What a 1998 Honda Civic LX Is Worth in 2025

In today’s U.S. used-car market (late 2025), a 1998 Honda Civic LX typically sells for about $1,500–$4,500 in private-party transactions if it’s running and in average condition; dealer retail often lands around $3,000–$6,000, while trade-in/wholesale offers are commonly $300–$2,000. Exceptional, low-mile, rust-free examples with records can reach $6,000–$9,000, and rough or non-running cars may bring $0–$1,000. Actual value depends heavily on mileage, condition, location, title status, and maintenance history.

The Market Context

The 1998 Civic LX sits at the junction of durable economy car and enthusiast favorite. Values have been buoyed in recent years by elevated used-car prices and a strong following for 1990s Hondas. However, at 27 years old, most examples carry high mileage and age-related wear, creating a wide spread between “project” cars and well-preserved survivors. Regional factors—especially rust in the Midwest/Northeast and emissions rules in certain states—also play a notable role.

Typical Price Ranges by Sale Type

The following ranges reflect common U.S. outcomes for the Civic LX trim as of 2025, assuming stock or lightly modified cars with clean titles.

• Private-party (running, average condition, typical miles): $1,500–$4,500
• Dealer retail (reconditioned, warranty light): $3,000–$6,000
• Trade-in/wholesale (as-is to auction-bound): $300–$2,000
• Project/non-running or severe rust/salvage: $0–$1,000
• Exceptional examples (low miles, rust-free, documented maintenance): $6,000–$9,000

These bands are directional. Expect the high end in hotter used-car markets or for unusually clean, well-documented cars; expect the low end for rough condition, high miles, or costly reconditioning needs.

What Moves the Price Up or Down

Several variables have outsized influence on a 1998 Civic LX’s value. Keep these in mind when assessing or negotiating.

• Mileage: Under ~120,000 miles is unusual and commands a premium; 180,000–250,000+ miles is common and lowers price.
• Rust and body condition: Structural or severe rust can be a deal-breaker. Clean, original bodywork adds value.
• Title status: Clean title sells best; salvage/rebuilt typically knocks 20–40% off.
• Maintenance records: Evidence of timing-belt service, brakes, suspension, and recent tires increases buyer confidence.
• Mechanical health: Smooth idle, no overheating, no major leaks, cold A/C, solid transmission behavior are key.
• Transmission: Manuals can attract enthusiasts; automatics broaden appeal. Either can add value if healthy.
• Modifications: Quality, reversible mods may help; cut springs, mismatched parts, or emissions deletes usually hurt.
• Location and season: Sun-belt, rust-free cars sell higher; values dip where inspections/emissions are strict or rust is prevalent.

When multiple negatives stack (high miles, rust, missing records), the price can slide into project territory; the reverse is true for a preserved, documented car.

How to Price Your Specific Car Today

Use a structured approach to narrow the range to a realistic asking or offer price.

1. Gather details: VIN, trim (LX), transmission, mileage, number of owners, title status, and key options.
2. Document condition: Note rust, paint, interior wear, tire tread, brakes, leaks, A/C performance, and any warning lights.
3. Check pricing guides: Compare inputs across Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and similar tools using your ZIP code.
4. Pull local comps: Search recent listings and sold results within 50–150 miles on marketplaces to see what actually moves.
5. Adjust for reconditioning: Estimate near-term costs (tires, battery, timing belt/water pump, brakes, suspension, clutch) and subtract from value.
6. Account for title/inspection: Deduct for salvage/rebuilt, failed emissions, or overdue inspections.
7. Set your price: Choose an ask that leaves room to negotiate (private sellers often bake in 5–10%).

This process grounds your number in both guide values and real-world market behavior, reducing surprises during negotiation.

Scenario Benchmarks

These illustrations show how condition and miles can swing value for the 1998 Civic LX.

• High miles, average condition (e.g., 220k miles, some cosmetic wear, passes inspection, records for basic maintenance): $2,000–$3,500 private-party.
• Low miles, well-kept (e.g., 85k miles, rust-free, comprehensive records, cold A/C, stock): $5,000–$8,000 private-party; more from a dealer.
• Non-running project (e.g., engine/trans issue, or heavy rust): $0–$1,000 depending on part-out value and scrap prices.

If your car aligns closely with one of these scenarios, these ranges can serve as a practical starting point.

Regional and Seasonal Notes

In the Rust Belt, corrosion can overshadow mechanical condition; photos of clean underbodies materially help value. In emissions-strict states, a ready-to-pass car is worth significantly more than one needing repairs. Seasonally, convertibles see larger swings than sedans, but tax-refund periods and back-to-school months can boost demand for inexpensive commuters like an older Civic.

