IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1999 Honda Civic Mk6

A recall was issued for 5-door Civics built in 1999-2000 due to possible breakage of rear suspension lower arm bolts. This was a critical safety recall that must be verified before purchase.

What changed for 1999

  • •Recall for rear suspension lower arm bolt failure
  • •Final years of production with proven reliability
  • •Parts still readily available through Honda UK

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Recall completion essential for rear suspension safety
  • !Corrosion now affecting structural components
  • !Age-related electrical gremlins appearing
3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear Arch and Sill Corrosion

SeriousBodywork & Rust

Rust around the rear arches, outer sills and floor edges is the big structural threat on Mk6 Civics.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Bubbling paint around rear arches, Crusty sill seams

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect jacking points and inner rear arch lips
  • Read MOT history for repeated welding-related notes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Ignition Switch Electrical Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Premature wear of electrical contacts in the ignition switch can cause the engine to stall while driving or intermittent starting problems, affecting models built from 1997 to 2000.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£250
Warning Signs:

Engine cuts out while driving, Intermittent starting issues, Dashboard warning lights flickering

What to Inspect:
  • Check if the ignition switch has been replaced
  • Test for any flickering of dashboard lights
  • Verify the car starts reliably on first turn
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Suspension Lower Arm Bolt Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

A recall was issued for 5-door Civics built in 1999-2000 due to possible breakage of rear suspension lower arm bolts, which could lead to loss of rear suspension control.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£200
Warning Signs:

Clunking from rear suspension, Vague rear-end feel, Uneven rear tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm recall work has been carried out
  • Inspect rear lower arm bolts for replacement
  • Check for any rear suspension noise on test drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 1999 Honda Civic Mk6

  • Check rear arches, sills and the floor around the rear trailing arm mounts very carefully—corrosion is the biggest killer.
  • Listen for front suspension knocks and inspect lower ball joints, which wear on UK roads.
  • Intermittent starting or cutting-out often points to ignition-distributor issues, so test cold and hot starts.
  • Inspect the boot floor and spare wheel well for dampness, as rear light seals can leak on older examples.
  • Check that all electrics—windows, central locking, dashboard lights—work properly, as wiring gremlins appear with age.
  • Look for service history evidence of regular oil changes; Honda engines thrive on clean oil and frequent attention.
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Check a 1999 Honda Civic Mk6 by Registration