Older millennials may remember a time when the Acura RSX dominated the scene. More than a decade later, the RSX remains a popular choice for car enthusiasts because of its impeccable performance and JDM flair. In fact, the 2006 Type-S submodel still manages to hold its own in car shows with current models like the 2021 NSX and 2021 MDX A-Spec. You may be able to find one online for around $10,000 or less. Unlike other sports cars, the 2006 Acura RSX is expected to go up in value over time, with a 26% forecasted appreciation rate, according to AutoPadre. This means you can get more out of your used Acura RSX if you plan on reselling it.
How Reliable Is the Acura RSX?
How did the Acura RSX stay relevant despite being discontinued in 2006? You could probably argue that video games and movies have contributed to its sustained popularity. However, we believe the Acura RSX has survived this long due to its high reliability. Users on Cars.com have given it an overall score of 4.7 out of 5.0 based on its performance and reliability. You could still see fully customized Acura RSXs in car shows all over North America. That should tell you everything you need to know about the RSX’s reliability.
Why Was the Acura RSX So Popular?
It’s been years since the automaker stopped making this model, yet the Acura RSX remains a thrill to drive. So much so that many people looking for a reliable daily driver still keep an eye out for it. Here’s why.
Roomy Interior
One of the Acura RSX’s biggest strengths is its spacious, well-designed interior. It looks posh even by today’s standards.
Its seats are also comfortable, offering enough support to prevent body aches during long drives. The interior was designed with the driver’s convenience in mind, with easy-access climate controls and clear, readable gauges.
Occupants sitting in the front seats of the RSX can also enjoy spacious headroom.
Reliable Safety Features
The Acura RSX is equipped with four-wheel antilock disc brakes and side airbags – the industry standard. That means it can prevent skidding and reduce the risk of injuries for passengers during collision accidents.
Great Handling and Suspension System
Many drivers have commended the Acura RSX for its crisp and responsive handling. It’s nimble and agile, making it fun to drive, especially on roads with a lot of turns and bends. On top of its good handling, the RSX also has a tight, well-tuned suspension system.
Built to Last
Mechanically, the Acura RSX can last for as long as it’s properly maintained.
Common Acura RSX Problems
The Acura RSX isn’t the perfect sports car. It’s got its fair share of issues that may pull you out of the experience. Here are some of the most commonly reported problems for the Acura RSX.
Compromised Braking
Honda issued a safety recall in 2013 for certain 2006 Acura RSX cars manufactured from January 18, 2006 through August 12, 2006 due to problems with the power braking system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 18,352 vehicles in the United States are affected by this recall. Honda attributed the problem to a manufacturing error that allowed power braking components to be made outside of specification. The brake boosters that were produced for the 2006 model had a tendency to fail. This meant that drivers had to apply more force to their brake pedals in order to shorten their stopping distance. Although no accidents or injuries have been reported, a compromised power braking system can put you and your passengers at risk. If you suspect any problems with your brake system, don’t hesitate to call your mechanic for help.
Engine Oil Leaking
Oil leaks can lead to catastrophic engine damage due to excessive friction between the engine’s fast-moving parts. These are sometimes caused by holes or loose connections in the engine’s components. All model years of the Acura RSX (2002 to 2006) have been known to leak motor oil due to bad or failing oil pressure sensors. The oil pressure sensor is an important part of your engine because it maintains the engine’s oil pressure level. Without it, your Acura RSX can produce high emissions and become less fuel-efficient. There’s also the chance of motor oil getting inside the spark plugs, causing a fire in your engine bay.
A bad or failing oil pressure sensor can give inaccurate readings. This can cause your oil pressure light to blink even if your oil levels are normal. If you have a bad oil pressure sensor, you’ll need to replace it right away to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Failed Engine Timing Valve
Failing engine timing valves are quite common for Acura RSXs from 2003 to 2006 at a mileage of about 64,000 to 81,000 miles. The timing valve is the part of the engine that corresponds with the movement of the pistons to ensure a smooth and continuous operation. These components can hit each other if the timing is off, possibly causing major engine damage. You’re lucky if your engine only sustains minimal damage due to a faulty valve. Extreme cases may require a complete overhaul of the engine.
The engine timing valve is also responsible for reducing fuel consumption. Without it, the engine’s intake and exhaust valves will open and close at the incorrect time, reducing a vehicle’s fuel economy. A failing valve causes the engine to idle in heavy load-bearing situations. If your check engine light comes on, you should take it as a warning sign to get your Acura RSX checked out. You can save a lot of money on repairs if you act quickly and replace your faulty timing valves.
Failed Emissions Control Valve (2002, 2004)
Most modern vehicles have electronic control units (ECU) that monitor everything from engine timing to emissions. If there’s something wrong with the engine and exhaust system, the check engine light usually comes on to alert the driver. The check engine light on the 2002 and 2004 Acura RSX is known to illuminate due to problems with the emissions control valve. The valve is part of the evaporative emissions control system (EVAP) that captures fumes created when fuel evaporates in the gas tank or fuel system to prevent harmful gases from escaping the exhaust when the vehicle isn’t running. When you’re filling up the tank, make sure to secure the cap. A loose gas tank cap can be enough for the ECU to trigger the check engine light. If the check engine light doesn’t shut down even after the cap has been tightly screwed, there might be bigger problems affecting your EVAP. Some owners have had to replace their O2 sensors to fix their toxic emissions. If you suspect your EVAP system is malfunctioning, you should get in touch with a professional mechanic, so they can diagnose the problem.
The Acura RSX may not be the most advanced sports car on the market today, but it still boasts an impressive legacy that car enthusiasts around the world can love and appreciate. Its sleek design, impeccable performance, and high reliability offer many possibilities for customization. Knowing the common problems of the Acura RSX can help you make an informed decision. Make sure to ask your seller about the car’s repair history in order to avoid costly problems in the future.
Where to Get New Parts for Your Acura RSX
You’ll need to stay on top of repairs if you want to drive your vehicle around for a long time. A top-tier vehicle like the RSX needs high-quality replacement parts, too. And here at CarParts.com, we have exactly what you need.
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Our products come as direct-fit replacements for your RSX’s failed or damaged parts. Make your online shopping experience easy with our vehicle selector, which will narrow down the catalog to compatible parts for your ride.
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