What transmission is in a 2002 Honda Civic
It depends on the trim and market: in North America, most 2002 Honda Civic DX/LX/EX models came with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, the HX offered a 5-speed manual or a CVT (Honda “Multimatic”), the Si hatchback was 5-speed manual only, and the natural-gas GX used a 4-speed automatic. Below, we break down the options and how to confirm what’s in your car.
Contents
Factory transmission options by trim (North America)
The 2002 model year spans several trims and engines, each paired with specific transmission choices. The list below outlines what Honda offered from the factory in the U.S. and Canada.
- DX / LX / EX (1.7L D17): 5-speed manual (5MT) or 4-speed automatic (4AT, non‑CVT)
- HX (1.7L D17 lean-burn): 5-speed manual (5MT) or continuously variable transmission (CVT, Honda “Multimatic”)
- Si hatchback (2.0L K20A3, EP3): 5-speed manual only
- GX sedan (1.7L CNG): 4-speed automatic only
These pairings reflect standard U.S./Canadian configurations for the seventh-generation Civic (2001–2005). Availability can vary slightly by region and production date, but the combinations above cover the overwhelming majority of 2002 Civics sold in North America.
Regional variations
Outside North America, 2002 Civics could be equipped with different engines and transmissions—typically 5-speed manuals or 4-speed automatics on most trims, with CVT availability in certain markets (notably Japan and parts of Europe). If your car was originally sold outside the U.S./Canada, consult local documentation or a dealer for market-specific details.
How to confirm which transmission your 2002 Civic has
If you’re unsure what’s in your car, these checks can help you verify the transmission quickly and accurately.
- Shifter and gauge cluster: A clutch pedal and an “H” shift pattern confirm a manual; PRND gear indicators confirm an automatic/CVT.
- Owner’s manual and window sticker/Monroney: Lists the factory-installed transmission type for your exact trim.
- Under-hood labels: Some models note fluid specifications (ATF vs. CVT fluid) on caps or service stickers, hinting at the transmission type.
- Dealer or parts department inquiry: Provide your VIN; they can pull the original build information and confirm the transmission.
- Service records: Past maintenance invoices often name the transmission type and fluid used.
Combining a visual check with documentation (owner’s manual or dealer VIN lookup) offers the most reliable confirmation, especially for trims like HX where CVT and manual were both common.
Maintenance notes and reliability considerations
Transmission longevity on 2002 Civics is highly dependent on correct servicing. Manuals are generally robust with regular fluid changes; the 4-speed automatics are widely considered durable when maintained; the HX CVT can be sensitive to neglect or the wrong fluid.
- Manual (5MT): Use Honda MTF (Manual Transmission Fluid) as specified; change at recommended intervals.
- 4-speed automatic (4AT): Originally specified Honda ATF-Z1; Honda now supersedes that with ATF DW-1. Do not use CVT fluid in a 4AT.
- CVT (HX “Multimatic”): Use the Honda CVT fluid specified for the 2002 HX. Do not substitute ATF or “universal” fluids.
Adhering to the correct fluid type and intervals is critical—especially for the HX CVT—to prevent drivability issues and premature wear.
Bottom line
For a 2002 Honda Civic in North America: DX/LX/EX models typically have a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic; HX models may have a 5-speed manual or a CVT; the Si hatchback is 5-speed manual only; and the GX uses a 4-speed automatic. Verify your specific car by checking the shifter, documentation, and (if needed) a dealer VIN lookup.
Summary
The 2002 Civic’s transmission varies by trim: 5MT or 4AT on most models, CVT optional on the HX, 5MT only on the Si, and 4AT on the GX. Because configurations differ by trim and market, confirm yours via the shifter, owner’s manual, service labels, or a dealer VIN check, and service it with the correct Honda-specified fluid for best reliability.
What type of transmission does a Honda Civic have?
The Honda Civic typically comes with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as its automatic transmission option. Some Civic models, particularly those with a manual transmission option, will also offer a 6-speed manual transmission.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission): . Opens in new tabThis is the standard automatic transmission in most modern Civic models, providing smooth acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.
- 6-Speed Manual Transmission: . Opens in new tabThis option is available on certain trims, offering a more engaging driving experience for those who prefer a traditional stick shift.
- Hybrid Models: . Opens in new tabCivic hybrids have exclusively used CVTs since 2006, according to a Reddit thread.
- Checking for CVT: . Opens in new tabYou can often identify a CVT by looking at the gear selector (PRNDL) or by checking the vehicle’s specifications online or with the dealership.
Does the 2002 Civic have VTEC?
The 2002 Civic EX features variable intermittent windshield wipers. The EX models are powered by a 127-horsepower VTEC engine that generates 114-lbs/ft of torque at 4800 rpm.
What years did the Honda Civic have transmission problems?
Which Honda Civic Years to Avoid
| Model Year | Main Issues |
|---|---|
| 2001 | Transmission failure, airbag recall, engine concerns |
| 2006 | Cracked engine blocks, coolant leaks |
| 2007–2008 | Premature tire wear, engine and body integrity issues |
| 2012 | Poor interior quality, underwhelming ride and build |
What year did Honda put CVT transmission in Civic?
No 1998 close the answer is 1995 honda Civic HX that was the Honda first CVT.
