1988 Honda Civic vehicle speed control problems
13 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the vehicle speed control on the 1988 Honda Civic — 28% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Engine "revs" while stopped at a stop sign or stop light. Car accelerates by itself without applying the accelerator. Car jolts forward unexpectedly for no reason. Problem seems potentially dangerous because of lack of control of the car's acceleration. Mechanic has said that the car needs a new…”
filed Oct 28, 2003
“The engine suddenly lurches forward and the rpms increase unexpectedly to an uncontrollable level. The problem began in early 1996. Honda says the recall of a similar part does not cover my car. It is unsafe to drive. Is mine the only such report and what recourse do I have as far as nhtsa is…”
filed Aug 16, 1999
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Vehicle Speed Control problems in other Civic years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Civic | 1 | 4% |
| 2025 Civic | 3 | 5% |
| 2024 Civic | 3 | 3% |
| 2023 Civic | 4 | 2% |
| 2022 Civic | 42 | 5% |
| 2021 Civic | 6 | 4% |
| 2020 Civic | 4 | 2% |
| 2019 Civic | 9 | 2% |
| 2018 Civic | 5 | 1% |
| 2017 Civic | 12 | 2% |
| 2016 Civic | 17 | 2% |
| 2015 Civic | 20 | 5% |
Other reported problem areas on the 1988 Honda Civic
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.