Are 2003 Acura RSX reliable?
Yes. When properly maintained, the 2003 Acura RSX is generally considered a reliable used sports coupe, thanks to Honda’s durable K-series engine family and solid build quality.
The 2003 RSX arrived as Acura’s compact, front-wheel-drive two-door, offered in base and Type-S trims. As a 20-year-old vehicle, reliability now depends heavily on how the car has been cared for over its lifespan. This article reviews why the RSX tends to hold up well, what issues commonly appear with age, and how a potential buyer or owner can assess and maintain one today.
What makes the RSX reliable: an overview
Several factors contribute to the RSX’s reputation for reliability, particularly in models that have documented regular maintenance and low collision history.
- Durable K-series engines (K20A2 in Type-S and K20A3 in the base) known for strong longevity with routine oil changes and timely part replacements.
- Chain-driven timing system (no timing belt to replace), reducing the risk of catastrophic engine failure due to belt wear when the car is properly serviced.
- Simple, well-engineered drivetrain and Honda/Acura engineering lineage that emphasizes long-term usability and parts availability in the used market.
- Vigorous aftermarket and community support, which helps owners source parts, diagnostics, and restoration guidance more easily than for some peers.
- Proven resale value relative to other age-equivalent sporty compacts, reflecting perceived reliability and ongoing interest from enthusiasts.
Taken together, these elements contribute to a track record where well-kept RSXs can run reliably for well over 150,000 miles. The actual experience, however, hinges on maintenance discipline and prior ownership history.
Common issues to watch for in a 2003 RSX
While the RSX is generally reliable, buyers and current owners should be aware of age-related wear and common failure points that tend to surface as miles accumulate.
- Ignition and fuel system wear: coil-on-plug coils and spark plugs can wear and cause misfires, especially in higher-mileage examples. Replacements are common and inexpensive relative to many sports cars.
- Valve cover gasket and oil leaks: older RSXs may show oil seepage around the valve cover or related gaskets, which is manageable with routine servicing.
- Suspension components: bushings, control arms, and inner/outer tie rods can wear, leading to decreased handling precision or squeaks at low speeds.
- Brake and steering wear: pads, rotors, and steering rack components may need attention with higher mileage; attention to braking performance is important for safety.
- Rust and corrosion: vehicles from cold or salty climates can develop surface rust or more serious rust in underbody pinch points if not addressed.
With proactive maintenance and timely part replacements, these items are typically manageable and do not preclude long-term ownership. A well-documented service history often correlates with fewer surprises at ownership mid-life.
Maintenance and ownership considerations
Understanding typical costs and upkeep helps set realistic expectations for owning a 2003 RSX today, especially in the used-car market where price and condition vary widely.
- Regular oil changes and fluid service are essential for longevity of the K-series engines, and following Honda’s service intervals helps prevent wear that could lead to early failures.
- Brake service, suspension refreshers, and worn component replacements are common maintenance items as the car ages, but parts are generally affordable and widely available.
- Transmission health tends to be robust in the six-speed manual option when properly maintained; automatic transmissions (if equipped in some early markets) may show wear but are not the central reliability issue.
- Fuel economy remains decent for an early-2000s sport coupe, typically in the mid-20s to low-30s mpg range depending on driving style and trim, which helps overall ownership costs.
In practice, ongoing maintenance costs for a 2003 RSX are typically in line with other aging sport coupes from that era, with fewer catastrophic failures if the vehicle has a documented, regular service history.
What to check when buying a 2003 RSX
Purchasing a used RSX requires diligence to avoid inheriting major issues. Focus on these checks and tests to gauge overall condition.
- Full maintenance history: confirm regular oil changes, timing chain/related components (if applicable), and any previous repairs on the valve cover, ignition system, or suspension.
- Engine start and performance: look for smooth idle, absence of misfires, and steady acceleration; abnormal noises or smoke can indicate engine or exhaust problems.
- Transmission and clutch (manual): ensure smooth engagement, clutch feel, and no grinding or slipping; horsepower and drag can reveal worn syncros or a failing clutch in higher-mileage examples.
- Suspension and steering: inspect for uneven tire wear, clunking noises, or excessive rebound—these can signal worn bushings or components that affect handling.
- Body and frame condition: check for rust, prior accidents, and underbody corrosion, especially for cars in regions with road salt exposure.
A thoughtful test drive combined with a professional inspection can reveal latent problems and influence the overall value proposition of a 2003 RSX purchase.
Summary
The 2003 Acura RSX holds a favorable reliability profile for a 20-plus-year-old sporty compact, particularly when it has a clear maintenance history and reasonable mileage. Its K-series engines are celebrated for durability, and the model’s parts availability and community support help owners keep costs predictable. Potential buyers should still scan for age-related issues such as ignition wear, oil leaks, suspension wear, and corrosion. With careful shopping and regular maintenance, a well-kept RSX can remain a dependable daily driver or enthusiast-grade classic for years to come.
Bottom line for prospective buyers
If you’re considering a 2003 RSX, prioritize a documented service record, a clean mechanical baseline, and a thorough inspection. The car’s reputation for reliability is strongest when owners treat it with regular maintenance, avoid high-stress driving history, and address wear items promptly.
What are common problems with the RSX?
Common Acura RSX issues include compromised braking, engine oil braking, engine oil leaks, and failed engine timing valves.
Are RSXs expensive to maintain?
The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Acura RSX ranges from $105 to $2767, with an average of $346.
How many miles does an RSX last?
I've seen them get up to 400K miles, I wanna say someone went beyond that. I might get rid of mine but it could probably give me another 20 years if I wanted to keep it that long. It's all about maintenance and keeping the rust at bay.
What year is the best Acura RSX?
Which Acura RSX years are the best? We rate the 2005 and 2006 Acura RSX models. All versions of this Japanese car had a retuned suspension for improved handling, and the racy RSX Type-S got a small power increase to 210 horsepower and 143 pound-feet of torque (201/140 in 2006).
