Car was dealer maintained since day 1 and has a manual gearbox on its original clutch. Is there anything I should be concerned about? Should I be concerned about the clutch? Lastly, is 149000 miles a lot for that model year of civic?
The manual transmission ones are very reliable and it could last a lot more with limited amount of maintenance but I would only consider buying it if the price reflects the year and miles so <$6000. 2012 was a bit of a lower quality year and was the first year of the generation so I would go 2013-2015 but this being the earlier one has a good price benifit. If you like it after a test drive, the price is good, and a mechanic checks it out and says its in good mechanical condition, it could be a good car.
Here are some of the common problems. Unfortunately, major engine problems and very uncomfortable seats are common complaints from owners.
To compare years: https://www.carcomplaints.com/Honda/Civic/
So I should still get it checked by a mechanic even if it was dealer maintained?
ALWAYS get any used car checked out by a mechanic you trust, before you buy it. Never trust a seller’s promises when it comes to a used car. It’s your money after all & you don’t want to be stuck with another man’s problems.
Like inthrustwetrust said you should definetly get it checked out you never know maybe it was wrecked by a 16 year old and traded in to the dealer and the engine will blow up tomorrow.
As with any used car, you want to have it looked at by a reputed mechanic, before you buy it. If they give the car a clean bill of health, and you can negotiate hard on the price, I’d say go for it.
Obviously, you’re looking at a clutch replacement/overhaul in the near future, so deduct the cost of that entire job at a minimum, from the asking price.
If the engine is still in good shape, manual Civics can practically run forever.
