This video is intended as a Honda S2000 buyer's guide. I go point-by-point through common, but little-known, issues with the S2000. I gathered this information by owning the car for a year and dealing with these concerns firsthand.
buy one, and never look back. thats all the advice you need to give people. ive owned my 2004 AP2 for almost 10 years. bought it at 27k miles, and now at 110,00 miles. few track days later, and still puts a smile on my face. actually have a track day at the end of January and looking to upgrade suspension. great car honda has built. ill replace the engine 3 times before i sell this car.
I’m 16 looking into one rn the only thing that’s holding me back is me living in Washington state where it rains majority of the year especially with rwd
@@kamikashe1957 just get proper tires. Also, the newer year s2000 are easier to drive. look for a 2008 model if you can. The older ones are more raw and have more snap oversteer. Honda tamed it thru the years.
@@tylernaugler7095 been driving it less, recently bought a 2023 tacoma so i can tow my integra to the race track. but i drove it to work today and it still puts a huge smile on my face. put half a tank in and took first 3 gears to redline. never gets old
and its a solid vid, no tyre burnouts or loud music, just solid concise useful info. The red stick was super clever. Clear voice and audio in a quiet background. Everything done right, thumbs up.
Going to look at a ap1 tmr and have done a fair amount of research but this video definitely helps make me feel more confident in what to look for and look out for. Thanks guy 💁🏻♂️
You are welcome, Wyatt! Best of luck on the AP1 and if you have any questions or need any help feel free to reach out to me here or on IG @driverstherapy.
I have a 1999 AP1, imported from Japan to the UK. The JDM spec cars have a higher compression ratio than other AP1s, they make a little more power, and rev a little higher, but require higher octane fuel due to the higher compression. I picked it up about a year and a hald ago (2017) with 50,000 miles, I paid around £6,400(GBP) or $7,700(USD). It gets spirited road use, and some light track use. So far it's been pretty reliable. Issues to date are: Brake caliper seized. Fairly typical on any car this age. MAP/MAF sensor clip failed, sensor itself was ok but connection was poor resulting in intermittent power loss. (Took me a while to diagnose this one but easy cheap fix once I did). Clutch failed. Original clutch lasted to well over 50k. Clutch arm was slightly bent when inspected and was replaced. Original clutch "buzzed" a lot, particularly on overrun, this was a design oversight with early cars, but doesn't affect performance. New OEM clutch is a different specification to the early ones and does not buzz. The plastic which covers the roll bars had separated, this seems to be very common for S2000s which have seen sun. The headlights are clouded but will come right back with a bit of elbow grease. Remarkably, despite having no underseal (the JDM spec cars were not undersealed from the factory), there is no corrosion anywhere on the car, which given the climate in the UK is surprising. All in all it's proven to be a very reliable sports car when compared to other sports cars I've owned. Parts are a little more expensive than other Japanese cars I've encountered, but I highly rate the build quality and reliability. Hopefully some of this info may help prospective buyers.
Great guide! Bought my 07' at 60k miles, now I'm at 112k 3 years later, and just went KW supercharged making 400whp. I don't baby her tho the car has been absolutely rock solid minus a few common issues. VTEC solenoid gasket leaking, soft top tears, CMC leaking, exhaust valves were tight, replaced windshield once, re torquing the rear axle nuts because both were clicking. Just keep an eye on your oil level, and replace fluids on time.
I have a 2000 Honda s2000 bought brand new. It is about to be a 19 year old car. I have had none of the issues. But I will watch the video again. Practically any other car that old will have similar issues. 9k redline.....the exhaust roaring is intoxicating, love that twitchy rear end, great on gas, looks great, dependable.....I will never sell it. Be nice to this car and you will be happy. If you find one unmodified, babied and in your preferred colour combination......Buy it!
Tiger, thank you for sharing your experience with your S2000. I agree and I love mine. This video has a lot of merit because unfortunately some people do not maintain them correctly and there is enough time now to identify common issues since it is a 19 year old car. I think your car sets a good example of what the S2000 can be in reliability if correctly taken care of.
me either, i have 251k miles on my car.......so far i have replaced the top once, tires 5 times, 3 a/c compressors, original clutch replaced at 237k miles
Thanks for all that useful information. I've had my 2003 S2000 since it was new, and I've had some of the problems that you mention. Depending on how big and tall you are, the S2000 is a difficult car to enter and exit. I'm 5' 10" and I've not had any problems with the car's existing leather seats. My original top did tear as you describe and I replaced it with an OEM top which is holding up well. I've always washed the car myself. It's never been through an automatic car wash. I recommend treating your S2000 like your grandmother. I do, so don't bother pulling up behind me at a stoplight.
