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VIN REPORT

JH4DC54895S0117112005 ACURA RSX

Risk Score
26
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
2 Found
2 campaigns
32
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
21 yrs
Made in JAPAN
C+
Score: 77/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2005 ACURA RSX was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 32 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 32 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — above average for this class
  • Electrical is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
26/100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 2 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
ACURA
Model
RSX
Year
2005
Body Style
Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 1.999221808L 160 hp
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
2
Manufacturer
HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
Assembly
SUZUKA, MIE, JAPAN
GVWR
Class 1B: 3,001 - 4,000 lb (1,360 - 1,814 kg)
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 SUZUKA, MIE

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety
C+
Score: 77/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety27/30
Complaint History30/30
10/100Low

✓ No high-risk recall components found

0/100
Basic
0 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Moderate
  • 2 recalls on same component: Electrical

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Electrical
2 recalls4 complaints
Recalls
82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 4 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~252,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 21 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 21 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 21 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 21 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 21 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 21 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
22 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~64%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

64%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

ACURA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
92%Good

ACURA completes recalls at a good rate (92%), averaging about 16 months to remedy. Most affected vehicles are fixed.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~16 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
16mo
#06E064000
Invalid Date

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

SummaryCERTAIN 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.
Read full details...
ConsequenceLACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#06E023000
Invalid Date

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

SummaryCERTAIN 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."
Read full details...
ConsequenceWITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

13/03/2006
2 total campaigns
Electrical
2
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
Complaints
Suspension/Wheels
2 crash16
Electrical
4
Other
1 crash3
Safety Systems
3
Visibility
3
Engine/Powertrain
2
Brakes
1
2006
3
2007
1
2008
1
2010
4
2013
1
2014
2
2016
2
2018
1
2020
1
2021
1
72% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
PEAKS SUMMER (JUN–AUG)

43% of complaints filed in Aug & May — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Engine stalling3
Tire blowout2
Sudden acceleration1
Conditions Reported
Parking/low-speed (7)Highway/high-speed (6)Rain/wet (1)Cold weather (1)
32HIGH VOLUME
3
Crashes
ODI #11419121STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

The transmission it’s going bad

ODI #11363652ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I BOUGHT A VEHICLE LAST YEAR AND NEVER RAN THE CARFAX BUT NOW I HAVE IT AND IT APPEARS THE MILEAGE HAS BEEN TAMPERED WITH

ODI #11161331UNKNOWN OR OTHERCRASH

ON SAT DEC 10 2018 I WAS BULLING IN TO A PARKING SPACE AT WALMART AFTER 7AM. I WAS GOING SLOWLY AND STARTED A LEFT TURN INTO A PARKING SPACE. AS I TURNED I WAS LIGHTLY ON THE BRAKE, SUDDENLY THE ENGINE REVVED TO A HIGH SPEED AND THE CAR SURGED FORWARD. I PUSHED HARD ON THE BRAKES BUT IT STILL KEPT GOING AT A LOWER RATE BUT I COULD NOT STOP, IT WAS MAKING STRAINING CREAKING SOUNDS. I HAD TURNED LEFT TO AVOID THE SUV FACING ME IN THE OTHER SPACE FACING ME WHEN IT SURGED FORWARD. THERE WAS A CART CORRAL THERE THAT I HIT AND PUSHED IT AND IT SWUNG AROUND AND MOVED INTO THE DRIVING LANE STILL MOVING. I PUSHED THE GEAR SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL AND THE REVVES DROPPED IMMEDIATELY AND THE CAR STOPPED THEN. THERE WAS NO REASON FOR THE ENGINE TO SPEED UP, I WAS BRAKING LIGHTLY AS I APPROACHED THE PARKING SPACE AND I CONTINUED TRYING TO BRAKE UNTIL IT FINALLY STOPPED. I WAS AT NO TIME ON THE GAS PEDDLE, THERE WAS NOT CARPET OR OTHER OBJECT TO INTERFERE WITH THE GAS PEDDLE. WHEN I MOVED THE SHIFT LEVER TO NEUTRAL THE ENGINE DROPPED TO A IDLE IMMEDIATELY. THERE WAS SCRATCHES ON THE HOOD, BUMPER AND HEADLIGHT COVER AND SMALL DENT IN DRIVER DOOR. NO INJURIES AND I WAS ABLE TO PUSH THE CORRAL BACK IN PLACE BY HAND. I RESEARCHED UNEXPLAINED ACCELERATION FOR ACURA AND HONDA AND FOUND ACCOUNTS OF HONDA INCIDENTS VERY SIMILAR TO MINE WITH MUCH WORSE .OUTCOMES. I FILED AN INSURANCE CLAIM AND NOW I AM GOING TO CONTACT ACURA. I TOOK PICTURES WITH MY PHONE BUT HAVEN'T GOTTEN THEM TO THE COMPUTER

