Compare Honda Civic ticking or rattling noise repair quotes from specialist garages

The Civic has been produced since 1972 and is one of Honda's most popular models. It has a diverse lineup, from hatchbacks and sedans to coupes, with top speeds ranging from 110 to 130 mph. In 2022, The Sunday Times Motor Awards crowned the Honda Civic Type R 'Legend Car of the Year', and it was also named 'Car of the Year' at the Top Gear Awards.

As with most Hondas, the Civic has an excellent reputation for reliability. Chipped paint and missing windscreen washer caps are the main things to look for. In recent years, modified Civics have become iconic symbols of the tuner car culture, thanks to numerous appearances in the Fast and Furious film franchise.

Ticking and rattling are two closely related noises you might hear from your car. If you listen closely to where the sound is coming from and when it happens (while accelerating, for instance), you might be able to work out the cause.

The first thing to check is whether the engine oil is low, requiring a top-up - this is the best-case scenario. If your car is rattling and the sound is coming from the engine, it could be caused by a loose serpentine belt or timing chain. From the car's rear, it might be a loose exhaust or a broken catalytic converter, and the other possibility is worn suspension, which can cause rattling from the front or rear of the vehicle.

Possible explanations for ticking include worn spark plugs, knocking engine rods, dirty valve lifters and misaligned valves. You can learn more about these issues here.

Ticking and rattling noises should be taken seriously as they sometimes indicate a problem with the engine that could cause further damage if ignored.