1997 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 1997 Honda Prelude problems
The Honda Prelude, a well-known sports coupe, has garnered a reputation for reliability, but it does have specific issues that could affect its performance and longevity.
- Steering Joints: Steering joints can weaken over time, and in the worst cases, they could fail, causing a total loss of control. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent this issue, and it's essential to ensure that any recalls related to the steering system have been carried out.
- Ignition System: Some Prelude owners have reported issues with the ignition system, which might lead the car to stall. This problem can be particularly concerning for those who rely on their cars for daily commuting, so it's crucial to ensure that the ignition system is in good working order before purchasing a Prelude.
- Four-Wheel Steering System: The range-topping VTi models are equipped with a four-wheel steering system, which should be adjusted properly to ensure safe and reliable operation. Additionally, it's essential to check that the wear on each of the tyres is even to prevent any potential issues.
- Alloy Wheels: The Prelude's alloy wheels are prone to kerbing, and if an owner has been particularly careless, the front suspension could have been damaged at the same time. This issue can affect the car's handling and overall safety, so it's essential to check the condition of the alloy wheels and the suspension when purchasing a Prelude.
- Cam Seals: The cam seals are known to leak oil after a while, particularly in H22 engines. This issue can lead to increased oil consumption and potential engine damage, so it's crucial to check for any signs of oil leaks and ensure that the cam seals are in good condition.
- Trunk Leaks: Fifth-generation Preludes have some sort of trunk leaks, which can lead to water damage and potential electrical issues. Checking for any signs of water leaks and ensuring that the trunk seal is in good condition can help prevent this issue.
- Front Brake Rotors: Warped front brake rotors can cause vibration when braking, which can affect the car's safety and handling. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent this issue, and it's essential to ensure that the brake system is in good working order before purchasing a Prelude.
- Rear Spoiler: Some drivers and versions with mechanics complain that the rear spoiler can affect rear visibility, particularly when reversing . This issue can affect the car's safety, so it's essential to check for any signs of damage or wear to the rear spoiler and ensure that it doesn't obstruct the driver's view.
- Rear Seats: The rear seats of the Prelude are not designed for regular use, and accessing them can be challenging . This issue can affect the car's practicality, particularly for those who need to transport passengers regularly.
In summary, the Honda Prelude is a reliable car, but it does have specific issues that could affect its performance and longevity. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent many of these issues, and it's essential to ensure that any known issues have been addressed before purchasing a Prelude.
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.
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.
Do Honda Preludes handle well?
The fifth-generation Honda Prelude showed up in late 1996 with great looks, a 200-hp four-cylinder engine, and an excellent manual transmission. It also handled so well that it was easy to forget the Prelude was front-wheel drive.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Honda Prelude get?
Mate that to a great engine that winds up like a motorcycle and you get a very energetic, responsive sports coupe. Counterpoint: The back seat remains very small, as do the radio buttons. CURB WEIGHT: 3,042 lbs. MPG RATING: 22 city, 27 hwy.
1997 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:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Honda Prelude vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Honda Prelude
The NHTSA has received 74 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Honda Prelude. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Honda Prelude vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-28
