Hello,

I wonder if some kind soul can offer some advice. I have been told that I need a new distributor for my car. As the part is quite expensive new, I’m considering getting a second hand one from a breakers/salvage yard or a refurbished one.

Does anyone have any recommendations as to which option to go for? Also, if I get one from salvage, is there anything I need to ensure it is supplied with? I’d hate to get one, only to find out I need an extra part or two.

I don’t know if it matters but the car is a 2.0 ES 5 speed manual.

My thanks to anyone taking the time to respond,

Shadders.

Just get an OEM Distributor; New or used will do and just make sure its in working condition before you buy it.

Shadders:

I assume you reside in the United Kingdom. :dunno:

New distributors are quite pricey, indeed. Some 11 (eleven) years ago, I paid $450 for a new OEM Honda unit for my trusty '86.

Main problem with a used distributor is that while you save money, you also get a "pig in a poke." Might last 100,000 miles, might last only 10 minutes. And most salvage yards have a "No Refund" policy on any electrical parts. This is why I avoid using "used" electrical components, as a general rule.

As long as it comes with a decent warranty, a rebuilt/remanufactured distributor is probably okay. I'd have to know the individual or company (brand name) that did the work.

As I recall, there is a distributor "O" ring issue on your series of Accord. When said "O" ring fails, oil leaks into the distributor, shorting it out. With a handful of not terribly expensive parts, and a smart mechanic at your garage, you might be able to rebuild what you have.