Honda Del Sol Problems

The Honda Del Sol, a sporty and stylish targa-top roadster from the 1990s, holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Known for its nimble handling, fuel efficiency, and iconic removable roof, the Del Sol offered an affordable taste of open-air driving. However, like any vehicle of its age, it's not without its quirks and potential issues. Understanding these common problems is key to keeping your Del Sol running smoothly and enjoying the open road for years to come.

So, You're Thinking About (or Already Own) a Del Sol? Let's Talk Real Talk

Let's be honest, buying a classic car is more than just nostalgia; it's also about understanding what you're getting into. The Del Sol, while a fantastic little car, has its share of gremlins. Don't let that scare you! Knowing what to look for beforehand can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the line. This isn't about bashing the Del Sol; it's about equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and be prepared for potential maintenance.

Targa Top Troubles: When the Sunroof Becomes a Rainroof

Ah, the Targa top – the defining feature of the Del Sol! It's what makes this car so desirable, but it's also a potential source of frustration. Here's the lowdown:

• Leaks, Leaks, Leaks: This is probably the most common complaint. Over time, the rubber seals around the Targa top can dry out, crack, or shrink, leading to water leaks, especially during heavy rain. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that the Del Sol, like any car, is getting older, and these seals are original in many cases.
  • The Fix: Regular cleaning and conditioning of the rubber seals with a silicone-based protectant can help prolong their life. If the seals are severely damaged, they'll need to be replaced. Aftermarket seals are available, but quality can vary. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) seals are generally the best option, if you can find them. Look for signs of water damage inside the cabin, particularly around the door sills and carpet.
• Latch Issues: The latches that secure the Targa top to the car can sometimes become stiff or misaligned, making it difficult to remove or install the top. This can be due to corrosion, lack of lubrication, or even physical damage from improper handling.
  • The Fix: Try lubricating the latches with a silicone-based lubricant. If the latches are damaged, they may need to be adjusted or replaced. Inspect the latching mechanism for any signs of wear or damage.
• Storage Woes: The Targa top is designed to be stored in the trunk, but the storage clips can sometimes break or become loose, causing the top to rattle around.
  • The Fix: Ensure the storage clips are properly secured. If they're broken, they can be replaced. Consider adding some padding or foam to the storage area to prevent rattling.

Power Window Problems: When Up and Down Isn't So Simple

Another common issue with the Del Sol is related to the power windows. These can be finicky, especially on older models.

• Slow or Non-Functional Windows: This is often caused by a failing window motor, worn-out regulators, or corroded electrical connections. The problem can affect one or both windows.
  • The Fix: Start by checking the fuses. If the fuses are good, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion. If the wiring is okay, the window motor or regulator may need to be replaced. Aftermarket window motors and regulators are readily available.
• Window Regulator Issues: The window regulator is the mechanism that actually moves the window up and down. Over time, the regulator can become worn or damaged, causing the window to bind or stop working altogether.
  • The Fix: Replacing the window regulator is usually the best solution. This can be a DIY project, but it requires some mechanical skill and patience.
• Wiring Gremlins: As with any older car, the wiring in the Del Sol can become brittle and corroded over time, leading to intermittent window problems.
  • The Fix: Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and voltage. Repair or replace any damaged wiring.

Rust: The Silent Killer

Rust is a major concern for any older car, and the Del Sol is no exception. Certain areas are particularly prone to rust.

• Rear Wheel Arches: The rear wheel arches are a notorious rust spot on the Del Sol. This is due to the fact that they're exposed to road salt, moisture, and debris.
  • The Fix: Regularly inspect the rear wheel arches for any signs of rust. Treat any rust spots as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading. Consider using rust inhibitors and undercoating to protect the metal.
• Floor Pans: The floor pans are another common rust area, especially in cars that have been exposed to moisture or have had leaky Targa tops.
  • The Fix: Inspect the floor pans for any signs of rust. Repair or replace any rusted sections. Consider using rust inhibitors and undercoating to protect the metal.
• Door Sills: The door sills can also rust, especially if the door seals are damaged or missing.
  • The Fix: Inspect the door sills for any signs of rust. Repair or replace any rusted sections. Replace any damaged or missing door seals.
• Prevention is Key: The best way to combat rust is to prevent it from forming in the first place. Regularly wash and wax your Del Sol, especially during the winter months. Apply rust inhibitors to vulnerable areas.

