2002 Acura EL

Introduction:

The 2002 Acura EL is a compact luxury sedan powered by a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 160 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. It was offered with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The EL was praised for its handling, interior space, and fuel efficiency, while some criticized its lack of power and outdated design.

Engine:

• 2.0L Inline-4
  • Head gasket failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake manifold gasket leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, rough idle, poor fuel economy
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission:

• 5-Speed Manual:
  • Transmission fluid leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid or seal
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic:
  • Torsion spring failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed shifting, shuddering, slipping gears
    • Solution: Replace the torsion spring
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension:

• Front suspension struts failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts, clunking noises, poor ride quality
  • Solution: Replace the front suspension struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical:

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, loss of power, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to start the engine, clicking sounds
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior:

• Headlight condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture forming inside the headlights
  • Solution: Replace the headlights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior:

• Dashboard cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate control failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or airflow
  • Solution: Repair or replace the climate control unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2002 Acura EL has several common issues, most of which are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. However, some more serious problems, such as head gasket failure and transmission issues, can be more costly to repair. Overall, the EL is a reliable vehicle with a comfortable and well-equipped interior, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues.