I'm looking at buying a '96 Accord with 110,000 miles on it. It's from someone's friend at work, and getting a good deal for it, just under $4,000.
Wanted to see what wear items to look out for... I'm assuming this model has a timing belt as opposed to a chain, and what interval is the belt supposed to be changed?
Also, it's a 5 speed trans... should the clutch be replaced by now, or is there still a lot of life left at this age and mileage? I think those 2 would be the major ones, other than ensuring that routine maintenance has been kept up with.

 

This site is awesome for OEM parts; and it conveniently has a maintenance "guide".

Check it out! Goodluck with your new car - if you get it.

http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/maintain.htm

 

Timing belts/ Water pumps on 5th gens should be done around 90K, so there is a good chance that maybe someone let it slide. Has the car been maintained well? Take it to your mechanic or just do a general check up.

As for the clutch, give it a test drive. Chances are that if it's the stock clutch, and hasn't been changed, it may have little life left. Drive it, run it through the gears, do stop/starts on hills or something, and see if you can find any slipping. Give it alot of gas in a gear (say, merging on to the highway) and if it doesn't slip, you are all good (for now).

Good luck man.

 

Thanks for the tips... How much does a timing belt AND clutch replacement cost around, on average, if you take it to an independent mechanic??? This will factor into whether this purchase is worth it or not??

 

Timing belt/Water pump job varies depending on location. I'd actually recommend you get it done at the dealer. That way, if you have problems with it in the future, you have proof of the dealer performing it. I've heard many a story of independant mechanics jacking up a timing belt job. Needless to say, Honda won't get your back if you get it done anywhere other than the dealer. My dealer charged me $640 for the whole thing. I've heard both cheaper and more expensive here on HAN. Call around to all the Honda dealerships in your area to get estimates.

I've never had a clutch done before. I've done it myself but never had it done at a shop. I'd guess a few hundred bucks? Maybe $300? Call around. With that job, any old independant place would probably be fine.