1999 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 1999 Honda Prelude problems
Based on the search results, here are some common problems with the Honda Prelude 1999:
- Knocking Sunroof: This issue affects all 4th generation models of the Honda Prelude. The knocking or tapping sound heard when driving is caused by the sunroof runners needing lubrication. To fix this issue, use a silicon-based aerosol lubricant instead of WD40, which tends to evaporate too quickly.
- Uneven Idle: This issue is caused by a sticky or broken idle control valve, which is not exclusive to the Honda Prelude. The valve can be found by following the air intake hose to the fuel injection chamber. This is a low-cost part that can be replaced easily.
- Sticking Clutch Pedal: This issue affects all 4th generation models of the Honda Prelude. A sticking clutch pedal is a sign that the clutch master cylinder is wearing out and about to break down entirely. To fix this issue, order a new master cylinder and check for any fluid at the back of the gear pedal. If there's any liquid, then a new seal for the cylinder will also be needed.
- Weak Low Beam: This issue affects the 5th generation Preludes, and it's not so much a fault as it is a design flaw. The headlights installed on these models are very weak, and installing HID retrofits is a good idea. Remember not to touch the bulbs with your fingers, as this shortens their lifespan.
- Faulty Speedo Sensor: This issue causes the speedo to not work properly or not at all. A replacement speedo sensor is needed to fix this problem.
- Driveshaft Oil Seal Failure: This issue causes oil to leak onto the floor and the car to struggle to change into gear, giving off a whining noise when in fifth gear. A replacement driveshaft oil seal is needed to fix this problem.
- Rust Around the Wheel Arches: This issue is common around the wheel arches, particularly on versions with stone chip protectors. To fix this issue, rub down the area until all the rust is gone, or possibly even cut out a section to completely remove the rusted patch. The area can then be touched up with paint or welded on a metal patch and painted over.
- Faulty Ignition System: This issue is caused by the ignition system wearing out quickly on older Preludes. Installing a new ignition system is a tricky little job but perfectly doable for most people.
- Non-Functioning Gearbox (1997-2001 Automatics): This issue causes the automatic gearbox to stop working completely. The cause of this issue is not specified in the search results, but it affects 1997-2001 automatic Preludes.
It's important to note that some of these issues are more serious than others, and some may require more extensive repairs than others. However, by being aware of these common problems, potential buyers can make informed decisions when purchasing a Honda Prelude 1999.
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.
Is the Prelude a good car?
The final generation of the Prelude is a fantastic car for your money. I predict value of clean examples will continue to increase in the future. With basic maintenance these cars will last 250k+ with minimal problems, if you have a 5 speed.
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.
What is special about Honda Prelude?
The Honda Prelude was a unique and innovative car that was ahead of its time. It was one of the first cars to offer VTEC engine technology and four-wheel steering. The Prelude was also known for its sleek design and driver-focused performance.
1999 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
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Honda Prelude vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Honda Prelude
The NHTSA has received 31 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Honda Prelude. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Honda Prelude vehicles.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-05
- VIN: JHMBB6244XC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Honda Prelude. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact became aware that the failure was due to the ignition switch. The contact replaced the part himself. The contact also noticed that while the vehicle was turned off, the gear shifter independently shifted into gear. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-12
