So I have been on this forum for a while here in introductions looking for advice on tracking down a S2K and I received lots of good advice here, thank you very much guys!
So now, how about a formal introduction.. I am Scott a 67 year old man (well in a week) that has just purchased a 2005 in the New Formula Red color which I understand to be the fastest color! It seems in excellent condition with a few items that need tended to, which is expected in an 18 year old car. I have had it a whopping 2 days now and am still learning about it and how it drives. Highly impressed so far, thanks for letting me in the club!
Scott
[and how do I get one of those car pictures I see here ? ]

Here are a couple pics of the car..

 

Welcome, glad you found one worth buying

 

Just got back from a Honda dealer getting a spare $150 key!! Holey camoly! While I was at the dealership they did a complimentary 122 point inspection on the car indicating about $2500 in repairs needed, including $300 for 4 sparkplugs! Not to concerned about all the things it supposedly needs but thought I would post it here for fun and maybe get your guys thought on it. The service writer scratched out the trans service and told me I should never do that or change the fluid in it, I thought that was weird. Very nice lady however.

 

Thanks me too, and all you guys helping was nice, it helped me make a more informed decision.

 

Absolutely change your manual transmission fluid.

Never take it to that dealership again.

 

It will most definitely get changed!

 

Observations and a couple questions..
First off WOW does this thing handle well, have not put a lot of miles on yet but this thing is like a slot car in the way it turns.
Yesterday when I took it into the dealership to get a new key I attracted a small group of employees checking it out oooing and ahhing.. Also if you look at the estimate above what it that spool valve on head leaking oil ($853.90) anything to worry about and how hard is that for me to do? And $300 for 4 sparkplugs??
Went to the gas station after and some guy was all over the car checking it out, that was interesting no one ever does that with my Dodge pick up!
I was concerned with the drone from the exhaust with the top up but noticed if I drop a gear and run at higher rpm's it seems to quiet down.. I'm learning. And as to those rpm's, what is a "normal" range to keep them in just driving around? Seems to me like 4000 seems about right, but that puts me in 4th gear between 45 and 50 MPH, does that seem right?
Ordered a cup holder and phone holder from Modifry last night due to no where to put anything in the car, we will see how that all works out.
Thanks in advance for the help.
I think it found its home

 

Nice garage I'm envious! The last couple of years interest in S2000's has really grown, every time I go anywhere with mine it draws attention it is usually from younger folks.
You will find your 'happy place' as to what rpm range to keep it in everybody is different. I find myself driving in 5th a lot even though I still have an extra gear.
Three hundred does seem like a lot to change plugs it is a pretty straightforward job unless they are the originals then they may be a P.I.T.A. to remove.
Not sure what a spool valve is hoping someone else chimes in on that.

 

Thanks on the garage, I have a full wood shop in there also. Will probably need to get a light cover for it.
Yes, I seem to find myself in 5th a lot also, but I've only had it a couple days. And I am not used to drawing attention since I sold my bike and that was only on occasion.
Not sure on the spool valve either, and I didn't see any leaking.

 

Drone is present in every aftermarket exhaust system. And right about where you hear it.

All the maintenance recommended by the dealer is good to do but you can do it easily especially in that mammoth garage. Recommend a small lift (similar to QuickJack) or at least high jack stands for most chores.

Have no clue what a "spool valve" might be.

Maybe the shop has language issues? I'm sure the "rear difference service" refers to the differential. This is listed in the maintenance schedule in both the Owners Manual and Maintenance Manual (which you downloaded earlier this week). Required differential oil is listed in the Owners Manual.

Yes, you will want to change the brake and clutch fluids. And the antifreeze. Change the engine, gearbox, and differential oils. Photo essays for all are in the library here. Investment in tools is minimal. Use the specific Honda S2000 oil filter.

Sparkplugs are pre-gapped. Unscrew the old, screw in the new. 10 minutes.

Valve adjustment is a Saturday morning job. Putting the car on a low lift or jack stands will save your back.

Discussions on all these tasks -- and materials (like "what's the best engine oil") abound. Take your time and read read read.

Recommend you draw an engine oil sample to send to Blackstone Labs. I use a premium full synthetic 5W-30 and only change my oil when they tell me to.

-- Chuck