Models · Honda
Honda Civic Type R FK2 buying guide
The FK2 was the first turbocharged Civic Type R, built from 2015 to 2017 with a 2.0 VTEC Turbo engine, a six-speed manual and a limited slip differential. It is generally trouble-free with timely servicing, and the known issues can be checked at the viewing.
The versions
- 2.0 VTEC Turbo four-cylinder, 310bhp, with a timing chain rather than a cambelt
- Five-door hatchback, front-wheel drive, six-speed manual only
- Limited slip differential, adaptive dampers and the +R mode button on every car
- Standard and GT trims; the GT adds sat-nav, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors and automatic lights and wipers
What to check on a FK2 Civic Type R
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Cooling system and head gasket
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant level in the expansion tank. On the drive, watch the temperature reading and note any warning or loss of power. Ask whether the car has been used on track and whether any head gasket or cylinder head work has been done.
Why it matters: Some older FK2s have suffered head gasket failures, and overheating, which can put the car into limp mode, mostly follows hard, prolonged track use. Honda improved this on the later FK8. A car with a clean cooling history, or with the work already done properly, is the one to look for.
Turbo boost on the dashboard gauge
What to look for: Call up the boost gauge from the dashboard menu, then accelerate hard in a suitable gear on a safe, clear road. A reading of about 1.2 to 1.4 bar shows healthy boost.
Why it matters: A loss of boost pressure on these is often linked to wiring faults affecting the turbo control, so a low reading needs diagnosing before purchase.
Gear changes, especially first to second
What to look for: Let the gearbox warm up, then change gently through all the gears. Note a crunch or notchiness from first to second, the gearbox jumping out of fourth, or reverse refusing to engage.
Why it matters: Some owners report a crunch from first to second, and the gearbox can pop out of fourth or fail to take reverse. A replacement gearbox is a big job, so the shift quality is one of the most important parts of the test drive.
Also in the full guide
- Water trapped in the boot
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the FK2 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 EP3 · 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.