$2,000 · 2004 Honda Civic - 5 Speed Manual

2004 Honda Civic – 5 Speed Manual – 219,000 km Looking for a reliable beater or cheap commuter? This 2004 Honda Civic with a 5-speed manual transmission might be the one. Known for being practically unkillable, it runs and drives well with plenty of life left if maintained. Details & Features: 5-speed manual transmission Base model: manual windows, power locks Thule Roof Racks Radio with CD player + aftermarket speakers (nothing fancy, but works) A/C works (best in moderate temps, struggles a bit above 25°C) Engine in good condition, routine oil changes (last within 500 km) New clutch master & slave cylinders (last year) New battery (last year) Great on gas Cheap to ensure Quirks / Issues (being upfront): Cracked windshield Cracked front bumper (from driving into a parking stall stop, not from an accident) Rust on rear quarter panels (classic Civic problem) Makes a low-speed "grinding noise" (not exactly sure how to describe it, so I attached a video) on acceleration (has been the same for 3+ years, never gets worse or causes issues, just an annoyance at this point. Sound goes away at normal road speeds, only when driving slowly do you notice it. Driver’s side window doesn’t go down Mismatched locks: key only opens passenger door, not driver’s side or trunk. To unlock the driver door you currently need to open from the inside. Power lock fob included, but the driver door lock actuator motor needs replacement (~$60 part). If you replace it, the fob will work properly and you can unlock the driver’s door with a button — a much easier solution than leaning across every time. AC works, but is a little weak, works well in moderate heat, low 20s temperature, but if its 25 degrees or hotter it struggles to keep it cool. Will need a new accessory belt in the near future, sometimes squeaks a little on start up if its cold and you are running the AC, stops after car warms up for a few minutes. Why buy it? It’s a cheap, reliable, no-nonsense daily or winter beater. Despite its quirks, this Civic has been well maintained and keeps going strong. With a manual transmission and Honda’s reputation, it could run for many more years with basic care. If you are at all mechanically inclined you can probably fix up some of the little problems at home for cheap, and have a strong running car that wont let you down. Overall: Fairly clean inside and out, with some rust and cosmetic flaws. Perfect for someone who needs dependable wheels on a budget. May need new tires in the near future.