1997 Acura Integra

Introduction:

The 1997 Acura Integra is a compact sports coupe that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base model came with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 140 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 1.8-liter VTEC engine was also available, which produced 170 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1997 Acura Integra generally praise the car’s sporty handling, powerful engines, and comfortable interior. However, some owners have reported experiencing a number of issues with their vehicles.

Engine

1.8-liter Four-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak from the intake manifold gasket. Can cause overheating, low coolant levels, or poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pressure Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure warning light illuminates on the dashboard. Can lead to engine damage if not repaired promptly.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pressure switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8-liter VTEC

• VTEC Solenoid Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine lacks power at high RPMs. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Shift Linkage Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into higher gears.
  • Solution: Replace the shift linkage bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks from the transmission pan or other seals. Can lead to transmission failure if not repaired promptly.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from the front suspension, such as clunking or grinding. May also affect handling and steering.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sags or bounces excessively. May also affect handling and stability.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions, or difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to turn over when starting. May hear a clicking noise.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks fail to operate properly, either manually or with the key fob.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows fail to roll up or down properly. May hear a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits in the dashboard material. Can be caused by UV exposure or temperature fluctuations.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or have it repaired by a professional.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1997 Acura Integra is a reliable and sporty vehicle, but it is not immune to mechanical issues. Some of the most common problems owners experience include leaks, electrical failures, and suspension problems. While the cost of these repairs can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the location of the repair, many of the issues can be fixed for a relatively low cost.