Faults:

The car is burning or consuming too much oil, even in normal driving conditions. It was addressed to the dealer after purchasing the car within a few weeks. But service adviser stated that it's normal for the car to burn oil. Not convinced, I asked another repair shop, and I was informed that something is wrong with the engine.

General Comments:

The car doesn't have enough power going up hill.

Faults:

Exposed wire caused alternator to fail twice before finding the cause. Easy fix.

Other than that, regular maintenance.

General Comments:

I had my heart set on an S2000, but decided I needed something more practical for everyday use.

I found the car on Ebay in the local area and took it for a drive. It handled and drove very well, and was much more comfortable than my Maxima.

I love the simplicity of the layout. Everything seems well placed. The 5 speed transmission shifts smoothly and was very easy to get used to.

The car had a little over 100,000 miles, but looked and felt like it had half that.

Since I have had it, I wouldn't hesitate to drive it anywhere. It's very nimble and a blast to take out in the country on winding roads.

I paid 8,000 for it and it holds its value well, even for the mileage. The gas mileage is not as impressive as I would expect, and only gets me around mid to high 20s on the highway, but considering I don't do much driving, it hasn't been a real problem.

For a 4 banger, it's pretty quick. It won't throw you back in your seat by any means, but has plenty of power to have a little fun with on the open road.

The main downside to the Prelude is the unwanted attention you get from the 'import crowd'. I get a lot of questions about what 'mods' I have done or whether I want to race. It's not a fast car and the only mods I have at the time usually consist of a fresh tank of gas or new air filter to replace the dirty one.

I've noticed that dressing these cars up seems to destroy the resale value and gets even more unwanted attention. If you want a sporty, reliable car that handles like a big go kart, then look no further.

Faults:

Oxygen sensors replaced at 40000 miles after trouble code set.

Front brakes and rotors replaced at 41000 miles due to warpage.

General Comments:

This is a fine piece of sporty driving equipment. It has a smooth shifting five speed transmission, well balanced feel, liquidy smooth and powerful engine, and a great view to the front. It is fun to drive, and looks absolutely beautiful. The climate control is outstanding.

Now, the faults: It runs rich, and has a smelly exhaust; under full throttle in VTEC, the exhaust is black; this is NORMAL according to Honda. The paint is beautiful, yet soft, and is very easily scratched and stained. If you're slow in washing off bird droppings, it will quickly etch the paint. This car absolutely requires high octane fuel from a reputable dealer only, and this gets costly at times.

Replacement parts from the dealer are very expensive. The stereo is mediocre at best. Some people may say the seats are too hard, but well suited to this car's personality. They get uncomfortable on very long trips. Some squeaks and rattles have developed in the sunroof area when it is closed.

Faults:

During the five months I have owned my Prelude I have had to replace the entire clutch assembly and shift linkage system.

I had to take the car back to the dealer due to a defective throwout bearing. It was replaced under warranty.

The 2nd and 3rd gear syncros are beginning to go.

The sunroof rattles constantly.

The dashboard has recently begun to rattle as well.

On warm days the back seat dash rubs against the rear window creating yet another rattle.

General Comments:

My previous car, a 1995 civic SI, was a beautiful car. It never gave me problems like these. I understand though that these problems have arisen either due to previous owner neglect or just age itself.

Still, the 5th generation prelude is a great car. I love its performance and its willingness to do what I ask of it. With proper care and routine maintenance, a Honda will last forever.

One last comment. because Preludes are in general a "rare" car, repair costs tend to be more than average.

Faults:

Stock ride height looks a bit high for my taste. The h22a burns oil if you engage V-TEC (5200+ rpms) all the time.

General Comments:

I haven't had any problems at all. I use Castro syntec oil and change it every 5000 miles. Upgraded suspension. Handles great stock, but I just wanted to lower it 2 inches. Great car for auto-cross stock if you're interested. Overall a great car.