Honda Prelude 1997-2002

himiler · March 2003

chillen -- I know what you're saying, but the shift lever should move fairly easily into 1st when the car is stopped.

nyccarguy · March 2003

Driving this Jetta is driving me up the wall! I miss my Prelude! I'm going back up to my parents' this weeekend to get it. I'm sure as I decide this now, we'll be sure to get more snow!

himiler · March 2003

What's not to love about a torque-steering, solid rear axle riding, softly sprung, roll over in the turns and play dead sorority chick's car?

In Europe, the Jetta is called the "Bora." 'Nuff said.

shmang · March 2003

Never drove a Jetta. But, from all the ads, it seems to be a driver's car..... Well, guess not. Does Audi A4(2WD version) much better than the Jetta, since I heard a lot of good things about the A4.

nyccarguy · March 2003

you hit the nail right on the head!

The ASR helped me out tremendously in the melting/freezing slush today. Torque steer is a relative term himiler, remember that my last car was a Saab.

himiler · March 2003

But at least the Saab had some personality!

Mr_Shiftright · March 2003

Mine had lots of personalities, most of them requiring therapy.

sliversh · March 2003

Hi everyone,

I just bought a silver '01 sh. (12k miles) I love this car. I used to have a G2 Integra coupe (LS).

I'm excited to be a part of the prelude community. I also had a question. I'm considering buying an extended warranty. I've browsed the warranty boards but nothing was really conclusive. Do you guys have any ideas? (Honda care vs. online) Thanks

himiler · March 2003

Congrats on your car! You now own what is possibly the finest FWD sports coupe ever built.

You'll have a tough time finding a car with greater overall reliability than a 5G Prelude, so I wouldn't say that a extended warranty makes a whole lot of sense.

I'm of the opinion that car builders wouldn't sell extended warranties if they didn't make good money on them, and when you consider the fact you've bought a Honda...you get the idea.

Still, if you want the piece of mind that an XW can give you, then it's probably worth your money. On the other hand, I've put 101,000 on my '01 since 10/15/01, and never had any trouble that wasn't covered by the standard warranty.

I figured on saving $100 monthly in a fund to cover repairs ($0.00 so far) and scheduled maintenance. So far, I haven't been caught out by anything.

Good luck with your decision, and enjoy your car!

shmang · March 2003

Well put, himiler. When I bought my car, I was offered with 7/10000 extended warranty and I did not get it and I am not regret it until today ('99 with 55K on it). So, I would say skip that and save the money for something else.

shmang · March 2003

This weekend, I was changing the brake fluid and just notice the brake pads on the front are a little bit thicker than the ones on the rear (After 55K miles). I know that the front would get wear more quickly than the rear, but this shows the opposite - Is the OEM front brake pads much thicker than the rear or what? Could anyone share their experiences, especially someone with fairly high mileage on 5th Gen, like himiler?

Thanks.

himiler · March 2003

The fronts come from the factory with more pad material than the rears.

I'm still on my original pads and rotors, but the rears are just starting to squeak a bit, so I'll have to do something before too long.

nyccarguy · March 2003

congrats on your car! Welcome to the Prelude community.

I'd tend to agree with Himiler (I usually do because he's usually right) that you bought a Honda. And one of the beauties of the Prelude (in additon to its amazing handling, well thought out interior, excellent fit and finish, good power, and did I mention razor sharp handling?) is its legendary Honda reliability.

I'd save your money on the entended warranty.

rchung · March 2003

Hi All,

I bought a 86 prelude 2.0 SI with 220K on it w/ manual 5 speed, mostly highway mileage, around 8 months ago. The engine and handling are excellent but it has this vibration problem that I could not figure it out.

The vibration happened with the older tires that came with it, not as bad though. I have replaced all 4 tires to a 140 mph rating pirelli P400 touring tires. Have all the wheel and tire balanced two times.

