Acura RSX Common Faults: Problems, Breakdowns And Defects!
Older millennials may remember a time when the Acura RSX ruled the scene. Over a decade later, the RSX remains a popular choice for car enthusiasts due to its impeccable performance and JDM styling. If you are interested in buying a car of this model, we have made a list of the common faults of the Acura RSX .
In fact, the 2006 Type-S sub model still manages to hold its own in auto shows with current models like the 2021 NSX and 2021 MDX A-Spec. You might be able to find one online for around $10,000 or less. .
Unlike other sports cars, the 2006 Acura RSX is expected to rise in value over time, with an expected appreciation rate of 26%. This means you can get more out of your used Acura RSX if you plan to resell it.
How good is the Acura RSX?
How is the Acura RSX still relevant despite being discontinued in 2006? It could probably be argued that video games and movies have helped to maintain its popularity. However, we believe that the Acura RSX has survived this long due to its high reliability.
Users have given it an overall score of 4.5 out of 5.0 based on its performance and reliability. Fully customized Acura RSXs can still be seen at auto shows across North America. That should tell you everything you need to know about the reliability of the RSX.
Acura RSX Common Faults
The Acura RSX isn’t the perfect sports car. It has its fair share of issues that can change your experience. Here are some of the most commonly reported Acura RSX failures.
1- Braking problems
Honda issued a safety recall in 2013 for certain 2006 Acura RSX cars manufactured from January 18, 2006 through August 12, 2006 due to problems with the electric braking system.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the US estimates that 18,352 vehicles in the United States are affected by this recall. Honda attributed the problem to a manufacturing error that allowed the electric braking system components to be manufactured out of specification.
The brake boosters that were made for the 2006 model were prone to failure . This meant that drivers had to apply more force to their brake pedals to shorten the stopping distance. Although no accidents or injuries have been reported, a compromised power braking system can put you and your passengers in danger. If you suspect there is something wrong with your brake system, don’t hesitate to call your mechanic for help.
2- Problems with engine oil leaks
Oil leaks can cause catastrophic engine damage due to excessive friction between fast-moving engine parts. Sometimes they are caused by holes or loose connections in engine components . All model years of the Acura RSX (2002 to 2006) have been known to have engine oil leaks due to bad or failing oil pressure sensors.
The oil pressure sensor is an important part of your engine because it maintains the engine oil pressure level. Without it, your Acura RSX can produce high emissions and be less fuel efficient. There is also the possibility of engine oil getting on the spark plugs, causing a fire in the engine compartment.
A bad or faulty oil pressure sensor can give inaccurate readings. This can cause your oil pressure light to flash even if your oil levels are normal. If you have a faulty oil pressure sensor, you’ll need to replace it immediately to avoid costly repairs in the future.
3- Faults in the engine distribution valve
Engine valve timing failure is fairly common on 2003 to 2006 Acura RSXs with mileage between 64,000 and 81,000 miles. The timing valve is the part of the engine that corresponds to the movement of the pistons to ensure continuous smooth operation.
These components can bump into each other, if the timing is out of line, possibly causing extensive engine damage. You are lucky if your engine only suffers minimal damage due to a bad valve. Extreme cases may require a complete engine overhaul.
The engine timing valve is also responsible for reducing fuel consumption. Without it, the engine’s intake and exhaust valves will open and close at the wrong time, reducing the vehicle’s fuel economy.
A faulty valve causes the engine to stall under heavy load situations. If the check engine light comes on, you should take it as a warning sign to get your Acura RSX checked. You can save a lot of money on repairs if you act quickly and replace faulty valves.
4- Problems with the emission control valve (2002, 2004)
Most modern vehicles have electronic control units (ECUs) that monitor everything from engine timing to emissions. If there is something wrong with the engine and exhaust system, the check engine light usually comes on to alert the driver.
The check engine light on the 2002 and 2004 Acura RSX has been known to come on due to issues with the emission control valve. The valve is part of the Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) control system that captures fumes created when fuel evaporates in the gas tank or fuel system to prevent harmful gases from escaping from the exhaust when the vehicle is not it’s running.
When you fill the tank, be sure to secure the cap. A loose gas cap may be enough for the ECU to activate the check engine light. If the check engine light doesn’t go off even after you’ve screwed the cap on tight, there could be bigger issues affecting your EVAP.
Some owners have had to replace their O2 sensors to fix their toxic emissions. If you suspect that your EVAP system is malfunctioning, you should contact a professional mechanic, so they can diagnose the problem.
To complete
The Acura RSX may not be the most advanced sports car on the market today, but it still has an impressive heritage that car enthusiasts around the world can love and cherish.
Its elegant design, impeccable performance and high reliability offer many possibilities for customization. Knowing the common Acura RSX failures can help you make an informed decision. Be sure to ask the dealer about the car’s repair history to avoid costly problems in the future.