- VIN: JHMBB6247VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS CAR USED AND HAVE HAD GOOD LUCK WITH HONDA'S IN THE PAST BUT ABOUT 300 MILES OF ME OWNING THIS VEHICLE I WAS ENTERING A FREEWAY WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN I LOST ALL POWER WITH CARS GOING HIGHWAY SPEED BEHIND ME I HAD TO PULL OFF TO THE SHOULDER LUCKILY THERE WAS ONE THERE THE FIRST TIME IT GAVE OUT BUT LATER ON THAT DRIVE GOING HOME I WAS DRIVING OVER A BRIDGE WITH TRAFFIC WHEN IT DID IT AGAIN I WAS SO SCARED BECAUSE I'M STUCK IN A LINE OF TRAFFIC ON A BRIDGE AND THE CAR WANTS TO ROLL BACK AND IT DIDN'T WANT TO TURN ON UNTIL IT COOLED DOWN WHICH WAS 30 MINUTES OF UGLY LOOKS OF CARS DRIVING BY ME WHEN I FINALLY GOT HOME I HAD NEVER FELT SO RELIEVED SO THAT'S WHEN I TOLD MY FATHER ABOUT IT WE LOOKED AT IT DRIVE IT AND HE HOPED IT WAS JUST A BAD IGNITION COIL SO WE CHANGED THAT BUT AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ONLINE I SAW THAT THIS WAS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH CARS TRANSMISSION SO I DIG A LITTLE BIT MORE AND FOUND OUT THAT HONDA KNEW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM BUT ONLY IS HONORING THE 2000 YEAR MODELS AND UP UNDER WARRANTY WHICH IS REALLY UNFAIR BECAUSE ONE THEY KNEW THERE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS WERE WEAK AND IT COULD OF COST ME MY LIFE TWICE! SO I'M TAKING THE TIME TO STAND UP FOR ALL OF US BECAUSE NO ONE DESERVES TO BE HURT OR FATALLY WOUNDED BY A POORLY MADE TRANSMISSION
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-06
- VIN: JHBB6243VVC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ITS THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IT ONLY HAS 136000 MILES ON IT AND I NEED A NEW ONE THAT'S REALLY LOW MILES FOR A 97 NEVER HAD A PROBLEM LIKE THIS EVER WITH ANY OF MY CARS. I HEARD ITS WITH ALL THE HONDAS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-07
- VIN: JHMBB6146VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA PRELUDE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) BUT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 186,000. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-11
- VIN: JHMBB6243VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WELL BASICALLY I BOUGHT MY 97AUTOMATIC PRELUDE, AND NOT MORE THAN A MONTH LATER OF HAVING THE CAR THE TRANSMISSION STARTED TO MALFUNCTION. BASICALLY IT WOULD SOUND LIKE A SCREW DRIVER WAS BEING FORCED INTO THE GEARS OR SOMETHING. ON TOP OF THAT IT WAS REVVING RIDICULOUSLY HIGH AND NOT MOVING ANYWHERE. MY FOURTH GEAR WAS GONE THEY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON. NOT TO MENTION WHEN THE PROBLEM WAS ADDRESSED TO THE DEALER THEY SAID BRING IT IN AND THEY WILL ERASE THE CODE "GOOD AS NEW" TO BE EXACT. BUT HONESTLY AS A CONSUMER A LOYAL ONE, I FEEL LIKE I SHOULD BE COMPENSATED BY HAVING MY TRANSMISSION REPLACED OR FULLY REBUILT. CAUSE EVERYONE KNOWS AS WELL AS HONDA MECHANICS WHO HAVE FILLED ME IN WITH THE SS TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS BEING THE CAUSE OF BAD BEARINGS AND BAD INTERNALS AND BAD TORQUE CONVERTERS. SEEING AS ME BEING THE CONSUMER AND BEING CONSTANTLY PUT IN A SITUATION BEEN AM I GONNA BREAK DOWN ON THE FREEWAY ON THE WAY TO WORK OR YET EVEN WORSE AT NIGHT PAST MIDNIGHT WHEN I'M OFF. NOW LET ME REMIND U IT'S STILL A LEASE AND THERE ARE SOME FACTS I KNOW AD RESEARCHED ON LIKE "THE MAGNUSON-MOSS WARRANTY ACT (15 U.S.C. 2302)" WHICH STATES: THIS FEDERAL LAW REGULATES WARRANTIES FOR THE PROTECTION OF CONSUMERS. THE ESSENCE OF THE LAW CONCERNING AFTERMARKET AUTO PARTS IS THAT A VEHICLE MANUFACTURER MAY NOT CONDITION A WRITTEN OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THE CONSUMERS USING PARTS OR SERVICES WHICH ARE IDENTIFIED BY BRAND, TRADE, OR CORPORATE NAME (SUCH AS THE VEHICLE MAKER'S BRAND) UNLESS THE PARTS OR SERVICE ARE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE. THE LAW MEANS THAT THE USE OF AN AFTERMARKET PART ALONE IS NOT CAUSE FOR DENYING THE WARRANTY. HOWEVER, THE LAW'S PROTECTION DOES NOT EXTEND TO AFTERMARKET PARTS IN SITUATIONS WHERE SUCH PARTS ACTUALLY CAUSED THE DAMAGE BEING CLAIMED UNDER THE WARRANTY. FURTHER, CONSUMERS ARE ADVISED TO BE AWARE OF ANY SPECIFIC TERMS OR CONDITIONS STATED IN THE WARRANTY WHICH MAY RESULT IN ITS BEING VOIDED. THE LAW STATES IN RELEVANT PART: ??NO WARRANTOR OF. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-17
