Honda Civic Hybrid

Honda Civic Hybrid questions and answers

Honda Civic Hybrid For Sale at LemonFree Used Cars.

Q: Why today do we need hybrid vehicles to get 45 mpg, when the 1990 Honda Civic was capable of the same?
Cars in the early 90's were smaller and more efficient than today's vehicles. Why are we sold hybrid vehicles as some sort of advancement, when the 1990 Honda Civic was capable of 45 mpg with a conventional motor? What kind of mileage would a 1990 honda Civic hybrid achieve?

A: uncle sam.

Q: How to verify Honda Civic Hybrid 2003 has rear airbags?
I am thinking of buying a used Honda Civic Hybrid 2003 that the owner claims has rear side airbags. How do I actually verify that the car are installed with those airbag, e.g. are there some documentation or papers that I can refer to? Thanks.

A: You might want to try asking some owners to be sure: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/honda-hybrid/ http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Honda_Civic_Hybrid/ http://www.insightcentral.net/forum/ http://www.greenhybrid.com/discuss/f12/ Considering that the Honda press release for the 2003 HCH only lists the dual-stage driver and passenger front airbags and driver's and passenger's side airbags as standard equipment, with no note about rear airbags as an available option, it is highly possible that your seller is confused. (It's always possible that the seller has a one-off VIP vehicle, but unlikely.) http://corporate.honda.com/press/article.aspx?id=2002020643225 Normally there's a SRS label wherever the airbags live, so if you don't see any label either just above the rear windows or by the side of the rear seats, it is highly unlikely that any airbags are in the rear area.

Q: What is the ACTUAL gas mileage of a Honda Civic Hybrid?
We recently puchased a 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid with an automatic transmission. All the manuals say it is supposed to get 47 city and 48 hwy mpg. We are getting less. Any ideas why and what has been your experience with gas mileage and other things about the Honda Civic Hybrid? We would like to hear from any Honda Civic Hybrid owners. Thanks

A: All EPA estimates are generated in a very unnatural way, that is basically on a dynomometer in a lab. They are ideal numbers under ideal circumstances. Most cars don't regularly achieve numbers like their EPA estimates at all unless you drive them very deliberately with the goal of saving fuel all the time.The only vehicles I have seen regularly meet or exceed their EPA estimates are modern direct injected diesels. I suspect that it's a function of the diesels natural superiority when it comes to flexibility/efficiency and the fact that diesels can vary their air/fuel ratio a lot more than gasoline engines can in response to load. Hybrids are especially disappointing when it comes to living up to the hype of their EPA estimates. I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that the type of driving and the amount of work the electric motor is doing can vary wildly. This is especially true of the Toyota system which actually shuts the gasoline engine off at times. I would check your owners manual for tips on driving for fuel economy, make sure your tires are properly inflated and use only full-synthetic motor oil. Have all of those things going for you, then see what kind of results you get.

Q: How long is a battery supposed to last in a 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid?
I am looking at a 2004 Honda civic hybrid and one of my questions is how long does the battery last and how much does it cost to replace it?

A: The 2004 Civic Hybrid battery should have at least an 8-year / 80,000-mile warranty on it. http://www.hondabeat.com/article_details.php?ID=77 If after the warranty expires and the battery dies, it doesn't make sense to spend thousands to put a brand-new battery into an old car. Just get a refurbished one-- They can be had for under $500 on Ebay. Drive it with the refurbed battery for a few more years, then get a new car. Hope this helps.

Q: What happens when Honda Civic Hybrid out of gas?
What happens when Honda Civic Hybrid runs out of gas? Will it limp along on electric, shut down, or mantain full electric driving capibility? The fuel pump wouldn't be damaged as it would be shutdown during the electric mode. The pump doesn't run during electric mode in this car. A Feature of progressive engineering.

A: It will run until the electric motor runs out of charge. Also, while its running on electric only, it will not generate as much speed as well.

Q: What are the major difference between a Honda Civic and a Honda Civic Hybrid (2008)?
Please answer if you have owned both! I am looking to buy a Honda Civic and cant decide if I want a hybrid or not. I really wanted leather but I rather have higher gas milage. What are the pros and cons of both?

A: The only Civic I have ever owned is a 2008 hybrid. The major difference between the two is that the hybrid has a smaller gas engine but also has an electric engine and a large bank of batteries to run the electric engine when additional power is needed, such as when you are accelerating or going up hills. The batteries are normally charged when there is extra power, such as when decelerating or going down hills. This increases gasoline mileage significantly. The higher milage is the biggest pro for the hybrid. Another pro is that in some locations a single person in a hybrid is allowed to drive in the "car pool" lanes. The cons are: -A higher price -You cannot fold down the rear seatbacks to put larger items in the back. -Fewer mechanics qualified to work on the hybrid electrical system if anything goes wrong with it, which is unlikely. -Fewer trim levels, so you cannot order one with some particular options such as leather seats or a moonroof.

