1992 Acura Integra

The 1992 Acura Integra is a popular compact sports car known for its engaging driving dynamics and reliability, although, like any vehicle, it has its share of potential issues. Engine options included the 1.7L D17A1 I4 engine with 130 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque (GS/LS trim) and the 1.8L B18A1 I4 engine with 140 horsepower and 121 lb-ft of torque (GS-R trim). Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. People often appreciate the Integra’s sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and overall dependability. However, some common criticisms include the relatively basic interior and the potential for rust in certain climates.

Engine

1.7L D17A1 I4 (GS/LS)

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, misfires, or failure to start. This is caused by the distributor going bad, which leads to the engine not getting spark.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor with a new or remanufactured unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover area, visible oil residue, and potential burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L B18A1 I4 (GS-R)

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve cover area, visible oil residue, and potential burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, misfires, or failure to start. This is caused by the distributor going bad, which leads to the engine not getting spark.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor with a new or remanufactured unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Worn Synchros (Especially 2nd and 3rd Gear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear, especially when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission, including replacing the worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Master/Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, soft or spongy clutch pedal, clutch pedal sticking to the floor.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty clutch master and/or slave cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky gear changes, slipping between gears, delayed engagement. This can indicate worn clutches or valve body issues within the transmission.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, imprecise handling, and excessive tire wear. Common culprits are the front lower control arm bushings and rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the number of bushings replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fluid from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, difficulty starting, or stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked/Broken Wiper Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: Wipers do not move, move slowly, or stop at random times.
  • Solution: Replace the wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Wheel Arches, Quarter Panels, Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the body panels, especially around the wheel arches, quarter panels, and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight/Taillight Cracking/Fading
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights and taillights become cloudy, yellowed, or cracked.
  • Solution: Replace headlight/taillight assemblies or use headlight restoration kits (temporary fix).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ for replacements, $20-$50 for restoration kits.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ for replacement, $50-$150 for a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Sun Visors
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors droop down or are difficult to keep in the up position.
  • Solution: Replace the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Acura Integra, while generally reliable, can suffer from issues common to older vehicles. These include engine and transmission problems (especially with the 5-speed manual), suspension wear, electrical glitches, rust, and interior deterioration. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, with rust repair potentially being the most expensive. Regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly can help keep the Integra running smoothly.