1997 Acura EL

Introduction

The 1997 Acura EL was a compact sedan offered with one engine option: a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine producing 125 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The EL was praised for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling, but it also had some common issues.

Engine

1.6L 4-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and/or oil leaks; engine overheating; loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and/or oil leaks; white smoke from exhaust; engine overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Cap and Rotor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires; loss of power; rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap and rotor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shift Linkage Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears; grinding or crunching noises when shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the transmission pan or other seals; loss of transmission fluid; slipping gears.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seal or gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping when shifting gears; loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps; premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights; electrical system problems; battery not charging.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Problem:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to start; clicking noises when trying to start.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the frame, suspension components, and exhaust system.
  • Solution: Regular inspections and maintenance; anti-rust treatment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Can vary significantly depending on the extent of corrosion
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Panel Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Controls fail to work or operate intermittently; temperature settings not maintained.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 1997 Acura EL was generally a reliable vehicle, it had some common issues that could be both costly and inconvenient to fix. The most severe and expensive problems included engine gasket failures and transmission issues, while minor issues like power window switch failures were relatively inexpensive to address. Overall, the EL was a well-liked vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing one.