Q: Can a 2004 honda civic hybrid still run with a dead battery? ?
Im thinking about buying an 2004 honda civic hybrid, but it allready has 150k miles on it. I've heard that the batteries usualy last five years or around 150k miles. I don't want to buy the car, having to replace the battery within the first year. Does anyone know how much a new hybrid battery is going for these days? The guy is selling it for $6500, is it a good deal? Or should I avoid it since the mileage is so high?

A: Your about to get ripped. Try checking the price of another hybrid battery. Then get ready for a long list of replacements as to why it would not hold a charge.

Q: I had to park my Honda Civic Hybrid for a month. It won't start now. What should I do?
Honda Civic Hybrid with Integrated Motor Assist 2005 Model (Old shape). Didn't use it for about a month. It doesn't start now.

A: Just like any other car, if left undriven for many weeks the various parasitic loads (things like power for the clock, alarm, etc.) and natural battery aging will cause your 12v accessory ("starter") battery to go flat/dead. Check your owner's manual for the proper jumpstart/boost procedure (where the +/- terminals are), or take out the 12v battery and have it charged. If your car still does not start, then you may have some other issues to look into. Make sure that you let the car run for a little bit after the jumpstart to recharge the 12v battery. Note that this flattening episode (where it was left flat for a long period of time) may shorten the battery's longevity (time it can sit undriven without going flat again) in the future... If you forsee having to leave your car undriven again for such a long time, you may wish to invest in a smart battery conditioner/tender (one that won't over or under charge your battery). The usual suggestions I see is for a Battery Minder http://www.vdcelectronics.com/automotive.htm or Battery Tender http://batterytender.com/

Q: Are the front brake pads same for Honda civic Hybrid and Honda Civic?
I have a 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid and planning on changing the front brake pads, I was just wondering if anyone knew if there was any differences between regular Honda Civic and Honda Civic Hybrid front brakes.

A: You can visit your local auto parts store or look it up on their website to see what front brakes are compatible with your car, year, and model. The brake pads for the hybrid and non-hybrid should be the same since they still perform the same function. Unless of course the hybrid uses smaller rotor discs. http://hondacivicrepairs.com/brake-pads.asp?q=Repairing%20the%20Brake%20Pads%20-%20Honda%20Civic&id=1 Good luck!

Q: Anybody own or have any thoughts on the Honda Civic HYBRID?
The Honda Civic Hybrid 2008 model is what we're considering for a second car. Any advice? Many thanks! Hey Allen. I appreciate the advice. I would like to know why you say that though. Any information would be really helpful. Did you own one? Do you know someone that has one? Do you have the mazda hybrid? Thanks..

A: Rachel: Hold off until you've researched Caterpillar's "FIREFLY" battery technology. It may well render current hybrid and other EV technology obsolete. It's less expensive, lighter, more environmentally friendly, lends itself well to PEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) development and will probably be available in 6 months to a year. I'd go, then, with a compact diesel/SVO. A used one is best (given depreciation, etc) assuming you're not too image conscious (you'll only have it for a year or so, anyway...). "SVO" stands for "straight vegetable oil" which means that all the used fryer oil you can find and filter will work just fine as FREE FUEL. If you can find a diesel that's in good shape (best on the market today is the VW Beetle TDi 5-spd) but has no SVO kit, no problem. Conversion shops are available. Just shop around and you'll likely find all you need. -->> OR, your significant other can easily install one. Take a look at "From the Fryer to the Fuel Tank" by Joshua Tickell. Very informative and even explains how to do the conversion yourself. Also, the Beetle (with TDi and a 5-spd manual) gets between 40 and 50 mpg (high-end might require some chip replacement, etc. Good luck with it all!!! http://www.fireflyenergy.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=3&Itemid=71

Q: Honda Civic Hybrid 2004 car seat compatibility?
I need to buy a new infant/toddler car seat for my Honda Civic Hybrid 2004 model. I was wondering what seat would be the best and which is compatible with my car. I've looked everywhere online and can't seem to find an answer. Thanks!

A: As for the best seat I have no idea. But compatability wise, ALL manufacturers were required before 2000 to use the same standard system for attaching child seats. So any new seat is compatable. I also recall Honda selling child seats, maybe worth a look

Q: What are "normal" driving conditions for a Honda Civic Hybrid?
I suspect this wasn't a question when most Hybrids were purchased to gain access to the HOV lane. Now that that offer has closed, others are buying the car. Others, like me that don't drive on highways. Thus the question, what are the "normal" driving conditions referred to by several of the most helpful respondents? (I have learned more about the Honda Hybrid from this web site than from the dealer or the Honda website.)

A: It would be the same as any other Honda. These cars are designed to be "normal" cars with increased fuel efficiency. Other than a slight lack of power from a dead stop, and some extra gauges/info on the dash, you will not even notice you are driving one. Expect exceptionally great gas mileage no matter if it is mainly city or highway driving (compared to non hybrids). If you are a very aggressive driver or are looking for a sports car then this would not be a good choice- this is not "normal" driving conditions.

