Honda Del Sol – Your Ultimate Guide To Ownership, Maintenance, And Fun

Remember that unique blend of open-air freedom and Honda reliability that made the honda del sol an instant classic? Its distinctive targa-top design and spirited performance still capture hearts, making it a beloved choice for enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.

But owning one of these iconic two-seaters comes with its own set of unique joys and challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a weekend DIYer, keeping your Del Sol running strong and looking great requires a bit of know-how.

This comprehensive honda del sol guide from FatBoysOffroad is designed to equip you with everything you need. We’ll dive into understanding its quirks, tackling common problems, essential maintenance, and even exploring performance upgrades and sustainable ownership practices. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your Del Sol!

Understanding Your Honda Del Sol: A Cult Classic Deep Dive

The Honda Del Sol, produced from 1992 to 1998, was more than just a Civic derivative. It carved out its own niche as a fun, affordable, and surprisingly practical sport compact. Its defining feature, the removable targa top, offered convertible-like thrills without the full structural compromises.

Underneath, it shared much of its DNA with the fifth-generation Honda Civic (EG chassis), known for its lightweight design and responsive handling. This shared platform means a wealth of aftermarket parts and a strong community support network, making it a fantastic project car or a reliable daily driver.

The Benefits of Honda Del Sol Ownership

There’s a reason these cars still command attention. The benefits of honda del sol ownership extend beyond its cool factor:

Affordable Fun: Compared to other open-top sports cars, the Del Sol offers incredible value.
Honda Reliability: With proper maintenance, these cars are known for their longevity.
Fuel Efficiency: Most models deliver excellent gas mileage, especially with the D-series engines.
Engaging Drive: Lightweight, nimble, and with direct steering, it’s a joy on winding roads.
Targa Top Freedom: Enjoy open-air driving without the full convertible experience, perfect for sunny days.
Strong Aftermarket: A huge array of parts means customization and repairs are often straightforward.

Understanding these core strengths helps you appreciate what makes the Del Sol special and why it’s worth investing your time and effort into its care.

Common Problems with Honda Del Sol: What to Watch For

Even the most reliable vehicles have their quirks, and the Del Sol is no exception. Knowing the common problems with honda del sol models can help you identify issues early and save on costly repairs. Here’s what experienced owners often encounter:

Targa Top Leaks

This is arguably the most infamous Del Sol issue. The removable targa top, while fantastic for open-air driving, is prone to leaks, especially around the seals.

The Fix: Inspect the rubber seals around the top and windows regularly. Clean them with silicone lubricant to keep them pliable. Replacement seals are available, but ensure proper installation. Sometimes, adjusting the top’s latches can also help create a tighter seal.
Pro Tip: Park nose-down on an incline during rain if you can. This helps water drain forward instead of pooling at the rear seal.

Rust Issues

Like many older Hondas, the Del Sol can suffer from rust, particularly in northern climates or coastal areas.

Common Spots: Rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframes, and around the gas cap are common culprits.
Prevention: Regular washing, especially in winter, and applying rust-preventative coatings can help. Address any surface rust immediately with sanding and touch-up paint.

Rear Trailing Arm Bushings (RTABs)

Worn RTABs are a common issue on Civics and Del Sols, leading to instability, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.

Symptoms: A noticeable “wandering” feeling in the rear end, especially over bumps, or a clunk when going over speed bumps.
The Fix: Inspect these rubber bushings for cracks or deterioration. Replacing them with new OEM or aftermarket polyurethane bushings (which last longer but can be stiffer) will restore stability. This is a job that often requires a press tool or careful use of a ball joint press kit.

Distributor Issues

Older Honda distributors can fail, leading to misfires, stalling, or difficulty starting.

Symptoms: Intermittent stalling, rough idle, check engine light (CEL), or no spark.
The Fix: Often, the internal igniter unit (ICM) or the coil is the culprit. Replacement of these components or the entire distributor assembly is a common repair.

VTEC Solenoid Leaks (B-Series Engines)

If your Del Sol has the B16A engine (VTEC models), the VTEC solenoid gasket can leak oil.

Symptoms: Oil seepage visible on the side of the cylinder head, usually below the VTEC solenoid.
The Fix: Replacing the VTEC solenoid gasket and the screen filter is a straightforward DIY task that prevents further oil loss and keeps your VTEC system happy.

Being aware of these potential issues is the first step in responsible honda del sol care guide practices. Early detection and proactive maintenance are key to keeping your Del Sol reliable.

Essential Honda Del Sol Maintenance & Care Guide

Proper maintenance is the bedrock of any long-lasting vehicle. For your Del Sol, following a consistent schedule and using the right parts will ensure years of spirited driving. These honda del sol tips will help you keep it in top shape.

Routine Fluid Checks and Changes

Fluids are the lifeblood of your car. Don’t neglect them.

