2002 Acura RSX

Introduction

The 2002 Acura RSX is a compact sports coupe that was praised for its handling, performance, and styling. It was available with two engine and transmission options:

• 2.0L K20A3 i-VTEC inline-4 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission (160 hp, 145 lb-ft)
• 2.0L K20A2 i-VTEC inline-4 engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission (155 hp, 139 lb-ft)

Engine

2.0L K20A3 i-VTEC Inline-4 with 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Piston Slap: Description/Symptoms: Knocking sound during engine warm-up.
  • Solution: Replace pistons and piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L K20A2 i-VTEC Inline-4 with 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• CVT Failure: Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, slipping, or stalling.
  • Solution: Replace transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission:
  • No Issues Found
• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Valve Body Issues: Description/Symptoms: Delayed shifts, rough shifting, transmission slipping.
    • Solution: Replace valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Sway Bar End Links: Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear of the vehicle when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, warning light on dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replace ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per coil
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Struts Failure: Description/Symptoms: Hood popping up while driving.
  • Solution: Replace hood struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Temperature Blend Door Actuator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Temperature control not working properly, excessive noise from dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure: Description/Symptoms: Windows not moving or moving slowly.
  • Solution: Replace window motor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per motor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Acura RSX has some potential issues to be aware of, particularly with the engine and transmission. The piston slap issue on the manual transmission engine can be a major expense to repair. The CVT failure on the automatic transmission can also be costly. Other issues, such as suspension end links, electrical problems, and interior components, are generally less severe and expensive to fix. Overall, while the RSX is a great-handling and fun-to-drive car, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues before making a purchase.