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Honda · Known Issues

2003 Honda S2000 Problems: 10 Known Issues

2003 model year · 1,075+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,075+ owner reports, the 2003 Honda S2000 has 10 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are VTEC Oil Consumption and Burning ($50-$4,000 repair), Rear Differential Noise and Limited Slip Failure ($150-$3,500 repair) and Valve Retainer Failure at High RPM (AP1) ($1,000-$3,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is VTEC Oil Consumption and Burning with 180 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • S2000 Engine2
  • S2000 Drivetrain3
  • S2000 Body/Panels2
  • S2000 Electrical2
  • S2000 Suspension1
  • Recalls2
  • FAQ
Get Started
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In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Drivetrain3
  • Body/Panels2
  • Electrical2
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls2
  • FAQ

All 10 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS2009200820072006200520042003200220012000
Community reported
180 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, high-revving F20C and F22C engines consume oil at higher rates than typical engines, especially in VTEC mode. Normal consumption is approximately 1 quart per 1,000 miles, but excessive consumption (more than 1qt/1000mi) indicates PCV valve clogging, worn valve guide seals, or cylinder wall scoring. Running oil levels 2+ quarts low prevents VTEC engagement. AP1 (2000-2003) more severe than AP2 (2004-2009). Many owners avoid Mobil 1 due to higher burn-off rates.

This issue also affects: Acura ILX, Honda Accord, Honda Crosstour

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level dropping quickly between services
  • Blue smoke on acceleration or in VTEC
  • Weak VTEC engagement or no VTEC kick
  • Fuel smell in oil (indicates PCV issue)
  • Check engine light for VTEC system

How to Fix

First: Check and replace PCV valve (~$50-150 parts, DIY friendly). If persists: Valve guide seal replacement requires engine opening (~$500-1,500). For severe cases: Full engine rebuild ($2,000-4,000). Use synthetic 0W-40 oil with high ZDDP (Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-40, Redline, or Motul recommended). Check oil weekly. Change oil every 5,000 miles for track use.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda 17130-PV3-013 PCV valve assembly
    OEMHonda 17130-PV3-013

    early PCV replacement only when inspection/testing or scheduled maintenance confirms that branch Fitment/availability: 2000-2003 U.S.

    HondaPartsNow
  • Genuine Honda 17130-PCX-003 PCV valve assembly
    OEMHonda 17130-PCX-003

    later PCV replacement only when inspection/testing or scheduled maintenance confirms that branch Fitment/availability: 2004-2009 U.S.

    HondaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningRegular oil monitoring is MANDATORY - check weekly for high-mileage cars, never let oil drop more than 1 quart low
  • TipChange oil every 5,000 miles for track use, 7,500 for normal street driving
  • TipReplace PCV valve first before expensive valve guide seal work - often solves the problem for $50-150
  • WarningRunning 2+ quarts low prevents VTEC engagement and can cause engine damage - top off immediately
Typical repair cost:$50 - $4,000

Research This Issue

Based on 180 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence180 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
85 owners

On the 2000-2003 Honda S2000, stock AP1 valve retainers crack or split when engine exceeds 9,000 RPM consistently. VTEC engagement raises valve spring pressure, and over-revving (money shifting or redline bouncing) causes keepers to fail, leading to catastrophic head damage. AP1 valve retainers start failing around 9,000 RPM under stress. AP2 improved retainers tolerate up to 9,700 RPM. This is a CRITICAL issue for track-day S2000s. Many owners proactively upgrade to AP2 retainers before track use.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden loss of power after over-rev event
  • Ticking or rattling from cylinder head (pre-failure)
  • Metal shavings in oil (post-failure)
  • Engine knock or misfire after over-rev
  • Catastrophic engine failure

How to Fix

PREVENTIVE (Best Option): Install AP2 valve retainers on early AP1s (~$300-500 parts, ~$800-1,200 labor for head removal) = total $1,000-1,700. After Failure: Full cylinder head rebuild required ($2,000-3,500). For track use, AP2 retainers are MANDATORY upgrade. Proper shifting technique crucial - avoid downshifting into redline. Stay below 9,000 RPM if running stock AP1 retainers.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda 14765-PRB-A01 AP2 valve-spring retainer, quantity one
    OEMHonda 14765-PRB-A01

