1983 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.
Social links
Common 1983 Honda Prelude problems
The Honda Prelude, produced between 1983 and 1987, is known for its sharp handling, user-friendliness, and hospitality. However, like any vehicle, it may encounter certain issues over time. Here are some common problems with the Honda Prelude 1983, based on complaints from owners:
- Fuel System Issues: Fuel system problems are common in the Honda Prelude 1983. These issues can include clogged fuel injectors, faulty fuel pumps, and fuel filter blockages. These problems can cause the engine to run poorly or fail to start altogether. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent fuel system problems from occurring.
- Engine-Related Issues: Engine-related issues are also common in the Honda Prelude 1983. These problems can include low oil pressure, overheating, misfiring, and timing belt failure. These issues can cause the engine to run poorly or fail to start altogether. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent engine-related problems from occurring.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical problems are another common issue in the Honda Prelude 1983. These problems can include battery and alternator issues, faulty ignition coils, and malfunctioning sensors. These issues can cause the car to fail to start or run poorly. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent electrical problems from occurring.
- Transmission-Related Issues: Transmission-related issues are also common in the Honda Prelude 1983. These problems can include transmission slipping, clutch problems, and gearbox failure. If you notice any issues with your transmission, it is important to have it inspected by a certified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: Suspension and steering issues are common in the Honda Prelude 1983. These problems can include worn-out suspension components, steering wheel vibration, and power steering failure. If you notice any issues with your suspension or steering, it is important to have it inspected by a certified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Braking Issues: Braking issues are also common in the Honda Prelude 1983. These problems can include worn brake pads and rotors, brake fluid leaks, and ABS system failure. If you notice any issues with your brakes, it is important to have them inspected by a certified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Body and Interior Issues: Body and interior issues are common in the Honda Prelude 1983. These problems can include rust problems, power window failure, and A/C system issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent body and interior problems from occurring.
In summary, the Honda Prelude 1983 can experience a variety of common issues, including fuel system problems, engine-related issues, electrical problems, transmission-related issues, suspension and steering issues, braking issues, and body and interior issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems from occurring and ensure safe and reliable operation.
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 does a Honda Prelude engine 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 1983 Honda Prelude have?
1983 Honda Prelude Specifications
| MSRP | $9,645 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower (SAE Net) | 100 @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque (SAE net) | 109 @ 4,000 |
| Fuel System | Dual side-draft Keihin carburetors |
| Fuel |
Are Preludes fuel efficient?
The Honda Prelude currently offers fuel consumption from 8.5 to 9.3L/100km.
1983 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Honda Prelude vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1983 Honda Prelude complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Honda Prelude.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JHMAB5222DC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-14
- VIN: JHMAB7223DC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: PREMATURE FAILURE OF MASTER CYLINDER/POWER BOOSTERS. *SKD
1983 Honda Prelude recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1983 Honda Prelude.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: IF THE PLASTIC COATING OF THE FUEL FILLER AND/OR BREATHER PIPE IS DAMAGED, SALT WATER MAY ACCUMULATE BETWEEN THE PLASTIC COATING AND THE STEEL PIPES, AND THE ACCUMULATION COULD CAUSE CORROSION WHICH WOULD EVENTUALLY RUST THROUGH THE AFFECTED PIPES, ALLOWING GASOLINE FUMES AND FUEL TO LEAK.
- Consequence: GASOLINE FUMES AND/OR FUEL LEAKAGE THROUGH THE FILLER ORBREATHER PIPES COULD RESULT IN A FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
- Remedy: REPAIRS WILL BE MADE TO VEHICLES WITH CORRODED FILLER OR BREATHER PIPES.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1983 Honda Prelude problems:
3rd Generation Honda Prelude Common Problem Fixes - Honda ...
Mar 31, 2008 ... It's very common to hear of a Prelude that has a bouncing idle problem. What usually happens is that once the car warms up, the idle will ...
Auto Trans. Problems? | Honda Prelude Forum
Jun 23, 2006 ... Okay, there is a lot of hating on the 5G Auto tranny. I know this is because it is honda's first attempt at a sport shift automatic and ...
Major issues with '92 Prelude - Honda Prelude Forum ...
Mar 18, 2010 ... However, I have just completed the engine swap and it is in running condition but still have a few issues with it: 1. The car vibrates a great ...
Newbie with carb problems | Honda Prelude Forum
Jun 16, 2021 ... The problem has started again. Its less frequent with a full tank, but in high load situations,(shifting above 4k rpm, fifth gear over 70mph, ...
Honda Prelude: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
While there are many possible causes for engine whine, on the Prelude, the most likely cause is going to be a front bearing failure in the alternator. You can ...
Other years of Honda Prelude
Are you having problems with your 1983 Honda Prelude?
Leave your review of 1983 Honda Prelude