Photo: IFCAR / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (218 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2006
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Deeply divided sentiment for sport compact coupe, polarizing enthusiasts between passionate Type S advocates versus dismissive critics of base models.
12 problems reported · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Ripped/torn leather seats
Driver bolster wear extremely common 100,000+ miles, leather cracks and tears exposing foam, aftermarket seat covers temporary solution, reupholstery $400-$800 per seat, replacement seats $200-$600 used market, very frequent.
- Timing chain tensioner wear
Produces rattle noise particularly cold starts, tensioner extends over time losing tension, replacement required 180,000-250,000 miles (290,000-402,000 km), neglect causes chain jump and catastrophic valve damage, replacement cost $800-$1,500 including labor, recurrent.
- Trunk/hatch water leaks
Failed taillight gaskets allow water intrusion, collects under spare tire well causing rust, replacement gaskets $20-$40 per side plus labor, check spare tire area for water damage and rust, very frequent.
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- Hood latch failure
Notorious weak point causing hood to fly open while driving creating life-threatening situation, latch mechanism breaks allowing unlatched hood, replacement $80-$150 plus labor, inspect and replace preventively, recurrent.
- Rust development
Rear wheel wells, fenders, rocker panels, spare tire well, windshield top edge vulnerable especially salt-belt climates, surface treatment essential before spreading, comprehensive rust repair $1,500-$4,000 depending on severity, recurrent (climate-dependent)
- Power steering pump leaks and whining
Pump develops leaks at seals, whining noise indicates wear, all feed and return rubber lines deteriorate and crack 150,000+ miles, complete line replacement $300-$600, pump replacement $400-$700, recurrent.
- Shifter cable wear and bushings
Both shifter cables stretch creating mushy shifting feel, plastic shifter box (linkage) cracks causing excessive play, cable replacement $150-$300, billet aluminum shifter box upgrade $200-$400 recommended over plastic OEM, recurrent.
- VTEC solenoid gasket leaks
Oil leaks from VTEC solenoid common, gasket replacement $80-$150 including labor, VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator screen gasket also leaks, oil pressure switch O-ring another common leak point, comprehensive gasket refresh recommended simultaneously, recurrent.
- Door lock actuator failures
Power door locks fail to lock/unlock, actuators wear out 120,000-180,000 miles, replacement $100-$200 per door, common enough to be expected, recurrent.
- Climate control LED failure
Red LEDs behind climate control knobs burn out, buttons and outer dial indicators fail leaving controls unmarked in darkness, replacement requires dash disassembly, cost $200-$400 labor-intensive, isolated.
- High oil consumption (high mileage)
Worn piston rings cause oil burning 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles typical beyond 200,000 miles (322,000 km), requires frequent top-ups between changes, engine rebuild $2,500-$4,000 addresses issue, isolated (high mileage, >200,000 miles)
- Automatic transmission issues (automatic only)
Sluggish shifting, lack of engagement, potential failure high mileage, universally panned driving experience, frequent (automatic transmission only)
The version owners recommend
Type S with 6-Speed Manual (2005-2006) The 2005-2006 Type S models represent ultimate RSX specification combining 212 hp K20Z1 engine (versus 200 hp K20A2 2002-2004), improved interior materials, refined suspension tuning, and final production year collectibility. Six-speed manual transmission absolutely essential - Type S automatic extremely rare and universally condemned. Leather interior preferred over cloth for durability. Avoid base model entirely unless budget severely constrained and manual transmission confirmed.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Civic Si (EP3/8th gen), Acura TSX, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla XRS and Mini Cooper S.
