2002 Honda S2000 problems
The Honda S2000 is a front-mid engine open top sports car that was manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Honda, from 1999 until 2009. First shown as a concept car called the SSM at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, the production version was launched on April 15, 1999, to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary. The S2000 is named for its engine displacement of two litres, while "S" stood for "sports" carrying on in the tradition of the S500, S600, and S800 roadsters of the 1960s.
Several revisions were made throughout the car's production life, including changes to the engine, gearbox, suspension, interior and exterior. Officially two variants exist: the initial launch model was given the chassis code AP1; though cosmetically similar, the facelifted version, known as the AP2 in North America and Japan, incorporated significant changes to the drivetrain and suspension. Production of the S2000 ceased on August 19, 2009.
The Honda S2000 was notable for its exceptional specific power output of about 124 hp per litre, or about two horsepower per cubic inch, the highest of any mass production, naturally aspirated engined car, until 2010.
The S2000 has since become a legitimate modern classic car, having seen a significant appreciation in price for valued examples in good condition. In the JDM community and the car community as a whole, the most sought-after models are special edition productions such as the CR (Club Racer) in the USA market; the standard AP1 and AP2 models have achieved collectible status as well.
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Common 2002 Honda S2000 problems
The Honda S2000, produced from 1999 to 2009, is known for its reliability and performance. However, some common issues have been reported across all model years, including excessive gear grinding, excessive noise from the wheel bearings, and engine misfiring.
Excessive gear grinding is a common issue with the S2000, which can be caused by worn-out synchronizers, gears, or bearings. This problem can lead to a noisy or rough gear shift, which can be frustrating for drivers. Regular maintenance and replacing worn-out parts can help prevent this issue.
Excessive noise from the wheel bearings is another common problem with the S2000. This issue can be caused by worn-out wheel bearings, which can lead to a grinding or humming noise, especially when driving at high speeds. Replacing the faulty wheel bearings can help solve this problem.
Engine misfiring is also a common issue with the S2000. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. Engine misfiring can lead to poor performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and increased emissions. Regular maintenance and replacing faulty parts can help prevent this issue.
In addition to these common issues, cars made before 2002 have plastic rear windows, which can become milky white with age and eventually need replacing. It is recommended to check the car's maintenance history, including regular oil changes and top-ups, as well as checking the hood, fabric, and rear window for any signs of wear or damage.
Furthermore, the S2000 is sensitive to tire pressure, and uneven tire pressure can cause the car to pull to one side while accelerating. Checking tire pressure while respecting the OEM tire pressure specs can help prevent this issue.
In summary, while the Honda S2000 is known for its reliability, some common issues have been reported across all model years, including excessive gear grinding, excessive noise from the wheel bearings, and engine misfiring. Regular maintenance, checking the car's history, and being vigilant about potential issues can help ensure the longevity and performance of the S2000.
What is the common issue with S2000?
As idle / hesitation / kangerooing / misfire problems and misfires seem to be a common problem on the S2000, and indeed on most cars, I thought I would construct a thread to aid people in diagnosing their problems.
Is the S2000 a reliable car?
According to redriven.com, the S2000 has superb reliability, as is typical of the Honda name. You will find excellent scores for the Honda S2000. It's an incredible choice for those who want a speedy vehicle, and the Honda S2000 is a race car. It's generally a dependable option.
Which Honda S2000 is best year?
We'd lean toward well-maintained second-gen models with their improved low-end torque and refined suspension, though there's undeniable joy in revving an early S2000 to its 8900-rpm redline. Of the early cars, the 2002–03 examples are the best, with their transmission and interior upgrades and a glass rear window.
How long do S2000 engines last?
The reliability of the Honda S2000 is in a class of its own, it has the best reliability despite being classified as a race car, and it is capable of driving 300,000+ miles in its lifetime with minimum maintenances, the only maintenance it needs regularly is the oil change every 6000 miles.