Nice! I feel you; I baby my car as well. Never launch them or bang through the gears. It makes me happy to take care of the car I am driving. Thank you for watching my video and for leaving such a great comment. I appreciate it.
Nice video!.. I would also ask if the compliance bushings were ever replaced. My car didn't pass the annual safety test (apk in Holland) because of the faulty bushing. Problem is that in many cases the caster adjustment collar and end-links are seized and you can only remove by cutting them out. While at it I changed out all control arm bushings, wheel bearings, sand blasted the arms etc. It's a hell of a job and quite expensive. Only the control arm nuts and bolts from Honda cost 500-700usd for all 4 wheels. Together with new bushings, bearing, end-links, tools you quickly looking at 1-2k just for parts.
The shout outs are much appreciated! Overall it was a pretty thorough video. Definitely touch on some points I’ve never thought of and missed one or two things I would talk about. Looks like a great start to your channel!
what did he mean at 5:30 about adjusting the valves? could somebody explain please? if im viewing a car i dont think the owner will be happy me messing around with his engine. could somebody explain the process?
khulafa e rashideen, here is a popular post about adjusting valves on the S2000. It has a brief explanation why and shows you how to do it. Hope that helps out man. Thanks for watching the video: robrobinette.com/S2000ValveAdjust.htm
Great video! I just sold my S550. Looking to guy a ap2 before the prices go insane. And they almost are now! Good to know most these issues are minor. (Compared to other cars of this era)
Thanks man! I appreciate it. Also, make sure to take a look at the comment I pinned. A subscriber added some more helpful things to know before buying. If you have any questions, please let me know. Thank you for watching the video.
Driver's Therapy thanks! Will do. It’s this or a viper. I’ve narrowed it down to these two cars. Leaning more towards S2k as part sourcing scare me for Vipers
@@PROcrastiDRIVESVofficial Why are you so angry and defensive? Are you mad cause you say "thread" too? And yes, I've been hit in the mouth before, but I still have all my teeth oddly enough. Not my fault morons like you get overly insecure and feel the only way to express your inability to use and understand correct vocabulary is through acts of violence. You're what's wrong with this country. I'll take my punch in the mouth now. I'm waiting....
He didn't mispronounce it. He said thread, not tread. He used the wrong word. Dumb mistake. I've heard it before. It happens when people think they are using the correct word, and don't care enough to make sure. Or even notice that 99% of the world doesn't say it the same way. I hear this kind of mistake all the time when people butcher a commonly used phrase or saying. It's happening more and more, especially with younger people. But, to be fair, there are actually many, many mispronunciations and misuses of words in his video. He gets the point across, but an English or Speech teacher would have a heart attack. Listening closely, I'd say every other sentence has something wrong with it. Wrong tense, missing words, etc. But, he still gets the point across. BTW, the windshield gets pitted easily not because the car sits low. There are many other cars that "sit low", that don't have pitted windshields. It's a combination of the way the air flows over the front bumper and hood along with the upright windshield. @@PROcrastiDRIVESVofficial
I appreciate you taking the time and effort of making this video. I am currently looking to buy an S2k and you’ve helped make my dream more and more a reality. Thank you!
Great video I’ve owned my ap1 for about 8 months now and I actually learned a lot just listening to some of the issues you had. I also have a few ideas on how I can make mine run a little more reliably now.
lessdeth69 I have State Farm and I think it was covered under the general windshield policy that is standard with full coverage. The windshield company had to request the OEM glass specifically and they did say they were surprised it was approved with me having to pay for part of the OEM windshield.
4:39 - Don't recall who sells it but there's a UV-blocking, clear film that can be applied to headlamp assemblies which also served as a rock chip protector since the film has some thickness and feels rubbery. IIRC, it can also be applied to the leading edge of car hoods - the product segment I saw had it on the leading edge of a pick-up truck hood and you couldn't see it was there. I don't remember how many mils thick the product is is but it might be between 5 and 10 mil - maybe a bit thicker. It can be applied and slightly stretched like an automotive wrap with the excess trimmed off afterwards. ⏯ Anyone happen to know what that UV-/rock chip protectant film is called? It should be a well vetted market by now as I saw this product 5 to 10 years ago.
Thank you for providing that information about the protection film. I've heard of windshield PPF which might be the same type of material or application concept as what you are talking about. I think the Porsche guys use it.
