Honda S2000 AP2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Honda S2000 AP2 (2004–2009) is the evolution — F22C1, 2.2L VTEC, 177 kW/240 PS, redline lowered to 8,200 rpm but more torque below. The eternal AP1-vs-AP2 debate: more character (AP1) or better drivability (AP2)? Both are right.
The AP2 fixes the two biggest AP1 weaknesses: no valve retainer problem (revised parts), no snap oversteer (revised rear geometry + softer rear anti-roll bar). Glass rear window instead of plastic. Carbon synchros instead of brass. Clutch wears from 50,000 km on spirited use ($660–1,650).
Secondary air pump (AP2 only/CARB): P0410, CEL on, no driving issue — many just delete it. VTEC solenoid seal leaks ($33 DIY fix). Sill and jack point rust. Roof latch wears after 10 years.
Test-drive checklist: F22C1 pulls cleaner and broader than F20C — torque from 3,500 rpm, VTEC crossover subtler. Clutch for slipping. Roof latch: closes cleanly?
2026 market: With 50,000 miles $30,800–46,200. Under 30,000 miles $46,200–66,000. AP2 traditionally cheaper than AP1 (enthusiasts prefer the 9,000 rpm), but prices converging. Insider pick: AP2 for driving fun without AP1 risks.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Honda S2000 AP2 is available with one engine variant at 241 hp.
The 2.2L DOHC VTEC in the S2000 AP2 is the grown-up F-engine: 220 hp, fatter mid-range from revised cam profiles, redline at 8,200 instead of 9,000. Lower compression makes it less picky about fuel and a bit more durable. VTEC character stays, but the shove comes earlier — more rewarding on a twisty road, less dependent on wringing every last rpm.
- !! Torsen differential permanently locked from 120,000 km
The Torsen differential on the AP2 rear axle can remain locked due to wear or lack of lubrication. Diagnosed by an experienced mechanic from the noise and tyre wear pattern. Replacement with a used diff: €1,200–1,500.
Symptoms: Extreme one-sided tyre wear (350 km instead of normal service life), rear axle breaking away sporadically, faint burning smell after mountain passes. - !! Oil pump chain drive wearing at high mileage from 150,000 km
As with the F20C, the nylon oil pump chain drive guides wear at high mileage.
Symptoms: Oil pressure loss at high revs, warning light when warm, metallic debris in the oil - !! Differential weakness under hard use from 80,000 km
The S2000 AP2 differential is considered a weak point, especially under intensive sports use or on uprated cars.
Symptoms: Clunking or grinding from the rear axle area, noise increasing when cornering under load
+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Rear differential wears out The Torsen differential is susceptible to wear with incorrect oil specifications or long change intervals. Symptoms: Grinding or howling noise from the rear under load changes, clunking or judder when accelerating out of corners with degraded differential oil. from 150,000 km | High | |
| Clutch worn with sporty use The clutch wears prematurely with sporty use and hard launches. Symptoms: Clutch bites very high and springs back poorly, burning smell on hill climbs, vehicle slips rather than pulling away cleanly. from 80,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the Honda S2000 AP2 (2004–2009) — 6 engine-related and 10 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Electronics, Rust.
S2000 (F22C, 2004–2009) — Be Careful: Torsen differential permanently locked, Oil pump chain drive wearing at high mileage, Differential weakness under hard use. Power: 241 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 AP2 have? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee