The reasons DSMs break is the reason's all modified cars break down... the more power pushed past the manufacture designs, makes certain things give out. DSMs limit goes a little higher on stock stuff more then certain other cars, based on the Evolution in Japan, whos motor design is the same... thus the whole 16G, 550 injectors, 3in exhaust, fuel pump route is ideal. Anything past that... its past the manufacture's design.

The other reason these cars break is cause everyone thinks.... hey... its a quick turbo car, and my Honda isnt turbo. hmm. cool! Lets buy a blow off valve for it!!! Dumbasses! lets try and do some routine maintence like plugs, wires, all fluids changed, inspect belts... replace some seals that leak... etc. Make it the best stock car you can before adding your 16G and injectors, and SAFC... etc. People dont make the car run well in a stock form before putting all this other shit on it. Also people who just have no respect for a car... they just beat the shit outta it racing from traffic light to traffic light, I don't care what kinda car ya got but it will break from that kinda abuse.

There is the DSM's bad name... from people who dont listen.

DSMs can be quirky, but can also be the best most reliable fast car youve ever had. Keep yer car up and it will keep you going.

Im done venting...

BitbyStreetRacin - If your not afraid to get dirty, learn something. read up on the car some and do some maintence. If you dont want to attempt the timing belt, water pump, clutch... there are people in the area that do work on DSMs. Jerry (Lancerman) will and so will I. we've been doing these cars for quite a while and we know whats going on. If your serious about trying to go fast and want a nice street car. go for it. Tranny seals are easy. Tcase seals are also easy, so is replacing the Yolk on the driveshaft which sounds like is your leak. If your gonna get a DSM do it right, dont half ass things like you can on a Honda and get away with it.