1991 Honda CRX
Introduction:
The 1991 Honda CRX was a compact, sporty hatchback that offered nimble handling and fuel efficiency. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 1.6L SOHC engine with a 5-speed manual transmission, a 1.6L DOHC engine with a 5-speed manual transmission, and a 1.6L DOHC engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 1.6L SOHC engine produced 105 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.6L DOHC engine produced 125 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The CRX was praised for its engaging driving experience, but it was also criticized for its lack of interior space and limited features.
Engine
1.6L SOHC
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Symptoms include oil leaking from the valve cover onto the engine block. The fix is to replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $150. Recalls: None Found
- Timing Belt Tensioner Failure: Symptoms can include a squealing noise from the engine bay and difficulty starting the engine. The fix is to replace the timing belt tensioner. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500+. Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Symptoms include a vacuum leak, rough idling, and decreased engine performance. The fix is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $300. Recalls: None Found
1.6L DOHC
- Head Gasket Failure: Symptoms can include white smoke from the exhaust, coolant leaks, and overheating. The fix is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $1,500+. Recalls: None Found
- Piston Ring Failure: Symptoms can include excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and decreased engine performance. The fix is to replace the piston rings. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $1,500+. Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure: Symptoms can include difficulty starting the engine, misfiring, and decreased engine performance. The fix is to replace the ignition coil. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200. Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Synchronizer Failure: Symptoms can include difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and popping out of gear. The fix is to replace the synchronizers. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Failure: Symptoms can include slipping gears, difficulty shifting gears, and a burning smell. The fix is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None Found
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Fluid Leak: Symptoms can include a leak under the car, slipping gears, and delayed shifting. The fix is to replace the transmission pan gasket or other leaking component. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200. Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Failure: Symptoms can include harsh shifting, slipping gears, and difficulty shifting gears. The fix is to replace the valve body. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure: Symptoms can include clunking or squeaking noises over bumps, reduced ride comfort, and decreased handling performance. The fix is to replace the strut mounts. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200 per strut. Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Failure: Symptoms can include clunking noises over bumps, reduced handling performance, and uneven tire wear. The fix is to replace the ball joints. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200 per ball joint. Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Starter Failure: Symptoms can include difficulty starting the engine, no noise when turning the key, or grinding noises. The fix is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500. Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Failure: Symptoms can include dim lights, difficulty starting the engine, and a battery warning light on the dashboard. The fix is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Switch Failure: Symptoms can include difficulty starting the engine, no power to accessories, and a security light on the dashboard. The fix is to replace the ignition switch. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500. Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Failure: Symptoms can include difficulty opening the door from the outside or inside. The fix is to replace the door handle. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200 per door. Recalls: None Found
- Window Regulator Failure: Symptoms can include difficulty rolling up or down the window, or the window falling down on its own. The fix is to replace the window regulator. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500 per window. Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking: Symptoms include cracks or fading on the dashboard. The fix is to replace the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None Found
- Air Conditioning Blower Motor Failure: Symptoms can include no air flow from the vents, or only air flow on certain speeds. The fix is to replace the blower motor. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200. Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 1991 Honda CRX is a reliable and fun-to-drive vehicle, but it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include engine gasket leaks, transmission problems, suspension failures, and electrical issues. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are generally not severe and can be fixed by a qualified mechanic. Overall, the 1991 Honda CRX is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and sporty hatchback.