Thinking about buying a used Honda Legend (1990–2014) in New Zealand? We've documented 19 known faults for this model spanning engine, suspension, electrical, and transmission. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
19
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$500–$2,500
Typical repair
6
Systems covered
Known Honda Legend faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01C32A V6 Timing Belt Failure (Interference Engine)
CriticalCommonEngine $650–$1,300 to fix
The KA7/KA8 Legend uses a C32A 3.2-litre V6 with a rubber timing belt driving both camshafts. It is an interference engine — if the belt snaps or skips teeth, pistons contact valves causing catastrophic internal damage. Belts on these aged cars are frequently overdue on NZ JDM imports, where service history is incomplete. Water pump failure at the same interval is a common secondary cause of belt failure.
Symptoms to notice
Engine cranks but will not start (post-failure)
Rattling or squealing from front of engine at idle
Oil or coolant weeping near timing cover
No service records showing belt replacement
What to check
Ask for documented timing belt replacement history with date and mileage. Inspect timing cover for oil seepage that degrades the belt. Check water pump for play or seeping. If history is absent, budget for immediate replacement.
Where to look: Front of engine, behind plastic timing covers on passenger side
Ask the seller
“When was the timing belt last replaced and by whom?”
The AC compressor electromagnetic clutch bearing wears causing a squealing noise when the air conditioning is engaged. In advanced cases the bearing seizes, putting a sudden load on the drive belt.
Symptoms to notice
Squealing or grinding noise from front of engine area that appears when AC is switched on
In advanced cases a burning smell from a seized bearing overheating the drive belt
What to check
Test the air conditioning system during the test drive. With AC on, listen for a squealing or grinding noise from the compressor area. Switch AC on and off and note any change in noise.
Where to look: AC compressor on front of engine
Ask the seller
“Has the air conditioning compressor clutch been inspected or repaired?”
SuspensionCritical
ElectricalMajor
TransmissionMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
ElectricalMajor
TransmissionMajor
EngineMajor
CoolingMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
SuspensionMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMinor
17 more documented faults on the Honda Legend
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 19 documented faults for the Honda Legend, the recurring problem areas are engine, suspension, and electrical. A Honda Legend with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Honda Legend?
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We've catalogued 19 known faults for the Honda Legend, covering engine, suspension, and electrical. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Honda Legend?
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Most single repairs on the Honda Legend fall between $500–$2,500 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 19 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Honda Legend?
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Yes. A Honda Legend inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.