REDLINE ALLEYHonda Civic Type R EK9 buying guide
1997 to 2000. An EK9 suits a driver who wants a raw, high revving hot hatch and will check carefully for rust and abuse.
Big jobs
- Rust in sills, arches and screen surround. Rust can be a major problem, especially on cars stored outside. The sills, underbody, windscreen surround and rear arches are the places to check.
- B16B oil, smoke and compression. Metallic particles in the oil mean a rebuild budget. Blue smoke on start up and overrun points to a thrashed engine.
- Gearbox synchros and clutch. 3rd gear synchro is the first to wear, and clutches can slip and wear quickly. The clutch slave cylinder is weak but cheap.
Workshop jobs
- VTEC engagement. VTEC that does not engage cleanly can come from oil pressure or coolant temperature problems.
Small jobs
- Rear engine mount. The rear engine mount bolted to the subframe is the weak point and can wear out in as little as 40,000 to 50,000 miles.
- Rear calipers. The rear calipers are prone to sticking.
- Seat bolsters and boot leaks. The driver seat outer bolster wears and sags, the red fabric fades to pink, and the rear light seals can leak into the boot.
Questions for the seller
- When was the timing belt last changed?
- Has the rear engine mount been replaced?
- Has a compression test been done?
- Has it been tracked?
- Is the engine original, and do the numbers match?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-03. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.