- VIN: JHMBB6248VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 HONDA PRELUDE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH IN A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE STALLED. SHE STATED SHE TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND WHEN RESTARTING, THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED AT LEAST SIX TIMES, INTERMITTENTLY. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THE CONTACT TO HAVE THE DEALER DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: IGNITION: SWITCH). THE CONTACT DID NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 146,565 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 146,765.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-18
- VIN: JHMBB6241VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 1997 HONDA PRELUDE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DIED OUT. WHEN I LOOKED ON THE FORUMS, HONDA IS VERY WELL AWARE OF THE FAILURE BY DESIGN OF THEIR HONDA PRELUDES. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-31
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I'VE DRIVING MY PRELUDE FOR 4 YEARS. VERY SOON AFTER I GOT IT I NOTICD THE SHIFTING WAS JERKY. SOON AFTER IT BECAME JUMPY AND NOW WHEN I DRIVIE MY CAR FROM COLD ITS BOLTING INTO GEAR WITH A TREMENDOUS JERK. I FEEL ITS ON ITS WAY OUT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-11
- VIN: JHMBB624XVC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: APRIL 2007 I HAD THE SHIFT INTERLOCK UPDATE AS WELL AS THE IGNITION SWITCH RECALL DONE AT MY LOCAL DEALER. THE SHIFT INTERLOCK UPDATE INCLUDED A WHOLE NEW LOCK ASSEMBLY INCLUDING NEW TUMBLERS AND A NEW KEY BECAUSE I WAS ABLE TO REMOVE MY OLD KEY WHILE NOT IN PARK. JULY 2009 I STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS TURNING THE KEY IN THE IGNITION USING MANY DIFFERENT KEYS. SO I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THE PROBLEM WAS THAT THE TUMBLERS WERE DAMAGED AND THAT THE WHOLE LOCK ASSEMBLY WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. I WAS HAVING NO PROBLEMS WITH THE LOCK PRIOR TO THE RECALL WORK. THE NEW LOCK INSTALLED DURING THE RECALL LASTED JUST OVER 2 YEARS AND HONDA WOULD NOT WARRANTY THE WORK BECAUSE IT HAD BEEN OVER 12 MONTHS 12000 MILES. I ASKED THEM TO EXPLAIN TO ME WHY MY ORIGINAL LOCK LASTED 10 YEARS AND WAS HAVING NO ISSUES WHEN RECALLED, AND THE REPLACEMENT ONLY 2 YEARS. THEY SAID THAT THEY COULDN'T EXPLAIN IT BUT THE CHARGE TO REPLACE WAS $887. I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO REPLACE IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE MY CAR. IT IS MY BELIEF THAT THE NEW LOCK ASSEMBLY INSTALLED BECAUSE OF THE RECALL WAS DEFECTIVE, AND IT WAS EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE FOR ME TO REPLACE. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-06
- VIN: JHMBB6245VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY TRANSMISSION ON MY 97 HONDA PRELUDE WENT OUT ON ME IT STARTED TO SLIP EVERY DAY. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-05
- VIN: JHMBB6247VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 1997 HONDA PRELUDE AUTOMATIC SS CRAPPED OUT ON ME AFTER KICKING AND SLIPPING FOR A FEW MONTHS SO I HAD IT REBUILT...AND NOW A FEW MONTHS LATER IT'S ALREADY SLIPPING AND KICKING AGAIN. IT COST 1500 TO HAVE IT REBUILT THE FIRST TIME, HONDA ALREADY ADDRESSED THE 00-01 PRELUDE AUTO TRANSMISSIONS IN A RECALL, WHY HAVEN'T THE ADDRESSED THE ISSUES IN THE PRIOR YEARS? IT'S THE SAME CAR AS THE 00-01, NO CHANGES WERE MADE TO THE BODY, ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, AND YET THEY REFUSE TO ADDRESS THIS WIDESPREAD ISSUE AMONG PRELUDE OWNERS. I FOR ONE AM TIRED OF IT, HONDA OWES IT TO THEIR LOYAL CONSUMERS THAT THEY CONFRONT THIS ISSUE HEAD ON. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-20
