Positioning:
The 2012 Honda Civic represents a critical year for the model's ninth generation, aiming to balance fuel efficiency, reliability, and refined driving dynamics in the compact segment.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles such as the Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, and Ford Focus.
Software Advantage:
Licensed OE data ensures accuracy and completeness beyond generic repair guides. Instant access and multi-device compatibility offer superior convenience over traditional print manuals.
Licensing:
Officially licensed by Honda, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, Engine performance, Fuel system, Ignition system, Emission control systems, Exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (CVT, Manual, Automatic), Clutch, Drive axles, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, Powertrain control module (PCM), Chassis control modules, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio systems, HVAC controls, SRS (Airbag) system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior trim, HVAC system components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Brake pad replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, Symptom-based diagnostics, Wiring diagrams analysis
Repair:
Engine repair and overhaul, Transmission service and replacement, Brake system repair, Suspension component replacement, Steering system service, Electrical component diagnosis and repair, Body panel repair
Installation:
Component replacement, Accessory installation (where applicable to factory service)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering factory-level diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications, and schematics.
Engine Type:
2.4L Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC i-VTEC (K24Z7)
Engine Code:
K24Z7 (for Si models), R18Z1 (for standard models)
Horsepower Si:
201 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque Si:
170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower Standard:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque Standard:
128 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for standard, 91 octane recommended for Si)
Bore X Stroke K24:
87.0 mm x 99.0 mm
Compression Ratio K24:
11.0:1
Bore X Stroke R18:
81.0 mm x 87.3 mm
Compression Ratio R18:
10.5:1
Transmission Type Si:
6-speed manual
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed automatic or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Honda HCF-2 (for CVT), ATF DW-1 (for Automatic)
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch (for manual transmission)
Length Sedan:
179.4 inches
Height:
56.5 inches (Sedan), 55.1 inches (Coupe)
Curb Weight Start:
Approx. 2,900 lbs (for base models)
Curb Weight End:
Approx. 3,050 lbs (for Si models)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for most configurations of the 2012 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control
Passive Safety:
Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, Front dual-stage airbags, Front side airbags, Side curtain airbags
Infotainment Features:
Available i-MID (Intelligent Multi-Information Display), AM/FM/CD audio system, USB integration, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, and Pandora compatibility depending on trim.
Driver Assistance Tech:
Standard VSA with Traction Control, optional rearview camera on higher trims.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calling, USB port for audio playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or based on the Maintenance Minder system.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 60,000 miles for CVT and Automatic transmissions (under normal driving conditions).
Spark Plug Interval:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil (API certified)
Coolant Spec:
Honda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Type 2), a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Complaints:
Some reports of minor interior rattles, early brake pad wear in specific conditions, and potential issues with the infotainment system in early models. HVAC blower motor resistor failure can also occur.
Si Specific Concerns:
Occasional clutch wear and potential for clutch judder under certain usage patterns.
Honda Reputation:
Honda has a long-standing reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and excellent engineering, particularly with the Civic model.
Ninth Gen Introduction:
The 2012 model year marked the debut of the ninth generation Civic, which received a mixed reception initially for its styling and interior materials compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America (e.g., East Liberty, Ohio; Alliston, Ontario, Canada).