Engine Issues: Keeping the Heart Pumping

The Del Sol came with a few different engine options, but all of them are now considered "older" technology. This means they require regular maintenance and are more prone to certain issues.

• Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are a common problem with older engines, and the Del Sol is no exception. Common leak points include the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • The Fix: Identify the source of the leak and replace the corresponding gasket or seal. Regularly check your oil level to prevent engine damage.
• Distributor Problems: The distributor is responsible for delivering spark to the spark plugs. Over time, the distributor can wear out, leading to misfires and poor performance.
  • The Fix: Replace the distributor with a new or rebuilt unit. Consider upgrading to an aftermarket distributor with improved performance.
• Cooling System Issues: Overheating can be a major problem for older cars, and the Del Sol is no exception. Common causes of overheating include a faulty thermostat, a clogged radiator, or a leaky water pump.
  • The Fix: Regularly inspect the cooling system for any signs of leaks or damage. Replace the thermostat, radiator, or water pump as needed. Ensure the cooling system is properly flushed and filled with coolant.

Electrical Quirks: When Things Get a Little…Off

Electrical problems can be frustrating to diagnose and repair, but they're a common issue with older cars.

• Battery Drain: A parasitic battery drain can cause the battery to die overnight. This is often caused by a faulty electrical component or a short circuit.
  • The Fix: Use a multimeter to identify the source of the battery drain. Disconnect electrical components one by one until the drain stops. Repair or replace the faulty component.
• Faulty Sensors: Various sensors throughout the car can fail over time, leading to incorrect readings and performance issues.
  • The Fix: Use a scan tool to diagnose any sensor problems. Replace any faulty sensors.
• Dim Headlights: Dim headlights can be a sign of a weak battery, corroded wiring, or worn-out headlight bulbs.
  • The Fix: Check the battery voltage and wiring connections. Replace the headlight bulbs with new ones. Consider upgrading to brighter headlight bulbs.

Suspension Woes: Feeling Every Bump in the Road

The suspension system is responsible for providing a comfortable ride and good handling. Over time, the suspension components can wear out, leading to a bumpy ride and poor handling.

• Worn Shocks and Struts: Worn shocks and struts can cause the car to bounce excessively and handle poorly.
  • The Fix: Replace the shocks and struts with new ones. Consider upgrading to aftermarket shocks and struts for improved performance.
• Worn Bushings: The rubber bushings in the suspension system can wear out over time, leading to sloppy handling and noise.
  • The Fix: Replace the worn bushings with new ones. Consider upgrading to polyurethane bushings for improved performance.
• Sagging Springs: The springs can sag over time, causing the car to sit lower and handle poorly.
  • The Fix: Replace the springs with new ones. Consider upgrading to aftermarket springs for improved performance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Del Sol Problems

• Why does my Del Sol leak when it rains? The most likely culprit is the Targa top seals. Over time, they dry out and crack, allowing water to seep in. Conditioning or replacing the seals is the solution.

• My Del Sol's window is stuck. What do I do? Check the fuse first. If the fuse is good, the window motor or regulator may be faulty and need replacement.

• Is rust a big problem on Del Sols? Yes, especially in areas with road salt. The rear wheel arches, floor pans, and door sills are particularly susceptible.

• My Del Sol is overheating. What should I check? Start by checking the coolant level and looking for leaks. A faulty thermostat, clogged radiator, or failing water pump could also be the cause.

• Where can I find parts for my Del Sol? Online retailers, auto parts stores, and Honda dealerships are good places to start. Online forums and communities dedicated to the Del Sol can also be valuable resources.

The Bottom Line

Owning a Honda Del Sol is a rewarding experience, but it's important to be aware of the potential problems that can arise. By understanding these common issues and taking preventative measures, you can keep your Del Sol running smoothly and enjoy the open road for many years to come. Remember to stay proactive with maintenance and address any problems as soon as they arise to prevent further damage.