Q: How much did you pay for 2008 Honda Civic HYBRID?
Hey, I just bought a civic hybrid and I was wondering what kind of deal I got... any info about pricing and performance from fellow owners would be helpful! Thanks!

A: I paid $22,000 including the $635.00 destination charge but excluding tax, license and registration. I bought it in late 2007 so I will get a $2,100 income tax credit on it. In terms of performance I have no complaints. Most of my driving since I bought it has been on short (less than 10 mile) trips, in cold weather at times on icy/snowy roads. It is not surprising that I have usually not gotten sticker mileage under those conditions. However, as the weather has warmed, the car is getting broken in, and I am taking some longer trips my mileage is increasing significantly. (I have gone over 300 miles on my current tank of gas at 44.9 MPG.) I hope that's the information you wanted.

Q: What vehicle is better, toyota prius or honda civic hybrid?
I hear a lot of good things from both vehicles and can't decide on which one to get. I drive mostly city, so that is one of many reasons why I want a hybrid. If you have any experience with either car, good or bad let me know and that will be helpful, thanks.

A: Both are great cars. Nothing wrong with either choice. Take both for a test drive, and see which one fits you better. Other than size (Civic is a compact, Prius is a larger midsize) and styling, be aware that both hybrid choices are different. Honda's IMA is primarily a gasoline engine with electric assist (the newer HCH II has little electric-only propulsion), while Toyota's HSD is a full hybrid design that can be gasoline, electric, or a combination of the two. Some people like the simplicity of one hybrid design over another, but that's a personal choice. Same goes for the instrumentation gages in the HCH vs. the touchscreen in the Prius. Pricing wise, I'd say go with the Prius. Toyota Prius, starting at $22,000 Honda Civic Hybrid, starting at $23,650 Hybrids do cost less in the long term than their conventional counterparts. (Intellichoice used a 5 year ownership comparison in 2006) While Consumer Reports in 2006 only found the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic Hybrid would pay off within the same 5 year frame. The Honda Accord Hybrid, the Ford Escape Hybrid, the Lexus RX400h, and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid were also studied. (I'll note that there was a mathematical error in the initial publication of Consumer Reports' hybrid vehicle cost analysis, which a retraction was published later... http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11637968/ ) Since this publication, many more hybrid models have become available, so I can't use this to say about hybrids "in general." However, in the US, the Toyota and Honday hybrids have sold so many that they no longer qualify for the US Federal hybrid vehicle income tax credit, but some some new perks are available from individual states... Check out the April issue of Consumer Reports if you want reliability information. Both the Honda Civic and Toyota Prius make their best bets for new cars and for used cars. In the US, hybrid models (like the Prius and HCH II) tend to be the best in fuel economy in their respective classes, using the same testing procedure to compare all cars (hybrid/gasoline/diesel/flex-fuel/etc.), and that is for BOTH highway AND city driving: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/best/bestworstNF.shtml Toyota Prius: 48 mpg city/45mpg highway/46mpg combined Owners report average mpg in the mid-high 40s: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/mpg/MPG.do?action=browseList2&make=Toyota&model=Prius remember that the 2004-current Prius are the same) and http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/toyota-priushsd.html Honda Civic Hybrid: 40mpg city/45mpg highway/42mpg combined Owners report average mpg in the 40s: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/mpg/MPG.do?action=browseList2&make=Honda&model=Civic%20Hybrid (remember that the 2006-current model year are the same) and http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/honda-civicii.html Both are rated an AT-PZEV in CA emission states, so they have Super Ultra Low Emissions, zero evaporative emissions, plus a long warranty (10 years/150,000 miles) on the hybrid battery in CA emission states. (outside of CA, it's 8 years or 80,000 miles (Honda)/100,000 miles (Toyota).) (The gasoline-only Civics are only ULEV in comparison.) The Prius is also in edmunds.com used cars best bets list as well, and their lowest true cost to own list (2007 and 2008). Both the Prius and HCH are great cars. But, only you can decide which will work out best for you. Take both for a test drive, and see which one you like better, which you like the seating better, and/or like the available options better... Do you prefer a sedan (Honda Civic Hybrid), or do you like a hatchback (Toyota Prius)? Is a compact OK with you (Honda Civic Hybrid), or would you prefer a larger midsized vehicle (Toyota Prius)? If you want a manual transmission, then you'll have to look for a used HCH. Do you want to show off that you have a hybrid or not? The Prius is only available as a hybrid and its distinctive aerodynamic design gives it away, while the HCH blends in and looks like most every other Civic on the road...

Q: Will a Honda Civic Hybrid's speedometer fit a regular Honda Civic?
I like the look of the Hybrid speedometers and was wondering if i could replace the speedometer on my regular Honda Civic for a Hybrid's speedometer.

A: No. The connections are different.