Still on IGNORE by Honda for over a month now. Does anyone know if you can determine the model year of a part--particularly the engine-- by the serial number, and does the VIN reveal anything? I have '94 and '95 parts in my '97 Honda Accord LX, which I bought as a "new" car. Depending on who you talk to at Honda, they say Honda does not use earlier model parts in a current production vehicle, or--if the current model part is not available, they will substiture an earlier model "equivalent" part. They always brag about their assembly line production method, where the needed parts are always synchronized to arrive at the proper stage of installation.

 

94-97, are the same generation

 

This again? There is nothing wrong with your car.

 

There are definite indications that this car was damaged prior to delivery, and repaired using earlier model parts. Since Honda is dodgeing the issue, I am looking for information, not smart-*** answers, Dave.

 

My motor, that came out of a 1999 prelude has a 1998 head and 1997 block.. Do I care, no, does it work well, yes.. Just depends on when the stocked the shelves at the assembely line..

 

Can you tell your story again? How did this come about? Why do you suspect something is fishy?

 

what are the indications that it was damadged before?, there is no such thing as year specific parts, the parts they make encompass a generation of vehicle models and due to the normal buisness practices off cost avoidance, many cars share the same parts platform which make the parts interchangeable between them.

 

there are some differences between the
94-95 and 96-97

 

Cosmetically, yes, but mechanically they should be identical, except for of course the V6 models.

 

Two Honda Service Directors have insisted that the factory does not use earlier model parts in a current production vehicle. Both have physically inspected my car and have pointed out sections that, in their opinions, appear to have been "repaired"--specifically the fan motor assembly and the radiator assembly, using earlier model parts. I contacted the Corporate Office of American Honda Co. about 6 weeks ago, but they have not responded. The Dealership where I bought the car also has not responded. I have turned it over to the state Attorney General's office who has contacted both of them and awaiting replies.