2002 Honda S2000 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Honda S2000 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Honda S2000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2002 Honda S2000 complaints
The NHTSA has received 22 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Honda S2000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-17
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JHMAP11452T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HONDA S2000. THE CONTACT STATED HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATE SPEEDS OF 50 MPH AROUND A CURVE. THE REAR TIRES WOULD NOT GRIP THE ROADWAY AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO DRIVE OFF THE ROAD INTO A NEARBY FOREST. THE VEHICLE CRASHED WITH AN UNKNOWN OBJECT AND THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A LUNG INJURY, BROKEN RIBS AND CONTUSIONS. THE PASSENGER OF THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED A BROKEN COLLAR BONE AND NECK. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED ON SCENE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 97,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-20
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2002 HONDA ODYSSEY TRANSMISSION FAILURE NOTHING. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-02
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY SRS LIGHT (AIR BAG) ON MY 2002 HONDA ACCORD CAME ON WITH NO REASON. NO ACCIDENT OR IMPACT THE CAR HAS 90K MILES. NOT SURE IF IT IS A DEFECT OR RECALL EQUIPMENT. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1HGCG16562A
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WAS BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE (CAR IN REVERSE). DUE TO THE TIGHTNESS OF THE AREA, HAD TO PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE TO PULL FORWARD SLIGHTLY AND THEN AGAIN IN REVERSE. WHEN THE CAR WAS PUT IN DRIVE THE SECOND TIME, IT LUNGED FORWARD AND ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. CAR WAS STILL ACCELERATING WHEN IT HIT A PARKED CAR. EVERYTHING TURNED OFF ONCE THE CAR WAS PUT IN PARK AND THE IGNITION TURNED OFF. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-20
- VIN: 2HKRL18942H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION ON MY 2002 HONDA ODDYSEY WAS MAKING CLUNKY SHIFTS TO 2ND AND 3RD GEARS. ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. LARRY HOPKINS HONDA SERVICE SAID TRANSMISSION NEEDS REPLACEMENT. CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR 1999-2001 HONDA ODDYSEYS TRANSMISSIONS, AND THEY STILL DIDN'T FIX IT ON 2002 MODEL. OTHER INFO: ON 7/16/04, I TOOK CAR IN FOR THE RECALL/FIX (28,537 MILES)-- INSTALL OIL INJECTOR INTO TRANSMISSION. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-31
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2002 HONDA S2000 ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING DUE TO SLUDGE IN THE ENGINE. *TS NEITHER THE DEALER, MANUFACTURER OR THE EXTENDED WARRANTY WOULD COVER THE COST OF REPAIR. FOUR WEEKS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS A WEAK BATTERY AND REPLACED IT ALONG WITH THE SPARK PLUGS. AFTER THAT REPAIR THE DEALER STATED EVERYTHING WAS FINE. UPON THE CONSUMER'S REQUEST THE DEALER DID A FURTHER BREAK DOWN OF THE ENGINE AND DETERMINED THAT THE ENGINE LOCK UP WAS CAUSED BY A MECHANICAL BREAKDOWN OF A WORN OUT THRUST WASHER. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1HGEM22952L
