Honda Prelude Common Problems and Solutions
Knocking Sunroof (All 4th Gen Models)
Problem:
You can hear the sunroof knocking or tapping as you drive.
Solution:
The runners on your sunroof need lubrication, and that knocking or tapping sound is because you haven't applied any grease lately. Use a silicone-based aerosol lubricant rather than WD40, which tends to evaporate too quickly to be effective.
Difficulty level
Uneven Idle
Problem:
When you're idling, the revs oscillate up and down.
Solution:
You either have a sticky or broken idle control valve, which is a common issue not limited to the Prelude. Follow the air intake hose to the fuel injection chamber to locate the valve that needs replacing. This is a part we always have in stock, and it is very inexpensive when purchased from us.
Difficulty level
Idle Control Valve
Sticking Clutch Pedal (All 4th Gen Models)
Problem:
The clutch pedal delays in returning to its normal position after being pressed. You may also notice that you are beginning to experience minor issues when changing gear.
Solution:
A sticking clutch pedal indicates that your clutch master cylinder is wearing out and may soon fail. Order a new master cylinder from our online store and check for any fluid at the back of the gear pedal. If you find any liquid, it means you'll also need to order a new seal for the cylinder.
Difficulty level
Brake Master Cylinder
Weak Low Beam Headlights (5th Generation Models)
Problem:
Your headlights are very dim when on low beam.
Solution:
The headlights fitted on the fifth-generation Preludes were very poor, so this isn't a fault as much as a design flaw. Installing HID retrofits is a good idea, and we always have them available to order. Remember not to touch the bulbs with your fingers, as this shortens their lifespan.
Difficulty level
Xenon HID Bulb
Non-Functioning Gearbox (1997-2001 Automatics)
Problem:
Your automatic gear system has completely ceased functioning.
Solution:
The automatic gearbox in the Prelude is a well-known problem area, and it's common for them to fail completely. The only solution is to fit a new gearbox. Although this is a substantial task, it is achievable, and online guides and videos can demonstrate exactly how to do it. A garage will charge a high fee to install a new automatic gearbox, but it is considerably cheaper to order the parts from our parts list and carry out the work yourself.
Difficulty level
Gearbox Transmission Automatic
Pulsing Brake Pedal
Problem:
The brake pedal vibrates or pulsates whenever you press it down.
Solution:
These are simply warped brake discs, which are an easy DIY replacement. Some drivers machine warped brake discs, slightly extending their lifespan. However, it is safer for you and your brake system to fit new discs, which you can order directly from BreakerYard. It is also advisable to check your brake pads, as they may have become excessively worn due to the discs.
Difficulty level
Brake Disc
Brake Light Is On
Problem:
When you start the car from cold, the brake system warning light illuminates. Once the engine warms up, the light turns off again.
Solution:
This will be a faulty brake master cylinder reservoir filler. You'll need to get this sorted before it causes damage to your braking system. The good news is that we always have new reservoir fillers in stock, so delivery is very quick.
Difficulty level
Rough Engine
Problem:
The engine sounds rougher than usual, and the check engine light might also be on. You're also spending significantly more on fuel.
Solution:
The main heated oxygen sensor heater is a bit of a weak point on the Prelude. Order a new sensor from our parts list, and installation is very straightforward.
Difficulty level
Oxygen Sensor
Warm AC
Problem:
Your air conditioning is only blowing out warm air.
Solution:
This is a simple DIY task anyone can complete. The issue is a faulty radiator fan motor, which is straightforward to install even if you've never done it before. Order a new motor from our online store, and the installation should take less than five minutes.
Difficulty level
Radiator Fan Motor
5th Gear Grind
Problem:
When you change into 5th gear, you can hear a loud grinding noise.
Solution:
For some reason, the fifth gear on the Prelude wears out much more quickly than the other gears. You will need to dismantle the gearbox and replace the 5th gear, the 5th sleeve set, and the 5th gear shift fork. This may seem like a daunting task, but numerous online guides can walk you through each step, and the parts are all readily available to order from our parts page.
Difficulty level
Whining From Engine
Problem:
You can hear a whining noise coming from the engine while driving.
Solution:
Although there are many potential causes for engine whine, in the Prelude, the most probable is a front bearing failure in the alternator. You can either replace the faulty bearing (which is quite a tricky job) or replace the entire alternator. Most drivers choose to order a new alternator from BreakerYard, as it's a much easier DIY task to fit.
Difficulty level
Alternator
Steering warning light
Problem:
You may have noticed the steering wheel warning light has appeared on the dashboard and that the steering has become slightly heavier than usual. This issue is caused by a problem with the sensors, which can be knocked out of position when bumping the car or accidentally mounting a kerb too quickly.
Solution:
You will need to adjust the sensors to fix the problem. If this doesn't resolve the issue, then sometimes the ECU can become damaged and will need replacing. This costs significantly more than adjusting the sensors.
Difficulty level
Problems with the speedo
Problem:
It is common on the Prelude for the speedometer not to function properly, and occasionally not at all. This issue is caused by a fault in the speedo sensor.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement speedo sensor to fix the issue. Take a look at the video below to get an idea of how to replace this sensor.
Difficulty level
Speedo Sensor
Oil leak or gear changing problems
Problem:
If you notice oil leaking onto the floor or the vehicle struggling to change into gear with a loud whining noise when in fifth gear, these are usually signs of a driveshaft oil seal failure.
Solution:
You will need to install a replacement driveshaft oil seal to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Driveshaft
Rust around wheel arches
Problem:
On the Prelude, it is common to find rust around the wheel arches, especially on versions with stone chip protectors.
Solution:
If you find rust around this area, you should rub the surface until all the rust is removed, or potentially cut out a section to entirely eliminate the rusted patch. You can then either touch up with paint or weld on a metal patch and paint over.
Difficulty level
Stalling
Problem:
The car has begun to stall, but there are no clear engine faults.
Solution:
This is often caused by a faulty ignition system, which can wear out quickly on older Preludes. Installing a new ignition system is a tricky task but manageable for most people. You can browse our parts lists for the Prelude and have a replacement sent directly to you.
Difficulty level