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Hi, first post on these forums and frankly I'm a Honda and generally a car noob, but I'm looking to change both of those.

I may or may not purchase the vehicle in question, 2011 Honda Civic DX 5-speed [1.8L 4-cyl]

I've done a little research and from what I've read they appear to be a more reliable civic in comparison, but I'm looking for some more input.

Are there any common engine issues or transmission issues that should cause me to steer clear of this year / engine so to speak or is this a reliable choice?

Last thing, I'm not looking to tune it out, I just want a reliable daily driver that is fun to drive.

 
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What’s your definition of fun? They’re subjectively fun to drive already.

If you’re talking about suspension, a good set of coilovers will help it handle a lot better.

If you’re talking power, you’re buying the wrong car.

Reliability-wise they’re fine, so that’s not something you need to worry about.

If your budget allows it, look for an Si of the similar generation. Basically look for anything with the K20 engine if you want more power and handling. They’re bullet-proof engines too.

 
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The 9th gens are pretty reliable and with a manual transmission there is nothing to worry about.

If MPG is most important the get a none Si. If you want more "fun" but less MPG (premium fuel only) then get an Si.

 
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So, the 2011 DX was sold, I found a 2010 LX S but I've read that 8th gens have a tendency to crack the engine block and that terrifies me when looking at a $7,000 used vehicle.

2010 civic LX S 5-speed
118k miles
zero rust [rare in michigan]

Car Fax
zero accidents
20 service records

It seems like a really nice vehicle so I'm hoping the engine issue is hot air but idk..

 
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Holy **** that's a lot of money for an 8th gen with that mileage. You can get an Si in Canada for less than that (in Canadian currency, too). You can buy a really well-equipped Accord for that much.

 
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I'm familiar with the cracked block issue but don't know the specifics about it. Not sure if it was earlier year models or all the years.

Civic's hold their value around me. Just doing a quick search some 8th gens with more miles are coming up around that price.

An Accord is a consideration too. V6 one with a manual

 
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I just checked Craigslist and Autotrader in Michigan and they're bloody expensive for whatever reason. It might be that everyone loves their trucks in Alberta and don't care for anything else. You can't get a half-ton here for under 5k.

You could definitely get a mid-2000's accord with a V6 and 6-speed manual. That'd be a hoot.

 
Rep Power: 224

Cracked blocks were on 2006 to early 2009 Civics. So the ones you're looking at should be good.