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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1994 Honda Del Sol has 9 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Rear Trailing-Arm Mount and Rear Quarter/Rocker Rust ($300-$2,500 repair), Timing Belt Aging Failure on Interference Engines ($60-$700 repair) and Distributor Failure (Ignition Issues) ($150-$500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $15 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 9 Known Issues
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On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, on aging del Sols in salt-belt climates, rust attacks two key structural areas: the rear frame outrigger where the rear trailing-arm mounts to the unibody (driver's side is commonly reported), and the rear quarter panels above the wheel arch that can spread to the rocker line. Because the trailing-arm mount is a suspension attachment point, corrosion there is a structural/safety concern, not just cosmetic. Owners and vendors reference a frame outrigger repair panel (e.g. 04659-SR2-300ZZ).
Rust bubbling on rear quarters above wheel and rocker line
Perforation or flaking metal at rear trailing-arm mount
Rear suspension clunk or shifting under load
Visible frame/outrigger corrosion underneath
How to Fix
Rust must be cut out and repaired with welded steel patch panels; the trailing-arm mount/rear outrigger requires proper structural welding by a competent body/frame shop before the car is driven hard. Quarter-panel rust is repaired with patch panels or slip-on rocker sections. Costs vary widely with severity and whether the suspension mount is compromised.
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, the Del Sol features a removable targa-style roof panel that relies on rubber weatherstripping seals around the entire perimeter of the roof opening. These seals harden, crack, and shrink with age, causing water leaks into the cabin during rain and car washes. The front header seal above the windshield and the rear seal at the buttress are the most common leak points. The roof panel latch mechanisms also wear, preventing the panel from pulling down tightly against the seals.
Common Symptoms
Water dripping onto passenger from header area during rain
Wet carpet on driver or passenger side after rain
Wind noise at highway speeds from seal gaps
Visible cracking or hardening of rubber roof seals
Roof panel rattles or does not sit flush
How to Fix
Replace all targa top weatherstripping seals with OEM Honda replacements (still available as of recent years) or aftermarket equivalents. Adjust the roof panel latch mechanisms to ensure proper downward pressure on the seals. Clean and lubricate the latch mechanisms with white lithium grease. If the roof panel itself is warped from sun damage, it may need to be shimmed or replaced. Apply a thin film of silicone sealant to the seal mating surfaces as extra protection.
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, the del Sol's signature removable targa roof is its most frequently reported weak point. The rubber weatherstrip seals harden and shrink with age, and the alignment/mounting hardware at the corners loosens, so the top rattles over bumps and around corners and admits water at the front header, side rails, and rear glass. Owners of early 1993-1994 cars report the most flex and noise; hardened seals eventually affect every model year. This is a body/chassis issue independent of engine.
Water dripping onto headliner or occupants in rain or car wash
Rattle or squeak from roof over bumps and cornering
Wind noise at highway speed
Damp carpets or musty smell
Top does not sit flush / visible sag
How to Fix
Recondition or replace the roof weatherstripping and re-seat the top. Common accepted fixes: clean and treat the seals with silicone spray, smear a thin bead of clear silicone along the weatherstrip contact face and let cure, and adjust/tighten the top's mounting bolts/locating pins. For persistent leaks, replace the OEM front, side, and rear seal set. There is no single permanent factory fix; seal maintenance is ongoing.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Maintenance treatment for clean, intact but dry roof weatherstrips after leak location and roof adjustment Fitment/availability: Universal Honda rubber-seal conditioner, part 08798-9013. It is not a replacement weatherstrip and will not …
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, the Del Sol uses a distributor-based ignition system with internal coil and ignition module. The distributor is prone to failure from moisture intrusion, internal coil cracking, and igniter module heat damage. Symptoms include intermittent no-start conditions, engine dying while driving, and misfires. The distributor is mounted at the rear of the cylinder head where it is exposed to engine heat and splash from the road. Remanufactured distributors are available but quality varies significantly between brands.