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2002 HONDA CIVIC COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER BRAKING GOING 15 MPH. CAUSING PROPERTY DAMAGE. THIS COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE FAILERE HAS BEEN REPORTED TO DEALERS AND BEEN SEEN IN MANY WEB FORUMS. THIS TIME MY SON WAS DRIVING WHEN THE ENGINE FAILERE LIGHT CAME ON AND BRAKES WENT OUT TURNING A CORNER. NO AIR BAG WAS EVER DEPLOYED WHEN HE HIT THE CURB AND SIGN WHICH SHOULD HAVE AS HE HIT A SIGN AND TREE STRIPPING THE FRONT BUMPER OFF AND CRUSHED THE RADIATOR INTO THE ENGINE. NO AIR BAGS WEAR EVER DEPLOYED. EVEN THE POLICE WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THAT AND QUESTIONED IT . IT HAPPENED IN THE CITY OF HURST TEXAS. IN THESE FORUMS MANY DRIVERS HAVE EXPERIENCED LOSS OF ENGINE FAILERE AND BRAKES IN SOME CASES. HONDA JUST PUT OUT A RECALL ON 1998-2000 FOR THE ENGINE IGNITION SWITCH SHORTING OUT CAUSING ENGINE FAILERE. I SUGGEST THEY INCREASE THAT RECALL TO 2002 POSSIBLY. ALSO I READ WHERE THE ELECTRICAL LOAD DETECTOR IS GETTING WET AND SHORTING OUT CAUSING THE SAME THING IN SOME CARS. IN ONE CASE I READ THAT THE VACUMM HOSE TO THE BRAKE BOOSTER MAY BE BAD. PUMPING THE BRAKES CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL. SO ANY CASE I THINK HONDA HAS A SAFETY ISSUE WITH ENGINES STALLING WHILE CONSUMERS ARE DRIVING. MY SON WAS LUCKY HE WAS ONLY DRIVING 15 MPH WHEN IT HAPPENED . IF HE WOULD HAVE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY IT COULD HAVE BEEN A LOSS OF LIFE. THE VEHICALE IS IN THE BODY SHOP GETTING FIXED AND AFTER THAT WILL BE DRIVEN TO HONDA FOR AN ENGINE CHECK. I HOPE THE COMPUTER CODES TELL US SOMETHING BUT I THINK HONDA NEEDS TO RESEARCH THIS CLOSLY.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1HGES16562L
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING N ON I-97 I WAS ATTEMPTING TO TURN RIGHT ONTO THE EXIT RAMP TO 32-W WHEN THE STEERING ON MY 2002 HONDA CIVIC FAILED. ALTHOUGH I WAS TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT, THE CAR KEPT GOING STRAIGHT. I ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKES, BUT THEY ALSO FAILED, AND THE CAR KEPT GOING STRAIGHT DOWN AN ENBANKMENT UNTIL IT STRUCK A TREE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-01
- VIN: JHMAP11472T
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: (1) NO KNOWN EVENTS LEADING UP TO FIRST FAILURE. SECOND FAILURE, IS DUE TO AN UNEXPLAINED OIL LOSS. NO OIL TRAILS ARE VIABLE FROM / ON THE ENGINE, NOR ARE THERE PUDDLES PRESENT IN THE DRIVEWAY. LAST OIL CHANGE WAS LESS THE 10 DAYS PRIOR TO THE CRANK BEARING FAILURE. OIL LEVEL VERIFIED GOOD BY OWNER PRIOR TO LEAVING SERVICE STATION AND AT NO TIME DID THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT COME ON. (2) "FIRST FAILURE", HEAD DAMAGE DUE TO MISALIGNED VALVE AND LOSS OF COMPRESSION ON CYLINDER #3. SECOND FAILURE, SHORT-BLOCK DAMAGE DUE TO OIL LOSS AND SUBSEQUENT BEARING DAMAGE. FAILURE CONFIRMED OFF CYLINDER # 3, WITH STETHOSCOPE. (3) REBUILT THE HEAD UNIT AT 6 MONTHS WORTH OF MY TIME, AND AT A COST OF $3,500. CURRENTLY WAITING HAVE THE SHORT BLOCK REPLACED TO CORRECT ITS BEARING FAILURE, AT AN EST. COST OF $8,000. ALL OF THIS HAS BEEN DONE WITH OUT ASSISTANCE FROM HONDA, DESPITE MY BEST EFFORTS IN REPEATEDLY ASKING FOR THEIR ASSISTANCE / COMPENSATION. HONDA AND THEIR DEALERS DO THEIR BEST TO DELAY, IGNORE, REFUTE ALL CLAIMS IN THE HOPES THAT I'LL JUST GO AWAY. I HAVE READ SIMILAR POSTS ABOUT ENGINE FAILURES FOR THE SK2, ALL HAVING A SIMILAR FAILURE ON CYLINDER # 3, AND ALL GETTING THE SAME RESPONSE / TREATMENT FROM HONDA: "THAT THE CUSTOMER CREATED THIS PROBLEM" OR "DESPITE THE FACT IT'S UNDER WARRANTY, IT'S YOUR FAULT THE ENGINE FAILED, AND HENCE WE WILL NOT COVER THE COST OF REPAIRS" EITHER HONDA IS UNAWARE OF WHAT'S GOING ON WITH ITS DEALERS (WHICH SERIOUSLY I DOUBT), OR IT DOESN'T CARE. REGARDLESS, ITS SERVICE DEALERS ARE RUNNING AMOK, MAKING UPWARDS OF 3 TO 8 THOUSAND DOLLARS A VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-31