I didn't get to watch this video before buying my s2000 because a won it in a raffle for 18 euro 😅 this video has been very helpful since getting the car
@Alex kennedy, Congratulations!!! That is awesome that you won an S2000.Thank you for watching the video and leaving a comment. It made my day. Make sure to punch that subscribe button to stayed tuned for more videos.
im 17, my dream car is the s2000 and i gotta work years to get it because s2k´s here are between 20k and 30k and salary here is like 700 euros and you get one, for 18$? how, whats a raffle
I have a 2002 S2000, red interior (less than 70k miles). Purchased new in January 2002. No mechanical issues yet. My soft top needs replacing (for about 4 years now, I'm looking for an affordable OEM hardtop) and the paint is not in good condition (I live in a urban area and it's not garaged). My seats haven't any tears though the foam is ugly on driver's side entry. Thanks for the video, I will check these items. I do often think of getting rid of it... until I take it on a good ride. P.S. I just looked at the prices for 2002 S2000, that I may be able to get at least a third of the price I paid is pleasing.
ohd00bley, thank you for watching the video! Sounds like you love your S2000. They are awesome cars. I am glad I can help and I appreciate you sharing on your ownership experience.
I would try to drive both a AP1 and an AP2 S2000 and see which one you like. They are both great cars in their own ways. The general census is that the 04' and 05' are the best of both worlds. Also, make sure you understand the required maintenance and if has been done are per the manufacturer intervals. The S2ki community is also a great place to meet fellow owners and ask for questions. Thank you for watching the video man.
Everything mentioned here is well noted. Most of the items (except for top replacement and windshield replacement) are considered regular maintenance, and 90% can be performed quickly and easily with basic tools in your garage. Only item that I disagree with is the aftermarket air intake. Would recommend the stock "airbox mod" instead, fairly well proven to flow better and at lower temps. Explore this further by watching the you tube channel by LHT Performance. These guys are the S2000 masters, and they show you how to do everything, and recommend fluids, etc. Nice job.
You are right about the intake. I didn’t find out till after I made this video. The heat soak issues. But the sounds was kinda cool. Thank you for watching the video.
Couple things to add that are more important than anything in this video. First, the rear axle nuts on the s2000 are not torqued anywhere near what they need to be. Honda themselves admitted this after the fact. This under torquing leads to a clicking noise when the rear axles start to rotate forward or reverse which isn’t that serious, but also most people have problems with rear wheel bearings continuously failing. This is directly caused by the axle nuts not being torqued to the correct amount. Secondly, this is extremely common especially if you decide to lower your s2000 and it can happen even if you don’t, and that is CV pitting. This is a portion of the inner part of the rear axles where it will start to pit into the CV joint causing a vibration while under throttle. The faster you go the worse it will get and the longer you delay to fix it the worse it will get, so you either replace them which is expensive, or most people just switch the left side with the right. Its not a permanent fix, but this creates a new wear pattern that will take another 40,000 miles or so for the CV pitting to occur again along with the vibration. Third, the AP1 differentials suck. Moving on.. Fourth, if you plan on putting a turbo or supercharger on your new s2000, the 2000-2005 models have a return fuel system which doesn’t single handedly limit the amount hp you can have. However, the 2006-2009 s2000s have a returnless fuel system, which does indeed limit the amount of hp you can obtain. You can pay to have an earlier model s2000 fuel system swapped into the newer years as well. Lastly, 2006+ s2000s don’t utilize a direct mechanical throttle cable. They have drive by wire instead which is electronic. The throttle cable is of course no lag, quick and responsive. The drive by wire on the s2000s are far superior to most drive by wire designs, but I’ve still talked to people who say they can feel a throttle delay from time to time and at certain rpms. So basically in my opinion, the best years to buy an s2000, are 04-05. Ok I’m done right this fucking book, your welcome.
OMG! Dude! Thank you for taking the time to write such a detailed response. I really appreciate it and I know others will as well. Lots of good info I had no idea about. Thanks man! Have a great day.
I’m not aware of if they do but one of the solutions is to make sure you replace the fluid when you see it getting contaminated. It is the contamination that causes seal failure.
I liked your video but let me tell you about my S2000. I purchased mine new in 2005, it's only a summer car for me with 51K now. I have had no problems with mine, it has the original roof, seats, windshield and wheels. It still looks very stock on the outside, however I have made some modifications, a Kenwood radio, Vortech supercharger, OS Giken clutch and OS Giken rear end. It dynos at 315, it's fast, loud and fun, the best car I have ever owned...
David McDowell, Based on your tasteful modifications, your S2000 must be a blast! I feel the chassis should have come with 300 whp minimum in stock form. With low miles, cool modifications, and a happy owner, that combination is a great example of what a S2000 is all about. Thank you for watching the video and leaving a comment.
