decisions – please help

chickenlegs · 8th October 2007, 21:49

I write this with slight trepidation and start by declaring no intention to insult or upset any happy Civic owners. I write this to genuinely seek advice.

I have compared the Civic with the Audi A3 – nicely engineered, hard ride and a little dull; the VW Golf Sport – nice and even more dull, (and every other car on the road seems to be a Golf); the Alfa Romeo 147 – not driven yet and Italian!; the Toyota Auris – ok, own up, who designed the brake lever?

My partner and I are looking to trade our Mercedes A160 for a new Civic – more than likely the diesel 2.2 i-CTDi EX model with leather seats and other bits. We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient.

So why the post on this site? Well, it’s been a struggle for me to reconcile the attractive and striking external appearance of the car with the slightly ‘mad-professor’ interior. There are a host of oddities that I find just, well…odd.

Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain? Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard? Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year? Would these not have been better, sited more discreetly? Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality? Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car? Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them? Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint? Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty? Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version? How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched? Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency? Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend? Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own? Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car?

Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed.

Pumatron · 8th October 2007, 22:10

Hi,
Interesting post!!. I think you have answered your own question really.
If you have found all the issues you have mentioned from only a couple of road tests then what will you find when you are driving the car all the time.
I would like to give an opinion that this car is not for you and you would be better off continuing your search for a replacement car.

It is the second most expensive thing that you buy so it needs to be right for you and from your post I think the Honda civic is not right for you.

I am very pleased with my Honda civic 2.2 as are many others but yes they have got a few 'issues' which I chose to live with when I bought my civic as nothing in a mass produced world with live in is perfect!!!!!!

Hope this helps

Regards Pumatron.

Pottsy · 8th October 2007, 22:13

Hello!

I'll have a go..

We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient.

And this vital property will make you enjoy the car every day.

Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain?

The new cars come with them as standard fit. And I don't think £425 is right - you can even fit aftermarket ones for a lot less if tightness gets the better of you. I have the reversing camera and it's great.

Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard?

To give you the option of even more space (with a repair kit).

Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year?

Not sure I agree. No redundant buttons on my car, apart from maybe the tiny satnav brightness one. A more valid complaint would be that the temperature control looks and feels like the satnav control.

Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality?

Not ever heard of fascia panels coming off. The car, like all cars, is a financial compromise. Some have money thrown at styling, some at the seats and so on. In the Civic you will find the cash has been aimed at the engine, gearbox, steering wheel and electronic gizmos and displays. Areas that have missed the money trajectory include the paint, seats and some plastics. You pays your money....

Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car?

It's an annoying marketing gimmick that many new cars are suffering from. With time, you don't notice it.

Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them?

The inside ones are fine, but yes, the outside ones feel rotten. It's not a stopper though.

Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint?

Because all gear levers are (just you don't normally see it). It practice, the gear change is excellent on the 2.2.

Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty?

Saving £.

Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version?

Yes.

How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched?

Not often if you spend £50 and fit the scratch free Type R one.

Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency?

Yes - it helps the stingebags. You can turn it off entirely if you want.

Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend?

No. Honda tend not to go wrong in a big way. The little stuff should all be fixed before your 3 years are up.

Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own?

No. Just take it back to the dealer if you pull any more off.

Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car?

Some early cars suffer from this. Later ones are better.

Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed.

It's not a perfect car. But I find it suits me very well indeed!

chickenlegs · 8th October 2007, 22:23

Thanks very much for your replies. I think most of my my heart agrees that I probably shouldn't buy a Civic, but my head says it makes good economic sense. And the rest of my heart says it's an exciting, quirky car. It's just a question of whether I can stand all the quirks...

angie4m · 8th October 2007, 22:24

You drove a Baby Benz (falls into the same catagory as the 1 series of I would like to own a real BMW but cant afford one) Baby benz, the car that they couldn't relase for years as it kept toppling over everytime it went round a corner.

The car looked like a mini people carrier and the civic just outshines it in everyway. Quite frankly no amount of people telling to why and why not to buy it should persuade you as its your money and your choice. You are the one that is going to have to drive it so if it annoys you so much then dont buy it

Bog · 8th October 2007, 22:37

You found that many things to find fault with in just the test drive

I would not bother if I were you - you seem very hard to please. Have you considered (pulling the panels off) a Focus?

