1986 Honda Prelude
Only 12 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 12 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 2 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1985 | 7 |
| 1986 | 12 |
| 1987 | 14 |
| 1988 | 35 |
| 1989 | 21 |
| 1990 | 4 |
| 1991 | 15 |
| 1992 | 22 |
| 1993 | 11 |
| 1994 | 9 |
| 1995 | 6 |
| 1996 | 4 |
| 1997 | 66 |
| 1998 | 69 |
| 1999 | 31 |
| 2000 | 13 |
| 2001 | 21 |
| 2002 | 0 |
| 2003 | 0 |
| 2004 | 0 |
| 2005 | 0 |
| 2006 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 12 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
4 of 12 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline.
2 of 12 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
1 of 12 total reports mentions: seats.
Show complaint excerpts
RECLINING MECHANISM FAILED ON DRIVERS SEAT. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950317
1 of 12 total reports mentions: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
THE REAR DRIVE SIDE RETRACTOR IS LOCK UP PURCHASE CAR USED. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950328
1 of 12 total reports mentions: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
THE METAL FASTNER DOESN'T ENGAGE INTO SEAT BELT LOCKING MECHANISM PROPERLY. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950222
SAFETY TIMELINE
FUEL SYSTEM VENTING
IF THE PLASTIC COATING OF THE FUEL FILLER AND/OR BREATHER PIPE IS DAMAGED, SALT WATER MAY ACCUMULATE BETWEEN THE PLASTIC COATING AND THE STEEL PIPES, AND THE ACCUMULATION COULD CAUSE CORROSION WHICH W
Remedy: REPAIRS WILL BE MADE TO VEHICLES WITH CORRODED FILLER OR BREATHER PIPES.
Campaign 92V028001 — check if this car was fixed
THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE
Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES. CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. CHECK THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PRO
Campaign 95V103001 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1986 Honda Prelude — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seats issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 92V028001 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 95V103001 (seat belts) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1986 Honda Prelude reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1986 Honda Prelude?
The most-reported component is fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assembly:filler pipe and cap, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1986 Honda Prelude have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.