1998 Acura SLX

The 1998 Acura SLX is a rebadged Isuzu Trooper, a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and truck-based construction. It came with a single engine option, a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 230 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally liked the SLX for its ruggedness, off-road prowess, and comfortable interior. However, common complaints included poor fuel economy, a somewhat dated design, and reliability issues inherited from the Isuzu Trooper.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots on the driveway, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are a common issue around the intake manifold gasket and radiator. Symptoms include needing to frequently top off the coolant level and overheating issues.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking coolant line, radiator, or gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: If the timing belt fails, it can cause serious engine damage. Symptoms include the engine not starting, strange noises coming from the engine, or complete engine failure. This is especially prominent if the timing belt is not replaced at regular intervals.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt. It is often recommended to replace the water pump, tensioner, and other related components at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifts between gears can occur as the transmission ages. Slipping, where the engine revs but the vehicle does not accelerate properly, can also develop.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A delay in engaging into Drive or Reverse after shifting the gear selector.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Suspension/Worn Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, poor handling, sagging rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace worn shocks, springs, or torsion bars.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the components replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window/Door Lock Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair wiring, replace faulty switches or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery warning light on, dimming headlights, difficulty starting, eventually complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop, especially in areas prone to road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels, apply rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Weather Stripping Deterioration
  • Description/Symptoms: Dried and cracked weather stripping around the windows and doors leads to wind noise and water leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the weather stripping around the windows and doors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on what needs to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the extent of the damage and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose Interior Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Over time, various interior trim pieces can become loose or detached.
  • Solution: Reattach or replace trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ per trim piece.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Acura SLX, while capable, suffers from a number of issues that are typical for vehicles of its age. The most significant problems revolve around the engine (oil leaks, timing belt) and transmission (harsh shifting). Suspension and electrical problems are also common. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others, like transmission rebuilds or extensive rust repair, can be costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in the potential cost of repairs.