Thanks to your wife for a well above average job of “manning” the camera. Thanks to you for such a detailed “squak” list without which I would have missed 75% of the items you mentioned.
Driver's Therapy .It’s an aircraft term. A pilot will list any repairs he/she has found to be needed on a particular aircraft and that written list is called a “squak” list.
Over time since the S2000 sits low, the cars get hit with small rocks and debris. It is almost like "sandblasting" the windshield but since they are small minor "indentations" in the windshield, it is more of a pitting effect rather than a crack or chip you see when you can hit with a bigger rock or debris.
I do. A dealership can get the compression test done and also knock out the PPI (Pre-purchase Inspection) all in one visit. Auto skills vary person to person and while some people trust their own inspection, utilizing a dealership is a choice as well.
arcticape, it depends on the local reputation of the dealership. I have taken my car to a dealership that I knew did a great job and didn’t rush jobs but in the same time, technicians at dealerships are not competent at all. If you know a good independent shop with a solid reputation in similar cars, that would be a solid choice as well.
U just got ur self a new subscriber :) it was a pretty good video and information. Got me thinking more on what to look for on my s2k since it's been driving a bit rough lately.. keep it up tho man.
Brendan Fernandez thank you!!! My wife is awesome and couldn’t do these videos without her. Thanks for watching the video and let me know when you get your S2000. If you have any questions, please let me know.
805_S2K I don’t know man, I am not to happy with ballads customer service. I ended up fixing old one. Not to mention ballad sells their tct for 300bucks. Vtec gaskets go with krakens, 30bucks for both top and bottom.
I have a Black 2007 S2K with 41k miles and no issues and my top still looks new. Yes my tires are 8 yeas old lol but I don't drive it much and cranked out a 14.0 in a 1/4 mile. I love this car. I will get new tires soon I'm curious if I can dip into the high 13's with better rubber.
Wolfpac550, thank you for watching the video. 8 years is some time on tires but I am excited to hear you will get some new ones soon. Your S2000 will feel so much better. I went with Michelin Pilot Super Sport on my S and love them.
Does this car have a lot of Maintenance problems over the years ? I want the car but I have to consider how it will cost in the long run. Great Vid btw
Like most cars, S2000s do come with their own specific and common problems. If you buy one that has been neglected they will compound and surprise you. They are amazing cars but just make sure to ask the right questions and do your due diligence and you will be buy one of the best and funniest cars you can buy.
Such a freaking beautiful car. I'm trying my best to get one because I truly believe this car is going to shoot up in value soon. I'm really wanting an AP1 for the revs but would take an AP2 for sure!
12:39 When I bought my S2000 it had the lip and gasket but unfortunately the seller and I didn't make out. I feel like was cheated now. Not fantastic at all.
I gotta say you forgot about the timing chain tensioner and the valve retainers (on AP1s) the tire, windshield and belt are more of general car buying tips than just s2000. Also if you are able to test drive the car, make sure to do the test for a twisted frame.
I totally missed that one but you guys have been awesome and commented about it. I pinned a comment that talked about it. Thank you for watching the video man and stay safe out there!
To put things in context my 2000 S2000: It has 47,000 miles, always garaged, not driven in winter and I do not live in the sun belt. Triple black with all oem front spoiler, side strakes and rear spoiler. No modifications. Never tracked but occasionally I let her rip.
Tiger, that is a cream puff. Only 47K miles! That is less than 3K miles a year. I just added a titanium exhaust and really like the sound. Thanks for watching the video and sharing about your S.
Honda's part number: 08F03-SHJ-1100D MOLDING, UB 3200. I purchased my front spoiler gasket from Toyota and I think it was pretty inexperienced too. If you can not find one at the Honda Dealership. I recommend stopping at a Toyota dealership and explain to them what you are doing and they should be able to help pull find one that works.
Honestly it depends on the level of maintenance done of both of them. The higher mileage one has to have a clean maintenance history with verifiable records vs the one with 46.6K needs to have a great oil chance history, fresh brakes, and tires.
I love my s2k, can't say enough to good things about it. I've put through 15 bottles of nitrous before I put a HKS supercharger on it. Square setup 255's on all 4. 368 rwhp at 10 psi now. I've put on hundreds of laps doing trackdays and it has 140 000 km on it. I beat the living hell out of it and it keeps on going.