    Confirm engi

  • Genuine Honda 14781-PCX-004 AP2 valve cotter/keeper, quantity one
    OEMHonda 14781-PCX-004

    matching keeper for a specialist-selected AP2 intake-retainer conversion Fitment/availability: The commonly used 2000-2003 AP1 intake conversion pairs two new 14781-PCX-004 cotters with each of eight 14765-PRB-A01 retainers (sixteen cott…

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningFor any track-day AP1 S2000, AP2 valve retainers are a MUST-DO upgrade before sustained high RPM use - prevents $2,000+ engine rebuild
  • TipNever downshift into corners - shift before braking to avoid money-shifting into redline
  • TipStay below 9,000 RPM if running stock AP1 retainers - AP2 retainers tolerate up to 9,700 RPM
  • TipAlways warm up engine before high RPM operation - cold oil and tight tolerances increase failure risk
Typical repair cost:$1,000 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 85 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence85 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
95 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, s2000 uses Torsen limited-slip differential prone to noise and potential internal failure. CRITICAL: Some dealers mistakenly filled S2000 diffs with VTM-4 fluid (CR-V/Pilot spec), causing diffs to fail within hours to weeks. Honda has specific S2000 differential fluid requirement - using wrong fluid causes rapid catastrophic failure. Whining/clicking noise indicates backlash or wear. Limited slip function can fail (one wheel spins freely).

Common Symptoms

  • Whining noise that increases with RPM
  • Clicking after engine warm-up
  • Loss of traction - single wheel spinning freely
  • Clunking on acceleration
  • Limited slip not engaging properly

How to Fix

PREVENTIVE: Change differential fluid every 15,000 miles (Honda spec) with CORRECT Honda S2000 fluid only. Use only OEM Honda fluid or certified equivalent - NEVER VTM-4. Track cars should service diff every 10,000 miles. Avoid aggressive launches and hard shifts. Inspection/rebuild if noise develops: $1,500-2,500. Full replacement unit: $2,000-3,000+.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Red Line 57904 75W90 GL-5 gear oil, one quart
    OEMRed Line 57904

    Verify the

    Red Line Synthetic Oil

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningCRITICAL - verify dealer uses correct S2000 differential fluid, NOT VTM-4 - wrong fluid causes catastrophic failure within hours to weeks
  • TipNever skip differential fluid changes - change every 15k miles street, 10k miles track use
  • TipDocument all fluid services to maintain warranty and verify correct fluid used
  • TipAvoid aggressive launches and hard shifts - reduces differential stress and extends life
Typical repair cost:$150 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 95 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence95 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
140 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, s2000 transmission has weak synchronizers, especially 2nd gear. AP1 (2000-2003): Grinding on downshift. AP2 (2004-2009): Gear lever pops out of 2nd/4th/6th during hard deceleration (2004-mid-2005 most common). Aggressive downshifting or fast shifting causes grinding. TSB 00-055 for AP1, TSB 05-009 for AP2. This is NOT a performance gearbox - requires slow, deliberate shifts.

Common Symptoms

  • Grinding noise when shifting to 2nd gear (AP1)
  • Gear lever pops out of 2nd/4th/6th under hard deceleration (AP2)
  • Notchy or difficult shifts when cold
  • Crunching sensation when downshifting
  • Transmission feels notchy or resistant

How to Fix

First attempt: Fluid change with GM Syncromesh fluid (~$50-100, DIY). Bleed and change clutch fluid (~$50-150). Adjust shifting technique - slower, deliberate shifts. If persists: Transmission rebuild or replacement (~$1,500-3,000). Some owners use Amsoil MTX transmission fluid for improved synchro life.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda 08798-9031 Manual Transmission Fluid, one quart
    OEMHonda 08798-9031, supersedes 08798-9016

    factory-specified service or post-rebuild fill after the symptom branch and applicable bulletin are confirmed Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 U.S.