Is the RSX right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Deeply divided sentiment for sport compact coupe, polarizing enthusiasts between passionate Type S advocates versus dismissive critics of base models. Type S (K20A2/K20Z1 engine, 200-212 hp) praised extensively for rev-happy i-VTEC engine delivering thrilling 8,000 RPM redline, precise 6-speed manual transmission, nimble handling dynamics, practical hatchback versatility, and exceptional Honda reliability enabling routine 200,000-300,000+ mile operation. However, base model (K20A3 engine, 160 hp, 5-speed manual or automatic) criticized severely as underpowered, boring to drive, and offering insufficient performance advantage over standard Civic Coupe to justify RSX badge. Widespread criticism centers on aging platform showing 20+ year design (ripped seats common, interior materials deteriorating), automatic transmission universally condemned as antithetical to RSX driving spirit, salvage/rebuilt title examples flooding market creating trust issues, and inflated pricing $5,000-$8,000 range for tired high-mileage examples unjustified versus cleaner alternatives. Overall consensus indicates Type S represents excellent enthusiast choice and future collectible commanding $8,000-$15,000+ clean examples, while base automatic models should be avoided entirely as disappointing value proposition. Manual transmission absolutely essential regardless of trim level.
Positioning vs competitors
The RSX Type S delivers compelling value proposition at $8,000-$15,000 used pricing (clean examples 2024-2025 market) offering Honda reliability, 8,000 RPM naturally-aspirated thrills, and practical hatchback versatility. However, 8th generation Civic Si (2006-2011) positioned as superior daily driver offering similar K20 engine, sedan practicality, and better availability at comparable pricing. Acura TSX provides more refinement, space, and comfort for similar money though less engaging driving dynamics. Base RSX positioned awkwardly - insufficient performance advantage over standard Civic Coupe ($3,000-$5,000 cheaper) to justify premium, while Type S commands significant $4,000-$7,000 premium over base reflecting desirability gap.
Recommended configurations
Type S 6-speed manual strongly preferred over base model (performance gap substantial), 2005-2006 for ultimate specification though 2002-2004 acceptable value, manual transmission absolutely non-negotiable (automatic destroys driving experience), verify comprehensive service records including timing chain tensioner inspection, stock or tastefully modified preferred over heavily modified examples, clean title essential (salvage/rebuilt creates insurance, resale, safety concerns), accept high mileage (150,000-250,000 miles) if comprehensive maintenance documented, budget immediate $1,000-$2,000 catch-up maintenance typical
General recommendations
* Highly suitable for enthusiast drivers seeking engaging naturally-aspirated sport compact at $8,000-$15,000 price point (Type S clean examples) * First-time manual transmission buyers wanting forgiving, reliable platform for learning * Honda enthusiasts appreciating K-series engine heritage and tuning potential * Budget-conscious buyers accepting aging platform compromises for driving engagement * NOT recommended for base model automatic under any circumstances (universally condemned as boring, slow) * NOT recommended for salvage/rebuilt title examples (structural integrity concerns, insurance challenges) * NOT recommended without thorough pre-purchase inspection (common rust, deferred maintenance) * NOT recommended as sole vehicle without mechanical aptitude (parts replacement inevitable given age) * Verify timing chain tensioner condition absolutely critical (rattle indicates wear, replacement $800-$1,500) * Join Club RSX forums essential for technical guidance, parts sourcing, maintenance schedules * Budget $1,500-$2,500 annually for maintenance including consumables and aging component replacement * Accept interior wear as inevitable (seats rip, trim deteriorates after 20+ years) * Manual transmission swap from automatic feasible ($1,500-$2,500 cost) but questionable investment * Type S values appreciating slowly - clean low-mileage examples $12,000-$18,000 collector market emerging
Remarks
The Acura RSX launched 2002 model year representing North American rebadged Honda Integra DC5 continuing sport compact coupe tradition. Built on Honda's Global Compact Platform shared with 7th generation Civic (2001-2005) though extensively modified with unique suspension tuning, K-series engine, and premium interior materials. Two drastically different variants created market confusion and value disparity. Base model featured K20A3 engine producing 160 hp paired with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive with MacPherson strut front suspension and double wishbone rear. Type S model represented true performance variant featuring high-output K20A2 engine (2002-2004, 200 hp) or K20Z1 (2005-2006, 212 hp) with i-VTEC variable valve timing engaging 6,000 RPM, 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission (Type S automatic extremely rare, approximately 2-3% of production), sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers, larger brakes, limited-slip differential, 17-inch wheels, aggressive body kit, leather interior standard. Performance impressive Type S: 0-60 mph approximately 6.7-7.2 seconds, quarter-mile approximately 15.0-15.3 seconds, 8,000 RPM redline delivering naturally-aspirated thrills increasingly rare modern era. Base model significantly slower: 0-60 mph approximately 8.0-8.5 seconds manual, 9.0+ seconds automatic. Fuel economy modest 23-26 MPG combined typical