2001 Acura Integra

The 2001 Acura Integra is a front-wheel drive sport compact car known for its reliability, sporty handling, and aftermarket support. It was offered with two primary engine options: a 1.8-liter DOHC inline-4 (B18B1) producing 140 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque in the RS, LS, and GS trims, and a more potent 1.8-liter DOHC VTEC inline-4 (B18C1) making 170 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque in the GS-R trim. A highly sought-after Type R trim also existed, but it had unique characteristics outside the scope of this request. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, depending on the trim. Many enthusiasts appreciate the Integra’s balanced handling, rev-happy engines, and simple yet engaging driving experience. Common dislikes often revolve around road noise, relatively basic interior features, and the car’s propensity to be targeted for theft.

Engine

1.8L DOHC Inline-4 (B18B1)

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gasket)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket onto the engine block, leading to a burning smell. Oil drips may also be visible.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, stalling, or complete failure to start. Often caused by a faulty internal igniter or coil within the distributor.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L DOHC VTEC Inline-4 (B18C1)

• VTEC Solenoid Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the VTEC solenoid on the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $80
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs.
  • Solution: Inspect for leaks, valve stem seals, and piston rings. Depending on the cause, repairs can range from valve stem seal replacement to engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear (Specifically 2nd and 3rd Gear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Replace the worn synchros. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Flare/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay or “flare” between shifts, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. Transmission may also slip under heavy acceleration.
  • Solution: Fluid change and possibly transmission filter replacement. More severe cases may require valve body rebuild or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Loose handling and wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, trailing arm bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the number of bushings replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or knocking noises from the strut towers, especially when turning. Excessive play or movement in the strut assembly.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow or non-functional power windows. Clicking noises from the door when attempting to operate the windows.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Main Relay Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting issues, where the car cranks but doesn’t start. Commonly caused by a cracked solder joint within the main relay.
  • Solution: Replace the main relay or resolder the connections on the circuit board if capable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Rear Wheel Arches and Quarter Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear wheel arches and quarter panels. Common in areas with road salt usage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the severity of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic door handles can become brittle over time and break, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement is the most effective, but expensive, solution. Dashboard covers are a less costly alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch on the center console storage compartment breaks, preventing it from closing properly.
  • Solution: Replace the center console latch or the entire center console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Acura Integra presents a mix of age-related and inherent issues. Engine oil leaks and synchro wear in the manual transmission are relatively common problems, with costs ranging from manageable to potentially significant, depending on the severity. Suspension issues, electrical glitches, and rust formation also surface as potential concerns. Overall, many of the issues can be addressed with reasonably priced parts and labor, making the Integra a worthwhile project car for the right buyer willing to invest in maintenance and repairs. However, major engine or transmission overhauls could lead to substantial repair costs.