1986 Honda Civic Crx – The Ultimate Guide To Ownership, Maintenance

Ah, the 1986 Honda Civic CRX. Just the name conjures images of nimble handling, surprising speed, and a design that’s unmistakably 80s cool. If you’ve ever dreamt of owning one, or perhaps you’re already a proud custodian of this lightweight legend, you know it’s more than just a car; it’s a statement.

But let’s be honest, owning a classic like the 1986 Honda Civic CRX isn’t always a walk in the park. From finding elusive parts to tackling common issues that come with age, it requires a blend of passion, patience, and practical know-how. That’s where FatBoysOffroad comes in.

We promise to equip you with the deep insights and actionable advice you need to not just keep your CRX running, but to truly thrive with it. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything from essential maintenance and troubleshooting common problems to exciting performance modifications and sustainable care for your beloved 1986 Honda Civic CRX.

The Enduring Appeal of the 1986 Honda Civic CRX

Why does the 1986 Honda Civic CRX continue to capture hearts decades later? It’s a blend of factors that created a truly special vehicle. This compact, two-seater hatchback was designed with a focus on efficiency, light weight, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience.

The first-generation CRX, especially the Si model, set a benchmark for affordable performance. Its nimble chassis and rev-happy engine made it a joy on twisty roads, earning it a cult following that endures to this day. Many consider the 1986 Honda Civic CRX a timeless classic because it perfectly embodies the spirit of a true driver’s car.

What Makes the CRX a Timeless Classic?

Lightweight Design: Tipping the scales at around 1,800 pounds, the CRX’s power-to-weight ratio was impressive for its era. This contributed to its agile handling and spirited acceleration.
Fuel Efficiency: Even today, the CRX can deliver respectable fuel economy, making it a sustainable choice for enthusiasts.
Driving Dynamics: The independent suspension and responsive steering provide a direct connection to the road, offering an unfiltered driving experience.
Modding Potential: The CRX platform is a favorite among tuners, with a vast aftermarket for performance upgrades.

Essential Maintenance for Your 1986 Honda Civic CRX: A Care Guide

Keeping your 1986 Honda Civic CRX in top shape requires consistent, proactive maintenance. Think of it as preventative medicine for your classic. Regular checks and fluid changes are crucial for longevity and reliability, and many of these tasks are perfectly suited for the weekend DIYer.

Adopting sustainable practices in your CRX care guide not only benefits your wallet but also the environment, ensuring your classic can be enjoyed for years to come. Let’s dive into some best practices.

Routine Fluid Checks and Changes

Fluids are the lifeblood of your CRX. Check them often and change them according to your owner’s manual or a 3,000-5,000 mile interval for oil, and longer for others.

Engine Oil: Use a good quality conventional or synthetic blend oil (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on climate). Check the dipstick when the engine is cold and level. Change the oil and filter every 3,000-5,000 miles.
Coolant: Inspect the coolant level in the overflow reservoir. Ensure it’s between the min/max marks. Flush and replace the coolant every 2-3 years to prevent corrosion and maintain optimal engine temperature.
Brake Fluid: Check the master cylinder reservoir. Brake fluid should be clear, not dark brown. Bleed your brake lines and replace the fluid every 2 years for optimal stopping power and to prevent moisture buildup.
Transmission Fluid: For manual transmissions, check the fluid level periodically. Change it every 30,000-60,000 miles with a quality Honda-spec manual transmission fluid.

Inspecting Belts and Hoses

Cracked belts and brittle hoses are common culprits for roadside breakdowns. A quick visual inspection can save you a lot of hassle.

Drive Belts: Look for cracks, fraying, or glazing on the alternator, power steering (if equipped), and AC belts. Replace them if they show signs of wear.
Timing Belt: This is critical! If your CRX has an interference engine (most do), a broken timing belt can cause catastrophic engine damage. Check its condition if possible, but generally, replace it every 60,000-90,000 miles, along with the water pump and tensioner.
Hoses: Squeeze radiator and heater hoses. They should be firm but pliable, not rock-hard or mushy. Look for cracks or bulges.