Confirm distributor failure by checking for loss of spark when the no-start or stall occurs, then test the internal coil and igniter/ICM against Honda service-manual resistance and output specs while inspecting the cap, rotor, housing seal, and connector for moisture or corrosion. On Del Sol models, the most reliable repair is usually replacing the complete distributor assembly with a quality OEM or premium new unit rather than a cheap remanufactured one, then installing a new cap/rotor if not included, verifying base ignition timing, and checking for oil leaks from the cam seal that can contaminate the distributor. Parts typically run about $180-$450 for a good distributor assembly, with total repair cost commonly $300-$700 depending on brand and labor; replacing only the igniter or coil is cheaper but often less durable if the housing or bearings are already heat-damaged.
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, the del Sol's cam-driven ignition distributor (mounted on the cylinder head) has an internal shaft oil seal that hardens and leaks with age. Engine oil migrates past the seal and coats the cap, rotor, igniter, and internal sensors, causing misfires, rough running, and stalling. The distributor shaft bearing also wears, and internal sensors such as the CYP (cylinder position) sensor can fail (setting P1381/P1382). The 1994-1995 cars are widely cited for this leak, though it affects the full 1993-1997 range. A known secondary hazard: leaking oil drips onto the heater hose below and can degrade it.
If only the cap and rotor are fouled, cleaning or replacing them restores driveability temporarily, but the leak returns. The accepted permanent fix is to replace the internal oil seal and inspect the shaft bearing; when the bearing is worn or an internal sensor has failed, the entire distributor assembly is replaced (many internal parts aren't sold separately). Remanufactured distributors are commonly used.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Autopart Premium APID034 complete distributor
OEMAutopart Premium APID034
Complete distributor after internal seal/bearing/sensor failure is confirmed Fitment/availability: 1993-1995 U.S. Includes module, cap and rotor; do not use for Si or VTEC.
Complete distributor after internal seal/bearing/sensor failure is confirmed Fitment/availability: 1993-1995 U.S. Confirm the stamped ID before ordering.
Complete distributor after internal seal/bearing/sensor failure is confirmed Fitment/availability: 1994-1995 U.S. Confirm the stamped ID; do not cross to the Si TD-42U branch.
Complete DOHC VTEC distributor after internal seal/bearing/sensor failure is confirmed Fitment/availability: 1996-1997 U.S. Because the retailer cross-list is broad, confirm the stamped distributor ID and connector before purchase.
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, like most 1990s Hondas, the del Sol uses a PGM-FI main relay that powers the ECU and fuel pump. Cracked factory solder joints on the relay's internal circuit board open as the relay heats, causing intermittent no-start or long-crank conditions that are worst in hot weather or when the engine is warm. Once running, current bridges the crack, so the car often restarts fine after cooling, making the fault frustratingly intermittent.
Diagnose by turning the key to RUN (not START): a healthy system clicks and the fuel pump whirs for a couple seconds to prime. No prime plus no-start points to the main relay. Fix by re-flowing/adding solder to the cracked joints on the board, or simply replace the relay (aftermarket units are roughly $15-40). A shop typically charges under an hour of labor.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Honda 39400-S10-003 PGM-FI main relay
OEMHonda 39400-S10-003
Main-relay replacement after hot no-start testing confirms the relay/circuit failure Fitment/availability: 1993-1997 U.S.
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, all del Sol engines (D15B7, D16Z6 SOHC VTEC, D16Y7/D16Y8, and the B16A3/B16A2 DOHC VTEC) are rubber timing-belt driven and are interference designs, meaning a snapped belt lets valves strike pistons and destroys the top end. Honda specifies replacement around the 60,000-mile interval, but on 25-30+ year-old cars belt age (rubber degradation) matters as much as mileage, and many surviving cars are overdue. The water pump is belt-driven and should be replaced at the same time.
Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump together as a kit at the service interval or whenever belt age/history is unknown; also do cam/crank seals while access is open. A belt kit is inexpensive relative to the engine it protects. If the belt has already snapped, the engine typically needs a valve job or head rebuild.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Dayco WP143K1A timing-belt kit with water pump
OEMDayco WP143K1A
Includes belt, tensioner and belt-driven water pump; not for 1.6L engines.
Replacement 298-022 timing-belt kit with water pump
OEMReplacement 298-022
Preventive timing service when belt history is unknown or the service interval is due Fitment/availability: 1993-1995 U.S. del Sol Si, D16Z6 1.6L SOHC VTEC only.
Autopart Premium APTBK012 timing-belt kit with water pump
OEMAutopart Premium APTBK012
Preventive timing service when belt history is unknown or the service interval is due Fitment/availability: 1996-1997 U.S. del Sol S/Si, D16Y7 or D16Y8 1.6L SOHC only.
Gates TCKWP227 timing-belt component kit with water pump
OEMGates TCKWP227
Preventive timing service for the DOHC VTEC engine when belt history is unknown or the service interval is due Fitment/availability: 1994-1997 U.S. del Sol VTEC 1.6L DOHC B16A3/B16A2 branch as cataloged; verify year/engine at checkout be…
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, on the SOHC VTEC engines (D16Z6, D16Y8) the VTEC solenoid spool-valve gasket and the cam seal behind it harden with heat cycling and seep oil down the block; an internal leak here can even cause inconsistent VTEC engagement or a check-engine light. Separately, the valve-cover gasket and its spark-plug tube seals (grommets) shrink and leak oil into the plug wells, fouling plugs and igniter. The solenoid mounting bolts (M6) stretch over time and won't re-torque properly, so leaks recur if only the gasket is swapped.
Oil stripe/seepage down the block near the VTEC solenoid
Oil pooling in spark-plug tubes
Burning-oil smell on exhaust manifold
Misfire from oil-fouled plugs
Inconsistent VTEC engagement
How to Fix
Replace the VTEC solenoid spool-valve gasket (OEM 15825-P2M-005 fits the D16Y8) and the cam seal behind it, and replace the M6 solenoid bolts (they stretch and can't hold torque). For plug-well oil, replace the valve-cover gasket and spark-plug tube seals, and lightly scuff/de-burr the plug tubes so the new grommets seal. Use OEM gaskets for a lasting fix.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Valve-cover/plug-tube leak branch after inspection confirms the cover gasket or tube seals leak Fitment/availability: 1993-1995 U.S. Made to order; confirm included seals before checkout.
On the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol, the Del Sol shares its rear suspension with the Civic but carries its weight differently due to the targa top structure. The rear trailing arm bushings wear out and develop excessive compliance, causing the rear toe to shift under load. This results in unpredictable rear-end handling, particularly during mid-corner transitions and trail braking. The Del Sol already has a reputation for snap oversteer due to its short wheelbase and mid-engine-like weight distribution (engine forward, heavy targa mechanism rear), and worn bushings make this behavior worse.
Common Symptoms
Vague or wandering rear-end feel at highway speeds
Rear tires wearing unevenly on inner or outer edges
Unpredictable handling during lane changes
Clunking from rear over bumps
Rear wheels visibly out of alignment (toe-out visible from behind)
How to Fix
Replace both rear trailing arm bushings with new OEM rubber bushings or upgrade to Energy Suspension polyurethane bushings for better longevity and more consistent geometry. Perform a rear wheel alignment after bushing replacement — set rear toe to 2mm total toe-in (1mm per side). Inspect the rear lower control arm bushings and rear compensator arm at the same time. Torque trailing arm bolts with the suspension loaded at ride height.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Dorman 523-012 rubber rear trailing-arm bushing
OEMDorman 523-012
Factory-compliance-style rubber replacement after a failed rear trailing-arm bushing is confirmed Fitment/availability: 1993-1997 U.S. Sold individually; inspect/replace both sides as needed and confirm fit in the retailer vehicle selector.
