I am looking to buy an s2000. Preferably somewhere between an '00 and '03. I found an '01 that I like, but a friend of mine said that the '01s have transmission problems. Does anyone know if this is true?

 

Yeah, I don't think Honda completely eliminated the 2nd gear grind issues in the '01 models. Go for an 02 or 03. The transmission is better, plus they have glass rear windows. I like the suspension setup better as well.

 

I have an 01 and had the 2nd gear grind only at redline. I switched out the tranny fluid to honda mtf and haven't had a grind since. Either way I would still just get the newest s2k you could afford.

 

Yea...tranny is a little more notchy. I used to have an 02...I drove my friends '00 and I was like damn that sucks..

I think he had some bad maintenance practices though...I now have an '00 and had the 2nd grind a little, but with new tranny oil and more deliberate shifting, never had a problem.


although, if you do some research, there are a lot more reasons to get the 02-03 than just the tranny.

My '00 is pretty much 'upgraded' past all the differences (Hardtop for plastic window, 02 ECU for fuel map, etc) but....an 02-03 would be a better pick IMO.

 

You get different srping rates and sway bars past from MY00-01 vs. 02-03. The latter are a little more soft and forgiving. As for grinding second, it will happen soemtimes, but the more your drive it the more you adapt to being concious of it - and then it wont happen anymore. At least that has been my experience.

 

 

I like the sebring silver w/red interior, but I can't seem to find an '02-'03 that is in my price range. I'm in the Central Florida area, but am willing to travel a few hours if I find one that's worth it.

 

my 01 has close to 90k miles now and ive never had a 2nd gear grind. mmmmmh, i might have been lucky...

 

I have an 03 and I get 1-2 grind every now and then. The upshift is just so easily and quick sometimes I am too quick it seems. There is no hint of resistance when this happens...just a very short duration grinding noise. By the time I can react to it I'm already in second.

 

yea mine has 61k on it and no grind here...

it's just noticably notchy when it's cold out until it warms up.