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER IN THE MAIL FROM HONDA REGARDING MY 2002 HONDA ODYSSEY. IN THIS LETTER, IT CLEARLY STATES THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION AND WATER PUMP. HENCE I TOOK MY CAR INTO THE HONDA DEALERSHIP AT NORM REEVE'S HONDA - CERRITOS. AFTER HAVING MY CAR AT THE SERVICE CENTER FOR 2 DAYS NOW ( I HAD TO RENT A CAR FROM ENTERPRISE), NOW THEY ARE TELLING ME THAT I NEED TO PAY THEM $3,800 TO REPLACE MY WATER PUMP. I AM VERY UPSET THAT I AM BEING TREATED THIS WAY. THE LETTER CLEARLY STATES THAT THERE IS A RECALL ON THE TRANSMISSION, AND THAT ANY SERVICES THAT MIGHT BE NEEDED WILL BE PERFORMED BY HONDA FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE OF THE RECALL. MY CAR IS STILL UNDER WARRANTY, SO WHY IS THE DEALER TELLING ME THAT I HAVE TO PAY?? PLEASE ADVISE. THANK YOU.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-12
- VIN: 2HKRL18972H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION WORK VERY HEAVY LIKE IS PULLING SOMETHING, DON' SWIFT NORMAL. A TOOK THE VAN TO THE DEALER FOR THE RECALL AT THE DEALER THEY SAY THAT THEY USE A DIGITAL CAMERA TO CHECK THE INTERIOR OF THE TRANSMISSION. I AM NOT CONVINCED THAT THEY ACTUALLY FIX SOMETHING IN THE TRANSMISSION , THIS A $5000 THIS IS NOT A JOKE. WHAT I CAN DO TO RESOLVED MY PROBLEM, GET A REAL CHECK, I NEED A LAWYER FOR THIS, I NEED TO START TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT THE SERIOUS PROBLEMS WITH THE ODYSSEY, IS SOME KIND OF LEMON CAR. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-29
- VIN: JHMAP11462T
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PURCHASED A HONDA S2000 IN AUGUST, 2002. IT HAD TO BE TAKEN IN FOR REPAIRS AUGUST 16, 2003. THE CAR WAS SERVED BY HONDA OF MENTOR IN MENTOR, OHIO. DAMAGE WAS TO THE CYLINDER HEAD AND ENGINE BLOCK. A NEW ENGINE ASSEMBLY WITH HEAD WAS REQUIRED GIVEN INTERNAL DAMAGE TO THE PISTONS/VALVES. HONDA REFUSED COVERAGE UNDER THE 36/36,000 FACTORY WARRANTY. I HAD ALSO PURCHASED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY THROUGH CNA NATIONAL WARRANTY CORPORATION AND THEY DENIED BECAUSE "THE MANUFACTURER...VOIDED OR RESCINDED THE FACTORY WARRANTY." THERE WAS 28,948 MILES ON IT. HONDA INSISTED THE DAMAGE WAS HOW DRIVEN/MAINTAINED. I INSTALLED A USED ENGINE (WITH 3,500 MILES) & THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED 9/29/03 BY HONDA OF MENTOR AT A $6,400 COST TO ME. MARCH 25, 2004, THE CAR TAKEN IN BECAUSE THE ENGINE MAKING A LOUD NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO RICK CASE HONDA IN EUCLID, OHIO. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE BEARINGS AND BLOCK (#2 AND #3 CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS WERE WELDED TO THE JOURNALS). THE REPLACEMENT ENGINE HAD GONE 9,540 MILES WHEN IT FAILED. [HONDA OF MENTOR'S INVOICE-MILEAGE WHEN RECEIVED AT 28,948. RICK CASE HONDA'S INVOICE - MILEAGE AT 38,488 MILES; A DIFFERENCE OF 9,540 MILES.] THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD 2 ENGINE FAILURES IN 1 1/2 YEARS. BOTH DUE I BELIEVE TO PROBLEMS IN THE CAR NOT HOW IT WAS DRIVEN/MAINTAINED. THE INITIAL FACTORY WARRANTY IN AUGUST, 2002, WAS 36/36,000 AND I PURCHASED THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. THE 1ST MALFUNCTION OCCURRED AUGUST, 2003, AT 28,948 MILES. THE REPLACEMENT ENGINE WAS INSTALLED SEPTEMBER, 2003, HAD A 12/12,000 LIMITED WARRANTY. IT MALFUNCTIONED MARCH 25, 2004, AFTER 9,540 MILES. I BELIEVE THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE WHICH CAUSES THE ENGINES TO MALFUNCTION. I AM COPYING AMERICAN HONDA AND CNA INSURANCE. *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JHMAP11412T
