1996 Acura Integra

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 1996 Acura Integra, organized by category and configuration.

The 1996 Acura Integra is a popular sport compact car known for its reliability, handling, and sporty driving experience. Engine options include the 1.8L DOHC inline-4 B18B1 engine (140 hp, 127 lb-ft torque) and the 1.8L DOHC VTEC inline-4 B18C1 engine (170 hp, 128 lb-ft torque) in the GSR model. Transmission choices are a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, depending on the model. Owners appreciate the Integra’s fun-to-drive nature and relatively low running costs. Common dislikes include road noise, some rust issues (especially in colder climates), and the car’s age, which means parts can be harder to find and some components are naturally wearing out.

Engine

1.8L DOHC Inline-4 B18B1

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or complete failure to start. Often accompanied by a check engine light (CEL) indicating issues with the distributor.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, visible oil around the valve cover or oil pan.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks (Water Pump, Hoses)
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump, hoses, or both.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L DOHC VTEC Inline-4 B18C1 (GSR)

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, visible oil around the valve cover or oil pan.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VTEC Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power in the VTEC range (above ~4400 RPM), VTEC not engaging.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid, clean the VTEC filter, or repair wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Grinding or Difficulty Shifting (Specifically 2nd or 3rd Gear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into gear, difficulty engaging a gear, gear pop-out.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Could also be worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Master/Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Soft or spongy clutch pedal, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking to the floor.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder, or both.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh or jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush/change, transmission rebuild, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling at idle, poor acceleration, shuddering.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings (Control Arms, Trailing Arms)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, vague handling, excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, leaking fluid from struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging, car stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car fails to start, clicking noise when turning the key.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Rear Quarter Panels, Rocker Panels, Around Wheel Wells)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or holes in the metal.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, reduced visibility at night.
  • Solution: Headlight restoration kit or headlight replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Gauge Cluster Issues (Speedometer, Tachometer)
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings, needles sticking, or complete failure of gauges.
  • Solution: Gauge cluster repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Acura Integra, while a reliable car for its age, suffers from common issues related to wear and tear. Engine issues primarily involve leaks and age-related failures of components like the distributor. Transmission problems range from shifting issues to complete failures. Suspension components wear out, leading to handling problems. Electrical issues are common, especially with age. Rust can be a significant problem, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Interior issues mainly revolve around dashboard cracking and gauge cluster failures. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely, with rust repair and transmission replacements being the most expensive. Many of these issues can be addressed affordably by a knowledgeable DIY enthusiast, but some will require professional attention, especially with more serious mechanical problems.