Transmission died at 128k miles on the highway. Steering wheel locked up. Meticulously maintained car with no prior issues. The problem has no been reproduced by a dealer as the car is undriveable but has been confirmed by a mechanic shop. There were no warning messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the transmission dying and no warning messages even after the transmission died to indicate…
2014 Honda Civic powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2014 Honda Civic have filed 98 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 57,945 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
98
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 Civic | 9 |
| 2011 Civic | 3 |
| 2012 Civic | 43 |
| 2013 Civic | 18 |
| 2014 Civic (this page) | 98 |
| 2015 Civic | 168 |
| 2016 Civic | 33 |
| 2017 Civic | 25 |
| 2018 Civic | 11 |
3crashes
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 98 powertrain complaints filed for the 2014 Honda Civic, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Powertrain accounts for 34% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 12 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 98 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2014 Honda Civic's CVT transmission is the primary complaint focus. Most common: sudden, complete loss of power while driving or at a standstill, with the transmission unresponsive to Drive or Reverse selection. Drivers report multiple warning lights erupting (Check Transmission, Check Engine, VSA, ABS), vehicle deceleration, and immediate need for towing. Failures cluster around 84K–130K miles but occur as early as 37K and as late as 197K.
Owners also describe transmission slipping and jerking—sensation of being in Neutral despite Drive selected, harsh jolting during acceleration, difficulty maintaining speed uphill. These problems often recur daily but can be intermittent, making dealership diagnosis difficult; technicians frequently report inability to replicate during short test drives, frustrating owners forced into lemon law filings.
Another pattern: the transmission fill cap or vent plug comes loose during operation due to internal pressure buildup. Fluid leaks, contamination enters through the open hole, and internal damage cascades. Metal shavings found in transmission fluid indicate mechanical wear from pressure spikes and foreign material.
A subset of failures traces to CVT drive pulley shaft breakage—mentioned explicitly in recall 15V574000—though many owners report their VINs were excluded from that recall despite experiencing the identical failure. One owner had the recall software update attempted, only for the shaft to break afterward.
Stalling at low speeds, turns, and during acceleration also features prominently, with no advance warning. Some owners report bringing vehicles to dealerships six or more times without resolution, after which Honda America case managers advised the vehicles were "running as designed." Repair costs for transmission replacement range $2,000–$6,000; some owners paid twice.
Same Honda Civic powertrain reports on nearby years: 2012 · 2013 · 2015 · 2016 · 2017
Failure modes owners describe
CVT Transmission Complete Failure / Loss of Power
Transmission suddenly loses all motive power while driving or at standstill, rendering vehicle unable to move in Drive or Reverse. Engine may continue running but transmission does not respond to gear selection. Often accompanied by multiple warning lights (Check Transmission, Check Engine, VSA, ABS, TMP System, EPS). Vehicle requires towing.
When: Mileage ranges reported: 37K to 197K miles; some failures occur very early (under 5K miles after engine replacement); most cluster around 84K-130K miles
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of power; transmission unresponsive to Drive/Reverse selection; Multiple dashboard warning lights illuminate; Vehicle decelerates without operator input; No warning before failure occurs; Vehicle stalls or stops abruptly
Codes mentioned: P0000 (Transmission codes, unspecified), Check Transmission warning, Check Engine light, VSA warning, ABS warning, TMP System warning
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission replacement required. Costs cited: $2,000–$6,000 for replacement; original OEM transmission $6,000; used transmission $2,000. Repair shops find metal shavings and internal damage, requiring full transmission rebuild/replacement. One owner paid $2,000 twice for replacement transmissions.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda recall 15V574000 addresses CVT pulley shaft software defect, but many VINs reportedly excluded from recall despite same failure mode. Owners outside recall window denied warranty coverage. Honda has offered 50/50 cost-split in some cases. Many owners report Honda denying liability or claiming vehicle 'running as designed.'
CVT Transmission Slipping and Jerking
Transmission exhibits erratic shifting behavior—slipping between gears, harsh jerking motions, inability to maintain consistent acceleration. Vehicle feels like it is in Neutral even when Drive is selected. Symptoms often recur daily or multiple times per week but can be intermittent.
When: Reported from early ownership (within weeks of purchase) through 100K+ miles; daily occurrence for affected owners; one case at 3,000 miles after engine replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission slips; feels like gears not engaging; Jerking or jolting during acceleration or normal driving; Vehicle feels like it is in Neutral despite Drive being selected; Difficulty maintaining desired speed, especially uphill; Loss of acceleration response when depressing pedal; Vehicle shudders or vibrates; Rough or erratic ride quality
Codes mentioned: Transmission-related fault codes (generic), CVT solenoid fault
Repairs/costs cited: Shops unable to consistently replicate issue, complicating diagnosis. Solenoid replacement attempted in one case but did not resolve slipping. Full transmission replacement is typical remedy when damage is confirmed. Metal shavings found in fluid indicate internal wear.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership technicians frequently report inability to replicate issue during short test drives (reported 10 miles). Honda America has closed cases citing 'vehicle running as designed.' Multiple owners forced through lemon law filings (Arkansas Act 297) for compensation.
