1yesfan

So what are the weak points on these cars???
Do they have timing chains or belts?
Auto trans, how are they over time?
These prone of head issues like so many 4 popper cars out there as they get older?
Water pump/cooling system issues?

accordturb96

timing belt, the auto trans in the 98-02 were some of the worst honda made, not to say they dont work but they had many issues. Its a honda engine, I wouldn't compare it to any other 4cy out there. Keep up with the maintenance and itll go forever

1yesfan

I was told the orig owner, had it for most of the miles on the car, did all maint as needed or if the dealer told her it needed this or that it was fixed. My brother had all the paperwork for the car but his bum of a stepson lost it all so I have nothing. But my brother works with the middle aged lady and she fixed everything as needed.
Is the motor a clearance motor if the timing belt went???
The trans seems to perform well. The fluid is still red and does not have a burnt smell to it. What are the symptoms of the trans headed down the repair path? I recently drove it to a TN (6 hrs) and Clev (4 hours) and it performed well.

accordturb96

well every 80-100k or so you will want to do a timing belt and while you're there do the water pump and all the seals. Yes sir if the belt snaps the pistons and valves will become acquainted. Slipping etc. Its hard to say because you may run into small issues with the trans that seem major but are sensor issues. With these from what I know they tend to randomly stop working. Keeping up with maintenance is all you can do. I ran an older motor well over 120k on a honda timing belt and it was fine but I wasnt worried about the motor bc I swapped it out.

1yesfan

Well even if the PO did replace the TB it is prob do for another.

accordturb96

yea I usually find people do the maintenance for the first 100k then when they want to sell again at 200k they look at you weird when you ask about the timing belt..every 100k! Even better you'll have a piece of mind