Pottsy · 8th October 2007, 22:43

Chickenlegs,

Go to the surveys section, and look at the results for Civic Satisfaction. Filter the results to include only 2007, 2.2, EX (the car you are looking at). You'll then see what others think after owning the car for a bit.

Brodick · 8th October 2007, 22:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bog

You found that many things to find fault with in just the test drive

I would not bother if I were you - you seem very hard to please. Have you considered (pulling the panels off) a Focus?

he wouldn't need to as they usually fall off do they not

Dimplyred · 8th October 2007, 22:47

Quote:

Originally Posted by chickenlegs

Thanks very much for your replies. I think most of my my heart agrees that I probably shouldn't buy a Civic, but my head says it makes good economic sense. And the rest of my heart says it's an exciting, quirky car. It's just a question of whether I can stand all the quirks...

Have you not got the sense of mind to determine the answers to your questions for yourself.
If you are unhappy with the answers you give to these questions, then continue to search for another model by another manufacturer and ask the same questions of these cars until you find a car that satisfies some if not all your requirements.

Brodick · 8th October 2007, 22:57

I just find it funny someone coming from an Merc A class complaining about the civics build quality - I remember having a rental years ago
when I was away on business and could not wait to hand it back to the
hire company - cheap plastics, rattles,

well done pottsy for answering all the queries, moans and complaints

(sorry chickenlegs I'm only teasing)

It is your car if you don't like the civic then don't buy it
just remember though Honda has one of the best reputations in the industry

PJdali · 8th October 2007, 23:13

Before buying the Civic i looked at Seat Leon, A-Class, Qashqai, Golf and A3.

Every one of those models had something I liked, Audi cabin is plush but you need to spend a grand or two to get the steering wheel and electric windows and some basic gadgets with the car it seems

Just too expensive for what you get.
VW Golf I've owned for 2 1/2 years...nice car to drive \ own but oh so drab inside and also expensive for what you get

Seat I just didn't like the dash and layout....and dealer experience has been very very poor no matter where I went....I will possibly never buy a Seat because of repeated bad experiences

A-Class I couldn't see myself owning as it just looked odd up close...wide stance and raking front just wasn't for me i'm afraid. Plus hugely expensive for such a small (capable) car....but cabin quality is very good indeed.

I've test driven 3 different petrol 1.8 Civics at differing dealers and none have had any dash trim defects. Yes there are a few things about the car I would change that would enhance the overall cabin quality......but it's such a fantastic car to be in and drive....each test drive seen me grinning like a madman and none of the other cars I drove left me smiling the way the Civic did.........even my wife was grinning from ear to ear at the last test drive before ordering.

My father who drives a year old A4 avante which is a truly beautiful machine.................well the old man was really was impressed by the Civic and spent ages pulling and prodding everything inside and outside the car, he was very impressed by the build quality and the drive........my previous 05 golf never got the nods of approval from him so the Civic can't be too bad in his eyes.

So it seems that it maybe does come down to personal expectation and deciding what you want to drive for the next few years........there is so much choice out there if you have £17,000 - 18,000 to spend...........you can get a helluva lot of car for that kind of money.

Good luck with your final choice.

TTDegs · 8th October 2007, 23:15

Welcome aboard

I'll have a go too..
(And nick Pottsy's styling as he has done the hard work first

)

We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient.

Absolutely, 100% agree

It's a stunning engine, with a dual personality at the press of a loud pedal

If required, it can return over 70mpg on a run (and I have photographic proof

)
Or if the feeling takes you, it has the oomph and agility to have some fun

Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain?

Whilst I thought it was £200, I must admit that fitting them as standard to the only 5door spec which has the Sat Nav (and therefore the option of the reversing camera) was a bit bizzare.
Though having said that, my (possibly incorrect!) recollection is that the OEM Honda sensors aren't too bad in the rain.

Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard?