    Honda Factory Parts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipSlow, deliberate shifts prevent wear - this is not a performance gearbox, shift smoothly
  • TipLet transmission warm up before aggressive driving - shifts are notchy and resistant when cold
  • TipTrack drivers report using upshifts only to avoid synchro stress during competition driving
Typical repair cost:$50 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 140 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence140 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
90 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, cV joints wear and boots tear at 80,000+ miles, allowing grease to escape and dirt to enter. Repetitive clicking sounds indicate joint damage. Left CV joint typically fails first. CV boots tear from road debris and age. OEM Honda axles cost ~$876 but have strong reputation. Many aftermarket options use thinner intermediate shafts and poorly constructed joints - OEM quality critical.

Common Symptoms

  • Repetitive clicking sound when accelerating through turns
  • Clunking noise on deceleration
  • Vibration at highway speeds
  • Grease visible on inside of wheels
  • Clicking increases with turning angle

How to Fix

Early detection (just torn boot): Boot replacement with new grease (~$200-400). Joint wear: Full axle replacement necessary (~$400-600 per side). Professional install: $400-600 labor. OEM Honda axles or Ballade Sports OEM S2000 axles recommended for quality. Use quality CV grease (Redline CV-2 Red Moly, OEM Honda) with proper clamps (not hose clamps).

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda 42017-S2A-020 inboard rear-driveshaft boot set
    OEMHonda 42017-S2A-020

    Confirm supplied grease/bands and follow the rear-driveshaft procedure.

    HondaPartsNow
  • Genuine Honda 42018-S2A-030 outboard rear-driveshaft boot set
    OEMHonda 42018-S2A-030

    Confirm supplied grease/bands and follow the rear-driveshaft procedure.

  • Genuine Honda 42311-S2A-951 driver-side rear driveshaft assembly
    OEMHonda 42311-S2A-951

    complete driver-side rear half-shaft replacement only when that side's joint/shaft is confirmed damaged Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 U.S. Do not order merely because the opposite boot failed.

    HondaPartsNow
  • Genuine Honda 42310-S2A-951 passenger-side rear driveshaft assembly
    OEMHonda 42310-S2A-951

    complete passenger-side rear half-shaft replacement only when that side's joint/shaft is confirmed damaged Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 U.S. Do not order merely because the opposite boot failed.

    HondaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipAddress boot failure quickly before joint damage occurs - saves $200-400 in axle replacement costs
  • TipIf replacing one axle, both sides recommended for balanced handling and to avoid repeat labor costs
  • TipDIY axle replacement possible with basic tools - many S2Ki.com forum guides available
Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 90 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence90 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
125 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, canvas soft top material can tear at 100,000+ miles, especially at stress points like rear lock handle and passenger-side rear corner. Material degrades over time from UV exposure. Small tears can be repaired with Tear-Aid kits (~$20-40). Full replacement: $1,500-2,500 installed for standard vinyl, $2,500-3,500 for higher-quality Haartz Stayfast Cloth (3-ply composite). Regular conditioning with protective coating extends soft top life significantly.

Common Symptoms

  • Visible tears in fabric at stress points
  • Water leaks into interior during rain
  • Deteriorating fabric texture
  • Rear window clouding or separation
  • Top material feels brittle or stiff

How to Fix

Small tears: Tear-Aid repair kits (~$20-40). Medium damage: Professional stitching repair (~$200-400). Full replacement: New soft top ($1,500-2,500 installed) or higher-quality Haartz Stayfast Cloth (~$2,500-3,500). Preventive: Regular protective coating with Shinetsu or equivalent, avoid parking under trees/direct sun, use retractable sunshade for storage, gentle operation.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Robbins 2535 complete S2000 replacement top with plastic zipper window
    OEMRobbins core/SKU 2535

    complete top replacement after inspection shows the 2000-2001 top skin/window is beyond a safe localized repair Fitment/availability: 2000-2001 Honda S2000 only; factory-style twill-grain vinyl, plastic window with zipper, no rain rail. …

