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.
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
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
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.
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.
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.
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.
Very reliable, I haven't had any issues with mine. Regular maintenance and always been fine. Very happy with it!
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.
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.
I have had to fix my air conditioning, and the sound system is less than basic, but otherwise there are not big problems.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.