2000 Acura Integra

2000 Acura Integra Overview

The 2000 Acura Integra was a popular sports compact car known for its performance, handling, and reliability. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque and the 1.8-liter four-cylinder VTEC engine with 170 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Despite its overall reliability, the 2000 Acura Integra has had some reported issues, mainly concerning its engine and transmission.

Engine

• 1.8-liter Non-VTEC Engine
  • Valve Spring Failure: Premature wear and breakage of valve springs can occur, leading to reduced engine performance and potential catastrophic engine failure. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, decreased power, and increased oil consumption. The solution is to replace the affected valve springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Distributor Shaft Seal Leak: The distributor shaft seal can develop a leak, allowing oil to seep out. Symptoms include an oil leak around the distributor and a burning oil smell. The solution is to replace the distributor shaft seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
• 1.8-liter VTEC Engine
  • VTEC Solenoid Failure: The VTEC solenoid, which controls the VTEC system, can fail, resulting in decreased engine performance above the VTEC engagement point. Symptoms include a lack of power at higher RPMs and a Check Engine Light. The solution is to replace the VTEC solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure: The camshaft position sensor can fail, causing the engine to run poorly or stall. Symptoms include rough idling, stalling, and a Check Engine Light. The solution is to replace the camshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission:
  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: The clutch master cylinder can fail, resulting in difficulty shifting gears or a complete loss of clutch function. Symptoms include a soft or spongy clutch pedal, leaking brake fluid, and difficulty or inability to shift gears. The solution is to replace the clutch master cylinder. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Input Shaft Bearing Failure: The input shaft bearing can fail, causing a grinding noise when shifting gears. Symptoms include a grinding noise when engaging first or second gear, and difficulty shifting into gear. The solution is to replace the input shaft bearing. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Torque Converter Lock-Up Solenoid Failure: The torque converter lock-up solenoid can fail, leading to slipping gears and a loss of power. Symptoms include shuddering or slipping during gear shifts, especially at highway speeds. The solution is to replace the torque converter lock-up solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure: The TCM can fail, causing a variety of transmission problems. Symptoms include erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and a Check Engine Light. The solution is to replace the TCM. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear: The front lower control arm bushings can become worn over time, leading to a loose or unstable feel in the steering and suspension. Symptoms include excessive tire wear, vibration or a knocking noise when driving over rough roads, and difficulty tracking straight. The solution is to replace the worn bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Rear Shock Absorber Mounting Bolt Failure: The rear shock absorber mounting bolts can fail, causing the shock absorbers to become loose or dislodged. Symptoms include a rattling or clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially over bumps or when turning. The solution is to replace the failed bolts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, resulting in a loss of electrical power. Symptoms include a dead battery, flickering lights, and a Check Engine Light. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Starter Solenoid Failure: The starter solenoid can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the engine and a failure to crank or start. The solution is to replace the starter solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Fogging: The headlight lenses can become fogged or cloudy over time, reducing visibility at night. Symptoms include reduced light output from the headlights and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. The solution is to replace the fogged lenses. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per headlight assembly

Interior

• Climate Control Panel Malfunction: The climate control panel can malfunction, causing the heating and cooling system to not work properly. Symptoms include incorrect temperature readings, malfunctioning buttons or switches, and erratic fan behavior. The solution is to replace the climate control panel. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Power Window Switch Failure: The power window switch can fail, causing a specific window to stop working. Symptoms include an unresponsive window switch and an inability to raise or lower the window. The solution is to replace the failed switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per switch

Summary

Overall, the 2000 Acura Integra is still considered a reliable and fun-to-drive car, especially considering its age. While there are some common issues that can arise, most of them are relatively minor and cost-effective to repair. The most severe issues, such as engine or transmission failures, are rare and can be avoided with proper maintenance.