Can't really expand on Pottsy's answer there - other than to suggest you simply factor it into the overall price when comparing to the A3 etc (and lets face it, there is plently of cash left over when comparing the Civic to an equally specced A3...)

Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year?

In one year of owenership, the only button which I don't use on a fairly regular basis is the mph/kmh one

Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality?

Having lost more than one finger nail to trying to remove bits of trim intentially, I'm not quite sure how you managed that!

Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car?

Every other car, except the various top line Hondas, several new Renaults, the GT40, and (if memory serves) the Audi R8

Is it pointless? - yes, of course it is

Is it irritating? - not to me

Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them?

Could be better (though mine don't rattle)

Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint?

As per Pottsy's reply - and, if it really bother you, you can fir the Type R gaiter

Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty?

Because it is

Definately one area of the car that could have done with a couple of extra £ throwing at it.

Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version?

Yes... Although by Audi fobs, whilst folding, were bulkier...

How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched?

Depends on how much it upsets you!

At least on the Civic, they are easy to clean (though with care).
On my TT the dial covers got equally as dusty, but being circular and recessed, were a right pain to clean to the edges...

Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency?

See the above point about 70+ mpg

But as Pottsy said, you can turn them off if you like

As you can with the matching rev lights.

Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend?

Honda can not afford for the Civic name to fail.
Yes, there may be some problems, and yes, certainly on the earlier cars there were.
But the bottom line is that Honda can not risk their reputation for reliability dragged down.

Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own?

That is what the warranty is for

Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car?

See above

Some earlier cars sufferred - new ones much less so.

Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed.

Not sure what's holding you back

but hopefully at least some of the answers on this thread will help remove whatever it is

nellz_bassettshonda · 8th October 2007, 23:23

Civic VS A3 ? = Civic purely on the design ! Good luck with your choice

Munro · 8th October 2007, 23:40

The following results from the Driver Power Customer Satisfaction survey may help with your decision:

Car Model Comparison:
Honda Civic 4th Place out of 100
Audi A3 38th Place out of 100

Results by Manufacturer:
Honda were placed 3rd out of 37 Manufacturers
Audi were placed 11th out of 37 Manufacturers

chickenlegs · 9th October 2007, 19:25

You are a very helpful lot! It is great to read so many happy Honda Civic owners' stories and you may yet persuade us to buy one.

Honda100 · 9th October 2007, 20:06

One of the main reasons to purchase is that there is nothing like it on the road. The Civic really stands out from the crowd in a big way.
It does have it's faults, like every other car I have ever driven, but nothing is a deal breaker in my opinion. However it has many positives such as the equipment levels, engines and sheer driving pleasure which well and truly outweigh the niggles.
Honda's reputation for reliability is almost second to none and their engines are acknowledged as superb by most commentators.
Mercedes quality has taken a nose dive over the past few years. They have been well and truly out classed by other marques such as Honda, so I am sure that whatever you choose will be better than the A class.

angie4m · 9th October 2007, 20:33

My Dad and his mate have alsways been Beemer guys and my uncle Mercs and they are all telling me that I have made a great choice by going for a Honda.

My Uncle who has the Mercs had a Prelude back in the day (which I can't remember cause I was a bit young) and he just raves about the Vtech!

When my Dad, a man who only ever buys BM's says that he loves the Type R and even considered it for my Mum then I know that Honda have made one hell of a car, cause thats one person I never thought I would hear say that!

civicfan · 9th October 2007, 21:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by chickenlegs

I write this with slight trepidation and start by declaring no intention to insult or upset any happy Civic owners. I write this to genuinely seek advice.

I have compared the Civic with the Audi A3 – nicely engineered, hard ride and a little dull; the VW Golf Sport – nice and even more dull, (and every other car on the road seems to be a Golf); the Alfa Romeo 147 – not driven yet and Italian!; the Toyota Auris – ok, own up, who designed the brake lever?

My partner and I are looking to trade our Mercedes A160 for a new Civic – more than likely the diesel 2.2 i-CTDi EX model with leather seats and other bits. We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient.

So why the post on this site? Well, it’s been a struggle for me to reconcile the attractive and striking external appearance of the car with the slightly ‘mad-professor’ interior. There are a host of oddities that I find just, well…odd.

Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain? Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard? Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year? Would these not have been better, sited more discreetly? Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality? Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car? Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them? Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint? Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty? Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version? How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched? Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency? Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend? Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own? Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car?

Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed.

Well, to be honest - after some half a million km in some 10 cars - what matters to me is the test drive - if I like the drive and "character" of the car I buy it, if I don't I just don't. Every car has its problems, the question is are you able and willing to live with them because (in your individual perception) the car is worth having anyway

Quidquid agis prudenter agas et respice finem

Essexboy · 10th October 2007, 08:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by chickenlegs

Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car?

Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint?

It's funny because I love the start button, and I think the ball joint thing is much better than the alternative of one of those things that most cars have.... horses for courses I guess!

DeanFYoung · 10th October 2007, 09:42

I am loving the Civic and am 100% positive of my choice over an A3 Sportback - the ride is 10 x better than the Audi and you get far more kit for your money.
I've also not got any build quality issues with mine - bar one little rattle from the boot somewhere which the dealer is going to fix for me.
The Driver Power Customer Satisfaction back it all up too...
Go on get the Civic you wont be disappointed!

8th October 2007, 21:49	#1 (permalink)
chickenlegs Join Date: 14th July 2007 Location: Bristol, UK Posts: 13 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader: (0)	Decisions, decisions – please help I write this with slight trepidation and start by declaring no intention to insult or upset any happy Civic owners. I write this to genuinely seek advice. I have compared the Civic with the Audi A3 – nicely engineered, hard ride and a little dull; the VW Golf Sport – nice and even more dull, (and every other car on the road seems to be a Golf); the Alfa Romeo 147 – not driven yet and Italian!; the Toyota Auris – ok, own up, who designed the brake lever? My partner and I are looking to trade our Mercedes A160 for a new Civic – more than likely the diesel 2.2 i-CTDi EX model with leather seats and other bits. We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient. So why the post on this site? Well, it’s been a struggle for me to reconcile the attractive and striking external appearance of the car with the slightly ‘mad-professor’ interior. There are a host of oddities that I find just, well…odd. Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain? Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard? Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year? Would these not have been better, sited more discreetly? Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality? Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car? Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them? Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint? Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty? Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version? How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched? Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency? Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend? Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own? Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car? Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed.

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8th October 2007, 22:10	#2 (permalink)
Pumatron Supporter Join Date: 4th October 2007 Location: South East England Posts: 91 Thanks: 3 Thanked 4 Times in 3 Posts iTrader: (0)	Hi, Interesting post!!. I think you have answered your own question really. If you have found all the issues you have mentioned from only a couple of road tests then what will you find when you are driving the car all the time. I would like to give an opinion that this car is not for you and you would be better off continuing your search for a replacement car. It is the second most expensive thing that you buy so it needs to be right for you and from your post I think the Honda civic is not right for you. I am very pleased with my Honda civic 2.2 as are many others but yes they have got a few 'issues' which I chose to live with when I bought my civic as nothing in a mass produced world with live in is perfect!!!!!! Hope this helps Regards Pumatron.

8th October 2007, 22:13	#3 (permalink)
Pottsy Administrator Car: Merc E220 Join Date: 10th April 2006 Location: Leics Posts: 9,402 Thanks: 88 Thanked 1,018 Times in 434 Posts iTrader: (0)	Hello! I'll have a go.. We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient. And this vital property will make you enjoy the car every day. Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain? The new cars come with them as standard fit. And I don't think £425 is right - you can even fit aftermarket ones for a lot less if tightness gets the better of you. I have the reversing camera and it's great. Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard? To give you the option of even more space (with a repair kit). Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year? Not sure I agree. No redundant buttons on my car, apart from maybe the tiny satnav brightness one. A more valid complaint would be that the temperature control looks and feels like the satnav control. Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality? Not ever heard of fascia panels coming off. The car, like all cars, is a financial compromise. Some have money thrown at styling, some at the seats and so on. In the Civic you will find the cash has been aimed at the engine, gearbox, steering wheel and electronic gizmos and displays. Areas that have missed the money trajectory include the paint, seats and some plastics. You pays your money.... Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car? It's an annoying marketing gimmick that many new cars are suffering from. With time, you don't notice it. Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them? The inside ones are fine, but yes, the outside ones feel rotten. It's not a stopper though. Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint? Because all gear levers are (just you don't normally see it). It practice, the gear change is excellent on the 2.2. Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty? Saving £. Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version? Yes. How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched? Not often if you spend £50 and fit the scratch free Type R one. Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency? Yes - it helps the stingebags. You can turn it off entirely if you want. Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend? No. Honda tend not to go wrong in a big way. The little stuff should all be fixed before your 3 years are up. Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own? No. Just take it back to the dealer if you pull any more off. Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car? Some early cars suffer from this. Later ones are better. Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed. It's not a perfect car. But I find it suits me very well indeed!

