2002 Acura EL

The 2002 Acura EL is a compact sedan based on the Honda Civic platform, offering a more luxurious experience than its Honda counterpart. It came exclusively with a 1.7-liter inline-4 engine, producing approximately 127 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the EL’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride, while some criticize its somewhat bland styling and lack of performance compared to other Acura models.

Engine

1.7L Inline-4

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail, leading to a check engine light and potential emissions test failure. Symptoms include a rattling noise from underneath the car and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oxygen sensor failure is common on older vehicles, including the 2002 Acura EL. This can cause poor fuel economy, rough idling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket are a common issue. This can lead to a burning smell and oil drips on the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can experience delayed or harsh shifting, particularly when cold. This is often due to worn solenoids or contaminated transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Replacing the solenoids and/or performing a transmission fluid flush. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush/solenoid replacement); $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the torque converter can manifest as slipping or shuddering, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: The struts and shocks can wear out over time, leading to a bouncy ride and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Coil springs can break, resulting in a lower ride height on one side of the vehicle and potential tire rubbing.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken coil spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per spring)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window motors can fail, preventing the windows from opening or closing.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking with the remote or the door switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Lighting Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backlight bulbs in the instrument cluster can burn out, making it difficult to read the gauges at night.
  • Solution: Replacing the burnt-out bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially around the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage is a common issue in areas with harsh winters or road salt use.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks over time due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (dashboard replacement); $30 - $100+ (dashboard cover)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can leak or fail to open/close properly due to clogged drain tubes or motor failure.
  • Solution: Cleaning drain tubes, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (drain cleaning); $200 - $500+ (motor replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Acura EL, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. Engine issues like catalytic converter and oxygen sensor failures are typical for vehicles of this age. Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic, can be more costly to address. Suspension wear and electrical component failures are also common. Rust can be a significant concern depending on the vehicle’s location. Overall, while not overwhelmingly severe, the potential cost of repairs should be considered when evaluating a 2002 Acura EL for purchase. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.