I was wondering does the S2000 have a Timing belt or Timing Chain. If its a chain does this mean it does not have to changed every 60k miles ?

Also, I test drove a new s2k and noticed a small rattle with the back window on the rag top. Is that normal ? It sounds like a vibration noise.

Thanks,

 

It has a chain. The tensioner goes out sometimes for some people though.
The rattle could be coming from anywhere, but this is the first time I've heard of a window rattling. Check the back seat isn't all the way up against the vinyl. Check the seat belt isn't rattling against something. Those are the most common things to make noise.

 

Never had a problem with a rattle near the rear window.


Oh yeah, now I remember why, I don't drive with the top up.

 

How often is the tensioner a problem ? Is this a known issue and if so how many miles? The last thing I want to do is have the car in the shop three months after buying one.

Overall would you say this car has the same reliability as an Accord or Civic ?

 

I have had my S since May 13 this year, and can say for certain that the only thing you should be in the shop for is an oi change and maybe the clear coat reapplication if you buy that with the new car (new clear twice a year for 5 years).

The fit and feel of the car remains great, and as a year-round daily driver, what a way to feel better after a crappy day at the office.

After having two accords and a TSX in the household ove the past 20 years, I would expect the reliability to be exactly what you've come to know from Honda.

 

I'm not sure how often the tensioner is a problem. I've never had a problem with it after 3 years and 31K miles. Some (not many) people have replaced it though.
This is my first Honda product, so I can't compare with others. So far, I think the S2K is very well built and you get much more than what you pay for it. The engine is pretty bullet proof, unless you mis-shift and over-rev it. That, and not checking your oil at every fuel stop will reach out and bite you very quickly. Read the FAQ section in this forum for some good pointers.

 

The tensioner thing causes ticking/clacking noise. There are other (much worse) causes for ticking, but this one is benign. Nothing to worry about.

You can search the site for postings on the tensioner.

The timing chain really is a much better solution that Honda went with than a belt, since most S2000 owners like the engine noises. Personally, I love the mild whine of the valvetrain.

Best wishes!