2004 Acura EL

The 2004 Acura EL is a compact luxury sedan based on the Honda Civic platform, offering a more upscale experience with added features and styling enhancements. It came equipped with a single engine option: a 1.7-liter inline-4 VTEC engine producing 127 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the EL for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and comfortable interior. Common dislikes often include its somewhat dated styling compared to newer vehicles and the limited availability of high-tech features. Some also find the engine performance adequate but not particularly exciting.

Engine

1.7L VTEC Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report the 1.7L VTEC engine consuming more oil than expected, particularly as the vehicle ages. Symptoms include the need to add oil frequently between oil changes and potential blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels closely, using a higher viscosity oil, or addressing worn valve stem seals or piston rings may help. In severe cases, an engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter may fail prematurely. Symptoms include a check engine light illuminated with codes relating to catalytic converter efficiency (e.g., P0420) and potential decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing delayed or harsh shifting, particularly between gears. This may be more prevalent at higher mileage.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, replacing faulty solenoids, or in severe cases, rebuilding or replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear trailing arm bushings can wear out over time, leading to clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts or shocks, bouncy ride, poor handling, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Formation (Especially around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots appearing on the body, particularly in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, and rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose or Broken Interior Trim Pieces
  • Description/Symptoms: Various interior trim pieces may become loose, rattle, or break due to age and plastic degradation.
  • Solution: Replacing the trim pieces, securing them with adhesive, or using fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $25-$100+ each
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Acura EL, while generally reliable, can experience issues common to vehicles of its age. Engine-related oil consumption and catalytic converter failure are the most serious issues, but electrical and suspension problems, while not uncommon, are typically less expensive to address. The severity and cost of repairs can vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and the extent of the damage. Rust can also be a significant concern, particularly in regions with harsh weather.