If you own a 2017 Honda Civic, you’re likely enjoying its fuel efficiency and sporty design. However, like any vehicle, it can develop some common 2017 Honda Civic problems. This guide will walk you through the most frequent issues reported by owners and provide clear, practical solutions to keep your car running smoothly.
We’ll cover everything from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical concerns. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and stress down the road.
2017 Honda Civic Problems
The 2017 Honda Civic is generally a reliable car, but several patterns of issues have emerged over the years. These problems aren’t guaranteed to happen to your Civic, but they are the ones mechanics and owners see most often. Being informed is the first step to proactive maintenance.
1. Excessive Oil Dilution (1.5L Turbo Engine)
This is arguably the most discussed issue for 2017 Civics equipped with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. Fuel can leak into the engine oil, thinning it out and reducing its lubricating properties. This is more common in colder climates where the engine doesn’t fully warm up during short trips.
Symptoms to watch for:
* A strong smell of gasoline coming from the oil dipstick.
* The engine oil level appears to rise over time, rather than decrease.
* Reduced fuel economy and overall engine performance.
Potential Solutions:
* Software Update: Honda issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 18-141) to address this. A dealership can perform a software update to adjust the engine’s fuel injection and thermal management systems.
* Change Driving Habits: Try to take longer drives occasionally to allow the engine oil to fully heat up and evaporate any fuel.
* More Frequent Oil Changes: Consider changing your oil more often than the maintenance minder suggests, especially if you primarily take short trips.
2. Premature Wear of the Air Conditioning Condenser
Many 2017 Civic owners have reported that their A/C suddenly stops blowing cold air. The culprit is often a leaking condenser, which is part of the A/C system located at the front of the car. Road debris and corrosion can cause it to fail early.
Symptoms to watch for:
* The air conditioning only blows warm or ambient-temperature air.
* You may hear the A/C compressor clutch engaging, but no cold air is produced.
Potential Solutions:
* Check for Warranty Extension: Honda extended the warranty for the A/C condenser to 10 years from the original purchase date with unlimited mileage. Contact a Honda dealer to see if your vehicle is covered.
* Replacement: If out of warranty, the condenser will need to be replaced by a qualified technician. This is a repair best left to professionals due to the refrigerant involved.
3. Cracked/Crumbling Rear Windshield Defroster Elements
A strange but common complaint involves the thin horizontal lines on the rear window that defrost ice. Owners find these lines cracking, peeling, or simply stop working, often where the rear brake light is mounted.
Symptoms to watch for:
* Visible cracks or gaps in the black defroster lines on your rear window.
* Sections of the rear window do not defrost, leaving stripes of ice.
Potential Solutions:
* Warranty Claim: Some owners have had success getting the entire rear window replaced under warranty if the car was relatively new.
* Defroster Tab Repair Kit: For small breaks, an aftermarket conductive epoxy repair kit can sometimes restore the connection.
* Professional Repair: An auto glass specialist may be able to repair the grid, though replacement of the glass is often the permanent fix.
Body and Interior Issues
These problems are less about mechanics and more about build quality and materials.
4. Fading or Peeling Paint (Especially on Black and Gray Models)
Some owners, particularly in sunny climates, have noticed the clear coat peeling on the roof, hood, and trunk. This seems to be more prevalent on certain darker colors.
Symptoms to watch for:
* A chalky, dull appearance on horizontal surfaces.
* Clear coat flaking off in sheets, revealing the dull base coat underneath.
Potential Solutions:
* Early Protection: Regular washing, waxing, and using a ceramic coating can help protect the paint.
* Paint Correction: If caught early, a detailer might be able to correct the fading with a polish and new protective layer.
* Repaint: In severe cases, the affected panels will need to be sanded and repainted, which can be costly.
5. Rattling and Squeaking from the Interior
Interior trim rattles are a frequent annoyance. Common sources include the dashboard, front pillars, and the headliner near the rear view mirror.
Symptoms to watch for:
* Buzzing or rattling sounds that change with road speed or engine RPM.
* Squeaks from plastic trim pieces when the body flexes.
Potential Solutions:
* Identify the Source: Have a passenger help you locate the exact source of the rattle while you drive.
* Felt Tape and Foam: Often, applying felt tape or closed-cell foam weather stripping between trim pieces can cushion them and stop the noise.
* Dealer Visit: For persistent dashboard rattles, a dealer technician may need to disassemble and properly secure the components.
6. Malfunctioning Infotainment System (Head Unit)
The touchscreen system can sometimes freeze, reboot randomly, or have issues with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.
Symptoms to watch for:
* The screen goes black or freezes during use.
* Phone connections drop frequently or won’t connect at all.
* The backup camera image is delayed or doesn’t appear.
Potential Solutions:
* Hard Reset: Perform a factory reset on the system through the settings menu. This often clears up glitches.
* Software Update: Check with a Honda dealer for any available software updates for the head unit.
