1999 Acura EL

The 1999 Acura EL was a compact sedan exclusive to the Canadian market, based on the Honda Civic platform. It offered a more luxurious experience than the Civic, with upgraded interior materials and styling. The sole engine option was a 1.6-liter inline-4 SOHC VTEC engine, producing approximately 127 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the EL’s fuel efficiency, reliability, and comfortable ride. However, some disliked its limited power, particularly when fully loaded, and its availability only in Canada.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4 SOHC VTEC (D16Y8)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine. The distributor housing may crack or the internal components may fail.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears or experiencing harsh shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, or rebuild/replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush), $1500 - $3000 (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Grinding During Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, particularly into 2nd or 3rd. Could indicate worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission synchronizers or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints/Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Loose steering and uneven tire wear can also occur.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end instability, wandering feeling, and clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or moving slowly/unevenly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Window Master Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s side master switch that controls all of the windows can fail and prevent the windows from working properly.
  • Solution: Replace the master window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels and Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear quarter panels, particularly around the wheel arches. This is a common issue in regions with harsh winters and road salt use.
  • Solution: Cut out the rust and weld in new metal, or use a rust repair kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 (cover), $500 - $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Acura EL is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any older car, it has its share of common issues. The engine and transmission issues, while not necessarily catastrophic, can lead to significant repair costs. Suspension and electrical problems are also prevalent. Rust is a major concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Overall, while the EL offers a comfortable and fuel-efficient ride, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues and budget accordingly for potential repairs. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history.