Hi, advice on a 4th gen??

Gustothebus · Post by **Gustothebus** » Sun Oct 06, 2013 12:59 am

Hello, i am not new to forums but i will be new to preludes. I have found a prelude i would like, its a 4th gen 2.2 vtec (bb4??) i have checked insurance etc and it all seems cheap enough. However i am not sure on the problem areas on the cars or any common problems. Any help will be appreciated.
Cheers
Gus

89 UKDM BA4 4WS (resto job!) · Post by **wurlycorner** » Sun Oct 06, 2013 2:55 am

Welcome to the forum.

Lovely cars, great choice

Generally very reliable with few things to look out for.
Firstly; corrosion on the A pillar, rear arches and back end of the sills and sunroof (if fitted).
Then usual service history stuff (when was cambelt last done, if not then factor in at least £150 in parts if you're doing it yourself or over £250 if you're paying someone to do it.
Rear calipers tend to seize up (though this is an easy fix normally needing nothing more than pads out and clean up/regrease)
Check all the warning lights come up on the dash and go out. Being a bb4 it won't have 4ws but could have abs, airbags and traction control. Bb1 has 4ws. If abs or the cel are lit, pull the codes so you know what you're letting yourself in for (paperclip is your friend here and check in our wiki for more info, including the full original Honda service manuals).
Vtec should engage cleanly in all gears once the engine has warmed up, except possibly first (depends how the kph/mph converter has been fitted on this particular bb4)
Front engine mounts go, check for any visible splitting. You can buy poly inserts for about 35quid or pattern replacements for about 60.
Check there's no flickering oil pressure light. If there is, walk away.

Ummm.. that'll do for starters off the top of my head!

If there's any forum member near you, they might well be happy enough to come and look at the car with you?

Gustothebus · Post by **Gustothebus** » Sun Oct 06, 2013 7:10 pm

How much would people expect to pay for an acceptable condition 4th gen?? Been looking around and they seem to range from £400 to £1500, its a bit confusing to be honest.

89 UKDM BA4 4WS (resto job!) · Post by **wurlycorner** » Sun Oct 06, 2013 8:37 pm

Assuming we're talking standard cars (not heavily modified) then £1500 should get you a mint example really, £400 should be roadworthy but will have rotten arches and scruffy bodywork.