5 Things You Only Learn After Buying an S2000
Ready to take the plunge and buy an S2000? Here are some things you'll probably only find out after dropping your hard earned cash on one.
1. Later models are "softer" than early ones
Aside from the obvious changes, like the styling, later model S2000's are "softer" than early cars. This is because Honda decided to not only soften up the springs and anti-roll bars but add traction control as an option in 2006 and as standard equipment in 2008. But depending on how you look at it, this wasn't necessarily a bad thing. Early cars were known to be quite snappy at higher speeds, requiring a very attentive driver to keep the car straight. For some, this isn't a big deal, but for others, it might be.
2. You'll want to keep some quarts of oil handy
The S2000 is notorious for burning up oil, so expect to check it frequently. In some cases, owners have burned through an entire quart in only 1,000 miles. This is also an important thing to keep in mind while shopping for an S2000. If you hear a knocking noise while test driving one, it probably means that the previous owner allowed the oil run too low.Otherwise, plan on changing the oil every 6,000 miles or six months in addition to regular top offs.
3. Keep an eye out for rust
The S2000 isn't exactly a rust bucket, but they do have a tendency to rot in certain areas. Be sure and check underneath the car, where Honda didn't bother to add much in the way of rust protection. The rear wheel wells are also a problem area for some, so be sure and get up in there with a flashlight. This is especially important if you live in the midwest or any other place where road salt is used, even if the S2000 doesn't exactly strike you as a winter beater.
4. Watch out for Timing Chain Tensioner
The Timing Chain Tensioner (TCT) can be a big problem area for the S2000 if you don't maintain it properly. Once the TCT starts to go bad, it will produce a rattling noise when you start the car. If you ignore this for too long, the timing will slip and result in a potentially catastrophic engine failure. Thankfully, TCT's are pretty inexpensive and aftermarket units are available that (unlike Honda TCT's) will last forever. Plus, we've got a fantastic how-to guide in our forum that will walk you through the job.
5. It's in a class by itself
There are other sporty roadsters out there, but none are truly like the S2000. It's a raw, direct, and sharp driving experience that cars like the Mazda MX-5 and Porsche Boxster don't quite match. The Porsche is actually very different, with its more torque and lower revving motor. And with electronic steering so rampant these days, it's very refreshing to drive a car with real road feel. Especially one with such fantastic steering to boot. So be warned -once you spend some time behind the wheel of an S2000, it might just ruin everything else for you.