- VIN: JHMBB6157XC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTING IN JUNE 2017, MY 1999 HONDA PRELUDE SH HAS BEEN STALLING WITHOUT WARNING WHILE I AM DRIVING. THIS HAPPENS MOSTLY ON HOT DAYS. THE CAR CAN NOT BE RE-STARTED FOR 5-10 MINUTES AFTERWARD. THE ENGINE IS NOT OVERHEATING. MY MECHANIC RAN TESTS FOR TWO DAYS AND SAYS THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH MUST BE FAULTY.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-04
- VIN: JHMBB6249XC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE SPORTSHIFT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION M6HA IN MY 1999 HONDA PRELUDE STARTED TO SLIP AND WHILE GOING DOWN THE FREEWAY THE CAR LOST ALL POWER TO THE WHEELS AND WOULD JUST REV UP THE ENGINE WHEN I PRESSED THE GAS PEDAL DOWN AND WOULD NOT MOVE THE CAR WHILE IN ALL DRIVE GEARS. IT COST ME $2,396.75 TO GET MY HONDA PRELUDE'S SPORTSHIFT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION M6HA REPLACED AT A TRANSMISSION SHOP WHILE I WAS OUT ON A FAMILY VACATION TRIP TO ARIZONA. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-01
- VIN: JHMBB6145XC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1999 HONDA PRELUDE. CONSUMER STATES ENGINE FAILURE WHILE DRIVING *TGW THE CONSUMER REFERENCED THE IGNITION SWITCH RECALL AND IS REQUESTING $2,350.19 FOR REPAIRS. *JB THE CONSUMER STATED HE RECEIVED A SMALL REFUND FROM HONDA. UPDATED 09/29/11*JB
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-30
- VIN: JHMBB6241XC
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: RICHARD C. YUEN POWAY, CA 92064 MAY 5, 2008 AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC. HONDA AUTOMOBILE CUSTOMER SERVICE 1919 TORRANCE BOULEVARD MAIL STOP: 500 - 2N - 7D TORRANCE, CA 90501-2746 RE: 1999 HONDA PRELUDE VIN #J013 DEAR SIR: WE ARE VERY PLEASED WITH HONDA AUTOMOBILES PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY. WE ARE ALWAYS GOING OUT OUR WAY TO RECOMMEND HONDA CARS TO OUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES. HOWEVER, LAST WEDNESDAY EVENING (4/30/08) WHILE DRIVING HOME IN MY HONDA PRELUDE, I HAD A VERY BAD EXPERIENCE WITH THE CAR. I WAS TRAVELING EAST BOUND ON FWY 56 AT AROUND 65 MILES; SUDDENLY I HEARD A LOUD NOISE UNDER THE HOOD AND GRINDING NOISES. ALL DASH BOARD LIGHTS CAME ON AND I WAS HAVING DIFFICULTIES IN MANEUVERING THE CAR. LUCKILY, I WAS ABLE TO GET OFF THE FREEWAY AND STOPPED THE CAR AT THE END OF THE OFF RAMP (CAMINO DEL SUR). THE CAR WAS TOWED TO OUR MECHANICS DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO. SUN INDEPENDENT AUTO REPAIR HAS TAKEN CARE OF OUR HONDA CARS FOR THE LAST 20 YEARS. HE FOUND THE FRONT PULLEY CAME OFF AND FRONT PULLEY STRUT WAS BROKEN IN HALF. HE TOLD US IN ALL HIS YEARS OF SERVICING HONDA CAR, THIS IS THE FIRS TIME FOR HIM. SEE ATTACHED PHOTO. FROM THE PICTURE, YOU CAN SEE THE STRUT IS DEFECTIVE, BROKEN CLEANLY IN HALF. YOU CAN ALSO NOTICE SIGNS OF RUSTING CLOSE TO THE BREAKING POINT. WE HAVE KEPT OUR PRELUDE IN OUR GARAGE AWAY FROM THE WEATHER ELEMENTS. THE CAR HAS NEVER GOT INTO ANY WATER; IN FACT, I HAVE ALWAYS HAND WASHED IT MYSELF. THE SCHEDULED MAINTENANCES ARE FOLLOWED RELIGIOUSLY BY ME. ADDITIONALLY, THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 54,000 MILES ON IT AFTER NINE YEARS. I AM REQUESTING HONDA TO RECOGNIZE THE FACT THAT THE STRUT IS DEFECTIVE AND SHOULD REIMBURSE US THE EXPENSES TO REPLACE THE STRUT AND THE FRONT PULLEY (SLIGHTLY BENT NEEDS REPLACEMENT). SEE ATTACHED REPAIR BILL. ADDITIONALLY, HONDA SHOULD NOTICE ALL 1999 PRELUDE OWNERS OF THIS INCIDENCE. SINCERELY, 1999 HONDA PRELUDE FRONT PULLEY STRUT BROKEN STRUTBENT KEY. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-30
- VIN: JHMBB6249XC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS CONSUMING OIL EVERY THREE TO FOUR MONTHS, WHEN IT SHOULD NORMALLY LAST FOR ONE YEAR. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO A SERVICE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES. THE DEALER EXPRESSED THAT THIS WOULD NORMALLY OCCUR IF THE VEHICLE HAD A FRONT-END COLLISION. THIS VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN IN A COLLISION; SUBSEQUENTLY, THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-17
