Hello World

[Simon2000]

Hello everyone! I'm considering purchasing an '02 s2k, 81k miles, silver w/black leather/top.

I'm somewhat concerned about the mileage; can anyone offer advice on the reliability of the s2k in the >100k range? Anything I should look for in particular on a test drive/inspection? What are the first things that break on an s2k? This car would be an everyday driver for me, hopefully for many years to come.

Thanks for your help, and I look forward to hearing about people's experiences!

Peace!
~S

[jagg]

welcome!

taking the possible purchase to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection would be wise, and even that won't guarantee that something doesn't fail........but, as far as buying something that'll likely be reliable, you can't go wrong with a honda.

good luck,

jagg

[Simon2000]

Thanks for the fast reply! That's my general understanding about honda reliability too.

One good thing I read about the 02's is that was the year Honda changed the synchro gears to make shifting smoother. I had an 03 Acura (Honda, in Japan) RSX-S for a while and had the 3rd gear wall and occasional grind, so I would love to find a honda with a silk-smooth transmission.

As excited as I am to potentially own an s2k, I'm trying not to wear rose-colored glasses! (and failing miserably)

[Java Junky]

Welcome aboard Si.
All I can do is ditto what Jagg posted.
N' this Ford man'z godda admit to alodda respect for the chrome H on the nose.
You sound like you're goin' into it with your eyes open n' a mature attitude that's allowin' you to realize that it might not work out. Ta my estimation, you can't do better than that.
Good luck n' keep us posted,
Java

[S2000dude]

Well Simon. I'll ditto all the above.

By and large the opinion on this site is that the S2K is a real winner. A blast to drive with that Honda reliability. I've had mine for nearly 3 yrs and not a problem to report. I can't say that about my previous rides!

As Jagg said take it to a trusted mechanic. If it hasn't been abused you should be just fine.

Keep us posted !

[desmo4]

I have 98.5k on the clock. My clutch disc was changed by Honda due to noisie springs. The lsd failed at about 85000 and is now a Mugen part. I also changed the drive shaft and half shafts.

Jonathan

[philiam]

I third JAG's suggestion. I have an 02 and the tranny shifts like butter. How you drive and care for it will determine the lifespan. I've owned about 7 Hondas and can attest to their reliability. My son has about 240,000 on his prelude and still going.

[Simon2000]

Well folks, never underestimate the power of a pre-purchase inspection!! A closer look at this particular S2000 revealed (in order of obviousness):

1) it had been fully repainted, if you looked closely at the interior trim it looks like someone didn't take the time to remove the trim before the repaint; also the finish had "fish eyes" where small dust particles had bumped up the clear coat. Strike 1.

2) Although carfax turned nothing up, it had been in a minor front end collision (not sure if another car was involved) and you could see where the front radiator manifold had either been removed or replaced (different colored bolts). At least all the VINs matched on the fenders, but you could see on one side where some metal had been warped, then straightened. Strike 2.

3) The honda specialist mechanic I go to is great and let me walk around with a flashlight under the vehicle. I could see on the passenger side rear suspension that the upper control arm was loose! I could shake the entire wheel assembly with a mere push while it was on the lift. Strike 3: aka: nail in the coffin.

Bottom line: she was a no-go. At least I rode with the top down to the mechanic! Oh, and I discovered the rules of temp controlled rev limiting. At least the guy tailgating me in the mustang wasn't around to see that one. I left him behind, of course. Even with a gimpy leg, that sucker still cooked. Good thing I didn't die, right?

The search continues in about a week. I'll be test driving another, because I'm head over heels about this car. Wish me luck!

[gomarlins3]

Welcome to the site. To bad it didn't work out.

[Simon2000]

Alright, I just found another S2k of the same year and color. It has fewer miles, a cleaner body, and all the good details such as a user manual, original floormats, and a flawless top. Tomorrow morning I'm having my honda mechanic buddy give it a checkout, and go from there. The test drive was amazing today; the car had a great feel to it.

Wish me luck...I'll keep ya posted. By the way, anyone ever tested their top for leaks by going through a car wash?? =)

[s2jiggy]

Well, I would say that my money lies on you purchasing an s2k pretty soon, even if this second one doesn't work out. This is not a car to test drive freely if you are "just shopping around" It basically does not allow you to forget about how fun she is. I test drove one back in 01. I had dreams, (not joking) about the noise the vtec made. I had a family, bought a house, all the stuff, but still pined for that S2k. Finally, this past November I said enough, and got one. Haven't been happier, and I highly doubt you will be either. Good luck, and have fun.

[controller]

I've been told by a friend not to put a convertible thru a car wash since most of the harder sprays will just blow past the seals. Your mileage may vary.

[Simon2000]

If I were a bettin' man (and I am), I too would place my chips on "purchase!"

I now know what you mean about VTEC. It seems as though your body can't quite grasp what is happening to it; sensory overload tends to do such. What a rush!

Oh, and I just read that you should avoid pressure carwashes as they can actually CAUSE leaks in the top! I'll be lightly drizzling the top with a sprinkler instead.

[controller]

VTEC -- We've secretly replaced Simon's tame 4 cyl with a high revving motorcycle racing engine. Let's see what happens when he hits 6k.

[Simon2000]

After inspection this morning, I believe I'm going to go ahead with the purchase.

The car is sound mechanically, but a few of the original exterior panels have definitely been repainted. It looks great, though. Whoever did the paint job did excellent color matching work on silver, which I know can be a challenge. Since all the panels are original (with VIN stickers), I'm not worried about major damage--it was probably a cosmetic repaint, but I'm having the dealer investigate this for me. It has a clean title with no accident history.

I really like the fact it comes with 4 new Toyo tires, a flawless soft top, and an engine that's got some serious juice.

All said, I do believe I've found my ride! I'll be driving it home later today.

Of course, pics to follow soon!

[RuffRyder]

hey simon what area are you from?

[Simon2000]

I am originally from the mountains of NC, Spruce Pine to be exact. Now I live right in the middle of the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill triangle, in Morrisville. Any other owners on the board around this area?

The S is begging for a trip to the Blue Ridge Parkway!