    Robbins Auto Top
  • Robbins 2540 complete S2000 replacement top with heated glass window
    OEMRobbins SKU 2540 / core 2540C

    complete top replacement after inspection shows the 2002-2009 top skin/window is beyond a safe localized repair Fitment/availability: 2002-2009 Honda S2000 roadster only; heated glass window, plastic retainers and replacement front elast…

    Robbins Auto Top

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipHigher-quality Haartz Stayfast Cloth top is worth the extra $1,000 vs. cheaper vinyl - lasts significantly longer
  • TipRegular conditioning with protective coating extends soft top life significantly - apply every 6 months
  • TipMany track-day owners move to hardtops for durability - eliminates soft top maintenance entirely
  • TipAvoid parking under trees and direct sun - UV exposure is the #1 cause of premature soft top failure
Typical repair cost:$20 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 125 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence125 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
95 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, rear window (vinyl on soft top) can become clouded from road grime/oil film, creased from improper folding, or scratched from cleaning or rubbing. Clouding: Accumulation of road grime and dirt. Creasing: Permanent fold lines from improper top operation. Scratching: Damage from abrasive cleaning. PREVENTION CRITICAL - use "Miata tube" technique with foam or rolled towel inserted in rear window fold when lowering top to prevent creasing.

Common Symptoms

  • Rear window appears cloudy or hazy
  • Permanent crease lines visible in window
  • Scratches on vinyl window surface
  • Difficulty seeing through rear window
  • Window appears yellowed or discolored

How to Fix

PREVENTION: Insert foam tube or rolled towel in rear window fold when lowering to prevent creasing. Use soft cloths only - never abrasive materials. Clean in cool, shaded area to prevent vinyl stretching. Clean regularly with proper vinyl cleaner. Creases: Usually fade naturally after car sits in sun with top up (cosmetic only). Clouding: Frequent gentle cleaning with proper vinyl cleaner restores clarity. Scratches: No permanent fix - prevention is key.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse "Miata tube" technique with foam or towel - very popular among S2000 owners to prevent creasing
  • WarningNever scrub the rear window with abrasive materials - light cleaning only to prevent permanent scratches
  • TipSome owners keep windows up when parked to minimize exposure and extend window life
  • TipRegular gentle cleaning prevents permanent clouding - use proper vinyl cleaner in cool, shaded area
  • TipCreases are usually harmless cosmetic issue that fades naturally after car sits in sun with top up
Typical repair cost:$0 - $250

Research This Issue

Based on 95 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence95 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
70 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, alternator can fail at 80,000+ miles, preventing battery charging. Internal voltage regulator (AP2 especially) can malfunction. AP1 and AP2 alternators are interchangeable. Symptoms include battery discharge, charging light illuminated, dimming headlights under load, weak starter cranking. OEM replacement recommended for reliability over remanufactured units.

This issue also affects: Honda Element, Honda Accord, Honda HR-V

Common Symptoms

  • Battery discharge (dead battery after parking)
  • Charging light illuminated during driving
  • Dimming headlights under load
  • Weak starter cranking
  • Electrical system voltage drops below 13V

How to Fix

Test alternator output (~$50-100 diagnostic). Replacement alternator: OEM $400-600, Remanufactured $200-300. OEM replacement recommended for reliability. Have charging system tested regularly. Voltage regulator replacement included in alternator replacement.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • RareElectrical 13894*1 new 105A S2000 alternator
    OEMRareElectrical 13894*1; Honda cross-references 31100-PCX-J01

    complete alternator replacement only after battery, belt, cables, ripple and output tests confirm alternator failure Fitment/availability: Retailer explicitly lists U.S.