- VIN: JHMBB6247VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 PRELUDE THAT HAS HAD 1 TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN NOV. OF 2005 & IT WAS REBUILT. IT CURRENT IS FAILING THE SAME WAY THE FIRST TRANSMISSION FAILED. IT IS MAKING NOISE & STARTING TO SLIP WHEN IT IS COLD. $1700 TO FIX THE 1ST TRANSMISSION BY A TRANS SHOP. I AM JOINING A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT IF IT IS NOT TAKEN CARE OF FROM HONDA. THIS CAR ONLY HAS 65,000 MILES ON IT! *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-16
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 1997 HONDA PRELUDE SPORTS SHIFT AUTO TRANSMISSION FAILED AND NOW IT NEEDS TO BE TOWED. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-30
- VIN: JHMBB624XWC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I RECENTLY BOUGHT MY HONDA PRELUDE BACK IN NOVEMBER 18, 2007 FROM A USED DEALERSHIP. THE CAR CAME WITH 167K MILES AND NOW I'M AT 169K. THE MAIN REASON WHY I AM FILING A COMPLAINT, IS THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IS GOING OUT. I TAKE MY CAR TO WORK, SCHOOL, DRIVE MY MOM TO WORK, AND EVEN MY YOUNGER BROTHER TO SCHOOL. THIS IS THE ONLY CAR WE HAVE. THE TRANSMISSION SLIPS AND JERKS AT LOW RPMS FROM 1K-3K IN 1ST-2ND GEAR. I'VE DONE RESEARCH ON 97-01 HONDA PRELUDES AND THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS THE MOST FAILS. IF MY AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION GOES OUT I WOULDN'T HAVE THE FUNDS TO REPLACE IT WHILE I'M STILL PAYING FOR INSURANCE AND MONTHLY PAYMENTS. I BELIEVE THAT HONDA SHOULD REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION WITHOUT COST EVEN WITH CARS WITHOUT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. ALSO I HEAR THAT THE 99-01 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS WERE STRONGER THAN THE 97-98 YEARS AND WERE ALSO GIVEN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR THE 99-01 YEARS WITH UNDER 100K MILES. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-19
- VIN: JHMBB6145VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR STALLED WITHOUT WARNING ON HIGHWAY DUE TO IGNITION SWITCH. THE IGNITION SWITCHED WAS REPLACED IN OCT 2003 AS PART OF A RECALL YET FAILED LESS THAN 3 YEARS LATER. "MAKE : HONDA MODEL : PRELUDE YEAR : 1997 MANUFACTURER : AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 02V120000 RECALL DATE : MAY 13, 2002 COMPONENT: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH" *NM
PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-01
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS IN 1997 HONDA PRELUDES ARE WEAK AND FAIL EASY. THE REASON IS CHEAP PARTS AND METALS IN THE TRANSMISSIONS THEMSELVES. THE 97 PRELUDES WERE RECALLED IN TURKEY, AND REPLACED WITH A NEW M6HA UNIT. MINE IS CONSTANTLY SLIPPING AND TEARING UP. I'M LOOKING AT A CONSTANT PROBLEM THAT COSTS A LOT OF MONEY. I BOUGHT THIS CAR FOR ITS QUALITY AND PRESTIGE IN THE HONDA WORLD, BUT DUE TO THE LACK OF QUALITY AND WORKMANSHIP IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, MY OPINION OF PRELUDES HAS DRASTICALLY DROPPED. I WOULD NOT CARE IF I HAD AN AUTOMATIC OR A MANUAL, I JUST WANT A CAR THAT WORKS LIKE THE HONDA COMPANY LACKED TO MAKE IT. THANK YOU. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-20
- VIN: JHMBB6247VC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER HAS HAD RECURRING PROBLEMS WITH OIL LEAKING EACH TIME THEY HAVE REPAIRED DIFFERENT PARTS ON THE VEHICLE AND IT STILL PERSIST. *TS THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOUR TIMES FROM MAY 2003- OCTOBER 2003 FOR OIL LEAKAGE. THEY CHANGED THE OIL AND FILTER AND ON THE LAST DATE CLAIMED THAT THE SEALS WERE PROBABLY LEAKING. AFTER EACH OCCASION THE CONSUMER WAS ASSURED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS RESOLVED. ON DECEMBER 20, 2004 THE CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD CRACKING SOUND WHILE DRIVING. SHE PULLED INTO A SERVICE STATION WHO POPPED THE HOOD AND NOTICED OIL LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DETERMINED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO LACK OF OIL. THE MANUFACTURER REFUSED TO ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-25
