Well, I have just replaced the centre box and cat on my car, 2005/96k which were original Honda parts. The back box is a non-Honda replacement, but I don't know when it was replaced. The cat was ok but tired and the centre section was shot with pinholes so had to be replaced - both were 'welded' together so it was easier to replace the two bits. Reasonably easy except for 1 bolt on the down pipe that sheared and the remaining stud had to be drilled out, getting at it was a big problem, took ages.
I didn't do it but the car has new springs/shocks and new wishbones. Could do with droplinks as they chatter on bad roads, but handling is not impaired at present so will do in spring.
Bodywork is good, no rusting, floor is good too, underneath there is some superficial rusting on painted areas but I have waxoiled them for the winter and I am certain they will now last as long as needed.
A friend has an '03 model with low miles and it is immaculate all round. Still on most of its original fitments. Honda parts are good quality at factory and if you look after the car it will go on for a very long time.
I think our Brit car killer long term is the winter salt, do the Japs salt their roads?
