2002 Acura NSX

The 2002 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, two-seat sports car known for its handling, reliability, and exotic car looks. The 2002 NSX was only available with a 3.2L V6 engine producing 290 hp and 224 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic with Formula One-inspired paddle shifters. It’s praised for its balanced chassis, communicative steering, and smooth engine. Some criticisms include the relatively low power output compared to other sports cars of the era and its dated interior design compared to more modern vehicles.

Engine

3.2L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail due to age and heat. Symptoms include misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the clutch master cylinder can cause difficulty shifting, a soft or spongy clutch pedal, or the inability to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shift solenoids can fail, leading to harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, or the transmission getting stuck in a gear.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Wear/Leaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory dampers can wear out or leak over time, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the dampers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$2000+ for a full set replacement, depending on the brand and quality of replacement dampers.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Ball joints, especially on the front suspension, can wear out, causing clunking noises when going over bumps or turning the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner, depending on labor and parts costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Pop-Up Headlight Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The pop-up headlights can experience motor failure, causing one or both headlights to fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty headlight motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS module failure can cause the ABS light to illuminate, loss of ABS functionality, and potentially issues with braking performance.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the ABS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• T-Top Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with T-tops can develop leaks around the seals, especially as the seals age and become brittle.
  • Solution: Replace the T-top seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the condition of the seals, and whether the glass needs replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The coating on the center console around the radio and HVAC controls can peel or delaminate due to age and exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Refinish the console or replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the refinishing method or cost of a replacement console.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Acura NSX is a generally reliable sports car, but like any older vehicle, it is prone to certain issues related to aging components. The most common issues revolve around oil leaks, suspension wear, electrical problems, and, on T-top models, water leaks. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, such as ABS module replacement or extensive engine work, can be costly. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect any NSX for sale and budget for potential maintenance and repairs.