- VIN: JHMBB6240VC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: DT: THE CONSUMER HAD RECALL 05V018000 REPAIR WORK COMPLETED ON FRIDAY. THE RECALL INVOLVED THE IGNITION SWITCH.. ON SUNDAY SHE NOTICED THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER DID NOT WORK. SHE TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THE BLOWER WAS OUT ON THE AIR CONDITIONER. THE TOTAL COST OF REPAIR WOULD BE $489.00. THE CONSUMER FELT THIS PROBLEM WAS RELATED TO THE RECALL REPAIR WORK THAT HAD BEEN COMPLETED ON FRIDAY. SHE WAS AT THE DEALERSHIP FROM 8AM TO 12:15 PM BEFORE THE DEALER FINISHED INSPECTING THE VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-05
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1997 HONDA PRELUDE WITH ONLY 67,000 MILES. STARTED TO MAKE A MINOR BUZZING NOISE WHEN IN PARK OR NEUTRAL. TOOK IT TO MY INDEPENDENT HONDA MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME THAT I HAD A BEARING GOING IN THE TRANSMISSION. IT WOULD REQUIRE A REBUILD OF THE TRANSMISSION. COST $3,900. HE SUGGESTED THAT I SELL THE CAR QUICKLY AS IT WASN'T WORTH THE COST OF REPAIRS. THAT'S WHAT I DID. SOLD IT TO A HONDA DEALERSHIP. HONDA NEEDS TO RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM WITH THESE TRANSMISSIONS. NO MORE HONDAS FOR ME.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-18
- VIN: JHMBB6240VC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED FOR A HONDA RECALL 11108, RECALL REPAIRS FAILED, IT WAS LEAKING OIL. DEALERSHIP INDICATED TO THE CONSUMER, SORRY WARRANTY EXPIRED. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-25
- VIN: JHMBB6243VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1997 HONDA PRELUDE TRANSMISSION FAILURE. HONDA REFUSES TO ASSIST CONSUMERS WITH FAULTY TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS INHERENT IN THE VEHICLES. TRANS WILL SLIP OUT OF GEAR, OR NOT ENGAGE WHEN ENTERING FREEWAY, CAUSING A DANGEROUS AND LIFE THREATENING CONDITION. WHEN SOMEONE GETS KILLED BECAUSE OF THESE TRANSMISSIONS, AMERICAN HONDA WILL THEN BE FORCED TO RECALL THESE HORRIBLE CARS.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-14
- VIN: JHMBB6247VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 97 HONDA PRELUDE
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-07
- VIN: JHMBB6241VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary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
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-21
- VIN: JHMBB6247VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED PREMATURELY... CAR SLOWS DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY DURING GEAR SHIFT IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THIS CAUSES THE DRIVERS FOLLOWING THE VEHICLE TO BRAKE UNEXPECTEDLY. *LA
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-03
- VIN: JHMBB6249VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 1997 PRELUDE SS HAD A TRANSMISSION ISSUE AND IT DECIDED TO GO ON ME, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD, WHILE TRAFFIC WAS BEHIND ME. SO, I DECIDED TO CONTACT HONDA AND MAKE THEM SEE THE ISSUE, INSTEAD I RECEIVED A NO ANSWER, WHICH WAS A PRETTY LAME EXCUSE TO NOT REPLACE A TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN ALL 97-99 HONDA PRELUDE CARS, SO, THE SERVICE MANAGER DECIDED TO RETRY THE HONDA USA NUMBER, AND THEY GOT ME THROUGH AND REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION UNDER A NON-TRANSMISSION WARRANTY. SO, MY POINT IS THAT HONDA MUST COMPLY WITH A TRANSMISSION WARRANTY ON ALL THESE CARS, AND NOT JUST THE NEWER MODELS, BECAUSE IT IS UNFAIR TO HAVE A TRANSMISSION WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY FAIL, AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN. SO, WITH ALL THIS SAID, I WANT TO MAKE SURE SOMETHING WILL BE DONE REGARDING THIS ISSUE. THANKS. *LA
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-15
- VIN: JHMBB6159VC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1997 HONDA PRELUDE THE CLUTCH SPRING RETAINER BROKE RENDERING THE CLUTCH INOPERABLE PLACING STRESS ON THE TRANSMISSION AND DAMAGING THE INTERNALS FROM THE SPRING BEING LOOSE IN THE SYSTEM
1997 Honda Prelude recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1997 Honda Prelude.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE INTERLOCK OPERATION OF THE IGNITION SWITCH MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY, MAKING IT POSSIBLE TO TURN THE IGNITION KEY TO THE "OFF" POSITION AND REMOVE THE KEY WITHOUT SHIFTING THE TRANSMISSION TO PARK.