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 44 MPH VEHICLE ACCELERATED UNCONTROLLABLY. CONSUMER WAS NOT ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND IT CRASHED INTO A CEMENT BARRIER. DRIVER TO SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-10
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN HILL THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTED TO 2ND GEAR. THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE CAUSE WAS NOT DETERMINED. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL VEHICLE INFORMATION. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-31
- VIN: JH2SC48032M
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IN JULY OF 2002, I PURCHASED A 2002 HONDA 919. IMMEDIATELY, I NOTICED THAT MY JACKET SMELLED OF EXHAUST FUMES. NOT THE SULFUR - ROTTEN EGG SMELL, BUT EXHAUST FUMES. ONE FRIDAY AFTERNOON IN AUGUST 2002, I TOOK MY WIFE FOR A RIDE - SHE WAS THE PASSENGER. AFTER ABOUT A 45-MINUTE RIDE, SHE COMPLAINED OF A HEADACHE AND WAS GENERALLY JUST FEELING CRAPPY. SO MUCH FOR OUR ROMANTIC AFTERNOON. TO TOP IT ALL OFF, I TOOK MY 6 YEAR OLD SON FOR A RIDE, AND IN TRAFFIC, HE FELL ASLEEP AND ABOUT FELL OFF THE BIKE. HE COULD HAVE DIED, WE WERE IN TRAFFIC. I WAS ABLE TO GRAB HIM WITH ONE HAND AND PULL OVER. I CONTACTED MY DEALER, ROB EIDMANN OF ST. JOE HONDA (816-671-0671) ON MANY OCCASSIONS, AND HE COULD DO NOTHING. I WAS IN LONG BEACH AT THE INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE AND MENTIONED IT TO A HONDA REPRESENTATIVE, WHO PASSED ME ALONG TO "THE NATIONAL SERVICE MANAGER", TO WHOM I ALSO TOLD MY STORY TOO. THEY WERE IN DENIAL, SAID THEY HAD NO OTHER COMPLAINTS, AND THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. TO REMEDY THE SITUATION ON MY OWN, I PAID FOR AND INSTALLED AN EXHAUST FROM ANOTHER HONDA MODEL THAT EXITS THE BIKE LOWER. HAVE NOT HAD THE PROBLEM SINCE, BUT AM NOT REAL HAPPY ABOUT THIS WHOLE ORDEAL. I HAVE LEARNED THAT MANY OTHER OWNERS ALSO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. WHAT CAN WE DO?*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-14
- VIN: JHMAP114X2T
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: #4 CONECTING ROD BROKE. *PH
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-23
- VIN: JHMAP11472T
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: MY HONDA S2000, WHICH WAS PURCHASED NEW IN JUNE OF 2002 CAME WITH BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SO-2 TIRES FRONT AND REAR. THIS VEHICLE IS USED AS A THIRD VEHICLE IN A TWO DRIVER HOUSEHOLD, AND IS USED ONLY AS A DAILY COMMUTER CAR TO TRAVEL 15 MILES TO WORK (ROUND TRIP). I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR MY STATE INSPECTION, AND AT 6100 MILES, THE REAR TIRES WERE DOWN BELOW 2/32 OF TREAD DEPTH AND THE FRONT TIRES WERE FEATHERED BADLY ON THE INSIDE EDGES (BOTH) AND TREAD WAS BELOW 5/32 OF DEPTH. I HAVE SEEN MANY POSTS OF PEOPLE WITH THESE TIRES WHO HAVE HAD TREAD LIFE WELL BELOW 10K MILES UNDER LITE DRIVING CONDITIONS, WHILE OTHERS CLAIM UP TO 20K, EVEN