Honda S2000 Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Honda S2000 is one of the most iconic Japanese sports cars. Built between 1999 and 2009, it is loved for its high-revving VTEC engines, sharp handling, and timeless roadster design. The S2000 has a good reputation for reliability, but it is now an older car, and there are well-known problems that owners and buyers should be aware of. This guide explains the most common Honda S2000 issues and typical UK repair costs.
About the Honda S2000
The S2000 was designed to rival cars like the Mazda MX-5 and Porsche Boxster, but with a more hardcore personality. It came with:
- A naturally aspirated engine revving to 9,000 rpm
- Rear-wheel drive and 50:50 weight balance
- A precise six-speed manual gearbox
- Classic two-seat convertible styling
As with most sports cars, age and spirited driving have left many S2000s needing repairs in certain areas.
Common Honda S2000 Problems
- Timing chain tensioner wear
A common issue that causes rattling noises. If ignored, it can lead to serious engine damage. - Clutch wear
Clutches wear quickly on cars that are driven hard. Slipping or heavy clutch pedals are common on higher mileage cars. - Gearbox synchro wear
Fast driving can wear gearbox synchros, especially second gear, causing crunching when changing gear. - Differential problems
Hard use can cause differential wear or noisy bearings. - Handling traits on early models
Early AP1 models (1999 to 2003) are known for sudden oversteer if pushed too hard, especially on wet roads or with worn tyres. - Suspension bush wear
Old bushes cause knocks, poor alignment, and uneven tyre wear. - Rust
Wheel arches, sills, and subframes can rust badly if not treated. - Soft-top roof wear
Tears in the roof fabric are common with age, and early cars with plastic rear windows often need replacements. - Air conditioning faults
Leaks or failed compressors cause weak or no cooling.
Typical Repair and Service Costs in the UK
Owning an S2000 costs more than running a regular Honda, but it is still cheaper than many rival sports cars. Below are average UK costs:
| Repair or Service | What is Included | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual service | Oil, filter, checks | £180 to £250 |
| Major service | Spark plugs, filters, valve clearances, fluids | £400 to £600 |
| Timing chain tensioner | Replacement part and labour | £250 to £500 |
| Clutch replacement | Full kit, may include flywheel | £500 to £800 |
| Gearbox repair | Synchro rebuild or bearings | £600 to £1,000 |
| Differential rebuild | Bearings or full unit replacement | £600 to £1,200 |
| Front brake pads and discs | Replacement | £200 to £350 |
| Suspension bushes | Poly or OEM replacements | £300 to £600 per axle |
| Soft-top roof replacement | New fabric roof | £600 to £1,000 |
| Air conditioning repair | Re-gas or compressor replacement | £100 to £400 |
| Rust repair | Welding and repainting | £300 to £1,000+ |
How to Reduce Costs
- Replace the timing chain tensioner as soon as rattling starts
- Change oil regularly to protect the high-revving engine
- Use good tyres to improve grip and reduce oversteer risks
- Underseal the car and repair rust quickly
- Drive smoothly to make clutches, gearboxes, and differentials last longer
- Clean and protect the roof to extend its life
Conclusion
The Honda S2000 is one of the most exciting Japanese sports cars ever built. Its main issues include timing chain tensioner wear, clutch and gearbox problems, differential noise, rust, and roof wear. Repair costs are higher than for everyday Hondas but still lower than most sports car rivals.
With proper care and regular maintenance, the S2000 delivers one of the most thrilling and reliable driving experiences in the classic sports car world.