1988 Honda Prelude problems

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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.

1988 Honda Prelude

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Common 1988 Honda Prelude problems

Based on the information from the sources provided, here is a detailed list of common problems with the Honda Prelude 1988 based on complaints from owners:

  1. Transmission Issues:
    • Description: Owners have reported problems with both automatic and manual transmissions, such as slipping, difficulty shifting, and grinding gears.
    • Impact: Transmission issues can lead to poor driving performance and potential safety hazards.
    • Resolution: Immediate inspection by a certified mechanic is crucial to prevent further damage.
  2. Oil Consumption:
    • Description: Some Honda Preludes are known to burn oil, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Impact: Low oil levels can lead to engine malfunction and reduced longevity.
    • Resolution: Inspection by a mechanic is necessary to identify the cause and address the oil burning promptly.
  3. Cooling System Problems:
    • Description: Issues like leaks and overheating have been reported, which can cause engine damage if not resolved.
    • Impact: Overheating can lead to severe engine damage and compromise vehicle safety.
    • Resolution: Regular maintenance, including coolant flushes and inspections, can help prevent cooling system issues.
  4. Power Steering System Leaks:
    • Description: Some Honda Preludes may develop leaks in the power steering rack, affecting steering performance.
    • Impact: Leaks can lead to difficulty in steering and potential damage to other components.
    • Resolution: Regular inspection of the power steering system is essential to detect leaks early and ensure safe operation.

These common problems with the Honda Prelude 1988 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and longevity.

1988 Honda Prelude engine

Is the 1988 Honda Prelude 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 an 88 Prelude?

1988 Honda Prelude Si

The third generation Prelude was similar to the second generation, however it gained four wheel steering on some models, as well as a 2.0 L SOHC carburated engine, an optional B20A DOHC EFI engine, or a slightly-larger B21A1 in 1990 and 1991.

Is the Prelude reliable?

Very reliable, enjoyable. Just do regular maintenance, and they will last way more than 200K miles.

What is the top speed of the 1988 Honda Prelude?

  • 206 km/h.
  • Acceleration, 0-100 km/h. 9.4 sec.
  • Top Speed. 128 mph.
  • Acceleration, 0-60 mph. 8.9 sec.

1988 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:

  • Steering problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Honda Prelude vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1988 Honda Prelude

The NHTSA has received 38 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Honda Prelude. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1988 Honda Prelude vehicles.

2007-04-09

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-28
  • VIN: JHMBA4144JC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: I HAVE A 1988 HONDA PRELUDE. THE POWER STEERING PRESSURE LINE HAS A LEAK AT THE CONNECTION RIGHT ABOVE THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. I CONTACTED AMERICAN HONDA TO SEE IF THE RECALL HAD BEEN TAKEN CARE OFF, AND THEY STATED THAT IT HAD. I HAVE THE SAME ISSUE THAT MANY OTHER OWNERS HAVE. THIS POSED A SERIOUS HAZARD TO PROPERTY, AND POSSIBLY LIFE IF THE FLUID LEAKED TOO BADLY AND CAUSED LOSS OF CONTROL. I DID NOT THINK THIS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED A WEAR AND TEAR ITEM. THIS WAS DUE TO THE DESIGN AND PLACEMENT OF THE LINE. THE REPLACEMENTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO RECTIFY THE SITUATION, BUT THE PROBLEM STILL EXISTED. WAS THERE ANY FOLLOUP ON THIS MATTER? IT SEEMED AS THOUGH MANY MEMBER OF A GROUP I BELONG TO FOR THE HONDA PRELUDE 1988-1991 HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. SOME HAVE REPORTED FIRES DUE TO THE LEAK. *AK
2007-01-05

