1989 Honda Prelude
Only 21 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 21 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 21 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 21 total reports mention: steering.
6 of 21 total reports mention: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
PASSENGER SIDE WITH SEAT BELT HAS DIFFICULT TIME TO UNLATCH BUCKLE. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19950414
SEAT BELT; THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE CAME LOOSE FROM THE LATCH. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950221
2 of 21 total reports mention: suspension.
2 of 21 total reports mention: steering.
2 of 21 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
SAFETY TIMELINE
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
1989 Honda Prelude — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for steering issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seat belts issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 95V103001 (seat belts) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1989 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 1989 Honda Prelude?
The most-reported component is steering:hydraulic power assist:hose, piping, and connections, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1989 Honda Prelude have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.