UNDER HEAVY CONDITIONS. THE TIRES WERE UNACCEPTABLE IN THE RAIN AFTER ABOUT 4000 MILES ON IT AS THE REAR WOULD FISHTAIL EVEN UNDER THE LIGHTEST OF CORNERING. I HAVE BROUGHT THIS TO THE ATTENTION OF HONDA AND BRIDGESTONE/FIRESTON, AND NO ONE SEEMS TO WANT TO FESS UP TO A POSSIBLE PROBLEM WITH CERTAIN BATCHES OF THE TIRE HAVING TOO SOFT A COMPUND, OR DESIGN SPEC ISSUES. THIS IS A SERIOUS POTENTIAL PROBLEM. IF I HAD DRIVEN THE VEHICLE MORE OFTEN, I WOULD HAVE RUN THE RISK OF HAVING A TIRE PROBLEM (BLOWOUT OR LOSS OF CONTROL) DUE TO UNACCEPTABLE TIRE WEAR ON THE DRIVE WHEELS. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 9999
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON A FRONT END COLLISION. MR SCC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-28
- VIN: JHMAP11442T
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A ONE-YEAR-OLD HONDA S2000. I BROUGHT MY CAR TO A DEALER FOR A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND FACTORY RECALL OF SPARK PLUGS. THE REPLACEMENT WAS PERFORMED AND I RECEIVED MY CAR BACK. THE NEXT DAY THE LIGHT WAS BACK ON. I RETURNED TO THE DEALER. I WAS INFORMED THERE NOW WAS 80% LOSS OF COMPRESSION IN ONE OF THE CYLINDERS. I WAS INFORMED THAT I CREATED THIS PROBLEM AND THE WARRANTY WILL NOT COVER THE REPAIR. I ASKED THE COST AND WAS TOLD I DON'T KNOW. PROBABLY $10,000.00 DOLLARS. I ASKED HOW THAT WAS DETERMINED AND WAS TOLD WE DON'T HAVE TO TELL YOU THAT. I COMPLAINED AND WAS INFORMED THAT A DISTRICT SERVICE MANAGER DETERMINED OVER THE PHONE THAT I CAUSED THE PROBLEM. I ASKED IF A RENTAL WOULD BE PROVIDED IN ACCORDANCE WITH MY EXTENDED WARRANTY. I WAS TOLD NO THIS IS YOUR FAULT. I CONTACTED AMERICAN HONDA CUSTOMER SERVICE (800) 999-1009. I SPOKE WITH MIKE BOGAN AT EXT 118142. HE INFORMED ME, HE WOULD GET THE ANSWERS. I WAITED TWO DAYS WITH NO RESPONSE. I GOT A VOICE MAIL SAYING THAT THE DEALER DETERMINED IT WAS MY FAULT AND HONDA WOULD NOT COVER THE REPAIR OR RENTAL. I COMPLAINED THEN ABOUT THE LANGUAGE USED BY TECH # 702 AT CLINTON HONDA. HE INFORMED ME THAT HE DOES NOT LIKE DOCTORS AND SINCE HIS WIFE LOST A LAWSUIT BY A DOCTOR THAT HE WOULDN'T AUTHORIZE ANY REPAIRS FOR MY CAR SINCE I AM A DOCTOR. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-07
- VIN: JHMAP11422T
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I OWN A 3 MONTH OLD HONDA S2000 THAT HAS A DEFECTIVE ENGINE THAT HONDA REFUSES TO FIX. I WAS TOLD THAT I MAY HAVE ABUSED THE CAR AND HONDA WOULD COVER PART OF THE REPAIR. I WAS DOING RESEARCH OF THE INTERNET AND FOUND MANY OF THESE LIMITED PRODUCTION CARS WITH DEFECTIVE ENGINES AND MOST OWNERS HAVE BEEN CHALLENGED AND ASKED TO PAY SOME OR ALL OF THE REPAIR BILL. SEVERAL OF THE OWNERS AND MYSELF ARE HAVING TO HIRE ATTORNEYS TO TRY TO MAKE HONDA FIX THESE CARS AND RENT CARS IN THE MEAN TIME. HONDA WILL NOT DISCUSS OR RETURN CALLS WITH ANY OF US. HONDA HAS TOLD EACHOF US THAT THE DECISION IS FINAL! I CAN PROVIDE NAMES OF OTHERS IF NEEDED
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-07
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR SUSPENSION.*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CONSUMERS COMPLAINT IS ONE ON THE STRUCTURE OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN IN THE DRIVERS SEAT, CONSUMERS KNEE TOUCHED THE IGNITION AND CONSUEMR CANNOT SEE THE BUMPER WHEN LOOKING OUT OF THE WINDSHIELD. VEHICLE IS THE LX SERIES. *JG
Positive 2002 Honda S2000 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Honda S2000 problems:
Common S2000 Problems/Solutions (1999-2009) - S2KI Honda ...
