1996 Acura Integra

Introduction:

The 1996 Acura Integra is a sport compact car that comes equipped with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. It is available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Integra is known for its sporty handling and responsive engine, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. However, like any vehicle, it has some common issues that owners may encounter.

Engine

• Head Gasket Failure (1.8L engine only):
  • Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (1.8L engine only):
  • Symptoms: Vacuum leak, reduced engine power, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission Grinding (GS-R trim only):
  • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gears, grinding noise when shifting
  • Solution: Replace the transmission synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Slippage:
  • Symptoms: Transmission slips out of gear, delayed engagement, shuddering when shifting
  • Solution: Repair or rebuild the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise when driving over bumps, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear (front suspension only):
  • Symptoms: Clunking noise when turning, excessive play in the steering
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise from the engine bay
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leakage (GS-R trim only):
  • Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof seals or drain tubes
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Crack (RS and GS trim only):
  • Symptoms: Crack in the dashboard, often near the airbag or instrument cluster
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Symptoms: AC or heater not working properly, fan speed issues
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the climate control system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1996 Acura Integra is a reliable and sporty vehicle, but it has some common issues that owners may encounter, particularly with the engine and transmission. These issues can be costly to repair, so it’s important to consider the potential maintenance costs when purchasing one. However, many of the issues listed here are manageable, and the Integra remains a popular choice among enthusiasts for its performance and handling.