Are 2001 Acura Integras reliable?

Yes. When properly maintained, 2001 Acura Integras are generally reliable for their age, with many examples still running strongly at high miles. However, reliability hinges on how well the car was cared for and how much wear it has accumulated.

Overview and the reliability mindset

The 2001 Integra sits in the DC2 generation, a model line widely praised for durability, straightforward mechanicals, and strong aftermarket support. With regular maintenance, these cars have earned reputations for longevity and practical everyday usability, especially in GS-R and other sportier trims. As with any twenty-year-old vehicle, the big factor is the maintenance history: cars with well-documented service, timely component replacements, and careful ownership tend to stay dependable longer.

Reliability by trim and maintenance

Reliability varies by variant and how well the car has been cared for. The reliability story improves when the engine and drivetrain have been consistently serviced, while aging components can introduce predictable wear. The following list covers areas where owners commonly see durability or deterioration, depending on maintenance and mileage.

• Engine and timing components: The B-series engines are known for lasting durability when oil changes and timing belt/water pump service are kept up. Neglect can lead to overheating, oil leaks, or belt-driven failures that affect reliability.


• Manual transmissions and clutches: If equipped with a manual, the clutch, throw-out bearing, and hydraulic components can wear as mileage climbs. A well-maintained clutch can last a long time, but replacement is common on higher-mileage cars.


• Suspension and steering: Worn bushings, ball joints, control arms, and shocks are common with aging DC2s. Parts are readily available, and refreshes restore handling without excessive cost.


• Electrical and interior wear: Window regulators, door locks, and interior components may show age-related wear, but the electrical system generally remains robust when corrosion and moisture have been managed.


• Body and corrosion: Rust concerns depend on climate; salt-prone regions can see underbody and wheel-arch corrosion. Proper cleaning and rust prevention help maintain long-term reliability.

In short, a well-maintained 2001 Integra is typically dependable, but its longevity is strongly tied to maintenance history and environmental exposure.

Maintenance and parts availability

One reason the Integra remains an appealing choice today is the broad availability of parts and the familiarity of independent shops with older Hondas. Aftermarket support is extensive, keeping repair costs relatively affordable compared with many modern performance cars.

Key maintenance considerations and practical costs you should expect when owning or shopping for one of these cars:

• Parts availability: Common wear items, engine components, and suspension parts are widely available, with multiple price points from OEM to aftermarket options.


• Maintenance intervals and costs: Critical items like timing belt kits (along with the water pump) should be replaced at recommended intervals; regular oil changes, coolant services, brake work, and transmission service are standard ongoing costs.


• Typical service tasks: Clutch or transmission work on manuals, brake system refreshes, cooling system maintenance, and suspension refreshes are common as mileage increases.


• Upgrades and compatibility: A large ecosystem of compatible parts from related Honda models helps keep repair costs reasonable and offers go-to upgrade paths for enthusiasts.

With consistent maintenance, the Integra’s running costs stay manageable, and the car can continue to serve as a practical daily driver or engaging weekend toy.

Buying and ownership tips

For buyers today, a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is essential to validate reliability and current condition. In a 2001 model, verify that critical maintenance—especially the timing belt/water pump, cooling system refreshes, and signs of head-gasket cooling issues—has been performed and documented.

Use this checklist to assess a potential car:

• Comprehensive service history: Confirm timing belt/water pump work, all cooling system services, oil changes, and brake/transmission maintenance are up to date. Repeated repairs can signal neglect or hidden issues.


• Engine and exhaust condition: Conduct a compression test, listen for unusual noises, and check for oil leaks or coolant contamination in the oil or radiator.


• Cooling system and overheating history: Inspect the radiator, hoses, thermostat, and water pump; review any past overheating episodes.


• Suspension and steering health: Look for excessive play, worn bushings, torn shocks/struts, and alignment stability.


• Body, frame, and rust: Examine underbody sheets, sills, wheel arches, and fasteners for rust or prior repairs that could indicate structural concerns.

If you find a well-documented car with solid maintenance history and a clean mechanical baseline, the 2001 Integra can be a reliable, engaging daily driver or weekend enthusiast car.