Engine Oil: Check monthly and change every 3,000-5,000 miles (or as per your owner’s manual) using a quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil (e.g., 5W-30). Always replace the oil filter (e.g., PurolatorONE, Mobil 1).
Coolant: Check the reservoir level weekly. Flush and replace every 2-3 years (or 30,000 miles) with Honda Type 2 coolant or a compatible equivalent. Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid: For manuals, check every oil change and replace every 30,000 miles with Honda MTF. For automatics, check regularly and replace every 30,000-60,000 miles with Honda ATF-DW1.
Brake Fluid: Check level monthly. Flush and replace every 2-3 years, especially if it looks dark or cloudy. Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid.
Power Steering Fluid: Check monthly. If low, top up with Honda PSF-S. Flush if it looks dirty.

Brake System Best Practices

Your brakes are your primary safety system. Regular inspection is critical.

Pad & Rotor Inspection: Visually inspect brake pads for wear and rotors for deep grooves or warping every 6 months or 5,000 miles. Replace pads when they’re down to 3mm-4mm of material.
Caliper Maintenance: Ensure calipers are sliding freely. Lubricate caliper pins with high-temp grease during pad changes.
Brake Bleeding: Bleed your brake lines when replacing fluid or if you feel a spongy pedal. This removes air from the system.

Tire Care and Suspension Checks

Your tires are the only contact point with the road, and your suspension keeps you comfortable and in control.

Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure weekly using a reliable gauge. Refer to the sticker on your driver’s side door jamb for correct PSI.
Rotation & Balance: Rotate tires every 5,000-7,500 miles to promote even wear. Balance them if you notice vibrations.
Alignment: Get an alignment check annually or after replacing suspension components.
Suspension Components: Inspect shocks/struts for leaks, and bushings for cracks or excessive play. Worn components affect handling and ride quality.

Engine Bay Essentials

A quick look under the hood can prevent major headaches.

Air Filter: Check every 10,000-15,000 miles. Replace if dirty or clogged. A clean air filter improves engine performance and fuel economy.
Spark Plugs: Replace iridium plugs every 60,000-100,000 miles. Copper plugs every 30,000 miles. Use a spark plug socket and torque wrench for proper installation.
Timing Belt (DOHC VTEC models): If you have a B16A engine, this is critical. Replace the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner every 60,000-90,000 miles. This is an interference engine, so belt failure means catastrophic engine damage.
Drive Belts: Inspect serpentine/accessory belts for cracks or fraying every oil change. Replace if worn.

Adhering to these honda del sol best practices will not only extend your car’s life but also enhance your driving experience and overall safety. When in doubt, always consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic.

Unlocking Performance & All-Road Potential in Your Del Sol

While the Del Sol isn’t a dedicated off-roader, its robust Honda engineering makes it surprisingly capable on varied terrain – think gravel roads, light trails, or rough country lanes. Plus, there’s plenty of room for performance enhancements to make it even more enjoyable on and off the pavement.

Sensible Performance Upgrades

Focus on modifications that enhance the Del Sol’s natural strengths without compromising reliability.

Intake and Exhaust: A cold air intake (CAI) and a performance exhaust system can improve throttle response and add a satisfying growl. Look for brands like AEM, Skunk2, or GReddy.
Suspension Upgrades:
- Coilovers: Adjustable coilovers (e.g., Tein, BC Racing) allow you to fine-tune ride height and dampening for improved handling on paved roads and better ground clearance for rougher surfaces.
- Bushings: Upgrading to polyurethane suspension bushings (e.g., Energy Suspension) reduces deflection and tightens up the handling, making the car feel more direct.
- Sway Bars: Larger front and rear sway bars can significantly reduce body roll, improving cornering stability.
Brake Enhancements: For more spirited driving, consider braided stainless steel brake lines for a firmer pedal feel, and upgraded pads (e.g., EBC, Hawk) for better stopping power. Larger rotors and calipers from other Honda models (e.g., Integra Type R) are also a popular swap.
Engine Tuning (ECU): For B-series engines, an aftermarket ECU (e.g., Hondata, AEM) or a chipped stock ECU can optimize fuel and ignition maps for performance modifications, unlocking more power. This is where professional tuning becomes essential.

Always ensure any performance modifications are installed correctly and safely. When in doubt, consult a professional performance shop.

Making Your Del Sol More “All-Road” Capable

While you won’t be rock crawling, you can certainly make your Del Sol more robust for adventuring on less-than-perfect roads.

