1985 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 1985 Honda Prelude problems
The Honda Prelude, introduced in 1985, is known for its legendary handling and reliability. However, as with any vehicle, there are common problems that owners have reported.
- Engine Performance: While the 1985 Honda Prelude is known for its reliable engine, some owners have reported issues such as a lack of power and engine residue. These problems can be addressed with a fuel additive, which can help clean the engine and improve its performance.
- Suspension and Handling: The 1985 Honda Prelude is praised for its handling capabilities, but some owners have reported issues with the suspension, such as rattles and the need for adjustments. Additionally, the handbrake may require adjustment for optimal performance.
- Minor Rust: Some owners have reported minor rust on the wheel wells, which is a common issue in older vehicles. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent and address this issue.
- Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported electrical issues, such as a sticky hazard light button, which can be fixed by re-greasing the button track.
- Transmission Problems: The 5th generation auto transmission in the Honda Prelude is known to be problematic, with some owners reporting that it is junk.
- Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported oil consumption problems with higher mileage h22 engines.
- Water Leaks: Water leaks due to sunroof/windshield seals are a common issue in the 5th generation Preludes, particularly in higher mileage vehicles.
- Front Bumper Sagging: The front bumper of the 5th generation Prelude may sag if it is fiddled around with too much.
- Trunk Leaks: Some 5th generation Preludes have trunk leaks, which can be addressed by fitting a replacement driveshaft oil seal.
- Faulty Ignition System: Older Preludes may experience issues with the ignition system, which can wear out quickly and cause the vehicle to stall. Installing a new ignition system can help address this issue.
- Weak Headlights: The headlights installed on the 5th generation Preludes are known to be weak, particularly on a low beam. Installing HID retrofits can help improve the headlights' performance.
- Speedometer Malfunctions: The speedometer on the Prelude may not work properly or may stop working altogether due to a faulty speedo sensor. Fitting a replacement speedo sensor can help address this issue.
- Driveshaft Oil Seal Failure: Oil leaking onto the floor or the vehicle struggling to change into gear can be symptoms of a driveshaft oil seal failure. Fitting a replacement driveshaft oil seal can help address this issue.
- Rust Around Wheel Arches: Rust around the wheel arches is a common issue in the Prelude, particularly on versions with stone chip protectors. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent and address this issue.
In conclusion, while the Honda Prelude is known for its reliability and handling capabilities, there are common problems that owners have reported, particularly in older models. Regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
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.
What engine is in a 1985 Honda Prelude?
7 engines
| Name | Power | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| Prelude Si 2.0 | 112 hk | 2WD |
| 1.8 | 120 hk | 2WD |
| 1.8 | 125 hk | 2WD |
| Prelude 2.0i-16 2.0 | 135 hk | 2WD |
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.
Why did Honda stop the Prelude?
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.
1985 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Honda Prelude vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Honda Prelude complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Honda Prelude.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-05
- VIN: JHMAB7224FC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: NO SUMMARY.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-23
- VIN: JHMAB5224FC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS FUMES IS LEAKING OUT FROM THE FILLER PIPE, COMING INTO THE TRUCK AREA OF THE VEHICLE AND THEN INTO THE VEHICLE. THE FILLER PIPE WAS UNDER RECALL IN 1993, RECALL # 92V028001; FUEL: FUEL SYSTEMS, THE PROBLEM HAS REOCCURRED. THE PROBLEM WAS REPORTED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED. REPORT GIVEN BY FATHER, RON CUDDIE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-12
- VIN: JHMAB5224FC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE FRONT SEAT BELTS DON'T WORK MOST OF THE TIMES. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-01
- VIN: JHMAB5226FC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER SWITCH FAILS TO WORK, IT DOES NOT STAY WHEN DEPRESSED.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-01
- VIN: JHMAB5224FC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK FILLER NECK/PIPE CORRODED. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-21
- VIN: BJHMBB523FC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SEATBACK RECLINING MECHANISM HAS BROKEN TWO TIMES. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-02-28
- VIN: JHMA52211FC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL PIPE LEAK. *AK
1985 Honda Prelude recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1985 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 1985 Honda Prelude problems:
:::Common Prelude Problems::: - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
Mar 22, 2007 ... but for some common problems i've heard or ran into as of now is oil consumption problems at higher mileage h22's, water leaks due to the ...
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Jun 14, 2004 ... Maybe we could list them in a single thread with links to threads discussing answers. Like for example the red light in A/C button issue, or ...
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Mar 16, 2008 ... I'm about to buy a 1993 Prelude with the H22A1, and I just have a few questions. What are some common problems with these cars and motors? Is it ...
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
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