I have found a nice s2k (my03)...about 50k miles, honda certified (power train warranty until 2010 or 100K miles) lightly modified. It's about 2 1/2 hours away and I plan to go over in about a week to look it over and finalize the deal if all looks good.

So what DO I need to look at. Here is my list so far:

Check for fluid leaks
Check condition of hoses, belts & filters
Check horn
Check shocks
Check tires including spare
Check tools
Look at oil on dip stick
Pull and examine plugs
Compression test

Fire it up and...
Check operation of...
-Lights/turn signals/brake lights
-power windows and locks
-power roof
-radio, cd
-remote releases
-hand brake

Drive it...easy at first, at least one run to redline in 2nd or 3rd, at least a mile at 80mph (on I-10)
Check braking

I also plan to scan ecu for old codes. Anyone tell me where the ODB diagnostic port is located?

Hopefully this inspection will go smoothly, I will become the proud owner of a nice s2k, and this place will get another $20 registration fee.

Great site...thanks in advance for any and all help.

TOF

 

damn. good thing this isnt a private sale, the guy might think yor're ocd or somthing. But I agee with you, thats a good list. I think you should add checking tire wear for signs of misalignment or off-camber, etc. If there was a way to check the diff, such as that jacking it up and turning one wheel thing. Im not to familiar with it, but the diff is the weak point and I would try to check that anyway I could. Good luck. I wish I was you, but no S for me for a little while

 

Here's sereral more items to add to your (already extensive) list:
- Owner's Manual (check secret compartment, who knows what's in there )
- Three keys & two key fobs
- Check the convertible top (they are expensive to replace):
A. Each Latch & Locking Lever.
B. Wear at backside corners where the hoops slide across the vinyl.
C. General fit & condition.

HAPPY HUNTING

 

Actually, this IS a private sale. Warranty on honda certified cars is transferrable. I checked this vin with Honda Customer Service...sure enough I get the warranty with no transfer fee.

Current owner has already agreed to let me do a compression test so I don't think, he will be too freaked out when I get out the ramps and the floor jack.

Good advice...I appreciate it guys.

 

haha oo ok. well thats cool. I wonder what he would say if you take off the head and check the retainers lolol.