Mar 18, 2009 ... Problem: Wind noise / Soft top noise. ... Problem: After sitting for a long time, my car doesn't start on the first try. Fact: Several S2000 ...
Common Problems - S2000.club
Idle / Hesitation / Kangerooing / Misfire Problems As idle / hesitation / kangerooing / misfire problems and misfires seem to be a common problem on the S2000, ...
Common s2k problems - S2KI Honda S2000 Forums
Aug 13, 2011 ... Also saying that the clutch disc itself has weak springs and causes a buzzing noise. Maybe ill get lucky and find a nice 02 in my price range.
2002 Honda S2000 Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Honda S2000? Our list of 12 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Honda S2000.
What Are Common S2000 Problems / Issues? - S2KI Honda S2000 ...
Sep 11, 2007 ... It's a reliable car if you find one that hasn't been beaten on too hard. I recommend getting a 2002-2003 if you can as the later model AP1s have ...
Other years of Honda S2000
Are you having problems with your 2002 Honda S2000?
Morgan Reynolds 2024-11-29
WHEN I BOUGHT MY S2000 IN JUNE OF 2001,I DROVE MY BOSSES SLK AND I HATED IT! I THOUGHT THE S2000 WAS A FASTER NICER AND LESS IN PRICE CAR THEN THE SLK!SO FAR I ADDED DC SPORTS HEADERS,BORLA CAT BACK EXHAUST,AND A INJEN INTAKE.WHEN I HIT VTECH ALL I KNOW IS THAT WHO EVER IS IN THE CAR BETTER COVER THERE EARS CUZ ITS LOUD!!!!!! I LOVE THE S2OOO AND WOULD NEVER GET RID OF IT! ANYONE THAT HASNT DRIVEN ONE PLEASE DO!! I SELL NISSAN AND I CANT WAIT TILL THE 350Z,BUT I WOULD NEVER GET RID OF THE S2K FOR A NISSAN! IF YOU DONT HAVE ONE GET ONE!!!!!!!!
Melvina Gerlach 2024-11-27
I've been driving sports cars for decades, but I have to say that the Honda S2000 is the most impressive vehicle I've driven in its price range. I've tried every other modern car in its class, including the Porsche Boxster, Audi TT, BMW Z3, Miata, and MR2, but none of them come close to creating the same level of pure excitement, hair-raising speed, and surgical handling as the little Honda. In fact, my MGB has not been out of the garage since I brought the S2000 home!
Fletcher Mueller 2024-11-21
Although the S2000 has a perfect transmission and gearbox, the clutch needs to be broken in before you can achieve optimal performance. The acceleration difference between 1000 miles and 6000 miles is extremely significant.
Francesco Gottlieb 2024-11-08
This car is amazing! I had the chance to test drive several competing vehicles, such as the BMW M Roadster, Mercedes SLK32 AMG, and Porsche Boxster S. However, the Honda S2000 beats them all in terms of fun factor - you can't help but smile when driving it! The Mercedes only comes in automatic, which is a bit of a shame since a sports car with an automatic is an oxymoron, and it feels heavier and less nimble. The 2002 BMW M is a bit faster than the Honda, but it loses on handling, as I've helped to prove on the autocross circuit. The Boxster S has very similar performance, and some say it's easier to drive faster, but with a good driver in each car, it's anybody's race, drag, track, or autoxx.
Charlie Marquardt 2024-11-03
Great car! I absolutely love driving it and admiring its beauty. If you take it for a test drive, I'm sure you'll fall in love with it too!