How do I know if I have a civic ex or LX?
In most Civics, EX is the higher mid-range trim and typically adds a turbocharged engine along with more standard features, while LX is the base trim with fewer options. The quickest way to know for sure is to check the window sticker (Monroney label) or the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with a dealer or reliable online source. You can also look for telltale features like a sunroof, a larger touchscreen, or Honda Sensing, which are common on EX but not always on LX.
Key differences you can spot in person
Use these cues to identify trim level when you’re inspecting the car in person. Note that features can vary by year, market, and options, so verify with the docs if you’re unsure.
Engine and performance cues
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter engine badge presence: EX models commonly use the 1.5L turbo, often indicated by a 1.5T badge on the rear or under the hood.
- Engine badge absence or presence of a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine badge: LX models have typically older or base engines without turbo badges.
- Noticeable performance differences: EX tends to feel peppier than LX due to the turbo or engine tuning in many model years.
These engine cues are common across multiple model years, but not guaranteed on every car. Always confirm with the build documentation if the badge isn’t clear.
Exterior and interior features
- Sunroof or moonroof: EX and higher trims frequently include a power sunroof; LX often does not.
- Headlights and lighting: EX and above may have upgraded headlights or LED options that LX lacks.
- Infotainment: EX generally offers a larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility; LX may have a smaller display or fewer connectivity features.
- Wheels: EX typically rides on larger or more stylized alloy wheels, whereas LX often uses smaller or simpler wheels.
- Safety and driver-assistance: Honda Sensing features (like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control) are standard on EX in many years, while LX may offer them only as part of an optional package or not at all on older trims.
Again, feature availability changed over generations. Use the docs to confirm the exact equipment on your Civic.
Verify with documentation and VIN
When in doubt, rely on official records and the VIN to confirm your trim level. The following steps help you verify accurately.
- Locate the VIN: Find the plate on the driver's door jamb, the lower windshield on the driver's side, or in the vehicle registration documents.
- Check the window sticker (Monroney label): This label lists the exact trim and standard/optional equipment for your car.
- Decode the VIN or consult a dealer: Use Honda’s official VIN lookup or reputable sources (Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, Carfax) to reveal the trim code and build details associated with your VIN.
- Compare to known LX vs EX features for your model year: Use the manufacturer’s specs for the year to confirm which features should be present on LX or EX.
- Ask the dealer or previous owner: If you still can’t confirm, provide the VIN to a Honda dealer or service department for a definitive answer.
Using the VIN and official documentation will give you an authoritative answer, which is especially important for used Civics or cars with ambiguous badge placement.
Summary
The most reliable way to tell if a Civic is LX or EX is to check the window sticker or VIN, which encode the exact trim and standard features. Visual cues like a sunroof, larger touchscreen with CarPlay/Android Auto, and Honda Sensing hardware are common indicators of EX, while LX tends to be more basic with the 2.0-liter engine and fewer amenities. When in doubt, verify with the VIN through a dealer or trusted online resource, and review the official window sticker to confirm the trim level and features.
How to tell if civic is ex or lx?
LX vs. EX: Features
- LX: The LX has a 5-inch central display, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker sound system.
- EX: This model comes equipped with tech found in the LX as well as Apple CarPlay™, Android Auto™, and a 7-inch touchscreen with an SMS text message function.
How do I tell what trim my Honda Civic is?
You can tell your Honda Civic's trim by checking for a badge on the rear of the car, looking for a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb or B-pillar, or consulting the owner's manual or original window sticker. If these methods don't work, you can use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to look up the specific trim online or have a dealership identify it for you.
This video explains how to find the trim of your vehicle: 59sDiscount TireYouTube · Jul 26, 2023
Physical checks
- Look for a badge: Check the back of your car (trunk or tailgate) for a raised lettering badge that indicates the trim, such as "LX," "Sport," or "Touring".
- Inspect the doorjamb: Open the driver's side door and look for a sticker on the door or the pillar behind the door. This sticker may contain the trim information, or it could be the VIN placard.
- Examine engine details: For some model years, you can check under the hood. For example, a "i-VTEC" logo in blue text on a 2.0L engine indicates one trim, while its absence on a turbo engine may indicate a different one.
- Note features: Compare your car's features to online trim guides. For instance, a sunroof and alloy wheels are often found on the EX trim, while a larger touchscreen and premium audio are features of a top-tier trim like the Touring.
Documentation and VIN
- Consult the owner's manual: The owner's manual should have details about the specific features for each trim level, which can help you identify yours.
- Find the original window sticker: The original window sticker that came with the car will list the trim and all the options.
- Use the VIN decoder: Find the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the dashboard or the driver's side door placard. You can then use an online VIN decoder tool to determine the trim level.
- Ask a dealership: If you are still unsure, your local Honda dealership can use your VIN to identify the exact trim of your vehicle.
How do I know what model my Honda is?
To find the model number, look for a model number sticker on the engine. All Honda engines model numbers start with the letter "G," such as "G100", "GX610", or "GXV160."
How do you know if you have an ex or lx?
Let's take Honda for example an LX is usually the base trim while EX will be an upgrade. And Touring will be the top trim. So the LX will have fewer features while the Touring. Will be fully loaded.
