2004 Honda S2000

Introduction

The 2004 Honda S2000 is a two-seater roadster known for its performance and lightweight construction. It was offered with a single engine and transmission option:

• 2.2L F22C1 I-VTEC inline-4 engine (240 horsepower, 153 lb-ft of torque)
• 6-speed manual transmission

Owners praise the S2000 for its agile handling, responsive engine, and iconic design. However, there are a few common issues to be aware of.

Engine

• F22C1 I-VTEC
  • Valve Tappet Noise: Knocking or ticking sound from the engine, especially at higher RPMs.
    • Solution: Replace the valve lifters or adjust the valve clearances.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • AP1 Engine Stalling: Stalling and difficulty starting, often accompanied by a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Rod Bearing Failure: Catastrophic engine failure, typically caused by oil starvation or excessive wear.
    • Solution: Replace the entire engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
  • Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings or perform engine rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Coolant or oil leak from the intake manifold gasket.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • VTC Actuator Failure: Clicking or grinding noise from the engine, often accompanied by a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the VTC actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

Transmission

• 6-speed Manual
  • Grinding or Difficulty Shifting: Difficulty or grinding noise when shifting gears, especially when the transmission is cold.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the clutch master cylinder or slave cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Gear Oil Leak: Leak from the transmission case or seals.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear: Worn or damaged bushings导致异响和车辆操控性降低。
  • Solution: Replace the front lower control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Rear Suspension Bushings Wear: Similar to the front control arm bushings, worn rear bushings can cause noise and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Shock Absorber Failure: Leaking shocks or degraded performance resulting in abouncy ride and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Loss of power, flickering lights, or difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Battery Drain: Rapid battery discharge even when the vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Identify and repair electrical components causing the drain, such as parasitic draw from aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Window Regulator Failure: Difficulty or failure in operating the power windows.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Convertible Top Rear Window Damage: Punctures or tears in the plastic rear window of the convertible top.
  • Solution: Replace the convertible top rear window.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Headlight Condensation: Moisture buildup inside the headlight assemblies.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Pixelation: Fading or pixelated display on the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Power Seat Failure: Malfunctioning power seats or inoperative seat adjustments.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Summary

While the 2004 Honda S2000 is a highly praised vehicle for its performance and handling, it does have some potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine-related problems, such as valve tappet noise and rod bearing failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, while less common, can still be inconvenient and expensive to fix. Suspension and electrical issues are typically less severe and more affordable to address. Overall, the S2000’s reliability is generally good, but potential buyers should be prepared for some maintenance and repair costs.