1981 Honda Prelude problems
The Honda Prelude (Japanese: ホンダ・プレリュード, Hepburn: Honda Pureryūdo) is a sports car produced by the Japanese company Honda over five generations from 1978 to 2001. It is a two-door coupé that was loosely derived from the Honda Accord and was the first Honda to feature a moonroof, a feature that remained standard equipment throughout its production. The Prelude was used by Honda to introduce the Japanese Honda retail sales chain Honda Verno, with the international release of the model following shortly after. Production of the Prelude concluded in 2001 upon the introduction of the fourth-generation Integra. The Prelude name was originally trademarked by Toyota, but was amicably given to Honda for use. The Prelude complied with the series of music-themed vehicle names which Honda used at the time, along with the Accord, Quintet, Concerto, Jazz, and Ballade.
First generation (1978)
On 24 November 1978, the Prelude was launched to the Japanese market. It had its world premiere at the 1979 AutoRAI in Amsterdam, two months later. In Japan it was only available at the newly established dealership sales channel Honda Verno. This dealership chain also introduced the Honda Quint, the Honda Ballade, and the Accord-based Honda Vigor as its largest sedan and hatchback. The four-wheel independent struts, brakes, and engine were all borrowed from the first-generation Accord, but the chassis was all new and developed by chief engineer Hiroshi Kizawa expressly for the sporting Prelude. At 4,090 mm (length) x 1,635 mm (width) x 1,290 mm (height), it had quite a low and wide profile. The wheelbase was 2,320 mm, and was 60 mm shorter than that of the original Accord. Honda appears to have followed the successful introduction of the Toyota Celica example by taking a small car, like the Accord, installing a more powerful engine, and giving the body a short trunk, and a long engine hood. The Prelude (and period Accord) were the first cars under two liters to receive standard power steering. The Prelude also benefited from Honda's experience with sporting cars like the Honda S800 and Coupé 1300.
The Prelude was the first Honda model to offer a power moonroof as standard equipment, which eventually became a Prelude trademark. In Japan, the Prelude was available with a sliding metal sunroof, while US versions received a glass top which freed up more headroom. Japanese buyers were liable for slightly more annual road taxes over the smaller Civic, which also had a smaller engine. While marketed as a 2+2, the rear seat was not usable for anyone larger than a small child.
Initial reviews for the Prelude were favorable. "It is," wrote Brock Yates for Motor Trend, "by any sane measurement, a splendid automobile. The machine, like all Hondas, embodies fabrication that is, in my opinion, surpassed only by the narrowest of margins by Mercedes-Benz. It is a relatively powerful little automobile by anybody's standards." Motor Trend measured an early Prelude completing the quarter-mile in 18.8 seconds at 70 mph. In terms of underpinnings it was mostly a Honda Accord, although its more compact package and lower weight allowed for a marginally higher top speed and gas mileage.
The standard engine at the time of introduction was the "EL" SOHC eight-valve 1,602 cc (non-CVCC) inline-four rated at 80 PS (59 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 12.9 kg⋅m (127 N⋅m; 93 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm. It remained the only engine available for most markets, aside from the US and Japan. It featured a non-automatic choke with three positions and a two-barrel carburetor. In September 1978 the larger "EK" SOHC 12-valve 1,751 cc CVCC inline-four was introduced in Japan, rated at 90 PS (66 kW) at 5,300 rpm (SAE gross). Automatics had five less horsepower. It took until March 1979 for the Prelude to appear in the United States, then with 72 hp (54 kW) at 4,500 rpm and 94 lb⋅ft (127 N⋅m) at 3,000 rpm (SAE net) from the larger 1.8 engine. The EK engine made use of an engine oil cooler and transistor-controlled ignition system.
Transmission choices were either the standard five-speed manual or initially a two-speed "Hondamatic" semi-automatic, which by October 1979 had been replaced by a three-speed automatic that used the final gear as the overdrive. In addition to the standard fabrics offered in most models, an 'Executive' option was offered in some markets which added power steering and Connolly leather upholstery. Honda used a single central gauge cluster design in this car which housed the speedometer and tachometer in one combined unit where both instrument's needles swept along the same arc. They also placed the compact AM/FM radio unit up high next to the gauge cluster. The Prelude featured intermittent wipers, tinted glass, and a remote trunk release. 1980 saw the introduction of the CVCC-II engine which employed the use of a catalytic converter and several other refinements that improved driveability, the Prelude also received a mild facelift in 1981. This facelift meant a return to a more traditional dashboard, rather than the much critiqued "Concentrated Target Meter" used before. The 1981 Prelude also received a stainless steel trim strip along the bumpers and side moldings, as well as a new grille. 313,000 units were manufactured by Honda from 1978 to 1982, with 80% being sold outside of Japan.
The Prelude was introduced in Europe during 1979, but was not a strong seller, its high asking price not helping its chances of sales success.
