My e90 is nearing 320k km and needs 2k ASAP for maintenance. That’s more than it’s worth, so I’m looking for something cheaper to maintain while still enjoying spirited driving. Is this year’s Si motor and trans solid? K20Z3 6MT. The one I’m considering has 162k km (100k miles), single owner, no accidents, and is in great shape all around. I’ve seen online that people mention the 2012 and up models have better drivetrains. What do you think?
The previous owner’s driving style can make 3rd gear hard to shift into in the 06-08 Si. The 09-11 models saw improvements in the transmission. I’m the original owner of a 06 and haven’t faced any issues. Even when new, 3rd felt a bit rough to shift into. I change the transmission fluid often and upgraded the bushing and short shifter, which fixed the problem.
This car has always started for me unless the battery was dead. Nothing breaks aside from wear and tear. Mostly, I just change the oil and tires. The K20 is a reliable motor, but older engines can burn more oil, especially if driven hard. Being in VTEC burns a bit of oil by nature, but it can worsen with daily use. At that mileage, it’s due for a valve adjustment, which can be pricey at a dealer. Still, many people skip it, and these motors can last to 250K miles or more.
@Wilder
Thanks for the info. How tough is that bushing to reach for the average DIY-er?
Transmissions can be hit or miss, but otherwise, they last a long time.
Yosef said:
Transmissions can be hit or miss, but otherwise, they last a long time.
Aside from the paint, Honda really struggled with that generation.
Yosef said:
Transmissions can be hit or miss, but otherwise, they last a long time.
Aside from the paint, Honda really struggled with that generation.
True, I forgot about the awful clear coat problems. Didn’t they eventually issue a warranty for it?
Yosef said:
Transmissions can be hit or miss, but otherwise, they last a long time.
Are the issues leading to failure and replacement, or is it more about keeping up with servicing and part changes? Or is the shifting feel just not the best but still fine? Sorry for all the questions.
@Tali
No worries, the shifting feel in any Si is fantastic. These cars tend to be driven a bit harder, so the trannies are delicate. Do some solid VTEC pulls when you test drive it. Look for any popping out in 3rd gear and severe grinding from 2nd to 3rd.
@Yosef
Got it! I’ll keep an eye out for that. Thanks for the advice!