    RareElectrical

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipHave charging system tested regularly at 80k+ miles to catch alternator failure before stranding
  • TipThe charging light issue can occur even on functional alternators - get voltage tested to confirm
  • TipAP1 and AP2 alternators are interchangeable - allows flexibility in parts sourcing
Typical repair cost:$200 - $700

Research This Issue

Based on 70 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence70 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
85 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, automatic window regulators fail at 80,000+ miles, leaving windows stuck. More common in older cars. Can be expensive to repair at dealership ($400-600) but DIY replacement with aftermarket part is achievable (~$200-300). JDM regulator swaps available. Many enthusiasts replace DIY with basic tools.

Common Symptoms

  • Window won't operate up or down
  • Grinding noise when attempting to operate window
  • Window stuck partially down
  • Window operates very slowly
  • Window falls into door

How to Fix

Window regulator replacement: $400-600 at dealer. DIY replacement with aftermarket part: $200-300 (popular among enthusiasts). JDM regulator swaps available. DIY replacement is achievable with basic tools - many S2Ki.com guides available.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda 72250-S2A-A03 driver-side window regulator assembly with motor
    OEMHonda 72250-S2A-A03

    driver-side replacement after TSB 01-008 applicability or electrical/mechanical diagnosis confirms regulator-motor failure Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 U.S.

    HondaPartsNow
  • Genuine Honda 72210-S2A-G02 passenger-side window regulator assembly with motor
    OEMHonda 72210-S2A-G02

    passenger-side replacement only after electrical/mechanical diagnosis confirms that regulator-motor assembly failed Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 U.S.

    HondaPartsNow

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY replacement is achievable with basic tools - saves $200-400 over dealer labor costs
  • TipAftermarket regulators are significantly cheaper than OEM dealer parts and work well
  • TipS2Ki.com has detailed DIY window regulator replacement guides with photos
Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

Research This Issue

Based on 85 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence85 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
110 owners

On the 2000-2009 Honda S2000, front lower control arm has compliant (soft) rubber bushings that split and tear from road vibration and hard cornering. Typically shows wear at 80,000-100,000+ miles. Honda does not sell bushings separately - only full control arms (~$350+ each). Causes steering to feel loose or vague and increases understeer. Popular upgrade: aftermarket spherical compliance bushings (firmer, longer-lasting) from Spoon, Hardrace, or Energy Suspension.

Common Symptoms

  • Steering feels loose or vague
  • Increased understeer in corners
  • Front end clunking over bumps
  • Visible splits or tears in rubber bushing
  • Uneven tire wear

How to Fix

DIY Option: Replace with aftermarket spherical compliance bushings (firmer, longer-lasting) $400-600 parts + DIY labor. OEM: Replace full control arm ($300-400 per side) + labor = $600-800 both sides. Upgrade: Spoon or Mugen bushing kits provide improved feel and durability. Track cars: Hardrace spherical bearings (stiffer, better for motorsports).

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Prothane 8-224 front upper and lower control-arm bushing kit
    OEMProthane 8-224 / retailer item 8224

    both-side front-control-arm bushing replacement after inspection confirms failed bushings and the owner accepts polyurethane NVH/maintenance tradeoffs Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 Honda S2000, AP1/AP2; includes upper-arm bushings and …

    Prothane Suspension Parts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipCompliance bushings are a wear item - plan on replacement every 80k-100k miles for all S2000s
  • TipCheck at regular intervals to catch failure before it affects handling and causes tire wear
  • TipPopular S2K track forums recommend preventive bushing replacement before motorsports use
Typical repair cost:$400 - $800

Research This Issue

Based on 110 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence110 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls2 recalls

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2006 Acura RSX vehicles manufactured January 18, 2006, through August 12, 2006; and model year 2006-2007 Honda S2000 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2006, through November 13, 2006. The brake booster may be unable to maintain a vacuum when the brake pedal is depressed, decreasing brake assist.

Campaign #13V24600013/06/2013

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES, THE OWNER'S MANUALS CONTAIN INCORRECT CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S (NHTSA) VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE.

Campaign #06V27000026/07/2006

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Honda S2000 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,075+ owner reports, the 2003 Honda S2000 has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: VTEC Oil Consumption and Burning, Rear Differential Noise and Limited Slip Failure, Valve Retainer Failure at High RPM (AP1). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Honda S2000 reliable?

