How many miles will a 2004 Acura RSX last?

A well-maintained 2004 Acura RSX can often surpass 200,000 miles, and many examples reach 250,000 miles or more with diligent upkeep. Longevity depends on maintenance history, driving habits, and the environment in which the car is kept.

To understand how far this model can go, it helps to consider its reliability history, typical failure points, and best practices for upkeep. This article outlines what factors influence durability, what you can do to maximize it, and what to expect in real-world use.

What affects how long it lasts

Several factors influence how long a 2004 RSX will run before major repairs become likely. The following variables are commonly cited by owners and mechanics as the main determinants of longevity:

• Maintenance history and service quality, including timely oil changes and fluid replacements


• Driving style and usage patterns (long highway commutes vs. short city trips, aggressive driving)


• Climate and storage conditions (corrosion exposure, humidity, temperature swings)


• Overall mechanical condition of key components (engine, transmission, cooling system)


• Repair history and the quality of parts used during past fixes


• Age-related wear and any prior rebuilds or major repairs


• Regular preventive care (belts, hoses, spark plugs, sensors) and timely addressing of leaks

In short, the car’s lifespan is largely determined by how proactively you maintain it and how it’s treated day to day.

Maintenance steps to maximize longevity

To push a 2004 RSX toward higher mileage, follow a disciplined maintenance routine and address issues promptly. The most impactful steps are listed below:

1. Adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes with synthetic oil (as recommended, commonly 5W-20) and periodic filter replacements.


2. Keep the cooling system in good condition by flushing and replacing coolant at recommended intervals, inspecting hoses, thermostat, radiator, and water pump to prevent overheating.


3. Maintain the transmission and drivetrain — change transmission fluid at recommended intervals (manual transmissions with gear oil; automatics with ATF), and repair leaks or worn seals promptly.


4. Replace ignition components and fuel system parts as needed — spark plugs typically every 60,000–100,000 miles; monitor for misfires or rough running and service injectors if performance declines.


5. Keep the air intake and filtration up to date — replace the engine air filter regularly to preserve performance and efficiency.


6. Address chronic issues early — fix overheating, oil leaks, misfires, or unusual noises promptly to prevent further damage.


7. Protect against rust and corrosion — wash the undercarriage, treat exposed metal, and address salt exposure in winter climates to extend body life.

Sticking to these maintenance practices can help maximize the RSX’s lifespan and increase the likelihood of reaching high-mileage milestones.

Summary

The 2004 Acura RSX is widely regarded as a durable compact sports car. With meticulous maintenance and prudent driving, reaching or exceeding 200,000 miles is common, and many owners report 250,000 miles or more. Real-world longevity depends on consistent care, timely repairs, and how the vehicle is used. As with any aging vehicle, ongoing maintenance and early attention to problems are the best predictors of long life.

Is the 2004 Acura RSX reliable?

The 2004 Acura RSX is a reliable car, especially when regular maintenance is performed and it hasn't been abused by previous owners. While it has a reputation for durability due to its Honda-built K-series engine, potential issues to watch for include common problems like AC compressor failure, leaks from the power steering pump, and potential manual transmission grinding, particularly on models that were driven hard or poorly maintained.
 
This video discusses the reliability of the Acura RSX, including potential problems like transmission grinding: 1mRegular Car ReviewsYouTube · Sep 14, 2015
Pros

• High reliability: Owners frequently cite the RSX's reliability, with many high-mileage examples still running strong. 
• Durable engine: The K-series engine is known for being dependable and having a wide powerband. 
• Affordable parts: Replacement parts are relatively inexpensive and readily available. 
• Fun to drive: The car is known for its sporty handling and high-revving engine, especially in the Type-S model. 

Cons

• Potential for abuse: Many RSX models on the used market have been modified or driven hard, which can lead to accelerated wear. 
• Common problems: Be aware of potential issues such as AC compressor failures, power steering pump leaks (which can lead to other failures), and manual transmission grinding or popping out of gear. 
• Tail light gaskets: The tail light gaskets are a common failure point and can allow water to enter the trunk, leading to rust. 
• Rust: Check the spare tire area for rust, as it is a common problem if water has gotten in. 
• Headlights: Headlights are known to burn out frequently. 

