1995 Acura NSX

The 1995 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its balanced handling, advanced technology, and refined performance. The 1995 model came equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine (C30A) that produced 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 when paired with the 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the NSX for its engaging driving experience, timeless design, and reliability. However, common complaints include limited storage space, an aging infotainment system, and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

3.0L V6 (C30A) - Manual Transmission

• Oil Leaks from Oil Pan or Rear Main Seal
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping under the car, particularly after running. Oil may be found accumulating on the engine components near the oil pan gasket or the rear of the engine block.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket or rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or failure to start. Check Engine Light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from engine. Overheating.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the coolant leak
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

3.0L V6 (C30A) - Automatic Transmission

• Oil Leaks from Oil Pan or Rear Main Seal
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping under the car, particularly after running. Oil may be found accumulating on the engine components near the oil pan gasket or the rear of the engine block.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket or rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or failure to start. Check Engine Light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from engine. Overheating.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the coolant leak
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master/Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, soft or spongy clutch pedal, clutch pedal sticking to the floor.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder, clutch slave cylinder, or both.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Synchro Wear (Especially 2nd Gear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into 2nd gear, especially at higher RPMs. Difficulty engaging 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission with new synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay when shifting between gears, or harsh “clunking” shifts.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, or if the problem persists, consider a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) / $2,000 - $4,000+ (rebuild/replace)
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine RPMs increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. The transmission may also hesitate or “slip” when accelerating.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement is likely necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Damper Failure (Shocks/Struts)
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll in corners. Visible fluid leaks from the dampers.
  • Solution: Replace the dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+ (depending on brand and installation)
• Compliance Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering response.
  • Solution: Replace the compliance bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Pop-Up Headlight Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights fail to pop up or down correctly. May hear a grinding noise from the headlight motor.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per headlight
• Gauge Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, etc.).
  • Solution: Repair or replace the gauge cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• ABS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light is illuminated on the dash. ABS system is not functioning correctly, or at all.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the ABS system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ (depending on the cause)

Exterior

• Targa Top Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin around the targa top during rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Replace the targa top seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Interior

• Climate Control Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, blower motor failure, or display issues on the climate control unit.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Summary

The 1995 Acura NSX, while a highly desirable sports car, is not immune to common issues associated with vehicles of its age. Engine oil leaks and distributor issues are common maintenance points for the engine. Clutch and Synchro wear are often seen in the 5-speed manual transmissions, while the 4-speed automatic can have delayed or harsh shifting. Electrical issues, particularly with the headlight motors and gauge cluster, are also frequent. The severity of these issues can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing gaskets or bushings to more costly repairs such as transmission rebuilds or replacements. Buyers should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs compared to more modern vehicles.

Recalls: None Found