The B18C VTEC engine in the Type R is incredibly tough and durable, but we recommend regular oil changes at every 5,000kms using very high-quality oils.
We recommend this as the B18C can burn through a small amount of oil even with less spirited driving.
A fresh cambelt and new spark plugs are required every five years or 100,000kms (60,000 miles) and check that coolant and fuel filters have been replaced with original Honda units as they should be changed every four years or 75,000kms (48,000 miles).
Watch for any modifications, especially aftermarket air filters, turbo or supercharger kits or modified exhausts and ECUs. Cheap or poorly made non-stock parts can fail and potentially strangle the engine at high revs when compared to the official Honda items.
VTEC solenoids can wear and may require replacement and the oil pan can flex and bend resulting in small oil leaks. Both of these issues are relatively easily fixed.
If the car is smoking from the exhaust, it could be a sign of abuse and worn piston rings or a range of other problems. This could result in major headaches in the future.
You may hear a rattle from underneath the car as you are driving it. This is typically caused by a loose heat shield on the exhaust, which can be tightened in a few minutes.
If the car knocks when it is being revved it is most likely caused by the engine making contact with the bodywork due to a failed engine mount. This is not usually a big problem as the rear engine mount can be replaced fairly easily.
Thoroughly check the body work and chassis for signs of accidents, badly repaired crash damage or general abuse. As the DC2R was (for a time) very affordable, extremely popular amongst car enthusiasts and learner and professional drivers, meaning many Integra Type Rs have been driven hard, abused, crashed and repaired badly.
Finally, rust is becoming quite common, especially around the tailgate near the car’s roof.