2011 Acura CSX

The 2011 Acura CSX is a compact sedan sold exclusively in Canada. It’s essentially a rebadged ninth-generation Honda Civic, but with a more luxurious interior and some unique styling cues. The 2011 CSX came with only one engine option: a 2.0-liter i-VTEC inline-4 engine (K20Z2) producing 155 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the CSX for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable interior, but some find the styling to be bland and the performance to be adequate but not exciting.

Engine

2.0L i-VTEC (K20Z2)

• No Known Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: No commonly reported widespread or inherent mechanical issues affecting the 2.0L i-VTEC engine in the 2011 Acura CSX.
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the 5-speed automatic transmission, specifically torque converter issues. Symptoms may include shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, slipping between gears, and eventual complete failure of the torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement might be necessary if the issue has caused significant damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the extent of the damage and whether it’s just the torque converter or the entire transmission.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushings Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or cracking of the rear trailing arm bushings. This can lead to clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps, and can affect handling stability.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ depending on labor rates and if one or both sides are replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Driver’s Power Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s side power window switch failing to operate one or more windows. This is a known issue with many Honda/Acura vehicles from this era.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window switch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ depending on if you do it yourself or have a mechanic do it.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning compressor failing, resulting in no cold air. This can be due to internal failure of the compressor, a faulty clutch, or a leak in the system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the A/C compressor and potentially other components like the receiver drier and expansion valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ depending on the parts needed and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches/Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rear wheel arches and lower quarter panels, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt usage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including cutting out the affected area, welding in new metal, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per panel, depending on the severity and quality of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the interior of the vehicle, primarily around the headliner, due to clogged sunroof drain tubes.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drain tubes to remove debris. In some cases, the drain tubes may be cracked or damaged and require replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the complexity of the cleaning or replacement needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2011 Acura CSX is considered a reliable vehicle, sharing its proven mechanicals with the Honda Civic. The most concerning and potentially expensive issues are related to the 5-speed automatic transmission and the rust development on the exterior. Suspension and minor electrical issues are also present, but are generally less expensive to address. While most of the problems are not severe, it is important to inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing, paying close attention to the transmission’s operation and any signs of rust.