The starter on a Honda S2000 is mounted to the engine block at the bellhousing, low near the transmission. It engages the flywheel to crank the engine and is accessible from underneath the car or through the wheel well area.
Understanding where the starter sits helps with diagnosis, replacement, or electrical work on the S2000’s F20C engine installed in the AP1 (2000–2003) and AP2 (2004–2009) models. Both variants share a similar layout for the starter, despite other differences between model years.
Location and how to identify the starter
To locate the starter on an S2000, use these identification tips and follow along with any necessary inspections.
- Trace the primary red battery cable from the positive terminal toward the engine. The starter usually sits where that cable leads to a cylindrical unit bolted to the bellhousing.
- Look for a cylindrical device with a small electrical connector and a larger power terminal, mounted to the side of the engine where it meets the transmission (the bellhousing area).
- Check behind the exhaust manifold or toward the bottom of the engine block; it is typically low and toward the transmission side, not high up on the engine.
- In most cases you’ll need to raise the car and possibly remove a protective shield or access panel to see the starter clearly.
Finding the starter is a matter of following the main electrical feed and visually spotting the cylindrical starter unit bolted to the bellhousing area. If in doubt, consult the service manual or a parts diagram for your specific AP1 or AP2 chassis code.
How to replace the S2000 starter
If you’re replacing the starter, use these steps as a guide. Note that exact torque specifications can vary by bolt size and model year, so refer to the service manual for precise values.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent short circuits while you work.
- Safely lift and support the car if you need to access the underside or wheel-well area. Remove any necessary shields or panels that block access to the starter.
- Trace and disconnect the wiring from the starter: remove the large power lead from the solenoid and detach the small signal/coil wire.
- Remove the two mounting bolts that secure the starter to the bellhousing; support the starter as you back it out to avoid damaging nearby components.
- Remove the old starter from the engine bay and compare it with the replacement to ensure correct fitment (same connector orientation and bolt pattern).
- Install the new starter by guiding it into place, reinstalling the mounting bolts, and tightening to the specified torque.
- Reconnect the electrical connections, reattach any shields or panels, reinstall the battery cable, and test the system by turning the key or using the remote start function if equipped.
Following these steps carefully will help you replace the S2000 starter with proper care for electrical safety and component alignment.
Notes and safety considerations
Always work with the battery disconnected when handling the starter or its wiring. If you’re unsure about torque specs or the exact mounting arrangement for your year (AP1 vs AP2), consult the official Honda service manual or a trusted repair guide specific to the S2000 F20C engine.
Summary
The S2000 starter is a bellhousing-mounted cylinder located low on the engine block near the transmission. It is usually accessible from beneath the car or through a wheel-well area, and you can identify it by its cylindrical shape and wiring harness. Replacement involves disconnecting power and signal wires, removing mounting bolts, swapping the unit, and reassembling, with attention paid to safety and proper torque specifications.