I'm very new to Honda's in general but am looking at a EP3 Civic Si. There wasn't a specific forum for it, so I decided to ask about it here.

The specific car I'm looking at is a 2002 with 120k miles. The seller is only asking for $3500. The seller states that it has had a timing belt done by the previous owner, over 4 years ago. It also has some brake noises which I point to rotors and pads.

I haven't driven it yet but have an appointment set up to see it later today. I'll report back.

My question is: for $3500, is this car cheap enough to immediately do a timing belt/water pump and brakes and drive it around for a year before delving further into the car?

I have knowledge with BMW's and can do brakes on this Honda just fine. I have never worked on a timing belt (BMW's use chains since the 90's) and would pay for that to be done. I believe I can also do suspension bushing work fine.

 

Ok, I went and test drove the car. Made some observations.

It is missing the front wheel well liners. The rear wheel well liners have been moved and not completely screwed back in place. It is missing the third brake light trim. It is missing the spare tire.

There was also water in the spare tire well. However, there was no rust at all.

Engine modifications included a engine torque rod, cold air intake and a throttle body spacer. There is 4-1 headers, cats and a muffler on the car. It did pass NJ inspection, but there is an intermittent O2 sensor code.

The clutch was replaced. The shifter pins are kevlar so there is no crunch in any gear.

The suspension has new struts and lowering springs. It also has aftermarket wheels with good tires (08 manufacture date).

He has HIDs installed without projectors and also has a sound system with a 10in sub.

I talked the seller down to $3000. At this point, I feel that it is a steal. What do you Honda guys think?

 

Sounds like it's been abused. I wouldn't buy it personally.

 

^ what he said