1997 Acura Integra

The 1997 Acura Integra is a compact sports car known for its reliability, handling, and sporty driving experience. Available in various trims, including the base model, LS, GS, and the high-performance GS-R, the Integra offers a blend of practicality and fun. While appreciated for its nimble chassis and responsive engines, some common issues have surfaced over the years. The 1997 Integra came with either a 1.8L DOHC 4-cylinder engine (LS, GS) or a 1.8L VTEC DOHC 4-cylinder engine (GS-R). The LS/GS engine produces 140 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. The GS-R engine produces 170 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. People generally love the Integra for its fun-to-drive nature, relatively low cost of ownership, and Honda reliability. Common complaints include its age-related issues, such as rust and worn suspension components, and the fact that it’s a popular target for theft.

Engine

1.8L DOHC (LS, GS)

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, or complete failure to start. Can be due to internal components failing due to age.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

1.8L VTEC DOHC (GS-R)

• VTEC Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Lack of power at high RPMs, VTEC not engaging.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid or clean the VTEC solenoid screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

Transmission

Manual Transmission (All Models)

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd or 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
• Clutch Master/Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging or disengaging the clutch, soft or spongy clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder, clutch slave cylinder, or both.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Automatic Transmission (LS, GS)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement. Could be as simple as a solenoid replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2500+

Suspension

• Worn Bushings (Control Arms, Trailing Arms)
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, especially over bumps, loose steering, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Failed Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks and/or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not working, slow or erratic movement.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
• Corroded Grounds
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, lights dimming, starting issues.
  • Solution: Clean and re-secure ground connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $25 - $100

Exterior

• Rust (Rear Quarter Panels, Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the body panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced headlight output due to clouding or yellowing of the lens.
  • Solution: Polish or replace the headlight lenses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle not working properly or broken.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

Recalls

None Found

Summary

The 1997 Acura Integra, while generally reliable, does suffer from age-related issues. Engine and transmission issues, particularly oil leaks and synchro wear, are not uncommon. Rust is also a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Suspension components like bushings and shocks are prone to wear. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major repairs to the transmission or bodywork can be costly.