both variants. Practical hatchback design provides 25.8 cubic feet cargo space rear seats folded creating versatility advantage versus Civic Si sedan competitors. However, rear seat space cramped - two adults maximum, effectively two-seater for long trips. Interior quality good for era though materials show age after 20+ years - leather seats crack and tear (driver bolster wear universal), plastic trim pieces brittle and break, climate control LEDs fail. Manual transmission shifting feel excellent - precise, mechanical engagement with satisfying throws. Automatic transmission universally panned as disconnected, slow, boring eliminating RSX driving appeal entirely. Original MSRP $19,450-$21,000 base model, $23,000-$25,000 Type S positioned competitively though insufficient differentiation from cheaper Civic caused market confusion. Production ceased 2006 model year without direct replacement until 2023 Integra revival. Total production approximately 85,000-90,000 units North America though exact split base/Type S unknown (Type S estimated 25-35% of production). Current used market reflects value disparity: base automatic models $3,000-$5,000 (2024-2025), base manual $4,000-$7,000, Type S manual $8,000-$15,000+ depending on mileage and condition. Clean low-mileage Type S examples (<100,000 miles) commanding $12,000-$18,000 collector market emerging recognizing final naturally-aspirated Honda sport compact. Salvage and rebuilt title examples flood market creating trust issues - extensive modifications, questionable repairs, crash damage concerns warrant extreme caution. Parts availability excellent given Honda parts-bin sharing - mechanical components shared with Civic Si (EP3), Honda CR-V K-series variants, Accord components. Aftermarket support exceptional for modifications though stock or tastefully modified examples increasingly valued for collectibility. Common maintenance beyond typical Honda reliability includes timing chain tensioner replacement (critical 180,000-250,000 miles preventing catastrophic failure), trunk seal replacement preventing water damage and rust, hood latch inspection/replacement addressing notorious failure point allowing hood to fly open while driving. High-mileage longevity exceptional when properly maintained - multiple examples reported exceeding 300,000+ miles original engine/transmission. The RSX represents final evolution of naturally-aspirated Honda sport compact before turbocharged, electronically-mediated modern era. Type S specifically positioned as future collectible appreciating slowly recognizing 8,000 RPM naturally-aspirated thrills, mechanical purity, and practical hatchback versatility increasingly rare. However, base model especially automatic transmission variants should be avoided entirely representing insufficient performance advantage over standard Civic to justify ownership challenges of aging sport compact platform.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2002. Years to avoid: 2002Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Acura RSX years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 1 | 0 | structure |
| 2006 | 24 | 2 | exterior lighting |
| 2005 | 32 | 2 | suspension |
| 2004 | 17 | 4 | power train |
| 2003 | 31 | 4 | air bags |
| 2002 | 93 | 4 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices16 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2006 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 06V270000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES, THE OWNER'S MANUALS CONTAIN INCORRECT CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S (NHTSA) VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE.
2006 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 13V246000
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2006 Acura RSX vehicles manufactured January 18, 2006, through August 12, 2006; and model year 2006-2007 Honda S2000 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2006, through November 13, 2006. The brake booster may be unable to maintain a vacuum when the brake pedal is depressed, decreasing brake assist.
2005 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E064000
CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2005 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 06E023000
CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
2004 · exterior lightingcampaign 09E012000
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
2004 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E038000
CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2004 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E064000
CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2004 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 06E023000
CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
2003 · exterior lightingcampaign 09E012000
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
2003 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E038000
CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2003 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E064000
CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2003 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 06E023000
CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
2002 · exterior lightingcampaign 09E012000
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
2002 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E038000
CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2002 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E064000
CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
1 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.0 i 16V Type S
2.0L 4-cylinder · 212 hp · FWD · manual
Built 2005–2007