2009 Acura CSX

The 2009 Acura CSX is a compact sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and upscale features compared to its Honda Civic counterpart. It was primarily sold in the Canadian market. The standard engine option is a 2.0-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine producing approximately 155 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. A major selling point of the CSX was its blend of Honda’s renowned reliability with Acura’s luxury appointments. However, some owners have reported issues related to specific components as the vehicle ages. Some common complaints include issues with the climate control system and premature suspension wear.

Engine

2.0L i-VTEC Inline-4

• VTC Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start, typically lasting for a few seconds. This is due to a faulty Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator.
  • Solution: Replace the VTC actuator. An updated part design is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration felt inside the cabin, especially at idle or during acceleration. Visual inspection may reveal cracked or collapsed engine mounts.
  • Solution: Replace the worn or broken engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per mount (replacement often done in pairs or as a set)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting between gears, especially from 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. Can also manifest as a hard “clunk” during shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush: $100 - $200, Valve body repair/replacement: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also lead to uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leakage from the struts/shocks. Bouncy ride quality, reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking struts/shocks. Replacement in pairs is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per pair (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Climate Control Issues (specifically blend door actuator)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning or heat blows only hot or only cold, regardless of the temperature setting. Clicking noises may be heard from behind the dashboard. This can be due to a faulty blend door actuator.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (depending on labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power door locks on one or more doors. The door may not lock or unlock with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, leading to reduced visibility and potential damage to the bulb and electrical components.
  • Solution: Remove and reseal the headlight housing, or replace the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Resealing: $50 - $150, Replacement: $200 - $500+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, binding, or failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. If the problem persists, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or other components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Lubrication: $50 - $100, Motor replacement: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Acura CSX, while generally reliable, does have some common issues as it ages, primarily concerning the engine (VTC actuator), transmission (delayed shifting), suspension (bushings and struts), and electrical systems (climate control and door locks). While the engine and transmission issues can be moderately expensive to address ($300-$1200), the suspension and electrical issues are typically less costly ($150-$500+). Overall, with proper maintenance and addressing these potential problem areas, the 2009 Acura CSX can still be a dependable vehicle.