2004 Acura EL
2004 Acura EL
Overview
The 2004 Acura EL, a compact luxury sedan primarily sold in Canada, is generally recognized for its solid build quality and reliability, inheriting many components from its Honda Civic counterpart. This model year typically features a dependable powertrain and a well-assembled interior. While most owners report a positive ownership experience with minimal unexpected repairs, like any vehicle, certain areas can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented common problems beyond standard maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for owners and prospective buyers of the 2004 Acura EL.
Engine
1.7L SOHC VTEC (D17A2)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
4-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Independent Suspension
Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, imprecise steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and suspension bushings.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
Faulty Alternator
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, difficulty starting the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Power Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
- Cost: $200 - $400 per window
Exterior
Standard Body and Paint
Clear Coat Peeling
- Symptoms: Fading paint, peeling clear coat, especially on the roof and hood.
- Solution: Repainting affected panels.
- Cost: $500 - $1500 per panel
Interior
Standard Interior Trim
Cracked Dashboard
- Symptoms: Visible cracks on the dashboard surface, particularly in hot climates.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair (often costly).
- Cost: $500 - $1200
HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents or intermittent airflow, regardless of fan speed setting.
- Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
- Cost: $250 - $500
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Acura EL is a reliable vehicle with a strong reputation, largely due to its Honda underpinnings. The powertrain (engine and transmission) is exceptionally robust, with no widespread issues reported. Common concerns tend to be age-related, such as wear on suspension components like ball joints and bushings, and occasional electrical gremlins like alternator failure or power window motor issues. Exterior paint can also show signs of age with clear coat peeling. Interior issues like dashboard cracking and HVAC blower motor failure are also noted. Despite these potential age-related problems, the 2004 EL remains a solid choice for those seeking dependable transportation, provided it has been reasonably maintained.