1990 Honda CRX

Introduction

The 1990 Honda CRX was a sporty compact car available with two engine and transmission options:

• 1.5L 16-valve SOHC VTEC engine with a 5-speed manual transmission, producing 105 horsepower and 97 lb-ft of torque
• 1.6L 16-valve DOHC VTEC engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission, producing 140 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque

Known for its nimble handling, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the CRX was a popular choice among enthusiasts. However, it had some notable issues that owners have reported over the years.

Engine

1.5L 16-valve SOHC VTEC

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt can break, causing catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and a rattling noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and related components according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Seal Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged valve seals can lead to excessive oil consumption and smoking from the exhaust. Symptoms include blue or white smoke on engine startup or acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the valve seals and associated gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L 16-valve DOHC VTEC

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The TCM controls the automatic transmission’s operation. If it fails, the transmission may exhibit shifting problems, delayed engagement, or slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the TCM and reprogram the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Grinding or Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises during shifting, or popping out of gear. These issues can be caused by worn synchros, broken shift forks, or worn clutch plates.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or flare when shifting, causing a loss of power and acceleration. This issue can be caused by worn clutch packs, damaged torque converter, or low transmission fluid level.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected components or service the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, poor alignment, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged rear shocks can lead to poor handling, reduced stability, and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can cause dimming headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a “Check Battery” light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A worn starter solenoid can prevent the starter from engaging, resulting in difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the starter solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: The undercarriage of the CRX can develop rust, especially in areas where road salt is used.
  • Solution: Preventative measures can include regular undercoating and washing to remove salt and debris.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of rust
  • Recalls: None Found
• Taillight Seal Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking taillight seals can allow water to enter the trunk or rear compartment, causing damage or corrosion.
  • Solution: Replace the taillight gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty heater core can leak coolant, causing fogging of the windshield and a sweet smell in the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic dashboard of the CRX can develop cracks over time due to sun exposure and aging.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Honda CRX was a popular and reliable car but had some notable issues. Timing belt and transmission problems were the most severe and costly to fix. Other issues such as rust, taillight leakage, and heater core failure were less severe but still required attention. Overall, the CRX’s issues were relatively minor and did not detract significantly from its overall value and appeal.