What to do when buying

• Check maintenance records: Ask for maintenance history to understand how the car has been treated. 
• Inspect for rust: Thoroughly inspect the body, especially the spare tire area, for signs of rust. 
• Test drive carefully: Pay close attention to the transmission, especially when shifting through gears, and listen for any knocking or grinding noises from the engine. 
• Have a mechanic inspect it: It is highly recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic to identify any hidden issues. 

Are Acuras reliable after 200k miles?

Yes, Acuras can be very reliable after 200,000 miles, often lasting between 250,000 and 300,000 miles or more with proper and consistent maintenance. Reliability beyond this mileage depends heavily on a history of good maintenance, including regular oil changes, timely transmission fluid flushes, and other routine services like timing belt replacement at the recommended intervals.
 
Factors contributing to long-term reliability

• Regular maintenance: This is the most crucial factor. Owners who consistently follow the service schedule, especially for oil and transmission fluid changes, report fewer issues. 
• Proper parts: Using high-quality parts and addressing issues like the timing belt proactively can prevent major engine damage. 
• Driving conditions: Vehicles with a history of primarily highway driving tend to have fewer wear-and-tear issues compared to those in stop-and-go city traffic. 
• Body and frame: While the engine can be durable, it's important to check for rust and accident damage, as these issues can be costly and challenging to repair. 

What to consider when buying a high-mileage Acura

• Service history: Look for a vehicle with complete and detailed service records to confirm it has been well-maintained. 
• Current condition: Beyond the engine, check the condition of the transmission, body, and interior. A vehicle with a clean body and a well-maintained interior is a good sign, even with high mileage. 
• Potential for repairs: Be prepared for the possibility of repairs. While Acuras are generally reliable, parts wear out. Having the ability to do some work yourself or having a trusted mechanic can save money. 
• Model and transmission: While many models are reliable, some, like the automatic TLs from certain years, may be more expensive to repair if they have transmission issues, say Reddit users. 

How many miles can I get out of an Acura RDX?

An Acura RDX can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some have been reported to last even longer. Key factors in its lifespan are consistent, routine maintenance and driving habits. While generally very reliable, some owners report issues like turbo problems (on first-gen models), AC compressor, and suspension parts.
 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Routine maintenance: Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is the single most important factor in ensuring a long life for your RDX. 
• Driving habits: How you drive, and the conditions you drive in, significantly impact a vehicle's longevity. 
• Model year: Different generations and engine types may have different common issues. For example, the first-generation RDX had a turbocharger that some owners report issues with at high mileage, while later models with a V6 engine may have different potential problems, such as VCM solenoid leaks on some years. 

Reliability and common issues

• High reliability rating: The RDX has an impressive reliability rating, and is considered to be durable. 
• Common issues: Some issues that have been reported by owners include:
  • Turbocharger problems (first-generation RDX) 
  • AC compressor issues 
  • Suspension and power steering problems 
  • VCM solenoid leaks leading to alternator failure (on some models) 
• Major repairs are uncommon: The frequency of major issues is considered average, and their severity is low, meaning they are not a common occurrence. 

How long can an Acura RSX last?

An Acura RSX can last anywhere from 250,000 to over 400,000 miles with proper maintenance, though longevity depends heavily on the owner's care, climate, and avoiding accidents. Key to extending its life are regular oil changes with full synthetic oil, regular inspection of the timing chain, addressing rust, and keeping the car factory-stock with no modifications. Common issues to be aware of include power steering pumps, timing valves, and the need for suspension component replacement over time. 
Factors that affect longevity

• Maintenance: Consistent and proactive maintenance is the most significant factor. This includes oil changes every 4,500 miles with synthetic oil, checking the timing chain, and replacing other worn parts like suspension components as needed. 
• Rust: Living in a low-rust area significantly helps, as rust is a major cause of long-term degradation. 
• Modifications: A factory-stock RSX is more likely to be reliable long-term than a modified one, especially those with performance modifications. 
• Accidents: Past accidents can lead to long-term issues, so checking the vehicle's history is important. 
• Common issues: Be aware of potential problems with the power steering pump, timing valves, and the need to replace parts like ball joints and suspension components over time. 

What to look for when buying

• Maintenance records: A well-maintained car is a better investment than one with a spotty service history. 
• Factory-stock: Look for a car that has not been significantly modified. 
• Rust: Inspect thoroughly for any signs of rust, especially in the body and undercarriage. 
• Signs of abuse: Avoid cars that show signs of a hard life, such as engine or transmission problems.