2005 Acura RSX

The 2005 Acura RSX is a sporty coupe appreciated for its handling, fuel efficiency, and Honda reliability, though some dislike its relatively stiff ride and road noise. The base model features a 2.0L inline-4 DOHC i-VTEC engine producing 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque, while the Type-S boasts a more potent version of the same engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic on the base model, and a close-ratio 6-speed manual on the Type-S.

Engine

2.0L i-VTEC (Base Model)

• VTC Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, particularly on cold starts, emanating from the top of the engine. This is due to wear in the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator. Some owners have reported temporary relief by performing multiple oil changes to flush out debris.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L i-VTEC (Type-S)

• VTC Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise, particularly on cold starts, emanating from the top of the engine. This is due to wear in the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator. Some owners have reported temporary relief by performing multiple oil changes to flush out debris.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes.
  • Solution: Could be caused by worn piston rings or valve seals. Repair typically requires engine disassembly and component replacement, or potentially a full engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Base Model)

No Issues Found

5-Speed Manual (Base Model)

No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual (Type-S)

• 2nd and 3rd Gear Grind/Pop-Out
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear, or the gear popping out under load. This is commonly attributed to worn synchros or shift forks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected synchros, shift forks, and potentially other related components within the transmission. Complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Visible cracking or deterioration of the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear trailing arm bushings. It’s often recommended to replace both sides simultaneously.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dimming/Failing Instrument Panel Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming or complete failure of the instrument panel lights, making it difficult to see the gauges at night.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected bulbs or the instrument panel dimmer switch. In some cases, the entire instrument cluster may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rear wheel arches, particularly on vehicles in regions with harsh winters or heavy road salt use.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting. In severe cases, replacement of the affected body panels may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof does not fully open or close, stuck, or not sealing properly.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, track lubrication, or complete sunroof assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Acura RSX, while generally reliable, does have some common issues owners should be aware of. The VTC actuator rattle is a common, albeit often minor, issue across both engine variants. Type-S models can experience more significant problems such as 6-speed transmission issues and excessive oil consumption. Suspension and electrical issues can also occur. Repair costs range from relatively inexpensive fixes like bulb replacements to potentially costly transmission or engine repairs. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to assess the condition of these key components.