6Th Gen Honda Civic Si – The Ultimate Owner’S Guide To Buying

You’re here because you appreciate a legend. The 6th gen Honda Civic Si, particularly the EM1 coupe, holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. It’s not just a car; it’s a testament to Honda’s golden era of performance, blending high-revving VTEC power with nimble handling and bulletproof reliability.

At FatBoysOffroad, we understand that passion. This comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know about owning, maintaining, and even enhancing your 6th gen Si, ensuring you get the most out of this iconic machine. From seasoned gearheads to weekend DIYers, this article is packed with actionable advice.

We’ll dive into what makes these cars so special, what to look for when buying one, common issues and their fixes, essential maintenance tips, and the best performance upgrades. Consider this your definitive 6th gen Honda Civic Si guide, helping you navigate the journey of ownership with confidence and expertise.

The Legend Lives On: Why the 6th Gen Honda Civic Si Still Shines

The EM1 chassis, sold from 1999-2000 in North America, isn’t just a car; it’s a cultural icon. Its blend of performance, reliability, and tunability set a benchmark that many cars still struggle to meet. Understanding the benefits of 6th gen Honda Civic Si ownership helps appreciate its enduring appeal.

Unmatched Driving Experience

At its heart is the B16A2 VTEC engine, a 1.6-liter marvel producing 160 horsepower. While that might not sound like much today, its high-revving nature (redlining at 8,000 RPM!) and the distinctive VTEC “kick” deliver an exhilarating, raw driving experience. The short-throw 5-speed manual transmission is a joy to operate, making every gear change feel precise.

The Si also came with a sport-tuned suspension from the factory, offering a firmer ride and sharper handling than its Civic siblings. It’s a car that begs to be driven on winding roads, providing excellent feedback through the steering wheel.

Reliability That Endures

Honda’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, and the 6th gen Civic Si is a prime example. With proper maintenance, these cars can easily reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. The B16 engine is known for its robustness, and the rest of the drivetrain is equally stout.

This inherent durability means less time in the shop and more time enjoying the drive, making it a fantastic choice for a daily driver or a weekend warrior.

A Modder’s Dream

The 6th gen Si is a blank canvas for customization. The aftermarket support is immense, ranging from simple bolt-ons to full engine swaps and suspension overhauls. Whether you want a street-tuned canyon carver, a track-day hero, or a tastefully modified show car, the Si offers endless possibilities.

This ease of modification is one of the biggest benefits of 6th gen Honda Civic Si ownership, allowing you to tailor the car exactly to your preferences and driving style.

Buying Your Dream: What to Look For in a 6th Gen Honda Civic Si

Finding a clean 6th gen Honda Civic Si today can be a treasure hunt. Many have been modified, raced, or neglected. Knowing how to 6th gen Honda Civic Si buying, and what to inspect is crucial for a smart purchase. This section focuses on avoiding common pitfalls.

Engine and Drivetrain Health

The B16A2 VTEC engine is robust, but it needs care. Always start the car cold and listen for any unusual noises like ticking, knocking, or excessive valvetrain clatter. A healthy B16 should run smoothly and rev freely.

Oil Leaks: Inspect around the valve cover, distributor, and oil pan. Minor leaks can become major issues.
VTEC Engagement: During a test drive, ensure VTEC engages smoothly around 5,500 RPM. A check engine light (CEL) for VTEC issues (P1259) indicates a problem.
Compression Test: If possible, perform a compression test. Readings should be consistent across all cylinders (typically 180-200 psi). Low or inconsistent numbers suggest internal engine wear.
Transmission: Test the 5-speed manual transmission thoroughly. Grinding into 2nd or 3rd gear, especially when shifting quickly, is a common problem indicating worn synchronizers. The clutch should engage smoothly without slipping or chatter.

Rust and Body Condition

Honda chassis of this era are prone to rust, especially in colder climates where salt is used on roads. This is one of the most significant common problems with 6th gen Honda Civic Si.

Wheel Arches: Closely inspect the rear wheel arches, where rust often starts.
Rocker Panels: Check the sills beneath the doors for bubbling or perforations.
Subframe: Get underneath the car if possible and inspect the front and rear subframes for corrosion.
Accident Damage: Look for misaligned body panels, inconsistent paint colors, overspray, or wavy body lines. Check door, hood, and trunk gaps.

