Honda has introduced a new strategy to assist its classic models, including the NSX.
Honda
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In Japan, Honda has been operating an “NSX Refresh Plan” since 1993, allowing customers to have early NSXs serviced by factory specialists. This program is concluding this year and will be succeeded by a new strategy to support the first-generation NSX and other high-end Hondas. While there may not be many original parts for ’90s NSXs available, Honda remains committed to its classic models.
Honda’s announcement, which I translated from Japanese using Google, introduced me to a term I hadn’t encountered before: “Genuine Compatible Parts.” These parts are not quite OEM but are also not aftermarket; Honda will produce new parts for classic cars using a combination of approved suppliers, 3D printing, and the traditional remanufacturing of old components.
Although I can't afford an NSX, I find the idea of such a program appealing. Recently, we discovered that 3D printing is opening up significant opportunities for classic car restoration. There have been impressive innovations in cottage industries focused on reverse-engineering unavailable car parts, and it makes perfect sense for automakers to also reverse-engineer and recreate their own parts to a high standard using 3D printing.
As Honda officially stated (translated again):
“With the cooperation of various business partners, we are exploring the production of alternative parts for components that we can no longer manufacture and supply. Furthermore, with advancements in technologies like remanufacturing and 3D printing, the possibilities for new manufacturing and procurement methods for sustaining parts supply are increasing.”
It appears Honda will be providing parts directly to customers, along with a new restoration service for clients in Japan. If you’re a dedicated NSX enthusiast living abroad, you might consider shipping your car to Japan for this treatment, although it doesn’t seem like Honda plans to establish restoration centers elsewhere. Hypothetically, the parts could be shipped anywhere.
These Genuine Compatible Parts and comprehensive factory restoration services will be available in Japan starting next spring, with more information to be released this fall. If you’re curious about prices, that’s likely to be revealed later this year. Parts for the NSX have always been costly, so don’t expect any deals.
Currently, Honda is offering this level of support exclusively for the NSX, but the Japanese announcement indicated that “the service will be expanded to other sports-type vehicles in the future.” I would anticipate that some Type R models and the S2000 will eventually be included. Perhaps a Honda Beat restoration program could be in the works? Anyone interested?
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Honda has introduced a new strategy to assist its classic models, including the NSX.
Honda plans to utilize a mix of authorized suppliers, remanufacturing, and 3D printing to produce "Genuine Compatible Parts" for its most popular vehicles in Japan.