8th October 2007, 22:23	#4 (permalink)
chickenlegs Thread starter Join Date: 14th July 2007 Location: Bristol, UK Posts: 13 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader: (0)	Thanks very much for your replies. I think most of my my heart agrees that I probably shouldn't buy a Civic, but my head says it makes good economic sense. And the rest of my heart says it's an exciting, quirky car. It's just a question of whether I can stand all the quirks...

8th October 2007, 22:24	#5 (permalink)
angie4m Naughty but nice Car: 135i & 330Ci M Sport Convtbs Join Date: 28th September 2007 Location: Edinburgh Posts: 4,133 Thanks: 49 Thanked 100 Times in 99 Posts iTrader: (0)	You drove a Baby Benz (falls into the same catagory as the 1 series of I would like to own a real BMW but cant afford one) Baby benz, the car that they couldn't relase for years as it kept toppling over everytime it went round a corner. The car looked like a mini people carrier and the civic just outshines it in everyway. Quite frankly no amount of people telling to why and why not to buy it should persuade you as its your money and your choice. You are the one that is going to have to drive it so if it annoys you so much then dont buy it

8th October 2007, 22:37	#6 (permalink)
Bog Supporter Join Date: 5th October 2006 Location: Radlett, Hertfordshire Posts: 984 Thanks: 1 Thanked 10 Times in 9 Posts iTrader: (0)	You found that many things to find fault with in just the test drive I would not bother if I were you - you seem very hard to please. Have you considered (pulling the panels off) a Focus?

8th October 2007, 22:43	#7 (permalink)
Pottsy Administrator Car: Merc E220 Join Date: 10th April 2006 Location: Leics Posts: 9,402 Thanks: 88 Thanked 1,018 Times in 434 Posts iTrader: (0)	Chickenlegs, Go to the surveys section, and look at the results for Civic Satisfaction. Filter the results to include only 2007, 2.2, EX (the car you are looking at). You'll then see what others think after owning the car for a bit.

8th October 2007, 22:57	#10 (permalink)
Brodick Perfect Guy! Join Date: 2nd December 2006 Location: Central Scotland Posts: 2,229 Thanks: 4 Thanked 29 Times in 27 Posts iTrader: (0)	I just find it funny someone coming from an Merc A class complaining about the civics build quality - I remember having a rental years ago when I was away on business and could not wait to hand it back to the hire company - cheap plastics, rattles, well done pottsy for answering all the queries, moans and complaints (sorry chickenlegs I'm only teasing) It is your car if you don't like the civic then don't buy it just remember though Honda has one of the best reputations in the industry

