Looking at picking up an '00 with 45,000 miles, it's been tracked occasionally, from what I understand. What items would I need to have inspected. Would a Honda dealership do this for a fee? Could they check the differential and drivetrain---cam belts? Any other items that should be checked? Also, when is the timing belt supposed to be changed? Thanks a BUNCH!

 

There are no timing belts. The cams are chain driven.

If it were me, I would want a leak-down test to make sure the engine has been maintained well, and have the differential oil inspected / changed. If the diff oil looks dark, then it probably hasn't ever been changed (bad).

 

BTW, I don't know if a dealership would be able to do a leak-down test, but a performance shop can. A leak-down test is much more thorough than a compression test.

 

For the right fee, they'll walk your dog.

Yes, they'll inspect your car for you. Just get the estimate first.

 

Are there good links to what's involved in a "leak down test?" Any idea on typical cost associated with such a test? Thanks a bunch!

 

Does the timing chain need to be replaced around 50k miles?

 

As far as I know, the timing chain doesn't ever need to be replaced.

 

Definatley get an inspection and any mechanical records they have.

 

timing cain is only replaced if broken. its like the chain on your bike, theres really no need to replace it unless it breaks

 

I used to replace the chain on my bike yearly, about every 3-4,000 miles. Bicycle chains stretch and wear with use, but they aren't splashed by oil all the time either.

The timing chain in the S2000 does not have a recommended replacement interval, but that certainly doesn't mean it never needs to be replaced. At 50,000 miles, it should still be in good shape and will likely remain so for quite a while longer.