2002 Acura RSX
2002 Acura RSX
Overview
The 2002 Acura RSX, a popular compact sports coupe, was known for its sporty handling and peppy performance, especially with its VTEC engines. It offered a compelling blend of everyday usability and driving excitement. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its era, like any car, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners over time. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential reliability concerns for the 2002 model year across its various configurations.
Engine
2.0L K20A3 (Base Model)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Variable Valve Timing (VTEC) Solenoid Issues
- Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power, especially at higher RPMs.
- Solution: Replacement of the VTEC solenoid and potentially the oil pressure switch.
- Cost: $150 - $300
2.0L K20A2 (Type-S Model)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
6-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
5-Speed Automatic
Harsh Shifting / Slipping
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, or slipping between gears.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. May require internal transmission repair or rebuild.
- Cost: $300 - $600 (fluid service), $1500 - $3000 (rebuild)
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Ball Joints / Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and suspension bushings.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Electrical
Standard System
Power Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate slowly.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
Clear Coat Peeling / Fading
- Symptoms: Paint losing its shine, developing a chalky appearance, or clear coat flaking off, especially on the roof and hood.
- Solution: Repainting affected panels. Professional detailing may temporarily improve appearance.
- Cost: $500 - $2000+ (per panel)
Interior
Dashboard & Upholstery
Dashboard Cracking
- Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in hot climates.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair (often cosmetic).
- Cost: $500 - $1200
Seat Upholstery Wear
- Symptoms: Tearing or excessive wear on seat bolsters and fabric.
- Solution: Seat cover replacement or professional upholstery repair.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Summary Verdict
The 2002 Acura RSX is a generally reliable sporty coupe, particularly the Type-S models with the K20A2 engine and manual transmissions. Owners should be aware of potential oil consumption issues on the base K20A3 engine and the possibility of harsh shifting in the automatic transmission. Electrical components like power window motors and alternators can also be points of failure. Exterior paint and interior upholstery wear are common for a vehicle of this age. With diligent maintenance and attention to these specific areas, the RSX can remain a fun and dependable car.