2003 Acura EL
2003 Acura EL
Overview
The 2003 Acura EL, a compact luxury sedan primarily sold in Canada, is generally considered a reliable vehicle, sharing many components with the Honda Civic of the same era. This shared platform contributes to its robust nature and availability of parts. While most owners report a positive experience, like any vehicle, some specific areas have seen more attention than others. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers of this model year.
Engine
1.7L SOHC VTEC (D17A2)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
4-Speed Automatic
Slipping or Delayed Shifting
- Symptoms: Transmission may hesitate to shift gears, slip between gears, or exhibit harsh shifts. This can sometimes be related to low fluid levels or a failing torque converter.
- Solution: Check and top up transmission fluid. If the issue persists, a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may be necessary. In severe cases, transmission repair or replacement might be required.
- Cost: $150 - $300 (fluid/filter), $1000 - $3500 (rebuild/replacement)
Suspension
Standard Independent Front/Rear
Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering feel, or a feeling of looseness in the front end.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and suspension bushings. Alignment is recommended after replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Electrical
General Electrical System
Power Window Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows may stop working, move slowly, or get stuck in one position. This is often due to a failing motor or regulator.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and/or regulator assembly.
- Cost: $150 - $300 per window
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard, difficulty starting the engine, or electrical components malfunctioning.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body and Trim
Clear Coat Peeling
- Symptoms: The clear coat on the paint begins to flake or peel, particularly on horizontal surfaces like the roof and hood, leading to a dull or faded appearance.
- Solution: Repainting affected areas or a full vehicle repaint. This is often a cosmetic issue.
- Cost: $500 - $2000+
Interior
HVAC System
Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Symptoms: The HVAC fan only works on the highest setting, or not at all. This indicates a faulty blower motor resistor.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Dashboard Illumination
Dim or Flickering Dashboard Lights
- Symptoms: Instrument cluster lights may become dim, flicker, or go out completely, making it difficult to read gauges at night.
- Solution: Often caused by a faulty dimmer switch or loose connections. Repair or replacement of the dimmer switch or related wiring.
- Cost: $100 - $300
Summary Verdict
The 2003 Acura EL is a dependable vehicle with a strong reputation for reliability, largely due to its Honda underpinnings. The most commonly reported issues tend to be related to the automatic transmission, particularly slipping or delayed shifting, which can be costly to repair. Electrical components like power window regulators and alternators can also fail over time. Exterior paint issues, such as clear coat peeling, are primarily cosmetic. While suspension components like ball joints and bushings may wear out, this is typical for vehicles of this age. Overall, with regular maintenance and attention to potential transmission issues, the 2003 Acura EL remains a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable compact car.