1998 Acura Integra

Introduction

The 1998 Acura Integra is a compact sports coupe known for its high performance and affordability. It comes equipped with a 1.8L inline-four engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Integra GTS model adds a more powerful 1.8L VTEC engine with the same transmission options.

Engine

1.8L Inline-Four

• Oil Leaks: Engine oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, camshaft seal, or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Valve Adjustment: The valve clearances may need adjustment over time.
  • Solution: Adjust the valve clearances using shims.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Timing Belt Failure: The timing belt drives the camshafts and crankshaft and must be replaced according to the maintenance schedule. Failure to replace the belt can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump (if applicable).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L VTEC

• Oil Leaks: Similar to the 1.8L engine, oil leaks can occur from the valve cover gasket, camshaft seal, or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• VTEC Solenoid Failure: The VTEC solenoid controls the VTEC system and can fail over time. This can result in reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Timing Belt Failure: Refer to the 1.8L engine section for more details.

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear: The clutch disc and pressure plate can wear out over time, resulting in slipping or difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Transmission Grinding: The transmission may grind when shifting gears due to worn synchronizers or shift forks.
  • Solution: Replace the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping: The transmission may slip when shifting gears due to worn clutches or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Shift Solenoid Failure: Electrical issues can cause the shift solenoids to fail, resulting in transmission problems.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Wear: The front or rear struts can wear out over time, leading to poor handling and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Control Arm Bushing Wear: The control arm bushings connect the control arms to the frame and can wear out, causing clunking noises or poor alignment.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator may fail, causing electrical problems or a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Battery Drain: A faulty battery or alternator can cause the battery to drain over time.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Electrical Short: Electrical shorts can occur in various areas of the vehicle, causing electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the short circuit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the location and severity of the short.

Exterior

• Clear Coat Peeling: The clear coat on the paint can peel due to sun damage, bird droppings, or other environmental factors.
  • Solution: Repaint the affected area or the entire vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

Interior

• Sunroof Leaking: The sunroof drain hoses can become clogged or disconnected, causing water to leak into the cabin.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the drain hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• AC Blower Motor Failure: The AC blower motor may fail, resulting in a lack of airflow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

The 1998 Acura Integra is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, but it has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine and transmission problems tend to be more expensive to fix, while suspension and electrical issues are typically less costly. The severity and cost of the issues vary depending on the specific problem, its location, and the extent of the damage.