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-12-27
  • VIN: JHMBA4240JC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: I [XXX] AND [XXX], OWN A 1988 HONDA PRELUDE SI 4WS. VEHICLE VIN: [XXX]. AT THE ENDING WEEK OF DECEMBER WHILE DRIVING IT STARTED TO SMOKE FROM UNDER HOOD AREA AND LACK OF CONTROL ON POWER STEERING OCCURRED. WENT TO LOCAL HONDA DEALERSHIP CASON HONDA LOCATED AT 1445 E.223RD ST.CARSON, CA 90745 310-834-4773 ON 12/22/06, LISA RODRIGUEZ ASSIST ME WITH MY VEHICLE CONCERNS. SHE PERFORMED A VIN STATUS INQUIRY IT STATED THE RECALL 88-014 C WAS COMPLETED ALREADY. SO I CONTACT AMERICAN HONDA WARRANTY ASSISTANCE HELP LINE AT 800-999-1009. SPOKE WITH JUDITH ON 12/28/06 RECEIVED CASE NUMBER N012006-12-2800464. SHE STATED THE RECALL WITH COMPLETE ON MAY 18, 1990. JUDITH, ADVISED THAT I HAVE DEALERSHIP INSPECT SIXTH DIGIT TO SEE IF RECALL PUNCH WAS ABOVE THE NUMBER AND INSPECT POWER STEERING HOSE MATERIAL TYPE. AUTHORIZED HONDA DEALERSHIP STATES RECALL AND SIXTH DIGIT HASN'T BEEN COMPLETE. LISA RODRIGUEZ CONTACTED HONDA WARRANTY CLAIM REPRESENTATIVE MANAGER NAMED GILBERTO WILSON ON 3:23 ON 1/3/07 TOLD, THAT THE RECALL 88-014 WAS NEVER COMPLETED ON THIS 1988 PRELUDE. GILBERTO CONTACTED MRS. RODRIGUEZ AT CARSON HONDA ON 1/4/07 ,DUE TO VIN STATUS INQUIRY SHOWS BEING COMPLETED AND MILEAGE ON VEHICLE AMERICAN HONDA CAN NOT ASSIST [XXX] IN REPLACEMENT OF HIGH PRESSURE STEERING HOSE. THIS RECALL 88-014 GOES UNDER THE NATIONAL TRAFFIC AND MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY ACT. *NM UPDATED 07/11/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2004-08-23

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-20
  • VIN: 1HMBA4139JC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL FILLER PIPE RUSTED . AS A RESULT, WHEN DRIVING THE PIPE LEAKED UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. *AK
2002-03-11

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
  • VIN: JHMBA4233JC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: VEHICLE HAD POWER STEERING HOSE LEAKING ONTO EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND SMOKING AS PER NHTSA RECALL # 88V059000. CONTACTED AMERICAN HONDA WHO INFORMED ME THAT THIS RECALL DOES NOT APPLY TO VIN ([XXX]).*AK INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2001-05-31

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-01
  • VIN: JHMBA4143JC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THIS SPECIFIC LINE HAS CAUSED SIGNIFICANT SMOKING, HAS BEEN COMPLETELY REPLACED AS OF MAY 2001, HOWEVER, THE PROBLEM CONTINUES WITH LEAKING FLUID. *AK
2001-03-27

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-03-23
  • VIN: JHMBA423XJC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: POWER STEERING HOSE IS LEAKING FLUID ONTO EXHAUST MANIFOLD. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS.*AK
2000-03-08

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-01-29
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JHMBA4124JC
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE POWER STEERING ASSEMBLY WAS RECALLED IN 1988 YET THE ORIG. OWNER DID NOT RECIEVE RECALL NOTICE . NOW THIS FIRE WAS CAUSED BY THE DEFECT, CONFIRMED BY MY MECHANIC AND COSTING ME APPROX. 1500.00 DOLLARS TO REPAIR WITH THE FIRE DAMAGE. HOPEFULLY HONDA WILL REIMBURSE ME FOR THE COST. I HAVE THE DOCUMENTATION AND RECEIPTS ALONG WITH PHOTO'S TOO.
1999-11-23

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JHMBA4132K7
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: POWER STEERING SUPPLY HOSE HAS DEVELOPED A FLUID LEAK, CAUSING SAFETY HAZARD. *AK
1999-11-18

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: DUE TO DEFECTIVE HOSE ,POWER STEERING FLUID IS LEAKING ONTO EXHAUST MANIFOLD, CAUSING A FIRE HAZARD. RECALL 88V05900 WAS ISSUED, BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK
1999-03-23

