Shifting 1997 Honda Civic DX?

Question

I just bought a Honda Civic DX and don't have the owners manual. I have been driving stick for 11 years now, but my boyfriend is arguing with me about when to shift. I would like to know the info that is usually in the owners manual about when to shift. Thanks!

Thanks for all the info so far...here is the kicker--it does not have a tachometer! Having a speed would be the best info....I have driven hondas quite frequently, and know that they are hi-rev engines to begin with....so....he is saying that it should be shifted into 3rd gear going 25MPH, and that just seems to be too soon.

Answer 1

quite haonestly, shift when you feel it is right to shift! I am shifting into 3rd on a 95 civic dx at around 35-40, them into 4th around 55 and 5th around 65. It is all stock and i have nvr had any problems with it. I would tell your boyfriend to walk if he doesnt like it. either that or sit down, shut up and hang on, ok i stole that one.

Answer 2

Owners manuals usually explain the speeds on where to shift, which can vary depending on how your care is tuned.

It is up to the particular driver on when to shift, but anywhere under 5K RPM between gears and you should be fine.

However, I have always been told, from numerous mechanics and dealers, that shifting anywhere between 3K and 4K RPM is best for your fuel economy and your engine.

Answer 3

i feel ur pain, thats why they call it dx cuz it dont come with tach. shifting third on 25mph is early but its low rev so u save more gas, the right way is shifting every 2.5 rev but if u want to save gas then do what he says. to solve ur guys problem u might want to install a tach.

Answer 4

Shift as the gear winds out as always. Age affects the power torque so academic guide lines don't always work.

Answer 5

Its totally up to you when to shift. Some would say around 3-4k rpm, or higher, or even lower. Is up to you where you feel comfortable shifting. Tell him to kick rocks too.

Answer 6

15 mph between each gear shift