1990 Acura Legend

The 1990 Acura Legend was a premium sedan known for its reliability, smooth ride, and luxurious features for its time. It came with a 3.0L V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and 196 lb-ft of torque. Buyers generally appreciated the car’s comfortable interior, build quality, and reputation for longevity. Common criticisms included a somewhat bland styling and a lack of sportiness compared to some rivals. Transmission options for the 1990 Acura Legend included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual.

Engine

3.0L V6 (C30A1)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly occur from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets and seals. Cleaning the affected area.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks often develop at the water pump, hoses, or radiator. This can lead to overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, hard shifting, or failure to shift can occur as the transmission ages.
  • Solution: Fluid flush or replacement, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings and Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn bushings and ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per axle depending on the extent of the damage and number of components replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and visible leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Relays
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights not working or the car not starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $50+ per relay.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dim or Non-Functional Instrument Cluster Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to see gauges at night, burnt out bulbs.
  • Solution: Replacing the bulbs or repairing the circuit board.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ depending on the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop in the wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the sunroof (if equipped).
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight and Taillight Housing Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the housings can allow moisture to enter, causing bulb failure or reduced visibility.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight or taillight housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per housing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the AC compressor, heater core leaks, or malfunctioning blend door actuators.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, leaks, or sticking.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the motor, seals, or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Acura Legend, while generally reliable, exhibits common issues associated with age. Engine oil leaks, electrical glitches, suspension wear, and interior deterioration are typical problems. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely. Many of these issues are manageable with regular maintenance and timely repairs, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problem areas and have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic before purchase. Rust can be a significant concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters.