Driving the Vehicle

Maximum Permissible Vehicle Speeds

~1min read

The tables show the maximum permissible vehicle speeds for each gear. If you exceed the speeds shown in the table, the tachometer needle will enter the red zone of the scale, indicating an impermissibly high crankshaft speed.

You may notice a change in engine operation. The engine control module then begins to limit crankshaft speed by reducing fuel delivery. Engine operation returns to normal as soon as the tachometer needle leaves the red zone of the scale.

To prevent engine damage, before downshifting make sure the vehicle is not exceeding the maximum permitted speed for that gear (see table).

1.8 L engine

2.0 L engine (Type R)

2.2 L engine (diesel):

*4: The values shown apply at a crankshaft speed of 4500 rpm.

Test yourself

A quick Honda Civic quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.