So I own a 2007 Civic Si Coupe, and I'm planning on trading for a 2001 S2000.

My car has about 49,XXX miles and runs fine but I want an S2000.

The other car is a yellow S2000 with about 83,XXX miles and it's in decent shape.

Both vehicles are salvaged, we can't all afford clean titles unfortunately.

I found this forum after I test drove the vehicle so I couldn't do the buying used car tests unfortunately.

The one major thing I noticed was when I drove it the shifter was really loose when swinging it left and right in neutral.
There was absolutely nothing stopping it, the car has a short shifter which may be the problem.

Another thing is the cluster is in rough condition, scratches here and there, could I replace the cluster without having
a different mileage on the new cluster?

My final question is, what to write on the title?
I have no idea how to handle this as I live in California and they will find any
way possible to get the most sales tax as possible out of you.

It's a straight trade with no cash added on either end.

Thank you for all your help guys, I really appreciate it!

Here are some pictures.

Engine Bay:

Interior:

Etc.

 

 

Welcome!

Sounds like maybe something is wrong with the centering spring (that might not be the correct term ).

 

Welcome.

When you get an S2000 check out the link in my signature for new owners.

 

I'll ask the previous owner, hopefully it's a cheap fix. Thank you!

 

I already have, it's great information, just a little overwhelming.

I'm not going to be able to sit in the vehicle with my laptop next to me scrolling down the page checking all of it.

The same goes for the buying a used S2000 guide.

It would be nice if you have a little summary at the end stating the major things to check and make sure.

 

As long as there is no frame damage...
1: drive through all the gears to see if the gears are ok
2: test the clutch to see if it holds
3: drive it until it's hot, then turn it off and start it again. Pop the hood and check for the TCT sound.
4: check the fluids (brake and clutch reservoir). Clean clutch fluid is a good sign, means the car was properly maintained. Also coolant level and color, OEM is blue.
5: check for DTC - even if no check engine light is on. Simple check, you start the engine and remove the throttle body clip from the sensor - and the check engine light should be on. You can clear it later - this is only to see if the bulb has not been taken out to hide existing DTCs. And ofcourse if you don't have access to a dtc reader.
6: check the aircon
7: check the roof for tears

Good news: it has facelift wheels, you can go with 225/45 on the front and 255/40 rear. OEM spec is 215/45 front and 245/40 rear.

 

A few questions.

What is the TCT sound?
What is DTC?

The roof was just replaced.

Thanks for the summary, I really appreciate it.

 

I test drove this car yesterday its in ok shape the timing chaing tensionar might need replacement soon other the some body damege its in decent shape