Suspension and Steering

The Si’s handling is a key feature. Ensure the suspension feels tight, not bouncy or loose.

Worn Bushings: Listen for clunking noises over bumps, which can indicate worn suspension bushings or ball joints.
Leaky Shocks: Check for oil residue on the shock bodies. Worn shocks compromise handling and ride quality.
Aftermarket Mods: If the car has aftermarket coilovers or suspension components, verify they are reputable brands and professionally installed. Poorly installed parts can be dangerous.
Steering Play: Test drive for excessive play in the steering wheel or unusual noises when turning.

Interior and Electronics

While less critical for performance, a well-preserved interior indicates a cared-for car.

Dash and Seats: Look for cracks in the dashboard or excessive wear on the seats. The Si-specific seats are desirable.
Gauges and Lights: Ensure all dashboard lights, gauges, power windows, sunroof, and climate control function correctly.
Stereo: Test the factory stereo, though many will have aftermarket units.

Keeping It Prime: Essential Maintenance and Care Guide for Your 6th Gen Honda Civic Si

Proper maintenance is the cornerstone of longevity for your 6th gen Honda Civic Si. Regular checks and preventative measures prevent small issues from becoming big headaches. This 6th gen Honda Civic Si care guide will help you keep your coupe running like new.

Fluid Management is Key

Fluids are the lifeblood of your engine and transmission. Adhering to proper change intervals and using the correct fluids is one of the best 6th gen Honda Civic Si best practices.

Engine Oil: Use a high-quality synthetic 5W-30 engine oil. Change the oil and filter every 3,000-5,000 miles, especially if you drive hard. Always check your oil level regularly, as B-series engines can consume some oil, particularly at high RPMs.
Transmission Fluid: Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) is highly recommended. Change it every 30,000 miles for smooth shifts and extended transmission life. This is a crucial step to prevent common grinding issues.
Coolant: Flush and refill your cooling system every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles with Honda Type 2 coolant (blue). This prevents corrosion and ensures optimal engine cooling, vital for a high-revving engine.
Brake Fluid: Bleed and replace your brake fluid every 2 years. Fresh DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid ensures optimal braking performance and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to corrosion in the brake lines.
Power Steering Fluid: Check the level and condition regularly. If it looks dark or smells burnt, flush and replace it with Honda Power Steering Fluid.

Brake System Checks

Your brakes are your primary safety system. Don’t neglect them!

Regularly inspect brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Look for uneven pad wear, which can indicate a sticking caliper.
Measure rotor thickness to ensure it’s within specifications. Replace rotors if they are warped or too thin.
Bleed your brakes annually, even if not replacing fluid, to ensure no air has entered the system.

Suspension and Steering Longevity

Keeping your Si’s handling sharp requires attention to its suspension.

Inspect all bushings, ball joints, and tie rods annually. Worn components compromise handling, introduce play, and are major safety concerns.
Consider replacing aged rubber components with fresh OEM parts or quality aftermarket polyurethane bushings for a tighter feel.
Check your power steering rack for leaks or excessive play.

Tire Care and Alignment

Your tires are the only contact point with the road. Proper care is essential.

Rotate your tires every 5,000-7,000 miles to ensure even wear and maximize their lifespan.
Maintain proper tire pressure as specified on your door jamb sticker. This impacts handling, fuel economy, and safety.
A regular alignment check is crucial, especially after suspension work or hitting significant potholes. An improper alignment will cause uneven tire wear and poor handling.

Sustainable Practices for Your Si

Embrace sustainable 6th gen Honda Civic Si ownership by making conscious choices:

Quality Parts: Invest in high-quality, long-lasting parts rather than cheap, disposable alternatives. This reduces waste and improves reliability.
Recycling: Always recycle used engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and old parts properly. Many auto parts stores offer recycling programs.
Eco-Friendly Products: Use biodegradable cleaners and waxes where possible.
Efficient Driving: While it’s fun to rev the B16, practicing smooth acceleration and braking can improve fuel efficiency, contributing to an eco-friendly 6th gen Honda Civic Si experience.