HOwever, it still vibrate severely when the car is running from 3200 to 4500 rpm. It is okay after that if I accelerate through the vibration. If I release the gas pedal, the vibration goes away even at the above mentioned rpm range. When I press on the gas pedal again, the vibration comes right back. It is better when it goes down hill and on a certain type of road surfaces. It also will vibrate less if I accelerate smoothly and gently raise the rpm/speed. It is also less severe using the 4th gear at the above mentioned rpm range.

I think I can almost feel a tiny bit of the vibration at slower rpm and speed but it is extremely light if there is any.

I have also recently performed an alignment at those discounted tire place with computerized gear. They cannot set the alignment to factory specs, off by 1 deg on the front right wheel. The vibration characteristics worsen after the alignment! The vibration also heavily dependent on tire pressure as well. The factory specs are 28 in the front and 26 in the rear. I am certain those tire place did not balance my wheel at these pressure rating since I need to release the pressure after the tire balance from 35 to around 29. Currently, all 4 tires are at around 29 psi.

I talked to the dealer and they thought it was a tire balancing issue. I just want another opinion from this forum and see if anybody has a similar experience.

I should note that after the alignment, the steering wheel also experience some shimmy during vibration. IT was not there before the alignment. The car stay straight with my hand off the steering wheel at both low and high speed reasonably well.

Thanks for your help.

himiler · March 2003

Sounds like bad ball joints or CV joints to me. I'd set aside $150 and take it to a front-end specialist for diagnosis. Unless it's been involved in a wreck, the car should be able to be aligned to specs, so the fact that it cannot suggests that something in the front geometries is out of whack.

Good luck.

Mr_Shiftright · March 2003

With those high miles I'd not only check CV joints but also the entire suspension. It could be completely worn out and dangerously so. Did your alignment place check all bushings, rubber mounts, and also look for collision damage?

That's a lot of miles, you need to look over a car like that, regardless of make, very very carefully for structural issues at 220K. This vibration could be a warning to look deeper. Good luck!

rchung · March 2003

Thank you all for the input. Should I go back to the dealer or some places like pepboys or midas for this type of checking ? I occasionally test the car around 100+ mph and it still feel very solid and stable. I hope it is only teh CV joint issue because this is really a great car. Thanks again.

himiler · March 2003

The dealer won't give free estimates, but they're likely to be be more thorough in diagnosing the problem (with the hope of selling you lots of expensive parts and labor).

It all comes down to how much the car is worth, and what the repair bill is going to amount to.

rchung · March 2003

Thank you all for the input. Should I go back to the dealer or some places like pepboys or midas for this type of checking ? I occasionally test the car around 100+ mph and it still feel very solid and stable. I hope it is only teh CV joint issue because this is really a great car. Thanks again.

rchung · March 2003

Well, I purchased the car at around $1K. I may just get the diagnostic done at teh dealer and have someone else fix it.

shmang · March 2003

Keep in mind, the diag. along at the dealership might be expensive ,like $100 - 300 depends on what they are going to do. I would take it to a reputable import shop to have it inspected.

If the vibration only occurs in a certain rpm range, you can try to by pass that range. If that fix the problem, I would first look at the engine mount, maybe it is loose or broke, rather than the CV joint, althouth that is another possibility.

Mr_Shiftright · March 2003

At those miles, anything is possible so for your own safety you need a good look here. You don't want a suspension failure at speed.

nyccarguy · March 2003

Got the Prelude back and rid myself of the torque-steering, sloppy-handling Jetta on Saturday afternoon after work. Oh my! I am so glad to be back in the driver's seat. I drove the car to my buddy's house to check out his Mini Cooper S, then back into the city, drove the car to Hoboken, NJ Saturday night and saw quite a few preludes parked on the street as well as driving. I saw some beautiful S2000s parked on the street, Yellow & Black... My girlfriend, her friend, and I left Hoboken at around 2:30AM. I took the long way back into the city.

himiler · March 2003

What did you think of the Cooper S? Did you get a ride or drive in it?

