Installing a S2000 Antenna
Author: CelicaSTX02

Overview

Replace your tall stock antenna with a sleek Honda S2000 antenna for improved aesthetics without sacrificing radio reception. This simple modification uses the S2000's shorter antenna design adapted to work with the Celica's antenna mounting system, providing a clean, low-profile appearance.

⚠️ Difficulty Level: Beginner
🕒 Time Required: 10 minutes
💰 Cost: ~$30 (S2000 antenna from Honda dealer)
🔧 Tools: Saw, strong adhesive, clamping pliers

Required Materials & Tools

Parts Required

  • Honda S2000 antenna (Honda dealer part ~$30)
  • Alternative: Online purchase from Honda parts suppliers
  • Stock antenna (for adapter piece)

Tools & Supplies

  • Saw or cutting tool (hacksaw works well)
  • Strong adhesive (epoxy or structural glue)
  • Clamping pliers
  • Clean rags

📡 Performance & Aesthetic Benefits

Visual Improvements

  • Significantly shorter profile
  • Sleek, modern appearance
  • Reduced wind resistance
  • Less prone to damage in car washes

Performance Notes

  • Radio reception maintained at same level
  • No signal strength reduction
  • Honda OEM quality and design
  • Compatible with all radio frequencies

Step 1: Stock Antenna Preparation

Stock antenna extension and cutting:

  • Extend stock antenna to full height for easier access
  • Cut metal antenna section at base using saw or cutting tool
  • Make clean, straight cut to ensure proper fit
  • Save cut-off portion for disposal

Disassembly for adapter piece:

  • Carefully disassemble remaining metal antenna sections
  • Select one piece large enough to fit over S2000 antenna base
  • Piece should slide over S2000 antenna's bottom screw section
  • Clean selected piece of any debris or corrosion

Step 2: Adapter Assembly Creation

Critical fitting process:

  • Test-fit stock antenna piece over S2000 antenna base
  • Ensure piece slides over bottom screw section completely
  • Piece should fit snugly but not bind or crack
  • Adjust fit if necessary by filing or sanding

Permanent assembly:

  • Clamp stock antenna piece onto S2000 antenna base using pliers
  • Apply generous amount of strong adhesive (epoxy recommended)
  • Ensure complete coverage around junction
  • Allow adhesive to cure per manufacturer specifications

Step 3: Installation into Vehicle

Initial positioning:

  • Insert assembled S2000 antenna into car's antenna post hole
  • Ensure adapter piece seats properly in mounting location
  • Check for proper depth and alignment
  • Antenna should sit flush without binding

Permanent securing:

  • Apply strong adhesive around bottom rim of S2000 antenna
  • Bond antenna base to car's antenna post carefully
  • Use adequate adhesive for secure mounting
  • Critical: Avoid getting glue on car's paint

Step 4: Testing & Verification

Reception testing:

  • Turn on radio and test all AM/FM frequencies
  • Compare reception quality to pre-modification levels
  • Test in various locations (urban, highway, rural)
  • Verify no dead zones or signal degradation

Physical inspection:

  • Check antenna mounting for security
  • Verify no movement or looseness
  • Inspect adhesive joints for completeness
  • Confirm aesthetic appearance meets expectations

🎯 Modification Results

Aesthetic Enhancement

  • Dramatically shorter antenna profile
  • Cleaner, more modern appearance
  • Reduced visual height from side view
  • Sports car aesthetic improvement

Practical Benefits

  • Maintained radio reception quality
  • Reduced wind noise at highway speeds
  • Less prone to car wash damage
  • Honda OEM reliability and quality

📸 Installation Reference Gallery

💡 Pro Tips

  • Adhesive choice: Use structural epoxy for strongest bond - critical for highway speeds
  • Paint protection: Mask surrounding area before applying adhesive
  • Fit verification: Test-fit everything before applying permanent adhesive
  • Clamping time: Allow full cure time for adhesive before driving
  • Reception testing: Test thoroughly in different environments before final approval
  • Parts sourcing: Genuine Honda S2000 parts ensure best fit and longevity

🔧 Technical Notes

  • Reception maintenance: S2000 antenna maintains same reception quality as stock
  • Reversibility: This modification is not easily reversible due to adhesive bonding
  • Part availability: S2000 antennas available at Honda dealerships or online
  • Installation permanence: Consider this a permanent modification