2003 Acura RSX

The 2003 Acura RSX is a sporty and stylish front-wheel-drive coupe known for its engaging driving experience and Honda reliability. Engine options included a 2.0L i-VTEC inline-4 (K20A3) producing 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque in the base model, and a high-performance 2.0L i-VTEC inline-4 (K20A2) producing 200 horsepower and 142 lb-ft of torque in the Type-S model. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic in the base model, and a close-ratio 6-speed manual in the Type-S. Owners generally praise the RSX for its sharp handling, comfortable front seats, fuel efficiency, and sporty styling. Common complaints include road noise, a somewhat cramped rear seat, and the need for premium fuel in the Type-S.

Engine

2.0L i-VTEC (K20A3) - Base Model

• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idle speed, stalling, especially when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically code P0420), reduced fuel economy, sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L i-VTEC (K20A2) - Type-S

• VTEC Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Lack of power at high RPM, check engine light illuminated (VTEC system related codes).
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid or clean the VTEC oil control valve screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically code P0420), reduced fuel economy, sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Base Model)

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay when shifting gears, harsh or jerky shifting.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, or in severe cases, rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (flush), $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (Type-S)

• Grinding or Difficulty Shifting into Gears (Especially 3rd)
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting, difficulty engaging gears, especially 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Replace worn synchros and potentially other damaged components within the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially over bumps, vague handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front or rear suspension, especially over bumps, potentially causing steering issues.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all, grinding noise when operating the window.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock does not respond to the key fob or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the inside of the rear wheel arches.
  • Solution: Cut out the rust and weld in new metal, then repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Center console lid latch breaks, making it difficult to open and close the console.
  • Solution: Replace the center console lid latch, replace the whole console lid or assemble.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Acura RSX is a generally reliable vehicle, but like any older car, it has its share of common issues. The most concerning issues are related to the transmission, particularly the 6-speed manual in the Type-S, and potential catalytic converter failures. Suspension bushings and electrical problems such as window regulators and door lock actuators can also occur. Rust, particularly around the rear wheel arches, is another common concern. The cost to address these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for major transmission or engine work. Addressing these issues when they are small will help avoid larger problems down the road.