Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Honda S2000 AP2 is known for (2005–2009), 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Check the dipstick level and ask how often oil is topped up; low oil risks a rod-bearing knock.
Why it matters: This engine is designed to be checked weekly, and an owner who has not kept on top of it can let the oil run low enough to damage the rod bearings - a knock at this point means an expensive rebuild, not a top-up.
Typical repair: NZ$300–NZ$12,000 in New Zealand · A$310–A$12,360 in Australia
What to look for: Raise and lower the roof checking it latches cleanly, then feel under the carpets in both footwells for damp.
Why it matters: A leaking roof that has gone unnoticed can corrode the floor pans underneath the carpet, turning a roof replacement into a rust repair as well - worth checking even on a car with a roof that looks fine from the outside.
Typical repair: NZ$1,500–NZ$4,500 in New Zealand · A$1,550–A$4,640 in Australia
Got a question about a Honda S2000 AP2? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.