2009 Honda S2000
2009 Honda S2000
Overview
The 2009 Honda S2000 is a highly regarded sports car known for its exhilarating performance and driver engagement. As a second-generation model, it benefited from refinements over its predecessor. Reliability is generally a strong suit for Honda, and the S2000 is no exception, particularly in its later years. Owners typically praise its robust mechanicals and well-built interior. However, like any performance vehicle, specific components can experience issues over time, especially under spirited driving conditions. This analysis focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related reliability concerns for the 2009 model year.
Engine
2.0L Naturally Aspirated (F20C1)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Increased oil level drops between changes, blue smoke from exhaust under acceleration.
- Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement of piston rings and valve seals.
- Cost: $2,500 - $5,000
VTEC Solenoid Failure
- Symptoms: Check Engine Light, loss of power at higher RPMs, rough idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the VTEC solenoid.
- Cost: $150 - $300
2.2L Naturally Aspirated (F22C1)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Increased oil level drops between changes, blue smoke from exhaust under acceleration.
- Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement of piston rings and valve seals.
- Cost: $2,500 - $5,000
VTEC Solenoid Failure
- Symptoms: Check Engine Light, loss of power at higher RPMs, rough idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the VTEC solenoid.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Transmission
6-Speed Manual (AP2)
Clutch Master Cylinder Leak
- Symptoms: Spongy clutch pedal, difficulty shifting gears, clutch fluid leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch master cylinder.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Synchronizer Wear
- Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into certain gears, difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild with replacement of worn synchronizers.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Suspension
Independent Double Wishbone
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Exterior
Standard Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Standard Interior Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2009 Honda S2000 is a remarkably reliable sports car, especially considering its performance-oriented nature. The F20C1 and F22C1 engines, while generally robust, can exhibit oil consumption issues and occasional VTEC solenoid problems, which are relatively common for high-revving engines. The manual transmission is also solid, though clutch master cylinder leaks and synchronizer wear can occur with age and mileage. Other systems like suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior are typically very dependable. With proper maintenance and mindful driving, the 2009 S2000 offers a fantastic and dependable driving experience.