1993 Acura Integra

The 1993 Acura Integra was a popular compact sports car known for its reliability, handling, and fuel efficiency. Available in several trims, including the RS, LS, GS, and GS-R, it offered a blend of sporty performance and everyday practicality. The 1993 Integra was equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, with the GS-R trim featuring the more powerful VTEC version. The standard engine produced around 140 horsepower and 121 lb-ft of torque, while the GS-R’s VTEC engine bumped the output to 170 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Integra’s fun-to-drive nature, precise handling, and Honda’s renowned reliability. Common complaints often revolve around the age of the vehicle, leading to wear and tear, rust, and potential maintenance needs.

Engine

B18A1 (RS, LS, GS)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Can cause oil consumption and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail due to age and heat, causing misfires, rough running, or a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

B18C1 (GS-R)

• VTEC Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The VTEC solenoid can leak oil or fail to engage the VTEC system, resulting in reduced power at higher RPMs.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid or clean/replace the gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some B18C1 engines may experience increased oil consumption as they age, due to wear on piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Manual Transmission (5-Speed)

• Worn Synchronizers
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd or 3rd, indicating worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, or a high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Automatic Transmission (4-Speed)

• Slipping or Delayed Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive, or harsh shifts.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission flush, repair or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling at idle, poor acceleration, or unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, loose handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings in the control arms, sway bar links, and trailing arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the number of bushings replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and leaking fluid from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for all four corners.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Main Relay Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump not priming, or engine cutting out.
  • Solution: Replace the main relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on quarter panels, rocker panels, and other body panels.
  • Solution: Body work and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles breaking, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard cracks due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replacing or covering the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner detaches from the roof.
  • Solution: Re-glue or replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1993 Acura Integra, while a well-regarded vehicle, suffers from issues typical of cars of its age. Engine issues range from minor oil leaks to more significant VTEC solenoid problems in the GS-R. Transmission issues include worn synchronizers in the manual and slipping in the automatic. Suspension problems like worn bushings contribute to handling issues. Electrical issues, like main relay failures, can cause starting problems. Exterior rust and interior wear and tear also present challenges. The severity of these issues varies, and repair costs can range from a few dollars to several thousand, making a pre-purchase inspection essential.