All this warm weather was killing me, so I put my summer treads and wheels back on my car yesterday. Given the chances of more snow, I'll probably regret doing so this early in the season, but if it gets too dicey I'll just borrow the wife's Subaru.

I had forgotten how loud the S-03's are on certain types of pavement, but it's nice to get back my steering response.

nyccarguy · March 2003

Himiler: My friend just picked up his Mini Cooper S on Friday night. I went to see him on Saturday and he promised me some seat time in behind the wheel once he passes the break in period. I'll comment on what I can from the brief ride he took me on.

Exterior Fit and Finish of body panels is excellent. The 17" wheels fill out the wheel wells nicely. The toggle switches on the interior are nice. He got an anthracite-colored trim along the dashboard and door panels (replaces the aluminum plastic). The darker colored plastic looks nice with his black interior, although it is hard. The leather is on the soft side. The car seems very planted and body roll is minimal. The supercharger whine was evident, but not intrusive. That's all I can really comment on for now. I'll give you an update in a few weeks.

I got a great spot this evening. Not only is it on a corner that is 1 block from my apartment, but I parked right in front of a San Marino Red, 1997 Prelude Automatic. My car will have someone to keep it company for a while:)

nyccarguy · March 2003

I don't know about the rest of the country, but dealers around here have quite a few S2000s on their lots. There's a dealer that claims to have 2 2001s leftover, while multiple dealers advertise 2002 leftovers, and to have some 2003s on their lots as well. I'm sure there are a few contributing factors including the fact that the economy here is still terrible and we had an extremely cold winter. Has Honda stepped up their production numbers from the demand of the original 2000s & 2001s? Oh do I wish I had an extra $30K laying around (don't we all?). The S2000 would make a great 3rd car for me down the road. As much as I'd love to have a BMW, you really can't top the S2000 for the value. Maybe by then they'll have perfected the radio, top lining, and air leaks that Sphinx99 complains about (his only 2 gripes I'd just have to decide if I want a Spa Yellow, Berlinetta Black, or New Formula Red.

himiler · March 2003

I've heard from owners that the Cooper is actually a better drive with the standard 16" wheels due to the heavy run-flats on the 17"s. The wheels are so far out at the corners of the car that you really can feel the difference in the unsprung weight of the different wheel/tire combos.

Beautiful little car, though.

rchung · March 2003

Hi All:

Just an update form my severe vibration problem. I took it to an alognment shop and it turned out the front right axle (which is supposed to move in and out along the flexible junction) is stucked. I think the bearing must be cracked or something. They jacked the car up and spinned the wheel really fast. I can see the wheel moving up and down in a wierd orbit. It then went away on subsequent tests. That may explain why the vibration happened only on a certain type of road surface and tire pressure. ANyway, it is fixed now and the car feels like it has gained a little bit more power and acceleration time. Thanks all.

Russell

himiler · March 2003

Good to hear your problem's solved. You're lucky your wheel didn't pull a Ford Focus on you!

nyccarguy · March 2003

A Jaguar S Type.

Glad to hear your problem was solved. Enjoy the car.

linard · March 2003

Does anyone know if the S2000's wheel will fit on the Prelude steering column? A friend wants to give it to me off his car (wants a new wheel) but I don't want to take it if it won't fit. And has anyone taken their Preludes in for the ignition recall? I figure if I did that, I'd also take mine if for the TSB on the rear bushing noise. Mine is not noticeable except for early morning over speed bumps. And is there any fix for the molding on the windshield? Thanks...

chillenhonda · March 2003

I took mine in for the ignition recall about a month ago. They gave me a loaner and everything. I didnt notice anything wrong with the ignition before, or anything different after. The dealer told me that although it was a recall, the problem hadnt come up in many cars. It did require the whole day though.

himiler · March 2003

I have seen the S2000 steering wheel in the Prelude, and it looks pretty cool, but unless you can find a wrecked donor S2000, it's expensive to order the parts (big shocker). You need the wheel, the SRS module and airbag, and a bunch of different bushings. The parts total is around $1200.00 IIRC. The Insight uses the same wheel as the S2000, if that helps.

