If you’re wondering How To Change Time On Honda Civic, you’ve come to the right place. This simple task can be confusing with modern digital dashboards, but our guide will walk you through it for any model year.
Whether you have a basic radio display or a full touchscreen infotainment system, adjusting the clock is a quick fix. You won’t need any tools, just a few minutes of your time.
How To Change Time On Honda Civic
This main section covers the universal methods. The process differs significantly between older models with physical buttons and newer ones with touchscreens. We’ll start with the most common digital clock type.
For Models with a Standard Digital Clock (Typically 2006-2015)
Many Civic from this era have a digital clock in the center dashboard, above the radio. The controls are usually physical buttons labeled “H” (Hour) and “M” (Minute). Here’s how to use them:
- Turn your ignition to the “ON” or “ACC” position. You don’t need to start the engine, but the electronics must be powered.
- Locate the “H” and “M” buttons near the digital clock display.
- Press and hold the “H” button until the hour advances to the correct number. It might cycle quickly after a moment.
- Press and hold the “M” button to advance the minutes. Be patient as it counts up.
- Once the correct time is set, you can turn the ignition off. The clock should retain the setting.
For Models with an i-MID or Digital Meter (2016-2021)
Newer Civics use a multi-information display (i-MID) in the instrument cluster. You control it using steering wheel buttons.
- Start your car or put it in accessory mode.
- Look for the “i” (information) or “Menu” button on your steering wheel’s left side. Press it repeatedly until you see “Clock Settings” or just “Clock” on the i-MID screen.
- Press the “Sel/Reset” button (usually a rolling wheel or a separate button) to enter the clock setting menu.
- You will see options for “Hour” and “Minute” highlighted. Use the “Sel/Reset” wheel to scroll and adjust each value.
- After setting both, scroll to “Enter” or “OK” and press the “Sel/Reset” button to confirm. The system will exit automatically after a few seconds of inactivity.
For Models with Honda Display Audio Touchscreen (2016 and Later)
Civics with the 7-inch touchscreen (and similar systems) manage the clock through the audio unit. It’s often linked to GPS for automatic updates, which you may need to disable first.
- Tap the “Home” or “Settings” icon on your touchscreen.
- Navigate to “System Settings” or “Clock.”
- Find the option for “Set Clock Manually.” You may need to turn “Auto Set” or “Use GPS Time” to OFF.
- Once in manual mode, you can tap the hour and minute fields to adjust them using on-screen arrows or a keypad.
- Remember to tap “Save” or “OK” before exiting the menu.
Why Won’t My Clock Save the Correct Time?
A common issue is the automatic time setting feature interfering with your manual adjustment. If your clock keeps reverting, you must disable this feature in the touchscreen settings menu. Look for “Clock Adjustment” and set it to “Manual.”
For Older Models with Analog Clocks (Pre-2006)
Some older Civics have a simple analog clock. There is usually a small knob directly below the clock face.
- Gently pull the knob outward. You should feel a click.
- While the knob is out, turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to move the clock hands to the correct time.
- Push the knob back in flush with the dashboard when finished. This re-engages the clock motor.
Troubleshooting Common Time Setting Problems
Sometimes, setting the time isn’t straightforward. Here are solutions to frequent problems.
Clock Resets After Turning Car Off
If your clock constantly resets to 12:00 or another default time, it indicates a power issue. The clock memory circuit is not getting constant battery power.
- Check your car battery. A weak or dying battery can cause memory loss.
- Inspect the interior fuse box. A blown fuse (often labeled “Radio” or “Backup”) can be the culprit. Your owner’s manual has the fuse diagram.
- There could be a wiring issue, but checking the fuse and battery are the first steps.
Buttons or Touchscreen Not Responding
If the “H”/”M” buttons or touchscreen controls don’t work, try a system reset.
- For touchscreens, perform a “System Reset” in the settings menu. This won’t delete paired phones.
- You can also disconnect the car battery for 10-15 minutes. This reboots all electronics. Note: This may reset your radio presets and other memory settings, so be prepared to reconfigure them.
Daylight Saving Time Adjustment
Most Honda Civic clocks do not automatically adjust for Daylight Saving Time, even with GPS on. You will need to manually change the hour twice a year using the methods described above. It’s a good habit to check it during seasonal changes.
Step-by-Step Guide for Specific Generations
For extra clarity, here are condensed guides for popular generations.
10th Generation Civic (2016-2021)
- Press the “Home” button on the touchscreen.
- Select “Settings.”
- Choose “System.”
- Select “Clock.”
- Set “Clock Adjustment” to “Manual.”
- Now select “Set Time” to adjust hour and minute.
- Tap “OK” to save.
8th and 9th Generation Civic (2006-2015)
Most models use the physical “H” and “M” buttons. For higher trims with navigation:
- Go to the “Settings” menu on the navigation screen.
- Find the “Clock” or “Time” setting.
- Switch from “Automatic” to “Manual” if needed.
- Input the correct time using the on-screen controls.
FAQs: Changing Time on Your Honda Civic
How do I change the time on my 2020 Honda Civic?
Use the touchscreen. Go to Settings > System > Clock. Turn off automatic setting, then tap “Set Time” to adjust manually.
Why is the time wrong on my Honda Civic even with GPS on?
The GPS might be set to the wrong time zone. Check the time zone setting in the same clock menu and ensure it matches your location. Also, verify the “Daylight Saving” auto setting is correct.
How do I change the time on a 2013 Honda Civic LX?
Find the digital clock above the radio. With the ignition on, press and hold the “H” button to set the hour, then the “M” button to set the minutes. It’s really that simple.
Can I change the time format from 24-hour to 12-hour?
Yes, most models allow this. In the clock settings menu (on touchscreen or i-MID), look for an option labeled “Format” or “Display.” You can usually choose between 12h and 24h (military time).
My clock is always fast/slow. What gives?
This is usually a sign of a weak car battery or a failing capacitor in the radio unit that maintains the clock memory. Have your battery tested first, as it’s the most common and easiest fix.
Do I need the radio code if I disconnect the battery?
Most Honda Civics from the last 15 years do not require a radio code after a battery disconnect. The radio is typically married to the car’s VIN. However, older models might. It’s wise to have your code handy just in case—you can find it in your glovebox manual or get it from a dealer.
Final Tips and Recommendations
Always consult your owner’s manual first. It has the definitive instructions for your specific trim level and model year. The manual’s index will lead you right to the “Clock Adjustment” page.
If you’re selling your car, set the time correctly as a courtesy. It’s a small detail that makes the car feel well-cared for. Forgetting to adjust the clock after daylight saving time is a universal experience, so don’t feel bad if it catches you by suprise once in a while.
With this guide, you should be able to tackle this simple maintenance task on any Honda Civic from the last two decades. The process is designed to be user-friendly, once you know where the controls are hidden in the menus. Taking a moment to familiarize yourself with these settings can save you future frustration.