The 2003 Honda S2000 has 10 known issues documented across 1,075+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: VTEC Oil Consumption and Burning and Rear Differential Noise and Limited Slip Failure and Valve Retainer Failure at High RPM (AP1). 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 S2000 problems?

Repair costs for known Honda S2000 issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, VTEC Oil Consumption and Burning, typically costs $50-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 VTEC Oil Consumption and Burning?

High-revving F20C and F22C engines consume oil at higher rates than typical engines, especially in VTEC mode. Normal consumption is approximately 1 quart per 1,000 miles, but excessive consumption (more than 1qt/1000mi) indicates PCV valve clogging, worn valve guide seals, or cyl… Repairs typically run $50-$4,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Rear Differential Noise and Limited Slip Failure?

S2000 uses Torsen limited-slip differential prone to noise and potential internal failure. CRITICAL: Some dealers mistakenly filled S2000 diffs with VTM-4 fluid (CR-V/Pilot spec), causing diffs to fail within hours to weeks. Honda has specific S2000 differential fluid requirement… Repairs typically run $150-$3,500. 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.

Data sourced from 1,075+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

What is the 2000-2003 Honda S2000 Valve Retainer Failure at High RPM (AP1)?

Stock AP1 valve retainers crack or split when engine exceeds 9,000 RPM consistently. VTEC engagement raises valve spring pressure, and over-revving (money shifting or redline bouncing) causes keepers to fail, leading to catastrophic head damage. AP1 valve retainers start failing… Repairs typically run $1,000-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Second Gear Synchronizer Grinding and Pop-Out?

S2000 transmission has weak synchronizers, especially 2nd gear. AP1 (2000-2003): Grinding on downshift. AP2 (2004-2009): Gear lever pops out of 2nd/4th/6th during hard deceleration (2004-mid-2005 most common). Aggressive downshifting or fast shifting causes grinding. TSB 00-055 f… Repairs typically run $50-$3,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Soft Top Tears and Rips?

Canvas soft top material can tear at 100,000+ miles, especially at stress points like rear lock handle and passenger-side rear corner. Material degrades over time from UV exposure. Small tears can be repaired with Tear-Aid kits (~$20-40). Full replacement: $1,500-2,500 installed… Repairs typically run $20-$3,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Compliance Bushing Failure (Front Lower Control Arm)?

Front lower control arm has compliant (soft) rubber bushings that split and tear from road vibration and hard cornering. Typically shows wear at 80,000-100,000+ miles. Honda does not sell bushings separately - only full control arms (~$350+ each). Causes steering to feel loose or… Repairs typically run $400-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 CV Joint and Boot Wear?

CV joints wear and boots tear at 80,000+ miles, allowing grease to escape and dirt to enter. Repetitive clicking sounds indicate joint damage. Left CV joint typically fails first. CV boots tear from road debris and age. OEM Honda axles cost ~$876 but have strong reputation. Many… Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Alternator Failure?

Alternator can fail at 80,000+ miles, preventing battery charging. Internal voltage regulator (AP2 especially) can malfunction. AP1 and AP2 alternators are interchangeable. Symptoms include battery discharge, charging light illuminated, dimming headlights under load, weak starter… Repairs typically run $200-$700. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Rear Window Clouding, Creasing, and Scratching?

Rear window (vinyl on soft top) can become clouded from road grime/oil film, creased from improper folding, or scratched from cleaning or rubbing. Clouding: Accumulation of road grime and dirt. Creasing: Permanent fold lines from improper top operation. Scratching: Damage from ab… Repairs typically run $0-$250. Severity: low.

What is the 2000-2009 Honda S2000 Window Regulator / Motor Failure?

Automatic window regulators fail at 80,000+ miles, leaving windows stuck. More common in older cars. Can be expensive to repair at dealership ($400-600) but DIY replacement with aftermarket part is achievable (~$200-300). JDM regulator swaps available. Many enthusiasts replace DI… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: low.