🇩🇪 Deutsch
Honda · Sports Car · 1999–2003

Honda S2000 AP1

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Honda S2000 AP1 is available with one engine variant at 241 hp.

2.0L VTEC · Benziner· 240 PS
1999 2003
Be Careful 10 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Honda 2.0L VTEC (Benziner, 240 PS) has the F20C (2.0L VTEC) — rated: "Be Careful", 10 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Rear differential wears out

The Torsen differential can wear through incorrect oil or neglected change intervals. A used differential costs €1,200–1,500.

Symptoms: Grinding or howling noise from the rear differential under load, clunking when turning into corners at high mileage or after incorrect oil use.
from 150,000 km
Ad S2000 AP1 differential
 High
!2nd/3rd gear synchro rings worn

Early S2000s (1999–2001) show weaknesses in the synchro rings for 2nd and 3rd gear.

Symptoms: Resistance when selecting 2nd and 3rd gear with a cold gearbox, grinding noise when short-shifting — improves once at operating temperature.
from 100,000 km
Ad S2000 AP1 synchro ring
 High
iClutch rattle at idle

Virtually all early S2000s develop a clutch rattle at idle due to play in the clutch ancillary parts. Technically harmless, but disliked by enthusiasts.

Symptoms: Rattling or jingling noise at idle, disappears when the clutch is lightly depressed.
from 50,000 km
Ad clutch disc S2000release bearing S2000
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
126 complaints · 1999–2003
Engine & Cooling
20 ⚠ 1
Powertrain
17
Airbags
16 ⚠ 8
Visibility
16
Body Structure
12 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine & Cooling (20 complaints)
⚠ Powertrain (17 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (16 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Hyundai Coupe GK

Sportwagen (2001–2009)

Same Segment

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII-IX

Sportwagen (2001–2007)

Same Segment

BMW M3 E46

Sportwagen (2000–2006)

Same Segment

Audi TT 8N

Sportwagen (1998–2006)

Same Segment

Porsche 911 996

Sportwagen (1997–2005)

Same Segment

Hyundai Coupe RD

Sportwagen (1996–2002)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 22 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda S2000 AP1 (1999–2003) — 10 engine-related and 12 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Other, Rust.

S2000 (F20C, 1999–2003) — Be Careful: Chain tensioner failure from oil deposits, FRM cylinder bore coating wear, Crankshaft thrust bearings worn (Crank Walk). Power: 240 PS.

What to watch out for with the Honda S2000? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Honda S2000 AP1 have? +
The Honda S2000 AP1 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 12 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Honda S2000 AP1? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: F20C (2.0L VTEC). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the F20C (2.0L VTEC).
Which Honda S2000 AP1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Honda S2000 AP1 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} No turbo, no AWD, no roof, no excuses. At 6,000 rpm VTEC switches cam profiles and the roadster becomes a high-revving weapon. Past 8,500 rpm the sound goes razor-sharp and metallic — pure F1 DNA. The steering telegraphs every pebble. Boxster rival at half the price, twice as scary at the limit. Snap oversteer on lift-off is not a flaw. It is the car talking.
Is the Honda S2000 AP1 worth buying used? +
The Honda S2000 AP1 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Honda S2000 AP1? +
The Honda S2000 AP1 is available with engine variants from 241 to 241 hp. Petrol: F20C (2.0L VTEC).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee