1992 Acura Vigor

The 1992 Acura Vigor was a unique mid-size sedan slotting between the Integra and Legend in Acura’s lineup. It was only available with one engine option, a 2.5L inline-5 cylinder engine producing 176 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. Owners often praised the Vigor for its comfortable ride, distinctive engine sound, and generally good reliability for its time. Criticisms commonly centered on its unusual styling, tight rear seat, and relatively high price compared to competitors.

Engine

2.5L Inline-5 Cylinder

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or complete failure to start. Often caused by age-related deterioration of the distributor cap, rotor, or internal components.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap, rotor, or the entire distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Main Relay Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, car cranks but doesn’t start, fuel pump not priming.
  • Solution: Replace the main relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket, Rear Main Seal)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine block or dripping onto the ground. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Radiator, Hoses)
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, low coolant level, visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component (radiator, hose, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hard shifts, delayed engagement into drive or reverse, slipping between gears. Often caused by worn clutches or solenoids within the transmission.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs up but the car doesn’t accelerate properly, especially when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Worn Clutch
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slipping, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal feels spongy or weak.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd or 3rd.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Poor handling and steering response.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, leaking fluid from the shocks/struts.
  • Solution: Replace worn shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not move up or down, or moves very slowly and erratically. Grinding noises from within the door.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Climate Control
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent cabin temperature, failure of certain climate control functions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the climate control module, blend door actuator, or other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Wheel Arches, Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, sunroof leaks, difficulty opening or closing.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, seal replacement, or sunroof track repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1992 Acura Vigor, while generally reliable, is showing its age, and many issues stem from wear and tear. The most common problems involve the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing relays or bushings to more costly repairs such as transmission rebuilds or rust repair. Potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase. The severity of these issues are moderate because the cars are old, but the cost can be potentially high because parts are not easy to find.