Summary

Bottom line: A 2001 Acura Integra can be a dependable choice for a twenty-something-year-old compact with a sportier edge, provided maintenance has been kept up. Its strengths lie in a proven engine lineup, straightforward mechanics, and strong parts availability, while age-related issues like rust and worn suspension are the main reliability risks. The decisive factor is a thorough history and disciplined ongoing maintenance.

What Acura to stay away from?

Acura models with potential issues include some 2nd and 3rd generation TLs due to transmission problems, the 2003 MDX for transmission and engine concerns, and the 2019 RDX for engine stalls and infotainment issues. Other models to be cautious of are the 2005 RL for expensive electronic and transmission failures, the 2005 TL for a prone transmission, and the 2007 MDX for electrical and suspension issues. 
Specific models and years to avoid

• Acura TL (2nd Generation, pre-2004 and 3rd Generation, 2005): These models are known for significant automatic transmission failures. 
• Acura MDX:
  • 2001: Early model issues. 
  • 2003: Transmission and engine problems. 
  • 2007: Electrical and suspension problems. 
• Acura RDX:
  • 2019: The most complained-about model year, with issues like engine stalling and infotainment system freezing. 
• Acura ZDX: Although not a direct comparison to other models, the ZDX had issues related to its GM platform, including battery and AC problems, and dealerships may not have the proper knowledge to fix it. 
• Acura ILX:
  • 2013 2.0L base model: Suffered from a weak engine, outdated transmission, and poor refinement. 

Other points to consider

• General issues: Some newer models have also seen complaints, such as the 2022 RDX with sunroof rattles. 
• Infotainment: Several models, including the RDX and TLX, have had infotainment system issues. These can range from freezing to lagging and system unresponsiveness. 

How much is a 2001 Acura Integra worth?

The price for a 2001 Acura Integra varies significantly, with current used prices typically ranging from approximately $3,500 to $7,000 for standard models like the LS or GS, though this depends heavily on the vehicle's condition and mileage. However, the high-performance Type R model is a collector's car and can sell for much higher, with recent auction prices reaching over $40,000, and one extreme case selling for over $200,000. The original MSRP in 2001 ranged from about $20,000 to $25,000, depending on the trim. 
Current used prices

• Standard models (LS, GS, GS-R): Prices are generally in the $3,500 to $7,000 range for models with average mileage and in good condition, notes Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and CarStory. 
• Type R: This is a high-demand collector's car and prices can be much higher, particularly for well-maintained and original examples. Recent auction prices show values in the $38,000 to $42,000 range. One particular Type R set a world record, selling for over $200,000 in 2025, reports YouTube and Japanese Nostalgic Car. 

Original 2001 MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price)

• LS Sedan: $20,200 to $20,680
• GS Sedan: $21,600 to $22,080
• GS-R Sport Coupe: $22,780
• GS-R Sedan: $22,600 to $23,080
• Type R: $24,930 

Is the 2001 Acura reliable?

Among the 263 owners who provided feedback on the 2001 Acura CL for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 98% recommending the vehicle. Consumers rated the vehicle's comfort 4.8 out of 5 stars, performance 4.8 out of 5 stars, and value 4.8 out of 5 stars.

How long do Acura Integras last?

An Acura Integra can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, and potentially even more, with proper and consistent maintenance. The key to achieving this longevity is to follow the recommended service schedule, which includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine servicing.
 
Factors for long lifespan

• Routine maintenance: Adhering to the manufacturer's service schedule is the most critical factor for ensuring a long-lasting vehicle. 
• Quality parts: Acura's reputation for engineering and quality build helps the vehicles last longer than many other cars. 
• Owner care: Owners who maintain their cars well often report them running reliably well past the 150,000-mile mark. 
• Specific model year: Some specific models and engines, like the B18 motor in older Integras, are known for their durability. 

Evidence of longevity

• Many owners report their Integras lasting for well over 200,000 miles with no major issues beyond standard wear and tear. 
• Some owners have even documented cars reaching or surpassing 400,000 miles, particularly with diligent maintenance. 
• Other Acura models, like the MDX, have been reported to reach 400,000 to over 900,000 miles in some cases, showcasing the brand's overall durability.