Tire Care and Suspension Checks

Your tires are the only contact points with the road, and your suspension keeps you connected. Regular checks are vital for safety and handling.

Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure weekly. Refer to the sticker inside your door jamb for correct PSI. Proper inflation is key for safety, fuel economy, and tire longevity.
Tire Tread: Inspect tread depth and look for uneven wear, which can indicate alignment issues or worn suspension components.
Suspension Components: Periodically inspect your shocks/struts for leaks, and look for torn boots on CV joints and tie rods. Listen for clunks or squeaks over bumps.

Common Problems with the 1986 Honda Civic CRX and How to Fix Them

Owning an older vehicle means dealing with age-related issues. The 1986 Honda Civic CRX is no exception. Knowing common problems and how to tackle them is key to keeping your classic on the road. This section will provide a practical how-to 1986 Honda Civic CRX guide for common fixes.

Rust Prevention and Repair

Rust is arguably the biggest enemy of older Hondas, especially in areas that experience harsh winters. The CRX is particularly susceptible in specific areas.

Common Rust Spots: Look for rust around the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, floorboards, and the strut towers.
Prevention: Regularly wash your car, especially the undercarriage, to remove salt and dirt. Apply rust preventative coatings or waxes to vulnerable areas.
Repair: For minor surface rust, sand it down to bare metal, apply a rust converter, primer, and then paint. For significant rust, cutting out and welding in new metal is often the only durable solution. This might be a job for a professional body shop.

Electrical Gremlins: Diagnosing Common Issues

Over time, wiring can degrade, connections can loosen, and components can fail, leading to frustrating electrical problems.

Flickering Lights/Dead Battery: Check your battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tight. Test your alternator output with a multimeter (should be around 13.5-14.5 volts when running).
Intermittent Wipers/Lights: Inspect fuses first. Many older Hondas suffer from corroded fuse box terminals. Clean them with electrical contact cleaner. Also, check grounds – a loose or corroded ground wire can cause a multitude of strange electrical issues.
Power Window/Door Lock Issues: These are often due to worn-out motors, sticky mechanisms, or broken wiring in the door jambs. Lubricate mechanisms first; if that fails, test for power at the motor.

Suspension and Steering Wear

After decades of driving, suspension components will inevitably wear out, affecting handling and ride comfort.

Worn Bushings: Rubber bushings in control arms, sway bars, and trailing arms can crack and disintegrate, leading to clunks, squeaks, and loose handling. Replacing them with new rubber or polyurethane bushings can dramatically improve feel.
Leaky Shocks/Struts: If you see fluid seeping from your shocks or if the car bounces excessively after going over a bump, they likely need replacement. This is a great opportunity for an upgrade!
Tie Rod Ends/Ball Joints: Worn tie rod ends can cause loose steering and uneven tire wear. Worn ball joints can lead to clunking noises and dangerous steering issues. Inspect for play by jacking up the car and wiggling the wheel.

Engine and Drivetrain Peculiarities

The D-series engine in the 1986 CRX is generally robust, but some common issues can arise.

Oil Leaks: Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and distributor O-rings are common leak points. Replacing these gaskets is a straightforward DIY task for most.
Rough Idle/Poor Performance: Start with basic tune-up items: spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, and rotor. Clean your throttle body and check for vacuum leaks using a spray bottle with soapy water.
Clutch Issues: A slipping clutch (engine revs without increasing speed) or a hard-to-shift transmission usually indicates a worn clutch, slave cylinder, or master cylinder. Clutch replacement is a more involved job, often best left to a professional if you’re not experienced.

