Im trying to get my gf a small car to learn to drive in, and also to drive as much as possible instead of my truck to save on gas. Obviously am looking for great gas mileage, safety, and reliability.

Ive always considered Civics to be top reliable cars, but in my current research have found a lot of problems with the newer ones (not just Civics, but other cars like Camry, Rav4, and others that were very reliable, have gained a lot of problems in the mid to late 2000s).

The head cracking problem, not being able to start the car on first try, motor mounts cracking, power steering rack and pinion, etc...

Is a 2010 EX Coupe automatic with 35k for $15k out the door still a good buy and consideration? I really want to make sure my gf gets in something that isnt going to leave her stranded, or have any issues while driving. She likes the look and style of the car, and how small it is. I like the gas mileage, and Honda's "past" reliabilty, but not sure if the current problem areas are just coincidences that should be fixed in the 2010, or just signs of a drop off in quality.

Other $15k options around me are 2010 Mazda 6s, and Nissan Altimas, etc, but she doesnt really want something that big, and the gas mileage isnt any where near the Civic. Ive had a couple of Altimas (01 and 07), and never an issue, and currently have a 2012 Frontier (and had a few other Nissans, none ever needed anything beyond normal maitenance). So Ive stuck with Nissan the past few years, and a little worried about straying.

Also, I drive about 20-25K a year. So Im really looking for long term reliability. Assuming a five year loan, paid off in about 3.5y, Id like to go that long without any major repairs. The dealer offered to throw in a 100k PT warranty in that $15k, but since it still has 25k of factory PT, Im wondering if I can get it for less without that, or if it would be worth it to have it.

 

I'm a 25+ year Honda owner that recently acquired a 2010 Civic LX Sedan. I've previously owned EX lines in both Accords and Civics.

Let me first say that Honda Accords and Civics have fallen from grace beginning in model year 2012. They're simply cutting corners across the board - something they've never done before to the best of my knowledge. However, I believe there is still good value to be had in pre-owned models, years 2006-2011.

You'll find that the 2010 EX model lines essentially offer very little advantage over the LX line. You'll want to check this out and determine if the LX will meet your needs. You can save as much as $2,000 with the 2010 LX vs. the EX.

I'm troubled by the "2010 EX Coupe automatic with 35k for $15k out the door" deal that you've been offered. The typical 2010 Civic LX Sedan with 25k is a good deal at a negotiated price of about $15,500. The coupe is about $500-$1,000 more. I'd be concerned that this EX Coupe comes with some troublesome baggage and I don't mean "in the trunk."

IMO, a 2010 Honda Civic LX or EX with 25k-35k miles should easily give you 150k miles if it's properly serviced, probably in excess of 200k if you're living in a moderate weather environment.