Runs well and nothing needs immediate attention? Not a bad deal if that’s the case.
Quincy said:
Runs well and nothing needs immediate attention? Not a bad deal if that’s the case.
I think I’ll check it out soon. I don’t know much about cars, so I’ll bring a mechanic friend. I’ve always liked these since my dad had one.
@Toryn
Are you interested in learning how to work on cars? These are fun, but at this age, they need regular maintenance to stay in good shape.
Quincy said:
@Toryn
Are you interested in learning how to work on cars? These are fun, but at this age, they need regular maintenance to stay in good shape.
I’ve been reading forums on the Prelude. I know I’ll have to either learn or get help with repairs. I’m open to learning. I also own a Haynes manual for the Prelude and I keep in mind the car’s age and what that means.
@Toryn
That’s great to hear. These cars are a good choice to learn on.
Looks good
Make sure the suspension parts aren’t rusted. Rusted bolts can be a nightmare to replace. Also, check how much soot comes out of the exhaust when you rev it. Look under the seats for mold. It’s OBD1, so if it’s giving codes, you’ll have to read them from the red light under the carpet on the right seat. If everything checks out, not a bad deal for a 5-speed.
@Lennox
I thought the 90s models were still OBD0 and didn’t have OBD1 connectors?
Cedric said:
@Lennox
I thought the 90s models were still OBD0 and didn’t have OBD1 connectors?
The 88-89 models are OBD0, but the 90-91 models are OBD1.
Cedric said:
@Lennox
I thought the 90s models were still OBD0 and didn’t have OBD1 connectors?
The 88-89 models are OBD0, but the 90-91 models are OBD1.
Got it, thanks for the clarification.
If everything is in good condition, you still have room to bargain. I have an 89, and replacement parts are hard to find. The Haynes manual isn’t much help, so you’ll need to figure out workarounds. It’s still a fun car to drive, though. The tech change during this time is interesting.
@Keegan
Thanks for the insight, much appreciated.
@Keegan
I find the manual useful, though I have the Chilton version. It helped me rebuild the engine heads. But I agree, forums are often more detailed for these types of repairs.
I’d try to bargain a bit on a few things, but it looks to be in good shape overall. I’d probably go for it myself.
I’ve had a 3rd gen for 27 years. Don’t go for it if you plan to drive it every day. It’s got rust in the quarters, and parts are hard to find. You can find a rust-free one in Kentucky. If you’re unsure when the timing belt or water pump were changed, get them done. I broke a timing belt on my 91 and had to rebuild the head because of bent valves. But these cars are fun in the turns, even though they’re not very fast.
@Simon
This would be my second car. I daily a Corolla, so I just want a fun weekend car. Thanks for the advice. I’m about 30 minutes from Kentucky. Is there any place in particular I should check for rust-free cars, or just Marketplace?
Offer about $4500 when you check it out.
I paid much more for my 89 Si. It looks good, isn’t modified, and I didn’t catch the mileage, but with that age, mileage doesn’t matter as much. If it runs and drives well, I’d say it’s a good deal. If it has a check engine light, do you know how to check codes on the 3rd gens? Edit: Just noticed the rust. That’s pretty bad. I’d be cautious about other parts being rusted too.
Check thoroughly for rust, especially under the trunk. I can see some in the fender well. Talk them down to $5000 because it’s an old car and will need work and registration fees. Sweet ride, though.