- VIN: JHMBB6244XC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TOOK 1999 HONDA PRELUDE IN TO THE CARSON HONDA TO REPLACE THE BRAKE PADS AND DO THE 90 MILE MAJOR SERVICE AS REQUIRED BY HONDA CARE COVERAGE. WAS TOLD THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE IGNITION, AND THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE MY IGNITION, FREE OF CHARGE. WHEN I WENT TO PICK UP MY CAR THEY TOLD ME MY BILL WAS 860.57. THERE WERE CHARGES ON THE INVOICE THAT WHERE NOT COVERED BY MY WARRANTY. THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS CHANGED, BUT THEY SAY SAID THAT I HAD TO PURCHASE THE NEW KEY OF 39.00. I SAID NO THAT IT WORKED FINE BEFORE I BROUGHT IT IN . THEY SAID THEY WOULD DESTROY THE KEY AND THREATENED ME THAT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO PAY $160 MORE IF THE OLD KEY NO LONGER WORKED. 2 DAYS LATER MY CAR SITS IN THE DRIVE WAY AND I CANNOT GET THE KEY OUT.*AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-04
- VIN: JHMBB6144XC
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MY SON WAS DRIVING THE 1999 HONDA PRELUDE ON THE EXPRESSWAY WHEN THE ENGINE STOPPED RUNING. HE WAS ABLE TO PUSH THE CAR OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH OUT ANY CRASH OR INJURIES. HE WAS LUCKEY THAT THERE WERE FEW CARS ON THE ROAD AT THE TIME. HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE IDLE BOLT FOR THE TIMMING BELT BROKE AT THE ENGINE AND HAD TO BE DRILLED OUT TO BE REPLACED. OLD PART IS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-01
- VIN: JHMBB614XXC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: REPEATED (2 TIMES) SAFETY RELATED ENGINE MALFUNCTION CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL AND POWER OF THE VEHICLE. *BF IVOQ 10100766 PROVIDED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION DURING A RAIN STORM, THE OIL PRESSURE LIGHT HAD COME ON AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SHUT DOWN WHILE ON AN EXIT RAMP. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THIS OCCURRED DUE A BROKEN CAM SEAL AND THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT, THERE WAS A LEAK COMING FROM THE CAM SEAL. BACK IN OCTOBER THE TIMING BELT HAD BROKEN WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND THE CONSUMER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE OTHER NUMEROUS ISSUES AS WELL INCLUDING: THE HEATING SYSTEM, VIBRATION, NOISE, THE CD PLAYER WOULD SHUT OFF WHEN THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WAS OPENED OR WHEN THE INTERIOR LIGHTS WERE ON, THE WIPER WASHER FLUID WOULD FREEZE AND MINOR ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. THE ENGINE LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE INTERMITTENTLY. *SC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-09
- VIN: JHMBB6149XC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE TIMING BELT AND TENSIONER CATASTROPHICALLY FAILED WHILE I WAS DRIVING IN TRAFFIC CAUSING A SUDDEN, DANGEROUS LOSE OF POWER. THIS CAR IS A 1999 HONDA PRELUDE WITH 65,000 MILES ON IT. HONDA CLAIMS THAT THESE PARTS ARE TO BE FIRST REPLACED AT 105,000. THIS CAR WAS ALWAYS MAINTAINED BY HONDA AND FAILED 3 DAYS AFTER THEIR STATE INSPECTION. THESE PARTS WERE REPLACED AT GREAT EXPENSE AND INCONVENIENCE TO ME. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-01
- VIN: JHMBB614XXC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXPERIENCED ENGINE FAILURE WHICH WAS CAUSED BY A BROKEN CAM SEAL WHICH ALLOWED OIL TO LEAK FROM THE ENGINE. NM THE OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. THE CONSUMER PULLED OFF THE EXIT AND THE VEHICLE LOST POWER. THE DEALER PERFORMED A SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE CHECK UP AND OIL CHANGE ON THE VEHICLE 10 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. THE CONSUMER FEELS THAT THE LEAKING CAM SEAL WENT UNDISCOVERED OR UNMENTIONED. THE DEALER REFUSED TO REPLACE THE ENGINE BECAUSE THE CONSUMER DROVE A HALF OF A MILE WITH THE ENGINE LIGHT ON. THE TIMING BELT BROKE ON ANOTHER OCCASION CAUSING SERIOUS ENGINE DAMAGE AND LOSS OF POWER. *TC THE CONSUMER STATED THE CD PLAYER SHUT OFF. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-04
