2003 Acura NSX

The 2003 Acura NSX is a mid-engine, two-seat sports car renowned for its precise handling, balanced performance, and sophisticated design. The 2003 NSX was only offered with one engine: a 3.2-liter V6 producing 290 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. The NSX is praised for its exotic car feel with Honda reliability, its comfortable cabin, and its timeless styling. Common complaints revolve around the cost of maintenance and parts, which can be high due to the car’s rarity and specialized components, as well as its relatively dated technology compared to modern sports cars.

Engine

3.2L V6

• Snap Oversteer
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden, uncontrollable loss of rear traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions, requiring immediate driver correction. This is not necessarily a mechanical issue but rather a handling characteristic due to the car’s mid-engine layout and suspension setup.
  • Solution: Driver training and familiarization with the car’s handling dynamics; potentially upgrading suspension components or tires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on upgrades chosen
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop over time, particularly from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature clutch wear due to aggressive driving or high mileage. Symptoms include slipping, difficulty shifting, and a high engagement point.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd and 3rd, indicating worn synchros.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement of the worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+ depending on the extent of the damage and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic can exhibit delayed or harsh shifting, especially as it ages. This can be due to worn valve bodies, clogged filters, or degraded transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Damper Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced damping performance, leading to a bouncy or floaty ride, decreased handling precision, and increased body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of dampers (shocks/struts).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Compliance Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Deterioration of suspension bushings, particularly the compliance bushings, resulting in imprecise steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the bushings replaced and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow or non-functional power windows. This is a common issue on older vehicles.
  • Solution: Window regulator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Targa Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin around the targa top seals, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Replacing the targa top seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on seal condition and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The coating on the center console plastics may delaminate or become sticky.
  • Solution: Refinishing or replacing the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the damage and chosen solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the bulbs or wiring.
  • Solution: Sealing or replacing the headlight housings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the condition and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Acura NSX, while a highly desirable sports car, is subject to age-related issues common in vehicles of its vintage. These problems range from relatively minor electrical or interior cosmetic issues to more significant mechanical concerns with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues can vary, but the cost to fix can be substantial due to the specialized nature of the NSX and the rarity of its parts. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with NSXs to assess the vehicle’s condition and potential repair needs.