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Is the Honda Prelude a reliable car?

The Honda Prelude is generally considered a reliable car, with a reputation for durability and dependability. While no car is perfect, the Prelude has consistently ranked among the more reliable vehicles in its class over the years.


Reputation for Reliability


The Honda Prelude has long been praised for its reliability and build quality. According to industry data, the Prelude has above-average reliability ratings compared to other sports coupes and sedans in its segment. 1 Owners of the Prelude often report that the vehicle runs well for many years with proper maintenance, and major mechanical issues are relatively uncommon. 2


Common Reliability Concerns


Like any car, the Honda Prelude does have some known reliability issues that owners should be aware of. Some common problems that have been reported over the years include:



  • Transmission failures, particularly in earlier model years

  • Electrical system glitches, such as issues with the power windows or dashboard electronics

  • Occasional problems with the engine's timing belt or other engine components


However, many of these issues can be prevented or mitigated with regular maintenance and timely repairs. 3 Overall, the Prelude's reputation for reliability remains strong, especially when compared to similar sports coupes from other manufacturers.


Factors Affecting Reliability


Several factors can influence the reliability of a Honda Prelude, including:



  • Model Year: Newer Prelude models tend to be more reliable than older ones, as Honda has continuously improved the design and engineering over time.

  • Maintenance History: Preludes that have been well-maintained and serviced according to the manufacturer's recommendations are more likely to remain reliable over the long term.

  • Driving Conditions: Preludes used primarily for highway driving tend to be more reliable than those subjected to frequent stop-and-go city driving or towing heavy loads.


By understanding these factors, prospective Prelude owners can make informed decisions and take steps to ensure their vehicle remains reliable for years to come.

What is special about the Honda Prelude?


The Prelude featured innovative features for its time such as a 0.34 drag coefficient, roof pillars made of high-strength metal and its signature feature, the available option of the world's first mechanical four-wheel steering system available in a mass-production passenger car, which was later shared with the Honda ...



Are Preludes expensive to maintain?


The average annual repair cost for a Honda is $428, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Honda reliability include an average of 0.3 visits to a repair shop per year and a 10% probability of a repair being severe.



Are Honda Preludes fast?


Generating 200 horsepower from 2.2 naturally aspirated liters is impressive, even if getting to that number requires winding it out to a lofty 7,000-rpm power peak. Torque is tepid at 156 lb-ft, but the Prelude only weighs a ton and a half. Keep the revs up and the Prelude is light and quick on its feet.



How long does a Honda Prelude last?


With basic maintenance these cars will last 250k+ with minimal problems, if you have a 5 speed. Keep the oil topped off the valves adjusted, and with regular tuneups every 40,000 miles, this car will never leave you stranded.



What is special about Honda Prelude?


The Prelude (and period Accord) were the first cars under two liters to receive standard power steering. The Prelude also benefited from Honda's experience with sporting cars like the Honda S800 and Coupé 1300.



Which version of the Prelude is best?


1805
Wordsworth has a lot to say on matters less consciously central to his self-image and his piety. The effort is well worth making, and we should probably trust the critics who say the 1805, pre-revision version is the best.



Are 90s Preludes reliable?


Good visability, good on gas, decent size trunk. Reliable all the way around.



Is Honda Prelude a rare car?


The fifth-generation Honda Prelude only sold 58,000 cars from 1997 to 2001. Out of those 58,000, only 10,000 were 2001 models. This makes the 2001 Honda Prelude a very rare site to see out on the street.



What is the best Prelude year?


5th generation (1997-2001)
The best a Prelude fan can do for now is the fifth and final iteration, produced between 1997 and 2001. The 2.2-liter H22 powered every version of the Prelude, meaning those who shelled out for a fifth generation got the 195 horsepower and 156 lb-feet of torque it produced.



Why did Honda stop the Prelude?


Why did Honda stop making the Prelude? Unfortunately, as Honda's premium alter ego Acura gained in popularity, the Prelude's semi-lofty price tag cut sales significantly toward the end of the fifth-generation.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.