- VIN: JHMBB614XXC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REPEATED (2 TIMES) SAFETLY RELATED ENGINE MALFUNCTION CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL AND POWER OF THE VEHICLE. ON NOVEMBER 4, 2004 OWNER OF 1999 HONDA PRELUDE WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK AT NIGHT TIME WHEN SHORTLY AFTERWARDS OWNER'S VEHICLE LOST POWER AND CONTROL FOR THE SECOND TIME ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY. THE ENGINE'S CAM SEAL BROKE OFF LEAKING THE ENGINE OIL OUT ONTO THE HIGHWAY OF RT. 80 AND THE ENGINE SEIZED. OWNER'S VEHICLE HAS PROVEN REPEATEDLY TO HAVE SERIOUS ENGINE DEFECTS THAT POSED A RISK TO THE OWNER AS WELL AS OTHER DRIVERS ON THE ROAD. IN OCTOBER 2002, THE FIRST ENGINE MALFUNCTION OCCURRED WHEN THE TIMING BELT BROKE DUE TO A DEFECT WHILE OWNER WAS DRIVING AND THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER AND CONTROL. THE OWNER, A CHILD IN THE BACK SEAT AND OTHER DRIVERS WERE PLACED AT SERIOUS RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH. AS OWNER WAS COVERED UNDER HONDA CARE WHICH EXTENDS THE STANDARD NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY UNTIL 100,000 REPAIRS WERE COVERED. HOWEVER, THE ENGINE WAS NOT REPLACED. THE MALFUNCTION OF THE ENGINE PARTS WAS NOT DUE IN ANY PART TO OWNER'S NEGLECT OR FAULT AS OWNER. OWNER HAS FOLLOWED EVERY MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE RECOMMENED. OWNER HAS RECORDS TO INDICATE THIS. ALL OF THE SERVICE WAS PERFORMED ONLY AT SUSSEX HONDA, IN NEWTON, N.J. THIS OWNER REQUESTED THAT MANUFACTURER REPAIR/REPLACE THE ENGINE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER DUE TO SERIOUS SAFETY RELATED DEFECT IN THE ENGINE. AMERICAN HONDA IHAS DECLINED THE OWNER'S REQUEST TO REPAIR THE SAID VEHICLE AT NO COST TO OWNER. *AK
TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH CONSUMER RAN OVER A POTHOLE THAT CAUSED THE TIRE TO DEVELOP A BUBBLE ON THE SIDEWALL. NITTO P215/40ZR17. BOTH THE MANUFACTURER AND THE DEALERSHIP WERE CONTACTED.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JHMBB6246XC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. ENGINE IDLE WENT UP AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE IN FOR REPAIRS. HOWEVER, MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT ASSIST IN RESOLVING THE PROBLEM. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-10
- VIN: JHMBB6246XC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I HAVE 1999 HONDA PRELUDE THAT CAME WITH BRIDGESTONE POTENZA P205/50 VR16 RE92 TIRES. THE LEFT REAR TIRE BROKE AWAY FROM THE SIDE WALL. THE CAR (TIRES) HAS ONLY 33,800 MILES ON IT. ALL TIRES SHOW CRACKS ON THE SIDE WALLS. THESE TIRES ARE DANGERIOUS, THE SIDE WALL SHOULD NOT FAIL APART.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-06
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1999 HONDA PRELUDE SPORT SHIFT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE AT 46,000 MILES AND AT A SPEED OF 36 MPH AS DOCUMENTED BY HONDA! I HAVEN'T DONE ANYTHING WRONG AND NEITHER HAS ANY OTHER PRELUDE OWNER AND HONDA WANTS $6,000 DOLLARS OF MY HARD EARNED MONEY! YES THAT'S 1/4 THE TOTAL COST OF THE CAR BRAND NEW! PLEASE HELP. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-16
- VIN: JHMBB6146XC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND NO WARNING THE VEHICLE WILL HEAVILY JERK AND THEN THE ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON. DEALER NOTIFIED. *MR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-04
- VIN: JHMBB6246XC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE EXITING FROM THE PARKING LOT THE ENGINE ACCELERATED INTO A PAASING GEAR THRUST WHICH HURTLED THE VEHICLE INTO THE DRIVERS SIDE OF A PASSING VEHICLE. HERITAGE HONDA ADMITTED THAT THE ACCIDENT WAS CAUSED BY A FAULTY TRANSMISSION. AFTER REPAIRS THE VEHICLE SURGED AGAIN AS CONSUMER GENTLY EASED FORWARD TO AVOID HITTING A HIGH CURB. THE ENGINE ROARED INTO A FORWARD MOTION, JUMPING THE CURB, THE WHEELS WERE FORCED TO THE RIGHT, LOOSING CONTROL THE VEHICLE CROSSED AN ISLAND, AN ALLEYWAY, AND HIT A PARKED VEHICLE. IMMEDIATELY AFTER IMPACT, CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL WHILE THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO RACE. CONSUMER BELIEVES IT'S A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR THAT IS AT FAULT. *JG
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-01
- VIN: JHMBB6249XC
