Description
1998 Honda Civic 1. 5i LS. This car has been in my family since my Grandmother bought it new in 1998. It passed through a few other family members before coming to me. I have all relevant history and paperwork from new.
It needs a decent amount of work but is still drivable and has a valid MOT until 29/ 01/ 25
The good points: It had a new cambelt and brake lines at 100k. I've changed the plugs, air filter and oil regularly and it drives smoothly and straight. The engine runs perfectly and has no nasty rattles or knocks. The clutch and gearbox also have no issues. It has just had its back box replaced and the mid pipe is in reasonable condition; there are currently no exhaust blows. No electrical problems to speak of and it has been very reliable for the few years I’ve had it.
The bad points: The main issue is corrosion and damaged bodywork. One of my family members reversed alongside a bollard and caused the gouge on the left hand side. This had a very sloppy repair with some P38 but has accelerated the corrosion on the L/ H rear wheel arch. The R/ H side rear wheel arch is also bubbling, but not as badly. Underneath the rear bumper is a large section of bad corrosion. I’ve been told this is not structural or an MOT failure, but definitely needs addressing.
The rear trailing arm bushes were advised on the last MOT, so they may also need replacing. (I actually have PU replacements, that I can include in the sale).
There is some water ingress into the spare wheel well, which I previously managed to stop with new rear light seals, so it could be they just need replacing again.
The rear window washer jet doesn’t work, due to the tube to the washer bottle being disconnected somewhere along the line. Probably an easy fix, I just haven’t had the time.
Overall I think the car is reasonable but absolutely needs attention, preferably a restoration. Please only consider purchasing if you are prepared to either address or live with the current condition. This car has a lot of sentimental attachment for me, being the car my Grandmother had from new. I am honestly reluctant to sell it but I simply don't have the time or funds to do justice to it, and fix all its issues.
It's fantastically comfortable, reliable and easy to live with. It was made at that wonderful point where things were reliable and well built, but still easy to work on.
With the right work done to it, this car could serve someone well for many years to come. Personally I'd love to sell this to someone that wanted to repair or restore it.