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Campaign #06E04900024/05/2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Campaign #06E06400017/07/2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1994 Honda Del Sol has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Trailing-Arm Mount and Rear Quarter/Rocker Rust, Timing Belt Aging Failure on Interference Engines, Distributor Failure (Ignition Issues). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Honda Del Sol reliable?
The 1994 Honda Del Sol has 9 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Rear Trailing-Arm Mount and Rear Quarter/Rocker Rust and Timing Belt Aging Failure on Interference Engines and Distributor Failure (Ignition Issues). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Honda Del Sol problems?
Repair costs for known Honda Del Sol issues range from $15 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Trailing-Arm Mount and Rear Quarter/Rocker Rust, typically costs $300-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Rear Trailing-Arm Mount and Rear Quarter/Rocker Rust?
On aging del Sols in salt-belt climates, rust attacks two key structural areas: the rear frame outrigger where the rear trailing-arm mounts to the unibody (driver's side is commonly reported), and the rear quarter panels above the wheel arch that can spread to the rocker line. Be… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Timing Belt Aging Failure on Interference Engines?
All del Sol engines (D15B7, D16Z6 SOHC VTEC, D16Y7/D16Y8, and the B16A3/B16A2 DOHC VTEC) are rubber timing-belt driven and are interference designs, meaning a snapped belt lets valves strike pistons and destroys the top end. Honda specifies replacement around the 60,000-mile inte… Repairs typically run $60-$700. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
Campaign #06E02600023/03/2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Campaign #06E06000029/06/2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Distributor Failure (Ignition Issues)?
The Del Sol uses a distributor-based ignition system with internal coil and ignition module. The distributor is prone to failure from moisture intrusion, internal coil cracking, and igniter module heat damage. Symptoms include intermittent no-start conditions, engine dying while… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: high.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Targa Top Roof Seal Deterioration and Water Leaks?
The Del Sol features a removable targa-style roof panel that relies on rubber weatherstripping seals around the entire perimeter of the roof opening. These seals harden, crack, and shrink with age, causing water leaks into the cabin during rain and car washes. The front header se… Repairs typically run $100-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Compliance and Rear Toe Misalignment?
The Del Sol shares its rear suspension with the Civic but carries its weight differently due to the targa top structure. The rear trailing arm bushings wear out and develop excessive compliance, causing the rear toe to shift under load. This results in unpredictable rear-end hand… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Distributor Internal Oil Seal / Bearing Failure?
The del Sol's cam-driven ignition distributor (mounted on the cylinder head) has an internal shaft oil seal that hardens and leaks with age. Engine oil migrates past the seal and coats the cap, rotor, igniter, and internal sensors, causing misfires, rough running, and stalling. T… Repairs typically run $60-$450. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol PGM-FI Main Relay Failure (Hot-Weather No-Start)?
Like most 1990s Hondas, the del Sol uses a PGM-FI main relay that powers the ECU and fuel pump. Cracked factory solder joints on the relay's internal circuit board open as the relay heats, causing intermittent no-start or long-crank conditions that are worst in hot weather or whe… Repairs typically run $15-$150. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol Targa Top Water Leaks and Rattles?
The del Sol's signature removable targa roof is its most frequently reported weak point. The rubber weatherstrip seals harden and shrink with age, and the alignment/mounting hardware at the corners loosens, so the top rattles over bumps and around corners and admits water at the… Repairs typically run $30-$400. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1997 Honda Del Sol VTEC Solenoid and Valve-Cover Gasket Oil Leaks?
On the SOHC VTEC engines (D16Z6, D16Y8) the VTEC solenoid spool-valve gasket and the cam seal behind it harden with heat cycling and seep oil down the block; an internal leak here can even cause inconsistent VTEC engagement or a check-engine light. Separately, the valve-cover gas… Repairs typically run $30-$350. Severity: low.