Bought an new AP2 back in 2015. Daily driver in SF and put over 120k in 5 years. No issues whatsoever besides the grind from1st to 2nd gear after a few years which they are notorious for. Just do your regular maintenance. Unfortunately, someone t-boned it while parking in front of my apartment. Been wanting another one but the prices are too high :(
Thank you for sharing your story about your S2000. I am sorry it got totaled. 120K in 5 years was a lot of fun miles I bet and stay alert for I am sure you will find one sooner or later. Also, thanks for watching the video.
when you say your clutch was not engaging well. Did it make noise? Mine is making noise a little when letting off clutch (1st gear and reverse). Mine is not leaking by the pedal or anything.
JAS Productions did you have this noise or did it just start happening? Most clutches make a noise when the clutch is not engaged. Almost sounds like a low whine.
@@DriversTherapy ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-vgQjnfBNYbk.html It's my gf's father's car in which he does not dry often. This is a shake, kind of sound.
JAS Productions that is not normal. Definitely something is not right. Post that video on S2Ki or the S2000 enthusiast FB page and comment with *HELP* the guys there are cool. They will tell you better than I could and there is at time someone who had the same issue.
JAS Productionsy my assumption is the throw out bearing since it is while you are engaging the clutch. The fork presses on the throw out bearing and if it is damaged or the bearings have no grease, it makes noise. The clutch springs also have some type of noise you hear upon engagement.
The best Honda roadster outside of the S600 or S800. Only problem with the car is you cannot really put any performance mods on this car. Outside of a supercharger! I have a few things problem with my AP1, 02 is my model, important b/c that is the year the glass rear window installed. The plastic rear window is terrible. I had both rear axles wear out prematurely, burns oil pretty good. I don't really operate my soft top b/c it wears out quickly. My lights started to haze so i sanded and polished them and clear coated them. My floor carpet, not mats, carpet, worn out on a raised bar.
I agree! Great car. Thank you for sharing your honest experience with your S2000. A lot of owners or fans of the car tend to not want to admit the car has its share of problems. Everything car had its unique issues and that doesn’t make the S2000 a bad car but one with issues that people need to watch out for if they want to own one. Thank you for watching the video.
The front lip I have is a Honda S2000 CR knock off. You can pick those up on eBay for really cheap. I recommend getting the real one which is sold at a dealership but is worth it. I got this one because I paid like 20 bucks for it. Thank you for watching the channel.
@Drivers Therapy. I've heard alot about people that teack the s2k , that they replace the brake lines for Stainless stell ones becaise the rubber ones leak and burst and are hella unreliable.
Don't forget to pull the carpet trim out of the trunk, there's most likely water in the bottom pan, a bad top install will leak water into the trunk.. This must be taken care of before it starts to rust. Clean and repaint any damage at the trunk bottom, then put some short tire valve stems (Stems facing down, with the internal valve removed) in place of the bottom trunk plugs to keep the trunk drained and dry.
Great video! I remember when the S2K first came out. Wanted one at first sight but so expensive! I've seen several in my area for $15K or so with less than 60K miles. Am about to pull the trigger and buy one. I've had lots of Hondas before. No real issues. Everyone I've talked to with an S2K have had no issues with theirs. Almost a no brainer at this point.
hectorsoy, thanks for watching the video! Man, that is going to be so exciting when you pick one up. They are great cars, there are definitely some nice ones out there but just make sure to check them out throughly. Have a great start to the New Year.
@@teresoflores8318 Nice! Buying a S2000 with a hardtop can be a really awesome deal. There is a comment on here about a guy saying to make sure the hardtop is a authentic Honda one. It should say Honda on the rear glass window. I would double check because the value of a Honda hardtop vs a aftermarket is a big one.
Pit Stop Rx I’m thinking about buying one, Recently started working at Honda as a technician so Oil filters i can get for free , and i can do my own work at the shop. Always loved S2Ks hope to get one this year, sick and tired of my GTI lol
Hi Hopked, I did drive a 2005 and older S2000 with the classic throttle cable but I wanted a the newer AP2 for other reasons. The drive-by-wire S2000s are pretty good and even though a few of them have some gremlins, overall owners have been happy with them. Thank you watching and commenting.
Brendan O'connell I think I had potential to be. If you find one that is in excellent mechanical condition and just need basic maintenance then you can enjoy it. There is not a lot of space in general but if you are doing short commutes to school and around town, I think you would love it a s a first car. Just make sure to not go cheap otherwise you will be spending a lot of time trying to make sure everything is working.
I may have missed it, but how many miles were on the car when you bought it? My S is 10 yrs old and both the top and the seats are in great condition. I treat the seats and top with conditioners 2 -3 times a year. I don't think your car was garaged prior to your purchase. Fortunately, mine is which probably explains the excellent shape it's in!
