CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Honda›
  4. Civic Type R›
  5. 2021

2021 Honda Civic Type R Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 6, 2026·Ryan Davis

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional initial reliability with zero recalls and zero complaints.
  • Two Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were issued; verify they have been addressed.
  • NHTSA has not rated this model for crash safety.
  • Fuel economy data is unavailable, but expect performance-oriented consumption.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Honda Civic Type R

The 2021 Honda Civic Type R stands out as a performance-oriented compact car with a strong reputation for initial reliability. Its track-focused engineering is backed by a clean NHTSA record, showing no recalls or owner complaints. While this indicates robust build quality, potential buyers should still be aware of two Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that may address drivability or minor performance aspects. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is recommended to ensure all TSBs have been properly executed.

Critical Failure Risk

The high-performance clutch can wear prematurely under aggressive driving conditions, especially frequent track use or hard launches. This is a common concern for performance vehicles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$1,800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a potent front-wheel-drive performance car.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing outright fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Honda Civic Type R Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
4
Body Style
Hatchback

CarFocal account required

See the full 2021 Honda Civic Type R buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Clutch Wear

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Brake Pad and Rotor Wear

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (0W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Honda Civic Type R reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Honda Civic Type R for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. Seating capacity is 4.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Honda Civic Type R?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (0W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Clutch Assembly (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $1,800).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Honda Civic Type R?▾

11 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Honda Civic Type R?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2021 Honda Civic Type R?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R, body style is hatchback.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.