I've read up on it, they can be removed but it's a PITA. 4 wheel steering was the earlier Preludes, the 5th gen has the "SH" tech which is still happening on other new Acuras. It's a torque transfer system that works via a little transmission attached to the engine.
I'm convinced that the issue with the lights is the circuit board on the gauge cluster. My Honda mechanic said when they get to this age the solder joints crack and cause random lights to pop on and off. I pulled the two wires coming off the brake fluid reservoir (at his recommendation, old Honda trick) and the ABS nor ATTS light hasn't come on in 2 days.
*****
A few updates...since my last post I've:
- changed ATTS fluid
- fixed a number of small things
- removed outer balance weights/had tires rebalanced with inside weights
- clay barred the car 3 times
It's looking really great!
Also while at my Honda mechanic's shop I got a good look underneath...the oil cooler O-ring isn't leaking, nor is the VTEC solenoid gasket, nor is the distributor O-ring (all common leaks on this car)....but the valve cover is certainly leaking in the back side so it will be replaced. Hopefully that will take care of my leaks....if not, the car is getting a new timing belt and all associated parts due to the only other possible leak which would be the seals. Hopefully it won't come to that.
Next up:
- getting it aligned tomorrow
- getting a new windshield Friday
- replacing the valve cover gasket and spark plug seals next week
Beyond that I have a few more things I'm looking into...a possible intake, a bra for the front (paint at the front H is horrible), a few other little ideas I have.
I wish there was a short shifter for this car, the throws are so long and ropey it's killing me, but I can't find much aftermarket support for these...if anyone knows of anything please holler at me.
With all the above done so far I'm $2900 + $70 service manual + ~$500 parts/windshield/fluids/alignment so that's about $3500 invested.
Hoping the clutch and A/C and ATTS system remain strong, aside from those needing repair I don't see much on this car that could give me trouble going forward.
Thanks for looking! This is a fun car to own for sure, gets lots of comments too I've noticed!