HONDA S20001999 · 2.0L Petrol

A worn timing-chain tensioner causes an unmistakable rattle on startup or around idle, and ignoring it risks the chain jumping and damaging the engine.

Rust in the rear arches, sills, chassis rails, subframes and boot floor is the biggest financial risk on UK S2000s and can easily turn a tidy-looking car into a restoration case.

The hood fabric, seals and frame wear with age, causing tears, leaks and expensive replacements, especially on cars that live outside.