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-06
  • VIN: JHMBA4126JC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: REAR LIGHT SEALS LEAKING CAUSING WATER TO RUN OFF THE WIRES AND INTO THE TRUNK AS WELL AS THE BACK SEAT AND CARPET.
1998-11-23

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JHMBA4124JC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS FILLER TUBE RUSTED OUT. 83-87 PRELUDES HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR SAME DEFECT. WHY NOT MINE? PLEASE ADVISE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS BECAUSE I LOSE AN AWFULLY LOT OF GAS ON THE FILLING STATION DRIVE WHICH COULD CATCH FIRE. I WOULD LIKE TO FIX THIS BUT DON'T HAVE THE MONEY.
1997-12-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: JHMBA4130JC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL SYSTEM LEAK DUE TO DEFECTIVE GAS FILLER NECK.
1997-11-10

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: JHMVA4130JC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE POWER STEERING HOSE IS LEAKING POWER STEERING FLUID. THE DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
1997-09-10

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-09-10
  • VIN: JHNBA4134JC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: RECALL # 95V103001, CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE IN OCTOBER OF 97. NO PROBLEM WITH BUCKLE AT THAT TIME. THE BUCKLE HAS BEEN BROKEN SINCE MAY OF 97. CONSUMER IS NOT ABLE TO GET RECALL WORK PERFORMED BECAUSE PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. *AK THE CONSUMER STATES THAT THE DEALER WAS DELAYING THE REPAIR CLAIMING PARTS HAD NOT COME IN. THE CONSUMER ALSO MENTIONED THAT THIS DEALERS CHARGES WERE MUCH MUCH HIGHER THAN THAT OF OTHER DEALERS IN THE AREA. *YH
1997-06-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-06-10
  • VIN: JHMBA4127JC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: THE POWER STEERING HOSE IS LEAKING FLUID ONTO THE VERY HOT MANIFOLD AND COULD CAUSE A FIRE. *AK
1996-12-17

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-05-05
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JHMBA4224JC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
1996-12-17

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-09-25
  • VIN: JHMBA423XJC
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: POWER STEERING HOSE LEAKS FLUID INTO HOT EXHAUST MANIFOLD, CAUSING SMOKE.
1996-11-07

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS LEAK DUE TO RUSTING OF THE FUEL FILLER PIPE.
1996-11-07

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: RADIO FAILED.
1996-11-07

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: BOLT ON THE POWER STEERING PUMP BROKE CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL.
1996-11-04

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-05-05
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JHMBA4224JC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
1996-10-07

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-02
  • VIN: JHMBA4141JC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL FILLER PIPE RUSTED/SPLIT, CAUSING GASOLINE LEAK.
1996-02-16

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-05-15
  • VIN: JHMBA4140JC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SHOULDER/LAP BELT DOES NOT RETRACT AS INTENDED; WHEN UNBUCKLED, DOES NOT REWIND, SO MUCH SLACK, OCCUPANT NOT PROPERLY RESTRAINED. TT
1996-02-16

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-05-15
  • VIN: JHMBA4140JC
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SHOULDER/LAP BELT DOES NOT RETRACT AS INTENDED; WHEN UNBUCKLED, DOES NOT REWIND, SO MUCH SLACK, OCCUPANT NOT PROPERLY RESTRAINED. TT
1996-02-01

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-12-01
  • VIN: JHMBA4230JC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: WHEN HEADLIGHTS ARE TURNED ON, THERE ARE NO DASH LIGHTS/REAR DRIVING LIGHTS. *DSH