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: AFTER DRIVING VEHICLE FOR MORE THAN 20 MINUTES, IT STARTED TO VIBRATE AT SPEEDS OF 35-40 MPH AND OVER. DEALER HAS REPLACED PADS AND ROTORS AT 27000 MILES. AT THIS TIME VEHICLE IS VIBRATING AGAIN.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-01
- VIN: JHMBB6153XC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: NO SUMMARY (TIRESIZE: 550)
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-01
- VIN: JHMBB624XXC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 4TH GEAR BLEW TWICE CAUSING DANGEROUS SITUATIONS. THE TRANSMISSION HAS A DEFECT, NOBODY KNOWS WHAT.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JHMBB6158XC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN SHIFTING INTO GEAR WHILE STOPPING AT A TRAFFICE LIGHT AND WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT GEARS, SHIFT FAILS TO RESPOND AND GEAR FAILS TO GO INTO REVERSE, CAUSING A NEAR VEHICLE CRASH. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTECD DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- VIN: JHMBB6141XC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOV EVEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-12
- VIN: JHMBB6141XC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NO SUM,MARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-09
- VIN: JHMBB6141XC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR LOOSES POWER WHEN COLD OUTSIDE AND HESITATES OR LOSES POWER WHILE AT CRUSING SPEED. HONDA SERVICE SAID THAT THE COMPUTER IN THE ACCORD SOMETIMES CAN'T KEEP UP WITH THE CAR AND CAUSES HESITATION SO IT MUST BE THE SAME HERE. *AK
1999 Honda Prelude recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1999 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.
Positive 1999 Honda Prelude car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 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 ...
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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 ...
1999 Honda Prelude Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
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1999 honda prelude problems | Honda Prelude Online
Nov 18, 2008 ... im having problems with my 1999 h22a prelude base model.... The other nite i took it for a drive, 1st to 2nd gear quickly, and noticed at 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 ...
Other years of Honda Prelude
Are you having problems with your 1999 Honda Prelude?
Hailey Medhurst 2024-11-24
Though my Prelude was purchased as a daily driver, I later began driving it on local road courses and learned what the car was really about: handling, speed, and comfort. The car has held up very well and still puts a smile on my face every time I drive it! In fact, I bought an old Accord so I wouldn't have to drive the Prelude in the winter in an effort to preserve its current condition.
Skye Douglas 2024-10-28
The class-prelude stands out from its competitors like the Celica GT-S and Eclipse GT with its unique and original look. Even the base model is not cheap compared to the competition, but it's worth the investment. The car has a good redline, top-end speed, and a sleek appearance, especially from the sides. The interior is comfortable and spacious enough for four people. The shifter is quick, quiet, and nice, and the hydraulic clutch engages smoothly with minimal effort.
Eldon Hammes 2024-10-07
I previously owned a Honda Civic 95 Coupe 2 dr 5 spd manual transmission and although it was only a 4 cylinder, I loved it. But then I got my hands on a Prelude and oh boy, did I fall in love. The fun I had driving it was just indescribable. I could go on and on about it. Flying down with the stereo blaring and the sunroof open made me feel absolutely awesome!
Zane Baumbach 2024-09-27
Why do people criticize the interior of the Prelude? It has all the essentials, and all that luxury stuff is just extra weight anyway. I agree that the cupholders are terrible, which is why I got JDM cupholders that came off a Prelude Type-S. The body shape is awesome. Some people say they hate the rectangular headlights, but I love them. It doesn't look like every other Civic on the road. A 200hp 4-banger, what more could you ask for?
Walker Walker 2024-09-01
This car handles well, looks great, and is fast. What more can you ask for in a sports car?