CVT Transmission Vent/Fill Cap Seal Failure and Overpressure
Transmission fill plug or vent cap comes loose or pops off under operating conditions, often due to internal pressure buildup. Debris and contamination then enter transmission through open fill hole, causing catastrophic internal damage. Pressure may build due to clogged vent line or internal mechanical failure.
When: Occurs during normal driving; can recur on replacement transmissions (one case: new transmission fill cap popped off within one week of installation)
Symptoms owners cite: Fill cap found loose or missing while vehicle is running; Transmission fluid leaking from cap opening; No warning lights or indicators before cap comes loose; Reduced transmission pull/power immediately after cap loss; Fluid level drops dramatically due to leakage
Codes mentioned: None reported; issue detected visually during inspection
Repairs/costs cited: Shops report clogged vent plugs as contributing cause. Sensor seal leaks due to pressure; sensor itself not damaged but pressure rupture creates oil leak. Metal debris in fluid indicates internal damage from high pressure and contamination. Full transmission replacement required in all reported cases.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls or technical service bulletins mentioned for this issue. One transmission shop recommended careful refill and testing, but problem recurred immediately on replacement unit.
Unexpected Vehicle Movement in Park (Neutral Safety Switch / Park Mechanism Failure)
Vehicle rolls backward or moves forward while in Park with engine running or off. Brakes may not respond when vehicle is rolling. Park position not holding despite shifter position confirming Park. Multiple warning lights and system failures occur simultaneously.
When: Reported while vehicle parked on slight incline; one case after three-day pre-service brake check by dealer
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls backward while in Park, engine running; Brakes fail to stop rolling vehicle; All dashboard warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Front door open triggers unintended backward motion; Vehicle cannot be stopped by shift lever or parking brake alone (in one case)
Codes mentioned: Multiple system failure warnings
Repairs/costs cited: One vehicle struck rock wall and another vehicle. Dealership (Freeway Honda) performed brake service three days before incident but released vehicle stating no problems found. Dealership later acknowledged brake issue but refused warranty repair. Damage to rear shocks from impact.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented in narratives; issue attributed to dealer misdiagnosis.
Stalling at Low Speeds / During Acceleration and Turns
Engine stalls abruptly while driving at low speeds, during acceleration from stops, or when turning. No warning lights precede stall. Vehicle may stall multiple times in single day. Stalling creates safety hazard in traffic and at intersections.
When: Reported from September 2014 through 2021; one case 6 weeks after purchase; another at 3K miles; recurring daily for some owners over months
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls without warning; Loss of power steering and other systems during stall; Multiple warning lights illuminate after stall; Vehicle difficult to control during stall (especially in traffic); Cold-start jerking and forward acceleration (unsafe 7 MPH without pedal input in one case)
Codes mentioned: Check Engine light, VSA warning, ABS warning, TPMS warning
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership technicians unable to replicate stalling during short test drives; issue disappears during diagnostic but recurs immediately after vehicle returns to owner. Engine replaced in one case due to abnormal noise; stalling continued with replacement engine. Software update performed for VSA system but did not resolve stalling.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda America case monitors have closed cases stating vehicle 'running as designed' despite owner-documented daily stalling. Dealership advised owners to stop bringing vehicle in. One owner filed lemon law complaint (Arkansas). Honda has offered no resolution; owners report being forced to continue driving unsafe vehicle.
Transmission Pulley Shaft Breakage
CVT drive pulley shaft breaks internally during operation, causing immediate total transmission failure. Failure occurs even after recall software update attempted. Shaft breakage specifically mentioned in recall 15V574000 as potential defect; occurs in vehicles both included and excluded from recall.
When: Reported at 86K, 94K, and 130K+ miles; one case where pulley shaft broke after software update attempted
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of power while driving; Engine seizes or vehicle decelerates uncontrollably; Check Transmission and Check Engine lights illuminate; Vehicle stalls and cannot restart or move
Codes mentioned: Transmission pulley/drive shaft fault codes (CVT-specific)
Repairs/costs cited: Complete transmission replacement required; pulley shaft cannot be repaired. Repair costs $2,000–$6,000 for replacement. Mechanic in one narrative noted this failure happens 'quite frequently' at his shop. One vehicle towed to Honda after recall software update; Honda initially refused responsibility, then acknowledged issue related to recall after owner provided recall number.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 15V574000 offers software update as remedy, but does not prevent actual shaft breakage in all cases. Many owners report VINs excluded from recall despite identical failure mode. Honda refuses replacement in some cases, citing vehicle outside recall parameters or miles/warranty expired.
Cold-Start Unsafe Acceleration and Engine Noise
Vehicle exhibits unintended forward acceleration (reported 7 MPH) on cold start without driver input. Abnormal engine noise present; original engine replaced but noise and unsafe acceleration continue with replacement engine.
