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1993 Acura NSX

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 1993 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its sharp handling, refined driving experience, and groundbreaking technology for its time. The 1993 NSX was equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine (C30A) producing 270 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. It came with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the NSX for its balanced performance, reliability, and timeless design. Criticisms often focus on the relatively low horsepower figures compared to later sports cars, and the cost of maintenance and specialized parts.

Engine

3.0L V6 (C30A) with 5-Speed Manual

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or the rear main seal. Visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, or low oil levels are common indicators.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Distributor Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, or a no-start condition.
    • Solution: Replacing the distributor with a new or remanufactured unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 (C30A) with 4-Speed Automatic

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Same as the 5-speed manual variant. Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or the rear main seal. Visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, or low oil levels are common indicators.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Distributor Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, or a no-start condition.
    • Solution: Replacing the distributor with a new or remanufactured unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, a soft or spongy clutch pedal, or inability to engage gears.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, a soft or spongy clutch pedal, or inability to engage gears. Similar symptoms to a master cylinder failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch slave cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Delay in gear engagement, difficulty accelerating, or a feeling of slipping between gears.
    • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement may help. More severe cases will require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Compliance Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn compliance bushings in the front suspension can cause clunking noises, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing the compliance bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut Mounts
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mounts can cause noises over bumps, and decreased handling.
    • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Pop-Up Headlight Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights failing to raise or lower. Often, the motors become weak or fail due to age and use.
    • Solution: Replacing the headlight motor or repairing the existing motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per headlight.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure, refrigerant leaks, or issues with the climate control unit itself.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific problem, followed by repair or replacement of the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Targa Top Leaks (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the targa top during rain or washing.
    • Solution: Replacing the weather stripping or adjusting the targa top fit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Center Console Delamination
    • Description/Symptoms: The plastic trim on the center console can delaminate due to heat and age, resulting in a sticky or peeling surface.
    • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the center console trim.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the repair method.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Gauge Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functional gauges in the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the gauge cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1993 Acura NSX, while renowned for its performance and design, does exhibit some common issues related to its age. Engine oil leaks and distributor problems are common, as are suspension bushing wear and electrical faults. Interior issues like console delamination and gauge cluster problems are also prevalent. The severity and cost of repairs vary widely, but potential buyers should be prepared for maintenance and repairs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.

Acura, NSX
Acura NSX 1993
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