The Honda Concerto, a slightly more upmarket sibling of the Civic, offered New Zealand motorists a blend of practicality and a touch of refinement from 1989 to 1995. While they might not be as common on our roads as they once were, many remain, cherished by owners who appreciate their reliability and economical running costs. Let's dive into what makes these cars tick, and some crucial things to watch out for.
Common issues include rust (especially in coastal areas), worn suspension components (bushes and shocks), and potential oil leaks as the engine ages. The distributor can also be a source of problems, leading to misfires if not maintained. Power steering systems are generally robust but check for fluid leaks. Window regulators can also fail due to age.
Pay close attention to rust around the wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, as this is a common WOF failure point. Check the condition of the tyres and brake pads/rotors. Suspension components, particularly bushes, are often scrutinised. Headlight condition is important, as cloudy or damaged headlights will result in a failure. Ensure all lights function correctly, including indicators and brake lights.
The Concerto came with a range of engine options, typically a 1.5L or 1.6L four-cylinder petrol engine, known for their smooth operation. Being a Honda of this era, reliability is generally good, but age takes its toll. Keep an eye out for service history to understand how well maintained the example you are interested in has been. Rust can be a factor, so pay close attention to the bodywork, especially around wheel arches and seams. Interior trim can show wear and tear, but parts are becoming harder to find. The Concerto often benefitted from features absent in the Civic, improving the driving experience. Overall component quality was high, delivering long service life with proper care.