2001 Acura EL
Introduction
The 2001 Acura EL is a compact sedan that was offered with two engine and transmission options: a 1.7-liter I4 engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission and a 2.0-liter I4 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission. The 1.7-liter engine produces 125 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0-liter engine produces 140 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. The EL was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and responsive handling, but it was criticized for its lack of power and poor fuel economy.
Engine
1.7-Liter I4 Engine
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, engine stalling, intermittent engine operation
- Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
- Symptoms: Decreased engine performance, rough idling, vacuum leak noise
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak
- Symptoms: Oil leak from the engine, burning oil smell
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
2.0-Liter I4 Engine
- No Issues Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears
- Solution: Replace the shift solenoid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Front Strut Bearing Failure
- Symptoms: Noise when turning or over bumps, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace the front strut bearings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Shock Absorber Failure
- Symptoms: Bounce after hitting bumps, poor ride quality
- Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dim lights, battery not charging properly, difficulty starting the engine
- Solution: Replace the alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Battery dies after sitting for a few days, battery warning light on
- Solution: Test and replace any malfunctioning electrical components
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Switch Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not working properly
- Solution: Replace the power window switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Lens Fading
- Symptoms: Headlights not providing adequate illumination
- Solution: Replace the headlight lenses
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clear Coat Peeling
- Symptoms: Clear coat on the paint peeling off
- Solution: Repaint the affected areas
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Rattle
- Symptoms: Rattle noise coming from the dashboard
- Solution: Remove and reinstall the dashboard
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Panel Creaking
- Symptoms: Creaking noise coming from the door panels
- Solution: Lubricate the door panel components
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2001 Acura EL is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues. The most severe and expensive issue to fix is the clear coat peeling, which can cost over $1,000 to repair. Other issues, such as the crankshaft position sensor failure and power window switch failure, are relatively minor and can be fixed for a few hundred dollars. Overall, the EL is a good choice for those looking for a compact sedan with a comfortable ride and responsive handling.