The Honda Concerto, while not as widely celebrated as some of its stablemates, offered a practical and reliable option in the late 80s and early 90s. Sharing some mechanicals with the Civic and Integra, the Concerto provides a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy. Here's a breakdown of what to look for when buying or maintaining one in New Zealand.
Rust is a primary concern, particularly in areas prone to moisture such as wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen. The engines can suffer from oil leaks as the seals age. The suspension bushings and ball joints are also likely to be worn, affecting handling and ride quality.
WOF tips
Inspect closely for rust near suspension mounting points and along the sills. Check the condition of the tyres, including tread depth and sidewall condition. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly. Worn suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends, are common WOF failure points.
About the Honda Concerto D16A9 Sedan
The Concerto typically came with a 1.5L or 1.6L engine, providing adequate power for everyday driving. Its independent suspension offers a comfortable ride, making it suitable for longer journeys. Like other Hondas of this era, rust is a key concern. Given their age, many Concertos on the road will have accumulated significant mileage, requiring careful inspection of wear items.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots I should check on my 1989-1992 Honda Concerto?
Rust is a primary concern for the Honda Concerto, particularly in areas prone to moisture. You should closely inspect the wheel arches, sills, and around the windscreen. For WOF purposes, pay extra attention to rust near suspension mounting points and along the sills.
What are common WOF failure points for a Honda Concerto (1989-1992) in New Zealand?
For the Honda Concerto, common WOF failure points include rust, especially near suspension mounting points and along the sills. Worn suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends, are also frequent issues. Additionally, ensure your tyres have adequate tread depth and healthy sidewalls, and all lights are fully functional.
Where can I get replacement suspension bushings and ball joints for my HONDA CONCERTO 1989–1992 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 104 SKUs for the HONDA CONCERTO 1989–1992, including components like suspension bushings and ball joints which are common wear items given the vehicle's age and potential high mileage. You can find these parts on the CARFIX website or by visiting a CARFIX store.
My Honda Concerto (1989-1992) seems to be leaking oil. What are the likely causes?
Given the age of the 1989-1992 Honda Concerto, oil leaks are a common issue as engine seals age and degrade. It's advisable to have this inspected to identify the specific source of the leak and address it promptly.
How often should I service my Honda Concerto (1989-1992)?
The recommended service interval for your Honda Concerto is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to maintain its reliability, especially considering its age and potential for high mileage.
Is the Honda Concerto a good car for longer journeys?
Yes, the Honda Concerto, typically equipped with a 1.5L or 1.6L engine, offers adequate power for everyday driving and its independent suspension provides a comfortable ride, making it suitable for longer journeys. However, ensure wear items and potential rust issues are addressed for optimal comfort and safety.