1996 Acura NSX
The 1996 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, two-seat sports car renowned for its innovative design, advanced technology, and exceptional handling. It came equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque when paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, and 252 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque when paired with the 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the NSX for its timeless styling, balanced performance, and the reliability that is often associated with Honda and Acura vehicles. Downsides often mentioned include the relatively high cost of maintenance and parts, as well as the car’s age, which can lead to increased wear and tear on various components.
Engine
3.0L V6 (C30A) - Manual Transmission
- Oil Leaks from VTEC Solenoid Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the VTEC solenoid on the cylinder head. This can result in oil loss and a noticeable burning smell.
- Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
- Recalls: None Found
- Distributor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or complete failure to start. Can be intermittent at first, gradually worsening over time.
- Solution: Replace the distributor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L V6 (C30A) - Automatic Transmission
- Oil Leaks from VTEC Solenoid Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the VTEC solenoid on the cylinder head. This can result in oil loss and a noticeable burning smell.
- Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
- Recalls: None Found
- Distributor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or complete failure to start. Can be intermittent at first, gradually worsening over time.
- Solution: Replace the distributor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking to the floor, or a spongy clutch feel.
- Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Synchro Wear (Specifically 2nd Gear)
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into 2nd gear, especially at higher RPMs.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, including replacement of worn synchros.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
- Solution: Fluid replacement, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild depending on severity.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Damper (Shock Absorber) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll when cornering.
- Solution: Replace the dampers (shock absorbers).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (depending on brand and if doing all 4 corners)
- Recalls: None Found
- Compliance Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, imprecise steering, and increased tire wear.
- Solution: Replace the compliance bushings in the front lower control arms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Pop-Up Headlight Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights fail to pop up or down properly.
- Solution: Replace the headlight motor or repair the gear if it’s broken.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per headlight
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Illumination Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functional instrument cluster lights.
- Solution: Replace the bulbs in the instrument cluster or repair faulty wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Targa Top Weather Stripping Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain or when washing the car.
- Solution: Replace the weather stripping around the targa top.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Center Console Warping/Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: The plastic center console can warp or crack due to heat and age.
- Solution: Replacement of the center console (can be difficult to find in good condition).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ (depending on condition)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 1996 Acura NSX, while a highly regarded sports car, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine-related issues such as VTEC solenoid gasket leaks and distributor failures are relatively common. Transmission issues, especially synchro wear in the manual transmission and harsh shifting in the automatic, can be more costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues are also prevalent, but often less severe and less expensive to address. The center console warping is a common cosmetic issue. The overall cost of addressing these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for major component replacements or overhauls.