8th October 2007, 23:13	#11 (permalink)
PJdali Join Date: 7th September 2007 Location: Edinburgh Posts: 43 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader: (0)	Before buying the Civic i looked at Seat Leon, A-Class, Qashqai, Golf and A3. Every one of those models had something I liked, Audi cabin is plush but you need to spend a grand or two to get the steering wheel and electric windows and some basic gadgets with the car it seems Just too expensive for what you get. VW Golf I've owned for 2 1/2 years...nice car to drive \ own but oh so drab inside and also expensive for what you get Seat I just didn't like the dash and layout....and dealer experience has been very very poor no matter where I went....I will possibly never buy a Seat because of repeated bad experiences A-Class I couldn't see myself owning as it just looked odd up close...wide stance and raking front just wasn't for me i'm afraid. Plus hugely expensive for such a small (capable) car....but cabin quality is very good indeed. I've test driven 3 different petrol 1.8 Civics at differing dealers and none have had any dash trim defects. Yes there are a few things about the car I would change that would enhance the overall cabin quality......but it's such a fantastic car to be in and drive....each test drive seen me grinning like a madman and none of the other cars I drove left me smiling the way the Civic did.........even my wife was grinning from ear to ear at the last test drive before ordering. My father who drives a year old A4 avante which is a truly beautiful machine.................well the old man was really was impressed by the Civic and spent ages pulling and prodding everything inside and outside the car, he was very impressed by the build quality and the drive........my previous 05 golf never got the nods of approval from him so the Civic can't be too bad in his eyes. So it seems that it maybe does come down to personal expectation and deciding what you want to drive for the next few years........there is so much choice out there if you have £17,000 - 18,000 to spend...........you can get a helluva lot of car for that kind of money. Good luck with your final choice.

8th October 2007, 23:15	#12 (permalink)
TTDegs Super Moderator Car: '08 2.2 NHB CRV Join Date: 4th August 2006 Location: Cardiff Posts: 7,759 Thanks: 97 Thanked 91 Times in 87 Posts iTrader: (3)	Welcome aboard I'll have a go too.. (And nick Pottsy's styling as he has done the hard work first ) We have test driven both the petrol and diesel models and found the diesel to be absolutely amazing – quiet, quick and efficient. Absolutely, 100% agree It's a stunning engine, with a dual personality at the press of a loud pedal If required, it can return over 70mpg on a run (and I have photographic proof ) Or if the feeling takes you, it has the oomph and agility to have some fun Why, for instance, am I forced to pay £425 for parking sensors as it’s impossible to reverse park in the rain? Whilst I thought it was £200, I must admit that fitting them as standard to the only 5door spec which has the Sat Nav (and therefore the option of the reversing camera) was a bit bizzare. Though having said that, my (possibly incorrect!) recollection is that the OEM Honda sensors aren't too bad in the rain. Why am I forced to pay £125 for a spare wheel that should come as standard? Can't really expand on Pottsy's answer there - other than to suggest you simply factor it into the overall price when comparing to the A3 etc (and lets face it, there is plently of cash left over when comparing the Civic to an equally specced A3...) Why is the dash littered with buttons that you would only need to adjust about once a year? In one year of owenership, the only button which I don't use on a fairly regular basis is the mph/kmh one Why was it so easy for me to pull off two facia panels on the driver’s side during the test drive, and how is it then, that the car seems to get rave reviews about build-quality? Having lost more than one finger nail to trying to remove bits of trim intentially, I'm not quite sure how you managed that! Why does Honda feel the need to fit a ‘Start’ button when a key has adequately done the job on every other car? Every other car, except the various top line Hondas, several new Renaults, the GT40, and (if memory serves) the Audi R8 Is it pointless? - yes, of course it is Is it irritating? - not to me Why do the door handles feel cheap and rattle as you use them? Could be better (though mine don't rattle) Why is the gear lever terminated at the dash with a poorly conceived ball joint? As per Pottsy's reply - and, if it really bother you, you can fir the Type R gaiter Why does the ‘metal-like’ finish to the door trims, where the electric window switches live, look cheap and nasty? Because it is Definately one area of the car that could have done with a couple of extra £ throwing at it. Would it not be better to provide a folding key fob, rather than a cheap looking fixed version? Yes... Although by Audi fobs, whilst folding, were bulkier... How often am I going to fixate about the dark plastics on the dash getting dusty and scratched? Depends on how much it upsets you! At least on the Civic, they are easy to clean (though with care). On my TT the dial covers got equally as dusty, but being circular and recessed, were a right pain to clean to the edges... Is there really any point in having the Christmas tree lights on the dash that indicate fuel efficiency? See the above point about 70+ mpg But as Pottsy said, you can turn them off if you like As you can with the matching rev lights. Am I buying trouble for myself, investing in a highly engineered and technologically biased car that is bound to decide to go wrong, the moment the warranty runs out and cost a fortune to mend? Honda can not afford for the Civic name to fail. Yes, there may be some problems, and yes, certainly on the earlier cars there were. But the bottom line is that Honda can not risk their reputation for reliability dragged down. Am I likely to constantly fret about a squeaky dash board after six months, when the panels that I managed to pull off on the test drive, take on a life of their own? That is what the warranty is for Should I worry about the knocking noise from the back of the test car? See above Some earlier cars sufferred - new ones much less so. Having said all that, I have to say that I still like the car a great deal. I like the ride, the engine and the incredible level of equipment that is on offer for what seems a very reasonable price. I like the pre-paid service options and the reputation of Honda and its loyal customer base. So what’s holding me back? Your (friendly) feedback would be welcomed. Not sure what's holding you back but hopefully at least some of the answers on this thread will help remove whatever it is

