Problem Reports
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1998 Honda Civic Problems
Wipers Won't Park Due to Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
On certain models the windshield wipers will not park in the proper place or won't shut off. The wiper motor must be replaced to repair this issue.
Hood Release Cable May Break at Handle
On some models the hood release cable breaks at the hood release handle.
Vibration When Braking Due to Rotor Problem
The front brake rotors can warp and cause a vibration when braking. The rotors will need to be machined or in cases where they are worn to thin, replaced to correct this issue.
Vibration, Roughness, and Rattle Due to Damaged Engine Mounts
Damaged engine mounts can lead to vibration and roughness felt in the steering wheel. A rattle in the dash and engine area may also be heard. Replacement of damaged mounts will commonly correct these issues.
Cracked Exhaust Manifold/Catayltic Converter
Cracked exhaust is common on both exhaust manifolds and manifold/catalytic converter combination. Replacing the cracked component will repair the problem.
Plugged Moon Roof Drains May Cause Water Leak
Plugged moon roof drains can cause a water leak inside the car, usually over the head of the driver or passengers head when turning a corner. Cleaning the drains will fix this problem.
Engine Rear Main Oil Seal May Leak
The engine rear main oil seal can leak. The transmission has to be removed to replace the seal to stop the leak.
Harsh Shifting of Automatic Transmission
The shift control solenoid externally mounted on the automatic transmission (non CVT) can fail and causes a harsh 1-2 shift. Replacing the shift solenoid and flushing the transmission with genuine Honda automatic transmission fluid may eliminate harsh shifting characteristics. A broken internal spring can cause the same issue. If the shift control solenoid does not repair the problem, the transmission will have to be replaced.
Check Engine Light Due to Moisture Freezing in MAP Sensor
On certain models in colder climates the Check Engine light can set due to moisture in the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor freezing. The MAP sensor needs to be replaced and on some models the intake manifold needs replacing also.
Mold on AC evaporator
AC Evaporator May Leak
A refrigerant leak may develop from the AC evaporator causing the AC to blow warm air. Verifying failure of this component is difficult. A good shop will use leak detection dye to verify a failing evaporator.
Brake Light On Due to Faulty Master Cylinder Resevoir Filter
A faulty brake master cylinder reservoir filter can cause the brake system indicator to illuminate after a cold start and then go off. Replacement of the reservoir filter will commonly fix this problem.
Seat Belt Issues Covered Under Honda's Lifetime Seat Belt Limited Warranty
Some Honda Civics have seat belt issues that may be covered under Honda's Lifetime Seat Belt Limited Warranty. Please contact your local Honda dealer to see if your seat belt problem is covered.
Upper windshield molding may vibrate/make noise at higher speeds
On certain models the upper windshield molding vibrates at a higher speed causing a noise. Back filling the molding with silicone sealer will eliminate the noise.