Are Acura RSX cheap to maintain?

The RSX is generally inexpensive to maintain for a sports compact, thanks to Honda engineering, abundant parts, and wide know-how among shops. As these cars age, routine upkeep remains affordable, though wear items and aging components can add up if mileage is high or maintenance history is incomplete.

To understand what this means in practice, this article examines current maintenance costs, aging-item risks, and how ownership costs typically evolve over the RSX’s lifespan. The goal is to give prospective buyers and current owners a clear sense of budgeting for upkeep today and in the years ahead.

Maintenance costs today: what you can expect

Here are routine maintenance costs you can expect for a well-kept RSX today. Prices vary by region and shop, but these ranges reflect typical independent shops in North America and similar markets.

• Oil changes, filters, and fluids: about 40–90 USD per change, with synthetic oil on the higher end; expect 1–2 changes per year depending on mileage.


• Brake service (pads and rotors as needed): front or rear axle typically 150–350 USD for pads alone; including rotor replacement, 250–400+ USD per axle.


• Brake fluid flush: around 60–120 USD every 2–3 years.


• Air and cabin filters: about 25–60 USD total for both; DIY cheaper.


• Spark plugs replacement: about 60–120 USD for 4 plugs plus labor.


• Tires: set of four typically 400–800 USD, depending on brand and size.


• Coolant flush and hoses: 50–120 USD if DIY, 100–150+ at a shop.


• Transmission fluid change: automatic around 150–250 USD; manual around 100–180 USD.


• Clutch replacement (manual transmission): 800–1,500 USD, depending on model and labor; Type-S tends to be on the higher end.


• Water pump replacement: 300–800 USD if done with other timing or cooling service.


• Timing chain-related service (if needed on high-mileage cars): 400–900 USD for tensioner/guide replacement.

Routine maintenance remains affordable relative to many other performance cars, and a careful owner can keep annual costs predictable with regular service.

Watch for aging signs

As the RSX ages, certain components wear more quickly. Listen for unusual noises, watch for fluid leaks, and pay attention to shifting quality, braking responsiveness, and cooling system behavior. Early intervention can limit escalation into bigger repairs and help keep maintenance costs in check.

Common aging issues and potential repair costs

The following list highlights issues that become more likely as the RSX nears or passes the 100,000-mile mark, along with typical repair cost ranges. These figures are order-of-magnitude estimates; actual prices vary by region, shop, and whether parts are OEM or aftermarket.

• Suspension wear (control arms, bushings, tie rods, struts): 300–800 USD per axle for parts and labor depending on what’s replaced.


• Brake system beyond pads (rotors, calipers): 200–500+ USD per component if rotors or calipers are replaced.


• Power steering components and rack leaks: 800–1,400 USD for a rack replacement including labor.


• Cooling system aging (radiator, hoses, water pump): 200–800 USD depending on parts and labor.


• A/C system issues (compressor, leaks, expansion valve): 500–1,000+ USD for major repairs.


• Valve cover gasket or oil leaks from seals: 200–600 USD to reseal or replace gaskets.


• Carbon buildup on intake valves (more common with older or heavily driven engines): 300–1,000 USD for cleaning, depending on method and labor.


• Rust concerns in older units (undercarriage, frame rails in salty climates): repair can be costly, potentially 1,000–3,000+ USD for frame-related work.


• Transmission issues (manual): worn synchros or linkage can require repair or rebuild; major work can range from 1,000–3,000 USD depending on extent.

Staying on top of routine maintenance, addressing small leaks early, and choosing a well-documented example can help keep these costs manageable as the RSX ages.

Summary

Overall, the Acura RSX offers a favorable maintenance profile among older performance cars. Routine upkeep is generally affordable, parts are plentiful, and the robust K-series engine responds well to regular service. Expect modest annual costs for basic care, with the potential for bigger repairs as mileage climbs. For buyers and current owners alike, a well-maintained RSX with a clear service history tends to provide a reliable balance of driving enjoyment and predictable ownership costs.

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.

What Acura to stay away from?

According to CarComplaints.com, the 2003 model is one of the most problematic Acura TL years, with over 400+ NHTSA user complaints. This car's top three most prominent problems are transmission failure, car shakes during acceleration, and the peeling clear coat.

Is the Acura RSX reliable?

Yes, the Acura RSX is generally considered a reliable car, thanks to its Honda-based engineering and durable engines like the K20. However, its reliability can be impacted by its popularity with enthusiasts, meaning many examples have been modified or driven hard. It is crucial to find a well-maintained, unmodified example and to be aware of potential issues like a failing engine timing valve, which is more common in high-mileage or abused vehicles.
 
Factors contributing to its reliability

• Engine: The RSX uses the reliable and high-revving K20 engine. 
• Ownership: Many owners report very few major issues over many years of ownership, with some reaching high mileage without major problems, as seen in Cars.com and Reddit reviews. 
• Parts and Community: It has an extensive and supportive community, and parts are relatively inexpensive and widely available. 

Potential issues to watch for

• Modified vehicles: The RSX is a popular car for modifications, and many have been driven hard, which can lead to mechanical problems. It is best to find one that is factory stock and has maintenance records. 
• Engine Timing Valve: This is a known issue, especially on higher-mileage or abused engines. A failing valve can cause poor fuel economy and potential engine damage if not addressed. 
• Manual Transmission: Some manual transmission models have been reported to have issues, particularly in modified cars. 

How to ensure you get a reliable one

• Look for a stock example: Avoid cars that have been heavily modified. 
• Check maintenance records: This can give you a clear picture of how the car has been cared for. 
• Inspect for abuse: Look for signs that the car was driven hard, which could indicate a thrashing of the powertrain. 
• Be mindful of the timing valve: If the "check engine" light is on, it could be a warning sign of a failing timing valve, so have it inspected. 

Is an Acura expensive to maintain?

No, Acuras are not generally considered expensive to maintain, especially compared to other luxury brands. They are known for being reliable, and due to sharing many parts with Honda, their average annual maintenance and repair costs are lower than the industry average. 

• Lower than average cost: Acura's average annual repair and maintenance cost is approximately $501, which is below the industry average of $652. 
• Affordable luxury: When compared to other luxury brands like BMW, Acura is significantly more affordable to maintain. For example, the average 10-year maintenance cost for an Acura is about $9,800, while a BMW is estimated at $17,800. 
• Share parts with Honda: The affordability is partly due to the brand sharing many parts with Honda, which are known for being readily available and leading to lower service expenses. 
• Long-term reliability: Acuras are known for being durable and reliable, which means fewer unexpected and expensive repairs are needed, particularly in the early years of ownership.