Soon to be new Honda owner
 

I'm buying a 2001 Civic at the end of the month, its burgundy a southern car and in really good shape. Can't wait to replace my current 95 Toyota Tercel which is literally falling apart.

Re: Soon to be new Honda owner
 

Welcome!

Too bad about the Tercel... Just a couple more years and it would have been a classic (technically speaking). :)

Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

I'm buying an 01 civic lx at the end of the month in remarkably good shape. My main question is aside from the recalls one of which still needs to be done is there any area of the car I need to really look at or keep an eye on, mechanical fail points & rust/rot zones, I live in the rust belt and want to address the issue before it can start. Also is there an oem remote car starter for the car I can install or do i have to go after market?

Thanks

Re: Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

Current mileage?
Transmission type (auto or manual)?
Service records?

Re: Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

It's mileage is 160k, automatic transmission, All the service was done including tuneups except for the last recall because it was in storage during deployment, but went back on the road about 6-8 months ago. The owner is being re-stationed at the end of the month and wants to purchase a newer used car in the new area outside of the rust belt.

Re: Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

on a 16 year old car it has most likely already started

Re: Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

Search the records for most recent timing belt replacement mileage. Timing belts are generally repalced between 80k-100k miles so, it may be due for one very soon if it hasn't been replaced recently.

An ATF drain and fill is most likely due (over-due). Unfortunately, the automatic transmissions in years '01-'03 are know to have issues. Find out if the transmission has been rebuilt or replaced.

Re: Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

keep an eye on coolant reservoir levels, radiator fan performance, and engine temp gauge readings. These engines aren't technically prone to overheating, but if something does cause an overheat, they are prone to gasket failure and head warpage. things like radiator cracks, hose cracks, fan failure, and sticky thermostats can be all it takes to make the temp climb and gasket break. It can be an expensive bill to pay if you're paying a mechanic to do it.

Re: Soon to be 01 Civic owner questions
 

From my personal experience, I'd say check the interior trims. I just discovered that the roof fabric at the back near center has kind of come off. Check for steering alignment if it has an EPS system. Look for engine plastic trim missing ( mine was missing, which I did not notice..), also , try to check underneath the car for wear and tear. Check the CV joint plastic covers (bushes) for tear or cracks. Drive the car, leave the engine running for a bit, I just noticed that my A/C belt makes a screeching noise when I first turn it on. All these problems can be solved but it may help you get a better price during negotiation.

Also if it is possible , get an Engine diagnostics test done

Best of luck with your buy!