Buying a Prelude 2.2 VTi - what to look for?

Buying a Prelude 2.2 VTi - what to look for?

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Discussion

MMC

Original Poster:

341 posts

276 months

Sunday 10th February 2008
quotequote all
I've tracked down a decent Prelude to replace my Civic - a 'tiptronic' 2.2 VTi. Apart from the obvious stuff, what should I be looking for? Any known problems with these? And what sort of running costs am I looking at? Guessing around 30mpg (I drive like your gran!)

Cheers


Holst

2,468 posts

228 months

Sunday 10th February 2008
quotequote all
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

That covers most things to look for

running costs wise 30mpg can be done but only on the motorway, I get around 25 in my car driving normally. I have managed 35 at 65mph on cruise control.

Insurance shouldnt be too bad if your not too young.

Servicing at honda is reasonable value with there honda happyness scheme, but new parts are expensive. Second hand bits are easily avalable.

The tiptronic box can go wrong if not serviced correctly, so check it over VERY VERY carefully. Personally I would stay away from the tiptronic unless you cant drive a manual. The tiptronic cars should sell for a lower price than the manuals.

Good luck.

MMC

Original Poster:

341 posts

276 months

Sunday 10th February 2008
quotequote all
Thank you Holst - really appreciate that.

beergibbon

395 posts

201 months

Wednesday 13th February 2008
quotequote all
I used to have one of these, good car and I would recommend it.

Some nuggets:
2.2VTi had 185bhp up to and including 1998, post this they had 197bhp.
As they are 4-wheel steer, you can't just replace the rear bearings, you have to replace an entire unit (don't know the technical term) which costs about £235 ex fitting. Be sure to look out for this.

Neil

SkinnyBoy

4,635 posts

265 months

Thursday 21st February 2008
quotequote all
Nice writeup Holst.

Also note when the timing belt was done last. As the H22 is an interference motor, if it snaps then you can basically write the head off. Problems arise with the auto-tensioner. If getting the belt done, have them swap out the auto one for a manual one from a H23 or F22 motor.

They are solid reliable cars in stock form. once you start pissing around with them there is a a world of hurt waiting. Don;t put big wheels on them as it affects the sweet handling. Im replacing all my suspension with Cusco units as i put in Koni's and basically ruined the set up. Also im going back to 16" wheels from 17" again to improve the handling.