Performance Modifications and Upgrades for Your 1986 Honda Civic CRX

One of the biggest benefits of the 1986 Honda Civic CRX is its incredible potential for modification. Whether you’re aiming for a track monster or a spirited daily driver, there are countless ways to enhance its performance. Here are some 1986 Honda Civic CRX tips for smart upgrades, emphasizing best practices for safety and reliability.

Engine Swaps: Powering Up Your CRX

The most dramatic performance upgrade for a CRX is often an engine swap. The chassis is a fantastic platform for more powerful Honda engines.

B-Series Swaps: The most popular choice. Engines like the B16A (VTEC) or B18C (GSR/Type R) from later Integras and Civics offer significant power bumps. This swap requires custom mounts, wiring harness modifications, and sometimes axle changes. It’s an advanced DIY project.
D-Series Turbocharging: For those wanting to stick with the original D-series block, turbocharging is an option. This requires careful tuning, fuel system upgrades, and internal engine strengthening for reliability.
H-Series/K-Series Swaps: These are more complex and less common due to packaging challenges and significant fabrication required.

Pro Tip: When considering an engine swap, research thoroughly. Ensure you understand all the components needed, the wiring intricacies, and the legal implications in your region. Always prioritize safety and reliability over raw power.

Suspension & Handling Enhancements

The CRX’s lightweight chassis already handles well, but modern components can transform it.

Coilover Suspension: A full coilover kit (e.g., Koni, Tein, Skunk2) allows for adjustable ride height and damping, dramatically improving handling and reducing body roll.
Sway Bars: Upgrading front and rear sway bars can further stiffen the chassis and reduce body roll, leading to flatter cornering.
Bushings: Replacing old rubber bushings with polyurethane alternatives (e.g., Energy Suspension) provides a more direct feel and reduces slop in the suspension.
Strut Tower Braces: These connect the tops of your strut towers, reducing chassis flex and improving steering response.

Brake System Upgrades

More power means you need more stopping power. Don’t overlook brake upgrades for your 1986 Honda Civic CRX.

Bigger Rotors and Calipers: Swapping to larger rotors and calipers from a later model Integra or Civic (e.g., EX, Si, GSR) is a common upgrade. This often requires new brake lines and potentially different wheel sizes.
Performance Pads and Fluid: Even with stock calipers, upgrading to performance brake pads (e.g., Hawk HPS, EBC Yellowstuff) and high-temperature brake fluid (e.g., Motul RBF600) can make a noticeable difference in fade resistance and stopping power.
Stainless Steel Brake Lines: These reduce line expansion under pressure, providing a firmer, more consistent brake pedal feel.

Exhaust and Intake Improvements

Simple bolt-ons can improve engine breathing and sound.

Cold Air Intake (CAI): A CAI moves the air filter away from engine heat, drawing in cooler, denser air for a slight power bump and improved engine sound.
Header and Exhaust System: A performance header (e.g., DC Sports, Skunk2) and a free-flowing cat-back exhaust system can improve exhaust scavenging, leading to better throttle response and a more aggressive exhaust note. Choose systems designed for the CRX for best fitment.

Driving and Owning Your 1986 Honda Civic CRX: Tips for Longevity and Enjoyment

Beyond the wrenches and grease, enjoying your 1986 Honda Civic CRX involves smart driving habits and a community connection. This section offers a practical 1986 Honda Civic CRX guide for everyday ownership.

Smart Driving Habits

How you drive your CRX directly impacts its lifespan and your enjoyment.

Warm-Up Gently: Allow the engine to reach operating temperature before pushing it hard. This ensures proper lubrication and reduces wear.
Smooth Inputs: Be smooth with the steering, throttle, and brakes. Jerky inputs stress components unnecessarily.
Anticipate Traffic: Look ahead to avoid sudden braking or acceleration, which saves wear on your brakes and drivetrain.

Finding Parts and Resources

Parts for a nearly 40-year-old car can be a challenge, but not impossible.

