1998 Acura NSX

The 1998 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, two-seat sports car renowned for its advanced technology, balanced handling, and timeless design. It features a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, coupled with either a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the NSX for its engaging driving experience, reliability, and exotic car appeal. Criticisms typically revolve around its dated technology compared to newer sports cars, relatively high maintenance costs, and limited cargo space.

Engine

3.2L C32B V6

• Oil Leaks from the Oil Pan Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil pan gasket, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Visible oil drips under the car.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting. Often caused by heat and age affecting the distributor components.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, soft or spongy clutch pedal, and potential clutch slippage.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, and the transmission may slip.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper (Shock) Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, bouncy handling, and visible fluid leaking from the dampers. Often occurs with age and mileage.
  • Solution: Replace the dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Compliance Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from the front suspension, vague steering feel, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the compliance bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Pop-Up Headlight Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights fail to pop up or down properly, or make a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow or non-functioning power windows, grinding noises from the door panel.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• T-Top Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain, particularly around the T-top seals.
  • Solution: Replace or reseal the T-top seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch material on the center console begins to peel or bubble, detracting from the interior appearance.
  • Solution: Recover or replace the center console trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Acura NSX, while a highly desirable sports car, can experience several age-related issues. Engine oil leaks, distributor failures, and clutch or transmission problems are common mechanical concerns. Suspension wear, electrical gremlins with the headlights and windows, and interior trim degradation are also frequently reported. Depending on the severity, repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for more extensive work like suspension overhauls or transmission rebuilds. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and budget for potential maintenance and repairs to ensure a rewarding ownership experience.