IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2017–2021 Honda Civic Mk10

We've identified 5 known issues that can affect the 2017–2021 Honda Civic Mk10. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

5
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2017–2021 period has 2 more issues than the Honda Civic Mk10 average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

1.0 VTEC Turbo Wet-Belt & Strainer Blockage

SeriousEngine

The 1.0 VTEC Turbo uses a timing belt that runs in oil. Neglected maintenance causes the belt to degrade, blocking the oil pickup and potentially destroying the engine.

Most affected: 1.0 VTEC Turbo

Estimated cost: £800–£3,000Affects: 2017–2022Often appears around: 40,000-80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Oil pressure warning light
  • •Engine rattle
  • •Turbo failure

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Demand full service history with correct oil grade
  • ✓Check for oil pressure warnings

1.5 VTEC Turbo Oil Dilution

SeriousEngine

On the 1.5 turbo engine, unburnt fuel can mix with the engine oil, particularly in cold climates or if used for short trips.

Most affected: 1.5 VTEC Turbo

Estimated cost: £200–£1,500Affects: 2017–2022

Typical symptoms

  • •Rising oil level on dipstick
  • •Strong petrol smell from oil
  • •Engine hesitation

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Pull the dipstick and check for a strong petrol smell
  • ✓Check if the oil level is above the maximum mark
  • ✓Verify if Honda software updates have been applied

Air Conditioning Condenser Leak

ModerateCooling System

The Mk10 condenser is very fragile and prone to leaking gas.

Estimated cost: £350–£650Affects: 2017–2021

Typical symptoms

  • •AC blows warm air
  • •Hissing from dashboard

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test AC performance from cold
  • ✓Inspect condenser for oily residue

Steering Rack Notchiness & Stiffness

ModerateSteering

Some Mk10 Civics develop a notchy or stiff feeling in the steering rack, particularly at motorway speeds, making small corrections feel jerky or difficult.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £0–£1,500Affects: 2017–2022Often appears around: 30,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Steering feels notched or sticky at speed
  • •Resistance to small steering inputs
  • •Difficulty keeping the car centered in lane

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test drive at 60-70mph and check for smooth, linear steering feel
  • ✓Check service history for any steering rack work or replacements

Small Battery and Electrical Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The original battery is relatively small and prone to draining if the car is left for a week, leading to multiple "Check System" warnings.

Estimated cost: £100–£200Affects: 2017–2022

Typical symptoms

  • •Lazy starting
  • •Random dashboard warning lights
  • •Start-stop system not working

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the age and health of the battery
  • ✓Ask if the battery has been upgraded to a higher capacity unit

Buying Tips for the 2017 Honda Civic Mk10

  • ✓On 1.0 VTEC Turbo models, verify annual oil changes with the correct 0W-20 oil to protect the wet timing belt.
  • ✓The 1.5 VTEC Turbo is less sensitive but should still have a solid service history.
  • ✓Test the air conditioning thoroughly; condensers are a common failure point.
2022 Honda Civic Mk10

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Other Honda Civic Mk10 Year Periods

2017–20212022

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