Here is a list of common faults, that have been found on Civic Type R's
Don't think from this thread the Civic is an unrealiable car, but these are the these are some of the more common faults to be found.
No VTEC kick:
If you canÂ’t feel the VTEC kick you need TO CHECK YOUR OIL. The K20A engine can us a bit of oil. Some use more than others, personally mine didnÂ’t use any then suddenly dropped. The VTEC changeover will not happen if the oil pressure is to low so you need to keep an eye on your oil. Also you need to ensure you get the engine warm as well. A good rule of thumb is have the engine running for 10-15mins before you rev past 5800RPM
Rattle from the Engine:
There is a common fault that one of the heatshields rattle at varying revs usually 3-4K RPM. There is a similar rattle that is sometimes caused by the silver covere that has the VTEC label on it. This is well know about at the dealers and will be fixed under warranty no problem
Windscreen Whistle:
This one occurs at high speeds any where between 65-100mph and comes from around the windscreen, sometimes it sounds like air rushing through the wipers.
This is fixed by resetting the windscreen seal.
The problem with this fault is some dealers refuses to test for the fault because they will have to break the speed limit.
You can try another dealer or suggest taking the technician out in the car while you drive.
Whirring sound when you turn the ignition on:
This is generally down to a fault with the headlight level motors. The whirring you can hear is the motors running when not required, but once you start the engine you canÂ’t hear them. You maybe able to stop the noise by trying to adjust the level of you headlights.
There was a recall for this defect so it will be sorted at the dealer without too much problem.
Knocking when steering on full lock:
Now this isnÂ’t always a defect. Some people experience a knocking thought the steering wheel when they have the steering on or near full lock at low speeds ie 5-10mph.
Personally I have heard it only a few times and it doesnÂ’t seem that bad. For other people the fault has been worse and was fixed under warranty by replacing the steering rack. If you feel it doesnÂ’t sound good take it to the dealer.
Drivers Window auto-function doesnÂ’t work:
On the facelift version the drivers window has an auto-function in both the upward and downward direction. This function will stop working if you disconnect the battery for any reason. To reset it close the window then open it again and hold the button in the open position for 5 seconds.
