2005 Acura RSX

Introduction

The 2005 Acura RSX is a sporty compact coupe known for its agile handling and powerful performance. It is available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter inline-four and a 2.4-liter inline-five. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and 5-speed automatic. Despite its strong points, the RSX has been plagued with several issues over the years.

Engine

2.0-liter Inline-Four

• Valve Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve springs can break, causing the valves to malfunction and leading to catastrophic engine damage. Common symptoms include loss of power, rough idling, and ticking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the valve springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter Inline-Five

• VTEC Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The VTEC solenoid can fail, causing the VTEC system to malfunction and resulting in a loss of power and poor fuel economy. Symptoms may include a lack of power at higher RPMs, check engine light, and decreased gas mileage.
  • Solution: Replace the VTEC solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch master cylinder can fail, making it difficult or impossible to engage the clutch. Symptoms may include a spongy clutch pedal, difficulty shifting gears, and fluid leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission can slip, causing a loss of power and erratic shifting. Symptoms may include delayed acceleration, harsh shifting, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts can fail, leading to a loss of stability and poor handling. Symptoms may include excessive vibration, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the electrical system to lose power. Symptoms may include flickering lights, dimming dashboard lights, and a battery that won’t charge.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles can become loose or break, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Radio Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio display can fail, making it difficult or impossible to use the entertainment system.
  • Solution: Replace the radio display.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Acura RSX has several known issues that can affect its performance, reliability, and ownership experience. The most severe issues to watch out for include valve spring breakage in the 2.0-liter engine, clutch master cylinder failure in the 5-speed manual transmission, and transmission slippage in the 5-speed automatic transmission. The cost to fix these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the problem.