Tire Choice: Opt for all-season tires with a slightly more aggressive tread pattern, or even light all-terrain tires if available in your size. These will provide better grip on gravel and dirt than pure performance tires. Brands like Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail or General Grabber ATX might have options.
Skid Plate/Undercarriage Protection: A custom or aftermarket skid plate can protect your oil pan and exhaust from unexpected impacts on uneven surfaces. This is a crucial step if you frequently encounter rough roads.
Increased Ride Height (Mild): If using adjustable coilovers, raising the ride height slightly can provide much-needed ground clearance, reducing the risk of scraping the undercarriage. Be mindful of affecting suspension geometry too much.
Auxiliary Lighting: For night driving on unlit trails, consider adding a discreet LED light bar or fog lights to improve visibility.

Remember, the goal is to enhance its existing capabilities for varied conditions, not to turn it into something it’s not. These how to honda del sol modifications can make your car a versatile companion for both city streets and country adventures.

Sustainable Honda Del Sol Ownership: Eco-Friendly Practices

Owning an older vehicle doesn’t mean you can’t be environmentally conscious. In fact, keeping an older car on the road longer is often more eco-friendly than buying new. Here’s how to ensure sustainable honda del sol ownership.

Extend Lifespan Through Maintenance

The most significant environmental impact of a car comes from its manufacturing. By meticulously maintaining your Del Sol, you extend its life and reduce the need for new car production.

Follow Service Schedules: Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and filter replacements prevent premature wear and tear.
Address Issues Promptly: Don’t let small problems fester. Fixing them quickly prevents them from escalating into larger, more resource-intensive repairs.
Quality Parts: Invest in high-quality replacement parts that last longer, reducing waste and the frequency of repairs.

Eco-Friendly Driving Habits

How you drive has a direct impact on your fuel consumption and emissions.

Smooth Acceleration & Braking: Avoid aggressive driving. Smooth inputs reduce fuel consumption and wear on components.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires reduce fuel economy and wear out faster. Check them regularly!
Avoid Idling: If you’re going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds, turn off your engine.
Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary items from your trunk to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency.

Responsible Waste Management

When you perform DIY maintenance, ensure you dispose of waste products properly.

Recycle Fluids: Used motor oil, transmission fluid, and coolant should never be poured down drains or into the ground. Most auto parts stores and municipal recycling centers accept these fluids for free.
Dispose of Batteries: Car batteries contain hazardous materials. Return old batteries to the store where you bought the new one, or take them to a specialized recycling facility.
Scrap Metal & Tires: Old tires and metal parts should be taken to appropriate recycling centers.

By adopting these eco-friendly honda del sol practices, you not only save money but also contribute positively to the environment, demonstrating that classic car ownership and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Honda Del Sol

Got more questions about your Del Sol? Here are some common queries from owners and enthusiasts.

Is the Honda Del Sol a reliable car?

Yes, the Honda Del Sol is generally considered a very reliable car, benefiting from Honda’s reputation for engineering robust and long-lasting vehicles. With consistent maintenance and addressing common issues like targa top leaks and rust, many Del Sols continue to run strong well past 200,000 miles.

What’s the difference between the S, Si, and VTEC models?

The main differences are the engines and features. The ‘S’ model typically has the D15B7 engine (102 hp). The ‘Si’ model usually comes with the D16Z6 engine (125 hp) with VTEC. The ‘VTEC’ model (available in some markets) is the most powerful, featuring the B16A3 (or B16A2) engine (160 hp) with dual overhead cam (DOHC) VTEC, offering significantly more performance.

How difficult is it to remove and store the targa top?

Removing the targa top is quite easy and can be done by one person, though two people make it even simpler. It involves unlatching a few clips and lifting it off. Storage can be a challenge as it’s a bulky item; some models came with a dedicated trunk-mounted storage tray, but many owners use custom stands or wall mounts in their garage.

Are parts for the Del Sol hard to find?

Because the Del Sol shares many components with the popular 5th-generation Honda Civic, most mechanical and many body parts are readily available, either new aftermarket, OEM, or used. Specialty items like unique interior trim or targa top seals might require a bit more searching, but the strong owner community and online forums are great resources.

Can a Honda Del Sol be used for daily driving?

Absolutely! Many owners use their Del Sols as reliable daily drivers. They offer good fuel economy, a comfortable ride (especially if well-maintained), and the unique joy of open-top driving. Just be mindful of its age and potential maintenance needs, as with any older vehicle.

Keep Your Del Sol Shining Bright and Running Strong!

The honda del sol is more than just a car; it’s a statement, a piece of Honda history, and a genuinely fun machine. By understanding its unique characteristics, staying on top of maintenance, and making smart, informed decisions about upgrades, you can ensure your Del Sol continues to bring smiles for years to come.

Whether you’re cruising down the highway with the top off or tackling a dusty backroad, your Del Sol is built to be enjoyed. Embrace the DIY spirit, prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the passionate Del Sol community for advice and support.

Stay safe, stay comfortable, and keep those wheels turning!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.