2000 Honda Passport

The 2000 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built by Isuzu and rebadged as a Honda. It’s generally praised for its off-road capability and truck-like durability, but criticized for its fuel economy and some reliability issues. The 2000 Passport came with one engine option: a 3.2L V6. This engine produced 205 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. There were two transmission options: a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual.

Engine

3.2L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, most commonly valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket. Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can fail due to age and wear, leading to catastrophic engine damage (bent valves). Rough running engine, complete engine failure, or ticking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the recommended service interval (typically every 60,000 miles). Also replace the water pump, tensioner, and idler pulley.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ if caught before failure, $1000+ for engine repair if the belt breaks.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idle speed, stalling, especially at stop lights.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission shifts harshly, hesitates before shifting, or fails to shift at all.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush (if the fluid is not burnt). If that doesn’t work, replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for a flush, $1500 - $3000+ for a replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slipping, difficulty shifting, or inability to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Arm Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering on the road, especially at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the idler arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torsion Bar Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Front end sitting low, reduced ground clearance.
  • Solution: Adjust or replace torsion bars.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, slow cranking, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise when trying to start the engine, or no response at all.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, particularly around the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. Treat rust to slow down the oxidation process
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not working properly, heater not working, or controls malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the climate control system, which may involve replacing the compressor, condenser, or blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the specific issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Honda Passport, while capable and durable, has several common issues to be aware of. Engine oil leaks and timing belt failures are potential concerns and can be expensive to fix if neglected. Suspension components are also prone to wear. Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with harsh winters. Interior issues are less severe, but dashboard cracking and climate control problems can be annoying. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and budget accordingly for repairs.