Models · Honda
Honda Civic Type R EP3 buying guide
The Swindon-built EP3 Civic Type R, made from 2001 to 2005, with the 2.0 i-VTEC K20A2 engine and a six-speed manual. The engine is durable, and most of the known faults can be checked at the viewing.
The versions
- 2.0 i-VTEC (K20A2), 197bhp at 7,400rpm, with VTEC engaging around 5,500rpm
- Three-door hatchback, front-wheel drive, six-speed manual only
- Facelift cars have triple projector headlamps, a new front spoiler, a variable-ratio steering rack, revised suspension and a lighter flywheel and clutch
- Special editions: the pre-facelift 30th Anniversary and the post-facelift Premier Edition, both with Recaro seats, air conditioning and a Momo wheel
What to check on a EP3 Civic Type R
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The steering rack on pre-facelift cars
What to look for: On a straight, quiet road, steer through a bend and relax your grip as you come out of it. The wheel should return to the centre on its own. Note a wheel that stays off-centre, a car that pulls to the right when you let the wheel go, or creaking as you turn it at low speed.
Why it matters: Early racks are the known weak point, and many were replaced under warranty or a recall. The later rack, from facelift cars, has revised geometry and is the usual replacement. Creaking on its own can often be cured with lubrication.
Second gear, from cold
What to look for: Ask for the engine not to be warmed up before you arrive. On the drive, change into second several times while the gearbox is cold, then again when warm. Note a crunch, and any sign of the gearbox jumping out of second under acceleration.
Why it matters: Some reluctance going into second when cold is common on these and usually not serious. Jumping out of second was the subject of a 2004 recall, so check that it has been carried out. A car already warmed before you arrive hides the cold behaviour.
Timing chain, tensioner and valve clearances
What to look for: Look in the history for timing chain and tensioner work and for valve clearance adjustments. Listen at idle for a light tappety noise from the top of the engine.
Why it matters: Chain and tensioner failures have been reported anywhere from about 80,000 to 150,000 miles, with no predictable pattern, so a car around 100,000 miles without the work documented should have it planned. A tappety noise usually means the valve clearances need adjusting, which is part of Honda's 72,000-mile service.
Also in the full guide
- Rear arches, sills and the engine oil level
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the EP3 Civic Type R
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
Honda Civic Type R FK2 · Honda Civic Type R FK8 · Honda Civic Type R FL5 · Honda Civic Type R FN2
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Honda.