Unleash the Beast: Performance Mods and Upgrades for Your 6th Gen Civic Si

The 6th gen Honda Civic Si is a canvas for performance enthusiasts. Smart modifications can significantly enhance its capabilities, turning an already fun car into a true performance machine. Here are some of the best 6th gen Honda Civic Si tips for upgrades.

Engine Upgrades (B16A2)

While the B16A2 is great from the factory, there’s always room for more power.

Intake and Exhaust: A quality cold air intake (CAI) and a cat-back exhaust system are common first steps. They improve airflow, slightly increase horsepower, and enhance the engine’s sound. Look for reputable brands like AEM, Skunk2, Injen, or Magnaflow.
Header: Upgrading the exhaust header to a performance-oriented unit can further improve exhaust flow and free up more horsepower and torque. A 4-2-1 design is generally good for street use, while a 4-1 is often preferred for high-RPM power.
Tuning: For significant engine modifications, a proper ECU tune is essential. Systems like Hondata S300 or KPro allow a tuner to optimize fuel, ignition timing, and VTEC engagement for your specific setup, maximizing gains and ensuring reliability. This is a must for cams or forced induction.
Camshafts: More aggressive camshafts can provide substantial power gains, especially in the mid to upper RPM range. However, they often require valvetrain upgrades (springs, retainers) and expert tuning.
Forced Induction (Advanced): Turbocharging or supercharging a B16 can yield dramatic power increases, but it’s a complex and expensive modification that requires extensive supporting mods and expert tuning. Not for the faint of heart or beginner DIYer.

Suspension and Handling Improvements

The Si’s handling is a strong point, but it can be made even better.

Coilovers: A good set of adjustable coilovers (e.g., Tein, BC Racing, Koni, Fortune Auto) allows for precise control over ride height, damping, and sometimes camber. This can transform your Si’s handling, making it more responsive and planted.
Sway Bars: Upgraded front and rear sway bars reduce body roll during cornering, significantly sharpening turn-in and overall handling response. Look for adjustable bars to fine-tune your setup.
Bushings: Replacing old rubber suspension bushings with polyurethane alternatives (e.g., Energy Suspension) tightens up the chassis feel, reduces deflection, and improves responsiveness.
Strut Tower Braces: Front and rear strut tower braces can reduce chassis flex, leading to a more direct steering feel and improved handling.

Brake Enhancements

More power means you need more stopping power.

Performance Pads and Rotors: Upgrading to performance brake pads (e.g., Hawk HPS, EBC Redstuff) and slotted or drilled rotors will significantly improve stopping power and fade resistance for spirited driving.
Brake Lines: Stainless steel braided brake lines offer a firmer, more consistent pedal feel by preventing line expansion under pressure.
Big Brake Kits (BBK): For track use or serious performance, a big brake kit provides superior thermal management and significantly increased stopping power, though they are a substantial investment.

Wheel and Tire Considerations

Don’t underestimate the impact of wheels and tires.

Lighter Wheels: Reducing unsprung weight with lighter wheels (e.g., Enkei RPF1, Volk Racing TE37) improves acceleration, braking, and handling.
High-Performance Tires: Investing in high-performance summer tires (e.g., Michelin Pilot Sport, Bridgestone Potenza, Falken Azenis) is one of the most effective ways to improve grip, cornering, and braking ability.

Troubleshooting Common Woes: How to Address Issues with Your 6th Gen Civic Si

Even the most reliable cars have their quirks. Knowing how to 6th gen Honda Civic Si troubleshooting, and how to diagnose and address common 6th gen Honda Civic Si problems can save you time and money. Here are some of the most frequent issues.

VTEC Engagement Issues

If your VTEC isn’t engaging, or you get a check engine light related to VTEC (P1259), here’s where to start:

Oil Level: This is the simplest and most common culprit. VTEC relies on oil pressure. If your oil level is low, VTEC won’t engage. Always check your oil!
VTEC Solenoid Screen: The VTEC solenoid has a small screen that can get clogged with sludge or debris, restricting oil flow. This screen is located inside

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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.