The 9th-gen Honda Civic FB is somewhat the less loved middle-child between the vastly more popular Civic FD and Civic FC generations.

The FD and FC of course, have a much larger following given the two introduced more substantial improvements in terms of design, equipment and powertrain technology.

However, whilst improvements were not headline-grabbing – and its design made more elegant instead of sporty – it is often overlooked that the Civic FB is one of the most well-designed, refined, and practical of all Civic generations.

It is perhaps even lesser-known, that underneath its skin, the Civic FB is also cheaper and easier to maintain than the models that came before and after it, given its rock solid engineering and simplicity.

Also read: Used Honda Civic (FD) for under RM50k - How much to maintain and repair?

Let us take a closer look at why the Honda Civic FB can be the ideal used C-Segment car for your money.

The Honda Civic FB variants offered in Malaysia

The Civic FB was first introduced here in four variants across 3 powertrains. Like the Civic FD that came before it, the Civic FB launched with the 1.8-litre, 2.0-litre and 1.5-litre hybrid powertrains.

At launch, prices were as follows:

• Civic 1.8S: RM 116k
• Civic 2.0S: RM 132k
• Civic 2.0S Navi: RM 137k (featured touchscreen infotainment and reverse camera)
• Civic 1.5 Hybrid: RM 120k

Relinquishing the 2.0-litre DOHC ‘K20’ engine of the Civic FD, both the 1.8- and 2.0-litre mills were now single-cam ‘SOHC’ units from the Honda ‘R’ family. The R18 1.8-litre produces 141 PS and 174 Nm, whereas the meatier R20 2.0-litre outputs 155 PS and a peak torque of 190 Nm.

In both cases, power is routed to the front wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission.

In the case of the Civic Hybrid, it was powered by a 1.5-litre engine aided by an IMA mild-hybrid system for a total of 110 PS and 172 Nm.

As for the chassis – the Civic FB featured MacPherson struts for the front and independent multi-link suspension at the rear. Stopping power is provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear axle.

The 1.8S featured 16-inch wheels, wrapped in 205/55 R16 tyres. The 2.0S variants scaled up to 17-inch with 215/45 R17 tyres.

Given the relatively short lifespan of the Civic FB (lasting around four years) Honda Malaysia introduced the facelift Civic FD in 2014. The facelift’s aesthetic changes were minute – limited to a new colour offering, and a restyled front grille and central air inlet.

However, the biggest changes were the additional value courtesy of improved equipment, at reduced prices.

The 1.8S gained keyless entry and start, cruise control and auto headlamps as well as a drop in price of RM 2k (RM 114k from RM 116k). The 2.0S got auto headlamps as well, plus two additional (curtain) airbags for a total of six, priced at RM 6k less (RM 126k versus RM 132k previously).

The 2.0S Navi likewise received a larger 7-inch touchscreen with Mirrorlink for RM 4k less than the pre-facelift (RM 133k).

For brevity, this article concentrates on the more popular 1.8S and 2.0S variants, and not the Civic Hybrid variant. 

Which variant should I buy?

Given both the Civic FB 1.8S and 2.0S are powered by the same family of engines, the reliability and running costs do not differ by much.

As with the Civic FD, the less powerful Civic FB 1.8S offers better fuel economy and thereby is better suited for owners who predominantly drive within the city.

As for the 2.0S, it will favour enthusiasts and long-distance drivers that can take advantage of its torquier engine.

Here’s a shortlist of the basic running costs between the two models.

Also read: Buying your first BMW: From RM 15k, a used E46 BMW 3 Series is a perfect starter’s choice

Market prices of the Honda Civic FB?

Prices for pre-facelift 2012 – 2013 units of the Civic FB range between RM 40k for the 1.8S variants all the way to RM 60k for the 2.0S Navi variants depending on mileage and condition.

Post-facelift 2014 – 2015 units typically start off at RM 44k for the cheapest 1.8S units all the way to RM 65k for late-2015 2.0S Navi units.

Despite lacking in popularity when compared to the Civic FD and Civic FC generations, the Civic FB retains up to 50 percent of its original value – thus its value retention is as good as other popular models from Honda.

The other aspect of buying a Civic FB, as opposed to the Civic FD or FC, is there is a higher chance also of getting an unmodified and original unit, which is the best way to go if you’re looking for a used vehicle.

As always, a comprehensive service history goes a long way in allowing you to properly plan and execute subsequent maintenance.

At the time of writing, there are two Carsome Certified Honda Civic FB units on sale. 

All Carsome Certified vehicles come with 'Carsome Promise' which includes 175-point inspection, professional car reconditioning, all-inclusive and at a fixed price.

If you're not happy, the deal includes a 5-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty.

Common problems of the Honda Civic FB?

The Civic FB for the most part is as bulletproof as used cars come.

Both the R18 and R20 are proven engines that will clock hundreds of thousands of kms with diligent and timely maintenance.

Likewise, the five-speed automatic transmission also offers phenomenal reliability and maintenance costs are very reasonable.

Here’s a simplified table of the basic maintenance schedule of a Civic FB:

Maintenance of the Civic FB is comparable, if not less than the older Civic FD. Maintenance intervals are spread out further and save certain components (e.g.: spark plugs and fuel filter), component costs are also generally lower than the Civic FD.

Another improvement of the Civic FB is the fitment of an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system across both variants, versus the leak-prone hydraulic steering system fitted in the Civic FD (1.8S), which were costly to repair. 

Besides routine maintenance, there are a few common problems that prospective buyers should look out for.

Besides small oil leaks from the main cap and i-VTEC solenoid, there are also cases of crankshaft and camshaft seal leaks, and mostly caused by irregular maintenance and/or using low-quality engine oil. 

The worst-case-scenario is leaks at the engine main bearing seal (between engine and gearbox), but these are extremely rare cases, caused by the same aforementioned reasons.

Budget about RM1,400 in the rare event this occurs because the engine and gearbox will have to be removed for repairs. 

Conclusion

The Civic FB should and will rank high on the list for buyers who are looking for a comfortable and practical C-Segment sedan that will stand the test of time.

If you go beyond its sheet metal - the Civic FB introduced significant improvements that reduce maintenance costs and addresses many of the Civic FD faults and these aspects are often overlooked when buying a used vehicle.

Arguably, it is perhaps the fact that the Civic FB is not a typical ‘boy racer" sedan, makes it a better car overall.

For peace of mind, give your Honda Civic FB the proper care it deserves with GoCar Garage. Operated by the Tan Chong group and based in Petaling Jaya, GoCar Garage offers a manufacturer level service experience, but it's open for all makes and models. 

Also read: Used E60 BMW 5 Series for under RM 35k. Common problems and how much to repair?