Honda recalled certain 2001-2002 Civic vehicles for a concern with the air cleaner box. During the assembly process, the air cleaner box cover could have been damaged, potentially sending plastic debris into the intake chamber. This may cause the throttle to stick in the partially open position, which can cause a loss of throttle control while driving. Dealers will inspect the air cleaner box for damage, remove any broken pieces found, and replace the air cleaner box lid.
Engine
IF THE PLASTIC PIECE LODGES IN THE THROTTLE BODY, THE THROTTLE COULD STICK IN A PARTIALLY OPEN POSITION. ALTHOUGH THE DRIVER CAN ALWAYS STOP THE CAR BY APPLYING ADDITIONAL BRAKE FORCE, OR BY TAKING OTHER ACTIONS (I.E., SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL, TURN OFF THE IGNITION KEY, ETC.), IF THE CAR CONTINUES TO MAINTAIN SPEED WHEN THE DRIVER IS EXPECTING IT TO SLOW, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.