1988 Honda Prelude recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1988 Honda Prelude.

1995-05-24
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
  • Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES. CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. CHECK THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUG ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, THEN PRESS THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS ANY SIGN OF BREAKAGE OR CRACKING, OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, PROMPTLY CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED HONDA/ACURA DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
1989-06-13
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
  • Summary: THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL STOPPER MAY BE BENT WHEN EXCESSIVE DOWNWARD FORCE IS APPLIED AFTER PEDAL HAS CONTACTED THE STOPPER.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL SHOULDPEDAL BE CAUGHT AND HELD DOWN BY BENT STOPPER, WHICH COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL A SUPPORT TO PREVENT STOPPER FROM BENDING.
1989-06-08
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE REAR INBOARD SEAT ANCHORAGE BRACKET FOR THE FRONT SEATS MAY NOT WITHSTAND THE FORCE REQUIRED BY FMVSS 207.
  • Consequence: BRACKET FAILURE COULD RESULT IN SEAT BECOMING LOOSE;VEHICLES WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 207.
  • Remedy: INSTALL A REINFORCING PLATE TO REAR INBOARD SEAT ANCHORAGE BRACKET FOR EACH FRONT SEAT.
1988-04-06
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
  • Summary: VIBRATION AND HIGH UNDERHOOD TEMPERATURES COULD CAUSE POWER STEERING SUPPLY HOSE AT THE CONNECTOR CLAMP SEAL TO DEVELOP A FLUID LEAK.
  • Consequence: IF THE FLUID CONTACTS THE HOT EXHAUST MANIFOLD, IT MAYCAUSE SMOKE AND POSSIBLY AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
  • Remedy: INSTALL AN IMPROVED POWER STEERING SUPPLY HOSE ASSEMBLY.
1987-10-29
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
  • Summary: OWNERS MANUAL INFORMATION REQUIRED BY FMVSS 210, SECTIONS 6A AND 6B WAS OMITTED FROM THE MANUAL.
  • Consequence: VEHICLES MANUAL INFORMATION DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS210.
  • Remedy: UPGRADE EXISTING MANUALS BY INSERTING ADHESIVE BACKED CORRECTION PAGES.
1987-08-04
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: A SMALL AMOUNT OF COOLANT SEEPAGE MAY OCCUR, AND EVENTUALLY RESIDUE MAY ACCUMULATE ON THE THROTTLE VALVE.
  • Consequence: RESIDUE MAY CAUSE THROTTLE VALVE RETURN-TO-IDLE SPEED TOBE SLOWER THAN NORMAL WHEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS RELEASED.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY.
Leave your review of 1988 Honda Prelude

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1988 Honda Prelude problems:

1988 - 1991 - Common Issues? - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
1988 - 1991 - Common Issues? - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum ...
https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-prelude-4/1988-1991-common-issues-2536552/

Mar 29, 2009 ... Honda Prelude - 1988 - 1991 - Common Issues? - Are there any known issues with this generation Prelude? What about the 4WS models?

3rd gen Lude common problems. | Honda Prelude Forum
3rd gen Lude common problems. | Honda Prelude Forum
https://www.preludepower.com/threads/3rd-gen-lude-common-problems.201274/

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 ...

3rd Generation Honda Prelude Common Problem Fixes - Honda ...
3rd Generation Honda Prelude Common Problem Fixes - Honda ...
https://www.preludedriver.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=310

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 ...

1988 Prelude 2.0 Si 4ws stalling/starting problems | Honda Prelude ...
1988 Prelude 2.0 Si 4ws stalling/starting problems | Honda Prelude ...
https://www.preludepower.com/threads/1988-prelude-2-0-si-4ws-stalling-starting-problems.401498/

Apr 15, 2014 ... 1988 Prelude 2.0 Si 4ws stalling/starting problems · 1. Check your air filter. Is it dirty? · 2. Check your fuel filter. · 3. If your "very ...

Q&A: Honda Prelude Headlights - 1988 Si 4WS, Pop Up Lights ...
Q&A: Honda Prelude Headlights - 1988 Si 4WS, Pop Up Lights ...
https://www.justanswer.com/honda/1016h-will-headlight-moters-allow-headlight-go.html

Dec 30, 2007 ... How about the wiring diagrams. graphic. I have never had to diagnose these headlights. Not a common problem that I have seen anyway.

Other years of Honda Prelude

honda prelude 1989 photo
Prelude 1989
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honda prelude 1990 photo
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honda prelude 1991 photo
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honda prelude 1992 photo
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honda prelude 1994 photo
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1988 Honda Prelude photo