What transmission does the 8th-generation Civic use?
3 Answers
The 8th-generation Civic uses an AT transmission. Guangqi Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. was established on July 1, 1998. Currently, its main production includes seven series with over thirty models: the Avancier SUV series, Accord sedan series, Odyssey multi-purpose vehicle series, Lingpai sedan series, City sedan series, Fit sedan series, and the self-owned brand Everus sedan series. The transmission model used in the Civic is the LL-CVT. The AT transmission, scientifically known as a hydraulic automatic transmission, achieves automatic shifting through hydraulic drive and planetary gear combinations. For the Honda Civic's transmission in daily use, the following points should be noted: Do not go for extended periods without changing the transmission fluid. Although many models now feature maintenance-free transmission fluid, 'maintenance-free' does not mean it never needs changing. Prolonged failure to change the transmission fluid can lead to damage to internal components such as bearings and the housing. Avoid prolonged coasting in neutral. While driving manual transmission vehicles, many experienced drivers may coast in neutral. However, for automatic transmission vehicles, coasting in neutral can cause the transmission to overheat, and shifting back into D gear can create a noticeable jolt. Never shift into D/R gear before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Many drivers, aiming to demonstrate 'smooth' operation, shift directly into reverse while the vehicle is still moving. This can cause significant damage to the transmission gears and, over time, lead to gear grinding and other malfunctions. Avoid frequently climbing steep slopes in D gear. When facing steep inclines, automatic transmission vehicles can overheat due to high load or shift up too early, resulting in insufficient power. In such cases, use manual mode to lock in lower gears or switch to sport mode to protect the transmission. Do not tow over long distances. If an automatic transmission vehicle breaks down, use a flatbed tow truck to move the vehicle onto the tow platform while it is in N gear. Do not use a tow rope or tow the vehicle directly with another vehicle.
I've driven my friend's 8th-gen Civic equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission developed by Honda. It delivers smooth shifts without jerking, making it effortless even in city traffic jams, though acceleration is slightly sluggish. The manual version comes with a 5-speed gearbox featuring a light clutch ideal for beginners. This generation's Civic transmission proves highly durable with minimal issues, but requires regular fluid changes over time to prevent sludge buildup from jamming gears. Mine has covered over 100,000 km with just one fluid replacement. Honda's design prioritizes hassle-free ownership—perfect for daily commutes. For frequent long-distance driving, remember to inspect wiring connections to avoid gear failure. Overall, the 8th-gen Civic's transmission is reliable, with automatics being the popular choice for family-oriented drivers.
As a mechanical enthusiast, I've studied the transmission system of the 8th-generation Civic. It came standard with either a 5-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. Honda used a parallel-axis design back then, which was simple in structure and inexpensive to repair, with clear shift logic though slightly slower response. Compared to today's popular CVTs, this system has stable oil pressure and high transmission efficiency, with slightly higher fuel consumption but lower failure rates. I prefer the manual version for its direct operation, solid clutch feel, and thrilling performance on mountain roads. For maintenance, I recommend checking fluids and filters every 80,000 km to prevent internal wear causing shift noise. This Honda transmission is a classic that represented the mainstream technology of its era.