For $1200, I'd by some tires, springs and maybe some hotter cams from Crower.

What's up with your w/s molding? Is it whistling or pulling away from the A-pillar? Mine used to whistle a bit in cross-winds, but since I had to get my w/s replaced, it's all better now.

My advice: follow a gravel truck for a few miles.

linard · March 2003

Yeah, I wouldn't get the wheel if I wasn't going to get it for free. However, I am just getting the wheel and SRS module. Do I need a retrofit kit or extra bushings for it to fit? As for my windshield molding, it's lifting in some spots around the glass and I guess its a common problem to Preludes.

BTW, I waxed the car today using Zymol and can't say I like the results. Klasse works better and is A LOT easier. Man, I was rubbing forever and it was still lightly streaking...

himiler · March 2003

I'm not 100% sure of just what you'll need for the wheel swap. You might want to check on the hondaprelude board which I can't name here...

I seem to remember someone had done the swap and taken pics of each step, along with a complete list of all the bits you'll need.

sphinx99 · March 2003

I too have heard of it being done, but I thought there were complications regarding the S2000's electrical power steering setup?

himiler · March 2003

sphinx -- The wheel swap is just a matter of getting all the right pieces in the right places. The electric steering control is located further down the column.

nyccarguy · March 2003

Linard: Himiler is right. Somebody on another message board whose name shall not be mentioned that did not get shut down posted a step by step process on how to do switch the S2000's wheel with the Prelude's. The Prelude's wheel is a little on the large side for such a small sports car, but I like it:)

Spring is oficially here. I yanked the Ski racks and Thule bars off my roof and drove home from work today (yes I know it is Saturday) with the windows and sunroof open. I was going to get a car wash, but the line was too long. SO I filled it up with gas and let it rip on the way home.

himiler · March 2003

Yee-haw! My mileage has been pretty lousy lately, so it MUST be Spring.

nyccarguy · March 2003

Since I have every gas receipt of every fill up since I picked up my car last April, I'll have to see what my average mpg I'm getting.

shmang · March 2003

When you calculate your mileage, keep in mind, the first few thousand miles are break-in miles and will get worse MPG, so try to seperate your calculation before 1000 miles and after - that way you get a better idea of what your normal MPG should be (before spring) and then compare that with when you drive in the spring mode.

nyccarguy · March 2003

While my short (200 something mile) trip this weekend from New York to Baltimore, MD is somewhat of the daily norm for himiler, it is exciting for me. I got my car washed (inside and out) and gased it up. Tomorrow before I leave, I'll spend 2 minutes putting the Half bra (Don't know if you can say bra in town hall, so I'll say half Nose Mask) on. Himiler was right about the full bra being a waste of money. My front bumper has quite a few scratches on it from some inconsiderate street parkers here in NYC, so a few stone chips won't bother me at all. Eventually when I move out of the city and to someplace with a driveway or parking lot/garage, I'll get my front and rear bumpers repainted (then consider XPEL).

The half bra protects the front of the hood from chips and bugs and such, is relatively easy to install, so I don't mind taking it on and off.

Why didn't I do XPEL in the first place? Well, I knew I'd be parking on the street, and from people backing into the car, might ruin the material and possibly rip it and cause some moisture leaks...

I've made 2 CDs. 1 for when my girlfriend is awake, and another for when she goes to sleep:)

sphinx99 · March 2003

Thanks for the update! It sounds like you had a fun trip. I too have been enjoying some pleasant driving now that the weather has turned warmer. I parked the Prelude outside last night and let the thunderstorms wash it off. This morning it looks shiny and new once again.

