1998 Acura EL

The 1998 Acura EL was a compact sedan based on the Honda Civic, specifically designed for the Canadian market. It offered a more luxurious and refined experience compared to its Civic counterpart. It came with only one engine option: a 1.6-liter SOHC 4-cylinder VTEC engine producing around 127 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the EL for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include its somewhat bland styling and lack of performance compared to other Acura models.

Engine

1.6L SOHC 4-Cylinder VTEC (D16Y8)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, distributor o-ring, or oil pan gasket are common as the rubber components age. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gasket or o-ring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail due to age and heat. Symptoms include misfires, difficulty starting, and stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or harsh shifting can occur as the transmission ages. These issues can often be traced to low transmission fluid levels, dirty fluid, or worn solenoids.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, replace the filter, and/or replace the affected solenoids. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for fluid flush and filter; $150 - $300+ for solenoid replacement; $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings and Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: As the vehicle ages, rubber suspension bushings and ball joints can wear out. This leads to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings and ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per corner, depending on the parts replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts are a common wear item and can lead to noises when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working, often due to a faulty window motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Corroded Ground Connections
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on ground connections can cause a variety of electrical problems, including dimming lights, erratic sensor readings, and starting issues.
  • Solution: Clean and re-secure ground connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is common, especially in areas with harsh winters. Common rust spots include the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel, depending on the severity of the rust and the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard. Aftermarket dash covers can prevent further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Acura EL is generally a reliable car, but like any vehicle of its age, it’s prone to certain issues. The most common problems involve aging rubber components such as gaskets and bushings, and electrical issues due to corrosion. Rust can also be a concern depending on the vehicle’s location and maintenance history. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, like transmission work or rust repair, can be more costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues before making a purchase.