2003 Honda S2000

Introduction:

The 2003 Honda S2000 is a two-seat sports car powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter F20C engine, producing 240 horsepower and 153 lb-ft of torque. It is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission only. The S2000 is praised for its lively handling, responsive engine, and classic roadster design. However, it also has some notable issues.

Engine

F20C 2.0-liter

• Valve Spring Retainers Failure: Weak valve spring retainers can fail, leading to dropped valves and catastrophic engine damage.
  • Replacement of the valve spring retainers and any damaged components is required.
  • $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recall: TSB 08-005
• Rod Knock: Connecting rod bearings can fail, resulting in a knocking sound from the engine.
  • Engine rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • $5,000 - $10,000+
• Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption, especially at higher RPMs, can be an issue.
  • Piston rings, valve seals, or other internal components may need to be replaced.
  • $1,000 - $3,000+

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Grinding Gears: Difficulty shifting gears or grinding noises when changing gears.
  • Worn or damaged synchronizers need to be replaced.
  • $500 - $1,500
• Slave Cylinder Failure: The hydraulic slave cylinder that actuates the clutch can fail, leaving the car unable to disengage the clutch.
  • Replacement of the slave cylinder is necessary.
  • $200 - $500
• Clutch Wear: The clutch can wear prematurely, especially in high-performance driving or traffic.
  • Clutch replacement is required.
  • $1,000 - $2,000

Suspension

• Rear Shock Mount Corrosion: The rear shock mounts can corrode over time, causing damage to the suspension.
  • Replacement of the rear shock mounts is necessary.
  • $500 - $1,000
• Front Lower Control Arms: The front lower control arms can bend under hard driving conditions.
  • Replacement of the control arms is required.
  • $300 - $700

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator may fail, causing charging issues or electrical system failures.
  • Replacement of the alternator is necessary.
  • $500 - $1,000
• Starter Failure: The starter motor can fail, preventing the car from starting.
  • Replacement of the starter is required.
  • $300 - $600
• Battery Drain: Parasitic electrical draws can drain the battery, causing difficulty starting the car.
  • Tracking down and repairing the source of the draw is necessary.
  • $200 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Convertible Top Stitching Failure: The stitching on the convertible top may fail, causing the top to leak or tear.
  • Replacement or repair of the convertible top stitching is necessary.
  • $500 - $1,500

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can develop cracks over time, especially in hot climates.
  • Dashboard replacement is usually required.
  • $500 - $1,000+
• Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system can malfunction, leading to insufficient heating or cooling.
  • Repair or replacement of the climate control components is necessary.
  • $200 - $1,000+

Summary:

The 2003 Honda S2000 is a highly engaging sports car with a loyal following. However, it does have some significant potential issues, particularly with the engine, electrical system, and interior components. The cost of these repairs can vary widely depending on the severity of the problem and the location of the repairs. It is important for potential owners to be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their decision-making process.