Online Forums & Communities: Websites like Redpepperracing.com and various CRX Facebook groups are invaluable resources for finding parts, advice, and connecting with other owners.
OEM & Aftermarket: While new OEM parts are scarce, many aftermarket companies still produce common wear items and performance parts. Don’t shy away from quality used parts for non-wear items.
Salvage Yards: Local junkyards can sometimes yield hidden gems, but inspect parts carefully before buying.

Community and Events

The CRX community is passionate and welcoming. Get involved!

Car Meets & Shows: Attend local import car meets or Honda-specific events. It’s a great way to show off your CRX, get ideas, and meet like-minded enthusiasts.
Track Days & Autocross: If your CRX is properly maintained, consider taking it to a local autocross or track day event. This is where the CRX truly shines and where you can safely explore its handling limits.

Sustainable Ownership and Eco-Friendly Practices for Your Classic CRX

Owning a classic car doesn’t have to be at odds with environmental responsibility. There are many ways to make your 1986 Honda Civic CRX ownership more sustainable and eco-friendly.

Maximizing Fuel Efficiency

The CRX was designed for efficiency, and you can enhance it further.

Regular Maintenance: A well-tuned engine, properly inflated tires, and clean air filters all contribute significantly to better fuel economy.
Driving Habits: Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control on highways.
Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary items from your trunk. Every pound counts in a lightweight car.

Responsible Fluid Disposal

Never pour used automotive fluids down the drain or into the ground.

Recycle: Take used engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid to local auto parts stores or hazardous waste collection sites for proper recycling.
Containment: Always use proper drain pans and funnels to prevent spills when changing fluids.

Extending Component Life

The most eco-friendly part is making your parts last longer.

Quality Parts: Invest in high-quality replacement parts that are designed to last.
Protective Measures: Use rust preventative sprays, protect rubber components from UV damage, and keep your engine bay clean to prevent premature wear.
Repair, Don’t Replace: When possible, repair components rather than immediately replacing them, as long as safety isn’t compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1986 Honda Civic CRX

What is the average lifespan of a 1986 Honda Civic CRX?

With diligent maintenance and proactive rust prevention, a 1986 Honda Civic CRX can easily last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. The D-series engines are known for their reliability if cared for properly.

Are parts hard to find for the 1986 Honda Civic CRX?

While some specific trim pieces and unique components can be challenging to locate new, many mechanical parts are shared with other 80s Civics and Integras, making them relatively accessible. The aftermarket and enthusiast communities are excellent resources for rare items.

Can the 1986 Honda Civic CRX be used as a daily driver today?

Absolutely! With proper maintenance and any necessary repairs, a 1986 Honda Civic CRX can be a reliable and fun daily driver. Its excellent fuel economy and nimble size make it practical for city commuting, though you’ll need to be comfortable with 80s-era safety features and comfort levels.

Is the 1986 Honda Civic CRX a good first project car?

Yes, for the right person. Its mechanical simplicity, robust engine, and vast aftermarket support make it an ideal platform for learning DIY mechanics and modifications. However, potential rust issues and the need for patience in sourcing parts should be considered.

What are the key differences between the CRX Si and base models?

The CRX Si model came with a more powerful 1.5-liter fuel-injected engine (compared to the base model’s carbureted 1.3L or 1.5L), sportier suspension, upgraded brakes, and often distinctive exterior trim. These enhancements made the Si the performance leader of the CRX lineup.

The 1986 Honda Civic CRX is more than just a car; it’s a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess and a symbol of accessible performance. Owning one is a journey, and with the right knowledge and a bit of elbow grease, you can keep your classic CRX running strong, looking great, and delivering smiles for years to come.

Remember, whether you’re performing routine maintenance, tackling a tricky repair, or embarking on an exciting modification, safety should always be your top priority. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic for tasks beyond your skill level or comfort zone.

Embrace the journey, connect with the community, and enjoy every mile in your iconic 1986 Honda Civic CRX. Stay safe and stay comfortable!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.