Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Car
Target Audience:
DIY Mechanics, Automotive Technicians, Honda Enthusiasts
Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Ford Escort
Vehicle Reputation:
Reliability, Fuel Efficiency, Sporty Handling (especially in higher trims)
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining and repairing one of Honda's most popular models during this era, offering in-depth factory-level information.
Covered Years:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Covered Models:
Civic Coupe (EJ6, EJ7, EJ8)
Covered Regions:
North America (implied by chassis codes, typically applicable globally with regional variations)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (likely over 1000 pages across 24 sections)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF, likely searchable)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM/PGM-FI), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System
Chassis:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (CVT optional on some trims), Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical System, Lighting System, Instrument Panel, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbags)
Body:
Body Panels, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Belt Inspections/Replacement, Spark Plug Service, Brake Pad Replacement
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical System Testing, Component Testing
Adjustments:
Valve Clearance Adjustments, Brake Adjustments, Clutch Adjustments, Parking Brake Adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code Ej6 Ej7:
D16Y7 (SOHC, 1.6L, 16-Valve, MPFI)
Engine Code Ej8:
D16Y8 (SOHC VTEC, 1.6L, 16-Valve, MPFI)
Engine Code Optional Ej8:
B16A2 (DOHC VTEC, 1.6L, 16-Valve, MPFI) - SIR/Si models
Horsepower Hp:
106 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
103 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
Horsepower Hp:
127 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
108 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
Horsepower Hp:
160 hp @ 7600 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
111 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended, higher for VTEC engines)
Type Ej6 Ej7 Ej8:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Lock-up Torque Converter)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Clutch System
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) or TCU
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Honda Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid MTF (or equivalent API GL-4 75W-80/75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 (or compatible equivalent)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5-Star (1997 model year typical)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5-Star (1997 model year typical)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher performance models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player (depending on trim level). Features often included RDS, seek/scan, and preset stations. Aftermarket head unit compatibility is high.
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speakers, often door-mounted and rear deck-mounted.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels, electronically controlled.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available options on many trims.
HVAC System:
Manual climate control with A/C standard on most trims. Recirculation mode, fan speed adjustments, and temperature control.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Replace every 60,000-105,000 miles (96,000-168,000 km) or 7-10 years, as these engines typically use a timing belt and interference design. Consult manual for exact interval.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-4 years. Use Honda Type 2 (Blue) coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service Grade SG, SH, or SH/CF. Viscosity: 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on temperature).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems:
Distributor issues (cracked housing, failing coil/igniter), O2 sensor failure, radiator leaks/plastic tank cracking, AC compressor clutch failure, transmission synchro wear (manual), starter motor issues, minor oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets.
Vtec Solenoid:
VTEC solenoid leaks or failures can cause loss of VTEC engagement. Manual provides diagnosis.
Honda Legacy:
Honda has a long-standing reputation for reliable, fuel-efficient, and well-engineered vehicles dating back to the mid-20th century.
Civic Lineage:
The Civic has been a global staple for Honda since its introduction in 1972, consistently evolving to meet market demands for economy, performance, and practicality.
Sixth Gen Civic:
The sixth generation marked a significant styling evolution, becoming more aerodynamic and adopting a more rounded, modern appearance. The Coupe body style (EJ6-EJ8) offered a sportier alternative to the sedan and hatchback.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, North America (e.g., East Liberty, Ohio), and other global facilities.
Car And Driver 10Best:
While specific EJ6/EJ7/EJ8 coupes may not have made the list as often as sedans, the Civic line consistently received accolades for value, reliability, and driving dynamics from automotive publications during this period.
Consumer Reports:
Consistently rated highly by Consumer Reports for reliability and owner satisfaction throughout the late 1990s.
