1999 Acura EL

Introduction

The 1999 Acura EL is a compact sedan offered with a single engine and transmission option. It features a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine that produces 127 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The EL was praised for its refined handling, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, it was criticized for its lack of power and some interior design choices.

Engine

1.6L 4-Cylinder

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil or coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VTEC Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine power, poor fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace VTEC solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Synchros Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace synchros
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no power transfer
  • Solution: Replace TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mount
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Weatherstripping Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, wind noise
  • Solution: Replace weatherstripping
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible cracks on the dashboard surface
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Buckle Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt does not engage or release properly
  • Solution: Replace seat belt buckle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Acura EL is a reliable and fuel-efficient compact sedan. However, it has some potential issues to consider, such as cylinder head gasket failure, transmission control module failure, and dashboard cracking. The severity of these issues varies, but they can be expensive to fix. Owners should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.