Unfortunately the front bumper on the driver side appears to be slightly loose... the edge (lining the wheel well is flaring out an inch. It's not too bad but it's noticeable on an otherwise perfect car. I looked at it and it looks as though a hole (through which it was screwed) was torn through. I don't think it's a reliability issue, there was a minor skid a month ago during the snow that had me coast slowly (like 3mph) into a soft snow bank... maybe it happened then. I'll have to go to the dealer and deal with it.

15k service is coming up - any tips or suggestions? Things I should/should not ask for? Thoughts? My preference is to save money and not spend on things that I do not need to keep my Prelude healthy!

As a separate aside, the Prelude is probably going to stay for the long haul, or at least another year or longer. We had planned to trade it in for a sedan but she's learning to drive a stick (yay!) and with economic conditions being what they are, the draw to spend money just isn't there right now...

himiler · March 2003

Every 15K or so, I have the following done:

Oil change, tire rotation, lube the door hinges, check all fluids, clean and lube the caliper sliders (important for long-term survival of the calipers), check all under-carriage and suspension bolts, inspect exhaust, inspect belts and hoses.

That should just about do it.

shmang · March 2003

I have heard of lubricating the moving parts of a car for a long time and never figured out what that is - what do you use to lubricate them with (door hinge, caliper) and if possible, could you elaborate on how to lubricate? I think I am long due for those since I only got that done once during 30K maint. and I am at 55K now.

himiler · March 2003

Your best bet would be to call the service manager at your local Honda store and ask him/her exactly what they do.

I just sign the bill.

nyccarguy · March 2003

Sphinx99: I take it you're back from your wedding/trip abroad? Congrats!

Well my trip to Maryland was a good time. The drive down was beautiful. I was cruising between 75 & 80 most of the way down and then hit some ridiculous traffic in the city of baltimore itself (I grew up in NY and lived in LA for a summer and Baltimore has some traffic). I averaged just above 25 mpg (including the traffic) which is not too shabby considering the engine was spinning between 3500 & 4200 RPM for most of the ride.

I saw a lot of Preludes both on my way to Baltimore and in the city itself. I even got a few waves and flashes from Prelude drivers from across the highway. I flashed and honked at a black Type SH, then saw there was a 50 something year old lady driving it.

chillenhonda · April 2003

I've averaged as high as 30-31mpg on an all-highway Boston to New York City commute, which I think is very respectable for such a powerful car. More routine driving with a 50/50 split results in around 25-26mpg overall. I installed a K&N air filter and mileage improved slightly, especially noticeable on highway driving.

I am sad to say that my Prelude is for sale, due to the fact that I'm moving to cali and that I need something larger to make the 3000mi drive in. So if anyone knows anyone lookin for a mint condition black Prelude.....

kenjabi · April 2003

I'm glad you enjoyed your trip to MD, my home state. You're right about Baltimore traffic, it can be pretty hellacious at times. It's even worse now because they've blocked off some roads in the city for security reasons.

Maybe I expect to see more, but I don't seem to notice the amount of Prelude drivers that you did, at least not 5th gen Preludes (I do see a lot of 4th gen though). And I don't think I've ever seen anyone flash or honk at me since I got my Prelude a year and half ago. It is funny that you saw an older woman driving one...any woman I've seen driving a Prelude (more than I thought I'd see) has been pretty young.

nyccarguy · April 2003

chillenhonda: Where in California are you moving to? C'mon, don't get rid of the Prelude. Ship your stuff across the country and drive the Prelude or Rent a U-Haul to drive across the country and ship the Prelude or rent a U-Haul for your stuff and tow your Prelude on the back of it. You should have little trouble selling your Prelude. Let us know what you get for it and how many miles you have. Good luck on the Left Coast.

Whatever you do, don't buy an SUV!

kenjabi: Actually all of the preludes I saw over the weekend were 5th Gens.

About that Baltimore Inner Harbor traffic, what is the deal with people blocking intersections? it was driving me up the wall.

Honda Prelude 1997-2002

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