My brother is looking for a 5th Generation Prelude. He's looked at a couple already. He's interested in what he should look for, potential problems and stuff so that he has a reference point to start from.
He took a look at a 1997 and a 1999 model, both base models and both 5-speed. The first had 88,000 miles and the second, 63,000 miles. The 97 model had noticeable engine vibration. The 99 model was much better but it still had slight vibration.

We're interested in knowing if its a common thing among Preludes, or if there is indeed some problem. And if so, what could be.

Also, my brother is interested in knowing what some common problems to Preludes are, specifically regarding to the engine or suspension.

Obviously, there's the usual, could be just in need of maintenance; or worst case, bent valves, compression off for some reason, etc.. i didn't see the cars myself, so i don't know what the extent of the vibration was. But again, we'd like to know if the lude has any specific problem items.

Any information would be appreciated.... Thanks.

 

Have him hit up www.preludepower.com

I loved that site when I had my 3g Lude

 

i too am looking for a reasonably priced 5gen lude...preferably in the voltage (i think) blue.

 

make sure the timing tensioner has been updated

and the ignition switch replaced---free as per recall.

evidence of oil changes ever 3K---they burn oil like a mother.

 

I have an '01 Electron Blue Prelude. Its the smoothest ride I have ever had (not driven, but own). It DOES NOT vibrate at all, and shouldn't. Pass these two up, find one that does not vibrate. I'm already pushing 50K after only 2 years, and I cant even hear the idle when I'm at a red light.

Also, most Lude owners keep their OEM parts even after installing performance parts. That being said, there have been problems with people reselling Ludes with OEM parts put back in after using and switching out the performance parts(internal engine damage).

Be careful.

My $ .02

 

I don't have a Prelude but a few of my friends do.

I've noticed a lot of rattles inside the car, especially from the sunroof.

 

what years?

 

1997, 2000 and 2001 models. I think 98' and 99' have it too but I don't know anyone with those years.

 

i think every honda rattles and vibrates inside.

 

my friend's 94 prelude had no rattles from the sunroof or any other part, then again it only has 65,000 miles on it. oh yeah it rattles when he was using his shitty clarion subs *shudder*