1994 Acura NSX

The 1994 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, two-seat sports car known for its handling, reliability, and timeless design. It was offered with a 3.0L V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque when paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, and 252 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque with the 4-speed automatic. Owners appreciate its balanced performance, comfortable ride for a sports car, and the high-revving V6 engine. Some common dislikes include the relatively low power output compared to modern sports cars and the age-related maintenance that comes with owning a classic vehicle.

Engine

3.0L V6 (C30A)

• Oil Leaks from Engine Seals
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various engine seals, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. This can result in visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and lower oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor, responsible for timing and delivering spark to the cylinders, can fail due to age and wear. Symptoms include misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The IACV, responsible for regulating idle speed, can become clogged or malfunction. Symptoms include an unstable idle, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the IACV.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch master cylinder can leak or fail, resulting in a soft or unresponsive clutch pedal, difficulty shifting, and potential clutch slippage.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, hard shifts, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Suspension Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The suspension bushings, made of rubber or polyurethane, can wear out over time, leading to loose handling, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the number and location of the bushings being replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The dampers that the car uses can fail or become worn out, resulting in a loose handling and poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacing the suspension system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the cost of the coilover kit being installed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dim Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the aging wiring and potentially corroded connectors, the headlights can become dim, reducing visibility at night.
  • Solution: Upgrading the wiring harness or replacing the headlights with newer, more efficient units.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: The window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become slow or inoperable.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Targa Top Leaks (if applicable)
  • Description/Symptoms: The targa top seal can degrade over time, leading to water leaks into the cabin during rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Replacing the targa top seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The material on the center console can delaminate or become sticky, detracting from the interior appearance.
  • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the center console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the repair method and parts used.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1994 Acura NSX, while a well-engineered and reliable vehicle, is subject to age-related issues. The most common problems involve engine and transmission oil leaks, suspension bushing wear, and electrical gremlins. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the quality of parts used. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, particularly those involving engine or transmission overhauls. Buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in NSXs to identify potential issues and estimate repair costs.