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Common 1981 Honda Prelude problems
The Honda Prelude, first introduced in 1978, has been known for its stylish design, sharp handling, and user-friendliness. However, like any other vehicle, it has had its share of common problems over the years. This article will focus on the 1981 Honda Prelude and its known issues based on complaints from owners.
- Rear Main Seal: This is a common issue across all generations of the Honda Prelude. The rear main seal is responsible for preventing oil leaks at the rear of the engine. If it fails, it can cause significant oil leaks, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. When buying a Prelude, it's essential to check the rear main seal to avoid costly repairs.
- Automatic Transmission Issues: The automatic transmissions in some Honda Preludes, particularly in the first generation, have been known to cause problems. These issues can range from minor malfunctions to complete transmission failure. Rebuilt transmissions may not always hold up, so it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the automatic transmission and consider the vehicle's history before purchasing.
- Engine Problems: For the 1981 Prelude, engine issues are not as prevalent as in later generations. However, it's still essential to check for any signs of engine wear or damage. The 1981 Prelude was equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 100 SAE net horsepower at 5500 rpm and 107 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. It shared the engine with the 1984-85 Accord but featured dual side-draft carbs. While this engine was generally reliable, it's essential to ensure that regular maintenance has been performed and that there are no signs of significant wear or damage.
- Rust: Rust can be a problem in the 1981 Honda Prelude, especially in regions with harsh winter conditions or high humidity. When buying a Prelude, it's crucial to inspect the vehicle's undercarriage, wheel wells, and other susceptible areas for signs of rust. Rust can lead to structural issues and compromise the vehicle's safety and longevity.
- Electrical Issues: While not as common in the 1981 Prelude as in later generations, electrical issues can still occur. These issues can range from minor problems like blown fuses to more significant concerns like faulty wiring or failing electrical components. When inspecting a 1981 Prelude, it's essential to test all electrical systems, including the lights, radio, and gauges, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
In summary, the 1981 Honda Prelude has several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of, including rear main seal leaks, automatic transmission problems, engine issues, rust, and electrical concerns. Thoroughly inspecting any potential purchase and being aware of these common problems can help ensure a successful and enjoyable ownership experience.
Are old Honda Preludes reliable?
Honda quality means the Prelude generally stands up well in service, as long as they're looked after and see a mechanic regularly. Regular oil changes are important, along with regular oil changes for the automatic transmission, which prefers Honda trans fluid.
How long do Prelude engines last?
With basic maintenance these cars will last 250k+ with minimal problems, if you have a 5 speed. Keep the oil topped off the valves adjusted, and with regular tuneups every 40,000 miles, this car will never leave you stranded.
How much horsepower does a 1981 Honda Prelude have?
HONDA Prelude 1.6L 5MT (80 HP)
| ENGINE SPECS - 1.6L 5MT (80 HP) | |
|---|---|
| Displacement: | 1602 cm3 |
| Power: | 59 KW @ 5300 RPM 80 HP @ 5300 RPM 79 BHP @ 5300 RPM |
| Torque: | 94 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM 127 Nm @ 3500 RPM |
| Fuel System: | Carburetor |
Why did Honda Prelude stop making?
Why did Honda stop making the Prelude? Unfortunately, as Honda's premium alter ego Acura gained in popularity, the Prelude's semi-lofty price tag cut sales significantly toward the end of the fifth-generation.
1981 Honda Prelude car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda Prelude problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Suspension problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1981 Honda Prelude vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1981 Honda Prelude complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1981 Honda Prelude.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-16
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE FRONT TIRE PEELED THROUGH THE CABAZON SECTION OF I10. ALL 3 OF THE FAILURES WERE ON DRIVING WHEELS, ALL WERE ON UNLOADED VEHICLES ON THE FWY, ALL WERE BOUGHT FROM A STORE IN THE DESERT AND COMMUTED ON HEAVILY THROUGH THE DESERT, APPROX 600-800 MI/WK.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P185 70R13 )
SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
- VIN: JHMSN5224BC
- Components: SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ONLY TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS RELEASED; DEFECTIVE PARTS SHOULD BE REPLACED AT MANUFACTUR COSTS. 73 LISTED BULLETINS ON WEB SITE WWW.ALLDATA.COM.
1981 Honda Prelude recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1981 Honda Prelude.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: THE SPRINGS ARE HELD UP BY A METAL SUPPORT AROUND EACH SHOCK ABSORBER. VEHICLES DRIVEN REGULARLY IN AREAS WHERE ROADS ARE SALTED DURING WINTERTIME ARE SUBJECT TO RUSTING OF THESE SUPPORTS. RUSTING MAY EVENTUALLY ALLOW THE SPRING TO BREAK THROUGH THE SUPPORT.
- Remedy: THE SPRING SUPPORTS AND SHOCKS WILL BE INSPECTED; DEPENDING ON CONDITION, THE COMPONENTS WILL BE RUSTPROOFED OR REPLACED, IF NECESSARY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1981 Honda Prelude problems:
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