- Consequence: IF THE DRIVER DOES NOT SHIFT TO PARK BEFORE REMOVING THE KEY AND FAILS TO ENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE, THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL PERFORM AN INSPECTION PROCEDURE THAT CONFIRMS INTERLOCK FUNCTION. VEHICLES WILL BE UPDATED WITH A REDESIGNED INTERLOCK LEVER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 7, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SEDANS, COUPES, HATCHBACKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN DEGRADE DUE TO THE HIGH ELECTRICAL CURRENT PASSING THROUGH THE SWITCH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED.
- Consequence: WORN CONTACTS COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL WITHOUT WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 14, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH BALL JOINTS THAT CAN PREMATURELY WEAR OUT AND, IN THE WORSE CASE, THE BALL JOINT WOULD SEPARATE CAUSING THE FRONT SUSPENSION TO COLLAPSE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.
Negative 1997 Honda Prelude car reviews
Positive 1997 Honda Prelude car reviews
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No one believes my car is a '97! You know how it is, trying to keep it in great shape and definitely keep it serviced. If only those SUV folks could see me down here, they wouldn't run me off the road! Life in my Prelude would be perfect then. But what am I to do when it's time to retire this one, since Honda pulled production? Hopefully that day won't come anytime soon...
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If you come across a manual in good condition, don't hesitate to buy it. You won't regret it. I bought mine with 130k miles on it, and now it's at 156k miles. I've driven it hard and put it through its paces, but all I've had to replace was a shifter cable (costing $800). I absolutely love everything about it, except for the back seats, but hey, it's a coupe!
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Awesome car! For the price nothing comes close to its performance. I'm glad to hear that you're getting a lot of attention in this car. It's also great to know that you're averaging about 22mpg in town driving. It sounds like you've taken good care of it, having only changed the timing belt, water pump and slave cylinder on the car despite having 86K miles on it.
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Great car! Although it may be a little slow off the line, when that V-tech kicks in, there is some serious power. This car is just as reliable as any other Honda out there. Plus, it has awesome gas mileage and looks great too! I will say, as someone who is 6'1
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Drove it for six years and loved it. Just bought an SUV and wish I still had a fun, fast car. Not a single mechanical problem in six years! That's amazing.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Honda Prelude problems:
Commonly known issues with 5th gen Preludes? | Honda Prelude ...
Jan 6, 2008 ... 1. Timing Belt Autotensioner failure. · 2. Ignition switch recall (applied to at least 97 and 98 models) · 3. The engine burns some oil, designed ...
What issues should you look for when buying A prelude? : r ...
May 4, 2021 ... Ignition Barrel: in my experience about 1/5 preludes will have a broken ignition barrel, where you can start the car fine only about 60% of the ...
:::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 ...
1997 Honda Prelude Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Honda Prelude? Our list of 13 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Honda Prelude.
Common 5th-gen problems? - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion
Oct 25, 2005 ... Honda Prelude - Common 5th-gen problems ... LOL all those problems had (1997) ... all those problems with 97 next to them are manuafacturer recalls..
Other years of Honda Prelude
Are you having problems with your 1997 Honda Prelude?
Milan Effertz 2024-06-14
My wife and I bought this car new. It's been an okay car, but we've had some problems with it. Since we bought it, we've had to replace the rack and pinion twice, the transmission, and we've had to have the service look at the sunroof many times because it opens slowly.