Honda is known for its mass-market models, but the Japanese auto giant occasionally produces sports cars. One of its better sports cars is the S2000, introduced in 1999. Because Honda discontinued the car after the 2009 model year, interested shoppers must find a used model. Of course, consumers must be wary of any pre-owned car. Here are the most common Honda S2000 problems to look for.

1. The Honda S2000’s Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) could malfunction

CarComplaints.com reports that one of the most significant S2000 problems occurred in the 2007 model. The Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) helps keep the car stable on the road. However, an owner reported that their S2000’s VSA module failed after logging only 2,000 miles on the odometer. 

The solution was to replace the S2000’s VSA module. That was an expensive option, though, because the owner was given a quote of about $2,200 for the repair. Because of the high repair cost and the risks of a faulty VSA, CarComplaints.com gave this problem a 10 out of 10 in severity.

2. Owners of certain S2000 model years have reported engine failure

Another Honda S2000 problem happened in one of the car’s earliest model years. Some owners reported that the 2000 model year experienced engine failure after about 62,000 miles. The only solution was to replace the engine. 

That’s another costly repair, as owners could expect to pay at least $1,700. Once again, CarComplaints.com gave this problem a 10 out of 10 for its severity.

3. The steering could lock up

The third-worst S2000 problem involves another early model year. The 2001 model’s steering wheel could lock up later in the car’s life. Owners reported this issue happened when the car had about 80,000 miles on the odometer.

However, it’s not entirely clear what caused the issue, nor is it apparent how to fix it. However, it’s a severe issue. According to CarComplaints.com, one owner claims they almost died because of this problem. 

Here are some other Honda S2000 problems

Because only a few owners have reported Honda S2000 problems, CarComplaints.com lacks comprehensive data. Regardless, this sports car has minor issues that shoppers should consider.

The S2000 is far from terrible. It can be fun to drive and has a devoted fan base. However, like most compact cars, this convertible can be uncomfortable.

There are only enough seats for two, and the design doesn’t give riders much legroom either. It has about 44.3 inches of legroom, making it more cramped than a Mazda MX-5 Miata, another two-seat convertible. In addition to the cramped seats, the rest of the car doesn’t deliver a very comfortable experience.

Occupants should expect to hear considerable road noise in the S2000. The sports car also has a stiff suspension that hampers ride quality.

In addition, although the engine makes 237 hp, it isn’t fuel-efficient. It gets about only 21 mpg combined, so it’s not ideal for a daily driver.