Hi! I hope i'm posting in the right forum. I've been looking to buy an s2000 for about 4 months now. I'm coming from a background with VAG cars (i've owned a vr6 gti, 1.8T gti, B5 S4), so hondas are very new to me. I really wanted to own a civil 'race' car and the s2000 is the closest thing i've found for around 20k. I also considered the lotus elise but I needed more comfort than that. I do most of the service on my cars myself, this includes routine stuff like oil, belts, brakes, etc. So here are some questions I hope you guys wouldn't mind answering.

1. Is there software out there for connecting your laptop to the s2k via obdii for diagnostic logging (i.e. more than just pulling codes)? Something similar to vag-com for audi/volkswagens

2. Is the s2k sufficiently simple enough mechanically that someone who is not a mechanic but is mechanically inclined can do most of the work/modding? (i.e. not like a 987 boxster)

3. What's the aftermarket like for these cars? I've looked around and most of it seems to be either intake/exhaust modifications and FI and most of the bolt ons seem to throw cels (things like new headers, tp, exhausts). Are there any real power gains to be made without FI in this car? Before you jump all over me - i just want to know what potential is out there. Hondata did wonders with the k20 and rsx from what i've read but really haven't been able to get much out of the s2000 ... this seem about right with you guys?

4. After some looking i've found a silver on black/red my07 with 3k miles on it. I think i can buy it for 25k. Seems reasonable? I prefer the car not to be DBW, seems that they all are after my06.

5. This will be a car I want to drive to work maybe 3 or 4 days out of the week. I live in maryland (we get some snow but pretty light). I'll be driving into baltimore where the roads aren't fantastic. this going to be a problem?

6. Thanks for you help - i've been trolling these forums for a long time and i'm really serious about this silver my07 so i thought i would just throw some of my thoughts out there. Thanks again

 

Wow I'm guessing that means German-market cars. I don't think I could ever use that term though

Welcome to the board!

1) You will have to install a data-logger if you wish to connect a laptop, or go all out with an aftermarket ECU/EMS.

2) You can service it at almost completely by yourself with the right tools. Lots of guides and DIYs (Do It Yourself) on here.

3) That's about right. Not much to be gained with bolt-ons, though swapping the rear gear can give some assistance in this department if you're looking to avoid FI.

4) Sounds pretty good, I'd be very thorough when checking it out.

5) Tons of us daily-drive these cars and love it. If the roads are REALLY terrible and you're sensitive to bumps and a tight suspension then you may not love it. Really just depends how you feel about stiff suspensions.

 

1. Codes can be pulled by a simple paperclip Other than that, not as far as I know.
2. I believe so
3. Generally no good naturally aspirated gains. Some power may be picked up by use of an aftermarket ecu. CEL is usually only caused by O2 sensor in the exhaust, unless somebody has made an error during install of another part (eg vacuum hose)
4. All after 06 are DBW - correct.
5. Generally don't recommend use in snow, you may want to look into snow tyres like Blizzaks - see the wheels and tires forum.
6. Welcome

 

Thanks for the replies! Oh and VAG stands for volkswagen-audi group ... and pronounced with a hard G instead of a 'j' ;-)

So a datalogger i'm assuming is a 3rd party unit that connects between your OBDII port and the laptop? They come with special software? any brands reccomended?

As far as FI - i've been reading about this new company kraftwerks - seems to be getting a lot of buzz. Apparently they have a low boost supercharger kit (5ish psi) that uses the stock injectors and a reflash of the ECU to make 300ish hp? very stock feel and smooth power band as well ... seems promising after the warranty wears off and i've learned how to drive the car

I've been reading through the site some more - and the s2000 ownership population seems really cool . thanks again for the feedback!

 

if you want to check out a local s2k you can see/drive/ride in mine after i getit back from the body shop. i live in silver spring

you should post in the Mid-A forum and look around there!

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showforum=47

 

speaking of bodies who is that girl in your avatar

 

can't remember her name

you're like the 8th person that asked that lol

 

Thanks very much!! I surely will. Looks like you guys had a fun GTG over last weekend . I really want to commit to the s2k and i'm 99 percent there - i think if this my07 goes for the price i want i'll be joining you all next time .