8th October 2007, 23:23	#13 (permalink)
nellz_bassettshonda Bassetts Honda Join Date: 25th February 2007 Location: Bridgend , South Wales Posts: 603 Thanks: 67 Thanked 19 Times in 19 Posts iTrader: (0)	Civic VS A3 ? = Civic purely on the design ! Good luck with your choice

8th October 2007, 23:40	#14 (permalink)
Munro Supporter Join Date: 10th August 2007 Location: Scotland Posts: 1,778 Thanks: 60 Thanked 92 Times in 79 Posts iTrader: (1)	The following results from the Driver Power Customer Satisfaction survey may help with your decision: Car Model Comparison: Honda Civic 4th Place out of 100 Audi A3 38th Place out of 100 Results by Manufacturer: Honda were placed 3rd out of 37 Manufacturers Audi were placed 11th out of 37 Manufacturers

9th October 2007, 19:25	#15 (permalink)
chickenlegs Thread starter Join Date: 14th July 2007 Location: Bristol, UK Posts: 13 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader: (0)	You are a very helpful lot! It is great to read so many happy Honda Civic owners' stories and you may yet persuade us to buy one.

9th October 2007, 20:06	#16 (permalink)
Honda100 Supporter Join Date: 31st May 2006 Location: Stockport Posts: 246 Thanks: 1 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts iTrader: (0)	One of the main reasons to purchase is that there is nothing like it on the road. The Civic really stands out from the crowd in a big way. It does have it's faults, like every other car I have ever driven, but nothing is a deal breaker in my opinion. However it has many positives such as the equipment levels, engines and sheer driving pleasure which well and truly outweigh the niggles. Honda's reputation for reliability is almost second to none and their engines are acknowledged as superb by most commentators. Mercedes quality has taken a nose dive over the past few years. They have been well and truly out classed by other marques such as Honda, so I am sure that whatever you choose will be better than the A class.

9th October 2007, 20:33	#17 (permalink)
angie4m Naughty but nice Car: 135i & 330Ci M Sport Convtbs Join Date: 28th September 2007 Location: Edinburgh Posts: 4,133 Thanks: 49 Thanked 100 Times in 99 Posts iTrader: (0)	My Dad and his mate have alsways been Beemer guys and my uncle Mercs and they are all telling me that I have made a great choice by going for a Honda. My Uncle who has the Mercs had a Prelude back in the day (which I can't remember cause I was a bit young) and he just raves about the Vtech! When my Dad, a man who only ever buys BM's says that he loves the Type R and even considered it for my Mum then I know that Honda have made one hell of a car, cause thats one person I never thought I would hear say that!

10th October 2007, 09:42	#20 (permalink)
DeanFYoung Supporter Join Date: 19th June 2007 Location: UK Posts: 1,012 Thanks: 46 Thanked 19 Times in 19 Posts iTrader: (0)	I am loving the Civic and am 100% positive of my choice over an A3 Sportback - the ride is 10 x better than the Audi and you get far more kit for your money. I've also not got any build quality issues with mine - bar one little rattle from the boot somewhere which the dealer is going to fix for me. The Driver Power Customer Satisfaction back it all up too... Go on get the Civic you wont be disappointed!