Tips to Maximize Sale Price

Small investments and transparency often yield better offers.

• Fix inexpensive items: Fresh wipers, bulbs, floor mats, and a clean cabin help first impressions.
• Provide documentation: Compile receipts for timing belt, fluids, brakes, tires, and any major work.
• Detail and photograph well: Include underbody, engine bay, VIN plate, and cold-start video if possible.
• Be upfront on flaws: Clear disclosure builds trust and reduces renegotiation.
• Time your listing: Post when comparable supply is thin in your area.

Even on budget cars, presentation and records can shift a sale from the lower to the upper end of the market range.

Bottom Line

Most 1998 Honda Civic LX sedans change hands between roughly $1,500 and $4,500 privately, with dealers asking more and trade-ins offering less. Exceptional survivors can breach $6,000, while projects hover at $1,000 or less. Nail down your exact number by combining pricing guides with local comps and honest condition adjustments.

Summary

As of 2025, a 1998 Honda Civic LX is generally worth $1,500–$4,500 in private-party sales, $3,000–$6,000 at retail, and $300–$2,000 on trade-in, with exceptional and project vehicles sitting above and below those bands. Condition, mileage, rust, title status, maintenance records, and regional factors are the biggest determinants of value.

What does LX mean on a Honda Civic?

On a Honda Civic, LX refers to a trim level, generally the base or entry-level model, offering essential features and a focus on comfort and convenience over performance or luxury options. While the exact features vary by model year, an LX Civic typically includes standard equipment like a rearview camera, Bluetooth, power windows and locks, and a basic sound system, distinguishing it from higher trims like the Sport or EX.
 
Key Characteristics of the LX Trim

• Entry-Level Standard: The LX is often the least expensive trim level, providing a balance of affordability and necessary features for daily driving. 
• Essential Features: It comes equipped with fundamental amenities such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and basic audio controls on the steering wheel. 
• Focus on Comfort: The LX provides core comfort and convenience features like cruise control, a security system with remote entry, and a fold-down rear seat. 
• Technology: Depending on the model year, an LX Civic will have standard tech, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a multi-angle rearview camera, and a central display screen. 

Examples of LX Features by Model Year

• 2025 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabIncludes standard driver-assist features, 16-inch steel wheels, a 5-inch color display, and a four-speaker audio system. 
• 2018 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabFeatured automatic headlights, cruise control, Bluetooth, and steering-wheel controls. 
• 2013 Civic LX: . Opens in new tabCame with a fold-down back seat, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth, while the EX trim added alloy wheels and a moonroof. 

In summary, the “LX” on a Honda Civic indicates a well-equipped, entry-level trim that offers a solid foundation of standard features.

How much is a 1998 Honda Civic worth today?

How much is a 1998 Honda Civic worth? The value of a used 1998 Honda Civic ranges from $382 to $1,852, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.

Is a 1998 Honda Civic a classic car?

1998 Honda Civic: A Quintessential Classic
As the sixth generation of its lineage, it carried the torch of Honda’s reputation for quality and efficiency into a new era.

How many miles will a 1998 Honda Civic last?

A 1998 Honda Civic, with proper care and maintenance, can typically last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. However, some well-maintained Civics have even been known to reach 500,000 miles. The longevity of any vehicle, including a 1998 Civic, depends heavily on factors like driving conditions, maintenance habits, and luck, according to Honda service blogs. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Factors Affecting Longevity:

• Maintenance: Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and addressing issues promptly can significantly extend the life of the engine and other components. 
• Driving Conditions: Highway driving is generally less stressful on a vehicle than stop-and-go city driving. 
• Climate: Extreme climates (very hot or very cold) can impact the lifespan of certain components. 
• Ownership: The number of previous owners and their maintenance habits can also play a role. 

What to Expect:

• 200,000+ miles: This is a reasonable expectation for a well-maintained 1998 Civic. 
• 300,000+ miles: With consistent care and favorable conditions, 300,000 miles is achievable. 
• 500,000+ miles: While less common, some Civics have reached this milestone with exceptional maintenance and luck. 

Tips for Maximizing Lifespan:

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Refer to the owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals. 
• Address issues promptly: Don’t let minor problems escalate into major repairs. 
• Use quality parts and fluids: Avoid using cheap or low-quality parts that may fail prematurely. 
• Consider synthetic oil: Some owners have reported improved mileage and engine health by switching to synthetic oil after a certain mileage (though this is a debated topic), according to Edmunds forums. 
• Be mindful of rust: If you live in an area with harsh winters, be aware of rust and take steps to prevent or mitigate it.