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2000 Acura NSX

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2000 Acura NSX, formatted for your website.

The 2000 Acura NSX is a mid-engine sports car known for its balanced handling, advanced technology, and timeless design. The 2000 model year featured a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The NSX is celebrated for its communicative steering, excellent braking, and relatively reliable nature compared to other exotics. However, some owners have noted issues related to its age and specific components. It can be expensive to maintain, and parts can be difficult to find.

Engine

3.2L V6 (C32B)

  • Oil Leaks from the Oil Pan Gasket
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, especially after the engine is running. You may notice a burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Distributor Issues (Early Models)
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, difficulty starting, check engine light illuminated with codes related to ignition. Some early model distributors used an external ICM (Ignition Control Module) which is known to fail with age.
    • Solution: Replace the distributor or ICM (if applicable).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, clutch pedal feeling soft or sticking to the floor.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch slave cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Synchro Wear (Especially 2nd Gear)
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty engaging 2nd gear, especially when cold.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission with new synchros.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+

4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, delayed or harsh shifts, engine revving without corresponding increase in speed.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+

Suspension

  • Damper (Shock Absorber) Leaks/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible oil leaks on the dampers.
    • Solution: Replace the dampers. Consider upgrading to aftermarket options for improved performance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ (depending on dampers chosen)
  • Suspension Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace worn bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on the bushings replaced and labor involved)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Pop-Up Headlight Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights failing to raise or lower correctly.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the headlight motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per headlight)
  • Instrument Cluster Issues (Dimming/Failure)
    • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functional instrument cluster lights, intermittent gauge failures.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Exterior

  • T-Top Leaks (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin around the T-top seals during rain.
    • Solution: Replace the T-top seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Antenna Mast Failure (Power Antenna)
    • Description/Symptoms: Antenna not fully extending or retracting, or a broken antenna mast.
    • Solution: Replace the antenna mast or the entire power antenna unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+

Interior

  • Center Console Storage Compartment Latch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The center console storage compartment latch breaks off.
    • Solution: Replace the latch or center console.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Acura NSX, while a well-engineered sports car, is now over two decades old. Common issues revolve around age-related degradation of rubber components (seals, bushings), electrical components, and wear and tear on drivetrain parts. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission work or suspension overhauls, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the car and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic familiar with NSXs. While the NSX is known for its reliability, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than typical cars due to its exotic nature and specialized parts.

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