* Check Connections: For backup camera issues, a loose wire in the trunk lid is a common, simple fix.
Drivetrain and Suspension Concerns
These issues relate to how the car drives and handles.
7. CVT Transmission Hesitation or “Judder”
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in some 2017 Civics can exhibit a slight hesitation or shudder during acceleration from a stop, or during low-speed maneuvers like parking.
Symptoms to watch for:
* A brief pause or lurch when you press the gas pedal.
* A shuddering sensation at very low speeds (5-15 mph).
Potential Solutions:
* Transmission Fluid Change: Honda updated the recommended CVT fluid. A drain-and-refill with the newer fluid (Honda HCF-2) can significantly improve smoothness.
* Software Update: Dealerships may have a software update to refine the transmission’s control logic.
* Driving Adaptation: Some hesitation is characteristic of CVTs; gentle, steady acceleration can help minimize it.
8. Premature Rear Brake Pad Wear
Many owners find the rear brake pads wearing out much faster than the front pads, which is unusual for a front-wheel-drive car. This is often attributed to the vehicle’s stability control system, which uses the rear brakes frequently.
Symptoms to watch for:
* Squealing or grinding noises from the rear wheels.
* The maintenance minder showing brake pad wear sooner than expected (sometimes before 30,000 miles).
Potential Solutions:
* Regular Inspection: Check your rear brake pads at every tire rotation.
* Quality Replacement Pads: When they wear out, choose high-quality aftermarket pads known for better longevity.
* Ensure Caliper Sliders are Free: Sticky caliper sliders can cause drag and accelerated wear; a mechanic should clean and lubricate them during pad changes.
9. Power Steering Rack Failure or Noise
Some drivers have reported issues with the electric power steering system, ranging from loud groaning noises to complete failure, resulting in very heavy steering.
Symptoms to watch for:
* A loud groaning or whining noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
* Intermittent or complete loss of power steering assist, accompanied by a warning light on the dash.
Potential Solutions:
* Immediate Attention: This is a safety-critical system. If you experience a loss of power steering, have the car towed to a repair shop.
* TSB Check: Honda has issued service bulletins for steering rack replacement on certain models. A dealer can check your VIN for coverage.
* Replacement: The steering rack assembly typically needs to be replaced to fix these issues.
10. Faulty Fuel Injectors
A less common but serious issue involves faulty fuel injectors in the 1.5L turbo engine. This can lead to misfires, poor performance, and even engine damage.
Symptoms to watch for:
* Rough idling or engine shaking.
* Check Engine Light illuminating, often with codes for misfires or fuel system problems.
* A noticeable drop in power and acceleration.
Potential Solutions:
* Diagnostic Scan: A mechanic needs to read the diagnostic trouble codes to confirm a fuel injector problem.
* Replacement: Faulty injectors must be replaced. It’s recommended to replace them as a full set to ensure balanced fuel delivery.
Proactive Maintenance Tips for Your 2017 Civic
Preventing problems is always cheaper than fixing them. Here are key steps to follow:
* Adhere to the Maintenance Minder: Don’t ignore the codes on your dashboard. Follow the service schedule for oil changes, fluid flushes, and inspections.
* Use the Correct Fluids: Always use Honda-approved fluids, especially for the CVT transmission and brake system.
* Listen and Feel: Pay attention to new noises, vibrations, or changes in how the car drives. Early detection is key.
* Check for Recalls and TSBs: Regularly visit the NHTSA website or a Honda dealer to see if your car has any open recalls or service bulletins.
* Keep Records: Maintain a detailed log of all services and repairs. This adds value and helps diagnose recurring issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the 2017 Honda Civic a reliable car?
Overall, yes. While it has some known issues, its core powertrain is reliable. Staying on top of maintenance and addressing common problems early will contribute to a long vehicle life.
What is the biggest problem with the 2017 Honda Civic?
The oil dilution issue in the 1.5L turbo engine is the most significant mechanical concern due to its potential impact on long-term engine health. The A/C condenser failure is the most widespread comfort-related problem.
How long will a 2017 Honda Civic last?
With proper care and maintenance, a 2017 Civic can easily last 200,000 miles or more. Addressing the common issues outlined here is a major part of achieving that longevity.
Is there a recall on 2017 Honda Civic for oil dilution?
Honda did not issue a formal safety recall. Instead, they released a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for a warranty extension and a software update to mitigate the problem. They also extended the warranty for certain engine components.
Are 2017 Civic expensive to maintain?
No, generally they are affordable to maintain. Repair costs can rise if the known issues like the steering rack or A/C condenser fail out of warranty, but routine maintenance costs are typical for the compact car segment.
By understanding these common 2017 Honda Civic problems, you can be a more informed and prepared owner. Regular check-ups and addressing small symptoms before they escalate are the best strategies for ensuring your Civic remains a dependable companion for many miles to come. Always consult with a trusted mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.