When: Reported at 3,000 miles (after engine replacement); unsafe acceleration during cold start
Symptoms owners cite: Unsafe forward acceleration (7 MPH) from cold start without pedal input; Abnormal noise from engine on cold start; Difficult to control vehicle at startup; Excessive fuel consumption; Transmission lockup after engine start attempts
Codes mentioned: Engine fault codes (original engine replaced due to noise), Transmission lockup code
Repairs/costs cited: Original engine replaced under warranty but replacement engine exhibits same symptoms. Transmission locked up and would not engage Drive gear after subsequent start attempt. Vehicle not repaired after second complaint.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented; case filed with manufacturer.
Transmission Solenoid Unplugging and Fluid Leakage
Transmission solenoid connector becomes unplugged during operation, causing transmission fluid to leak and pressure to drop below operational level. Transmission loses all power despite no grinding noise typical of mechanical failure.
When: Reported at 37K miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle feels like it is in Neutral despite Drive being selected; No power or acceleration response; No grinding noise typical of transmission mechanical failure; Transmission fluid leak from unplugged solenoid
Codes mentioned: V/T (valve-transmission) sensor code
Repairs/costs cited: Solenoid replaced initially, but this did not resolve loss of power. Dealership indicates full transmission replacement required. No further repair attempted or reported.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Vehicle VIN not included in recall 15V574000, so no warranty coverage available despite similar failure mode.
Clutch Disintegration (Manual Transmission)
Clutch friction material disintegrates and fragments without warning. Debris jams between pressure plate and flywheel, causing clutch to become fully engaged and unable to disengage. Clutch pedal drops to floor with no resistance.
When: Reported at highway speeds after 10 miles of driving in 6th gear
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormally loud sound from beneath vehicle; Clutch pedal suddenly drops to floor and cannot be released; Inability to disengage clutch for gear selection; No warning before failure
Codes mentioned: None reported
Repairs/costs cited: Clutch friction material fragmented into large chunks. No details on repair cost or completion provided.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented.
Synthesized from 98 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 14 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2014 Honda civic. While driving 65 MPH, the vehicle shook, lost power, and the engine seized. The vehicle was taken to causeway Honda (457 nj-72, manahawkin, nj 08050, 609-597-0033) where it was diagnosed that the transmission failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 84,000. *tt consumer…
The Situation: My vehicle has an open safety recall, NHTSA #15V-574 (Honda Recall JU2). This recall specifically warns that a software error causes high stress on the CVT drive pulley shaft, which can result in the shaft breaking during operation. Because this recall was never performed on my vehicle, the drive pulley shaft has now failed exactly as described, rendering the transmission useless.…
On december 20 at approximately 1:30 p.m., my husband was running an errand to the store when the car stalled out while driving on a two-lane road. The car was purchased new from frank fletcher Honda in bentonville, ar. The car has been brought back to the dealership six times from september through december 2014. This is my sixth (6) complaint to NHTSA. Frank fletcher Honda technicians state…
On friday, december 19 at approximately 2 p.m., my husband and I were pulling out of the parking lot out onto a four-lane road when the car stalled. Out. I had just gotten my haircut and was heading back to work. I purchased this as a new car from frank fletcher Honda in bentonville, ar. The car has been brought back to the dealership six times from september through december. The technicians and…
This is the sixth complaint I've made to NHTSA for the same issue. I purchased the car new from frank fletcher Honda and it's been to the dealership seven times from september through december 2014 with no resolution. On sunday december 21 the car had two separate incidents where it stalled out. The first was at approximately 8:45 a.m. My husband was driving to the neighborhood market to pick up…
The contact owns a 2014 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed…
My husband was driving my 2014 Honda civic on december 17, 2014 when at approximately 5:30 p.m. The vehicle stalled out on him in traffic. Fortunately, no one was hurt. I purchased this vehicle from frank fletcher Honda in bentonville, ar. We have brought the vehicle in six times from september through december complaining of stalling, jerking issues. I lodged a complaint with Honda america. The…
At approximately 8:00 a.m. December 18, 2014, my husband was driving to the store when the vehicle stalled out on him in traffic. Again, it was fortunate no one was hurt. The 2014 Honda civic which I purchased from frank fletcher Honda in bentonville, ar, has been brought back to the dealership six times from september through december 2014. The vehicle was brought in due to stalling issues and…
At approximately 8:00 a.m. December 18, 2014, my husband was driving to the store when the vehicle stalled out on him in traffic. Again, it was fortunate no one was hurt. The 2014 Honda civic which I purchased from frank fletcher Honda in bentonville, ar, has been brought back to the dealership six times from september through december 2014. The vehicle was brought in due to stalling issues and…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2014 Honda Civic?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2014 Honda Civic?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 98 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 50 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 8,609 and 105,240 miles, with the median around 57,945. A quarter of owners report trouble before 8,609; a quarter make it past 105,240. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2014/Honda/Civic.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.