Hi, i recently bought a 1996 honda accord EX V6 with 120K miles on it. Automatic.It is a 2.7L 24V VTEC right.

Few questions.
1. how do i know if the timing belt has been replaced? by looking? what to look for?
2. the engine makes a ticking sound but runs very smooth and strong
3. what is the correct idle at full operating temp in gear?
4. i noticed that sometimes i open the oil cap on the valve cover and see steam/smoke in there
5. do these engines burn oil
6. what oil is best for this high mileage VTEC V6? what weight?
7. hat are the common problems with this year/type of car? engine and trans problems?
8. where are common leak points
9. how much HP does it make to the rear wheels?

Im sure there are more questions i havebut cannot think of any right now. Thankyou very much for all of your replies

 

just so you know, your car is Front wheel drive...

 

Why not ask a mechanic? Someone who is an absolute expert.


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Aloha 97accordEXV6 welcome to the forum. to know what accord you have and spec's, go to kbb.com or edmunds.com or Honda.com and go to you year car and look under specifications, this will tell you all about your accord. "EX is the top of the line for Honda.
1. the timing belt is on most 4 cyl engines, v-6 has chain/gears but take off the plastic timing cover and visual for cracks, dryness, worn rubber *****.
2. the ticking could be cam to rocker arm, may need adjusting w/120k miles.
3. idle for most vehicles should be 600-900 est. again look in the spec's and it may give you a better answer.
4. your steam/smoke is the blow by from past your piston rings, compressed air leaking by the rings.
5. some burn oil, little to lots, depending on how may miles the car has and how abusive you or anyone was to their engines and how often the oil was changed.
6. Honda reccomends mobil 5-30 or 5-20, look at their spec's or call a honda service manager, most use mobil oil.
7.In the spec's area of the 3 web sites I gave you above, you will find the recall underlined, and it will give you a list of recalls also service bulletins are listed. If you have any problems email me at acmech52@yahoo.com I will be happy to assist.
8. leak points I've been told are window and seals, also heater core or radiator ( after 6+ years) this pertains to some, not to all.valve covers, cam,crank seals. water pump seals etc, anything in particular you might be asking???
9 To determine this, take your car to a dyno shop, you can have them do the test, cost some money, and you will know exactly what your hp is at the front wheels.
Please keep in mind most of these answers are in general, not specific to your individual car. You will need to look at your car on a hoist and check everything out for yourself, take notes, gas milage, oil burn at oil change intervals etc. again if you need more info, email me and will try my best to help you out. Honda products are great and will last a long time when taken care of. Enjoy your car