ODI #10911227SERVICE BRAKES

THE CAR FAILED TO STOP FOR AN INTERSECTION. LUCKILY THERE WAS NO CROSS TRAFFIC, SO WE DID NOT HAVE AN ACCIDENT. MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM: POWER BRAKE BOOSTER FAILED TO KEEP VACUUM, MAKING BRAKES WEAK. I SEE THAT THIS EXACT FAILURE WAS RECALLED FOR THE NEXT MODEL YEAR (2006). BOTH MODEL YEAR CARS USE THE SAME BOOSTER, SO IT IS LIKELY THE SAME CAUSE AND SAME RISK TO ALL 2005 ACURA RSX MODELS. I FEEL THIS SHOULD BE RECALLED TO MAKE SURE NO-ONE HAS AN ACCIDENT DUE TO WEAK BRAKES, ESPECIALLY WHERE THE PROBLEM WAS IDENTIFIED FOR THE SAME MODEL CAR ONE YEAR LATER, THAT USES THE SAME PART.

ODI #10821827AIR BAGS

TAKATA RECALL MY AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS ON COMING ON FOR MANY YEARS. THE ACURA DEALER DOES NOT KNOW THE ISSUE AND WILL NOT REPAIR THE AIRBAGS UNTIL THERE IS A RECALL OF THE AIRBAGS. THE LIGHT HAS COME ON PROBABLY ONCE PER YEAR (I'VE OWNED THE CAR FOR 7 YEARS).

ODI #10663494UNKNOWN OR OTHER

DRIVERS SIDE SEAT APPEARS TO BE LOOSE AT A RIVITED JOINT.

ODI #10663005AIR BAGS

MY AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON FOR NO REASON - I HAD A MECHANIC RESET IT BUT IT CAME BACK ON FEW DAYS LATER. I READ ON THE INTERNET THAT HONDA IS RECALLING HONDAS & ACURAS FOR THIS TYPE OF PROBLEM , IS THIS ONE OF THEM ? AM I EXPECTING A RECALL LETTER FROM HONDA IN THE MAIL SOON ? REGARDS *TR

ODI #10510432TIRESCRASH

ON 11/20/12, I DROVE MY 2005 ACURA RSX TO ACURA OF MANHATTAN (AOM) IN NY, NY. THE SERVICE INCLUDED 4 NEW TIRES -- MICHELIN 215/45/17. ON 12/01/12, AFTER 40-50 MILES WITH NEW TIRES, THE VEHICLE STARTS VIBRATING. I STOP AND NOTICE A BLOWN-OUT FRONT RIGHT TIRE. EMERGENCY ROAD ASSISTANCE PUTS ON THE SPARE TIRE, NOTICES THE OTHER 3 TIRES ARE UNDER-INFLATED AND ADDS AIR. I RETURN TO AOM ON 12/03/12, MENTIONING THE VIBRATIONS, BLOWN-OUT TIRE, AND 3 UNDER-INFLATED TIRES. AOM GUARANTEES THAT ALL REMAINING TIRES ARE IN GOOD CONDITION AND REPLACES THE BLOWN-OUT TIRE. ON 12/14/12, ON A DIVIDED PARKWAY THE CAR AGAIN STARTS VIBRATING. I SLOW DOWN TO STOP, BUT THE REAR OF THE CAR YANKS TO THE RIGHT, THE CAR SPINS WILDLY, I SMASH HEAD-ON INTO THE MEDIAN DIVIDER, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOY, THE CAR SPINS AROUND, THE REAR HITS THE MEDIAN, I COME TO A STANDSTILL. NO OTHER CAR IS INVOLVED. I AM UNHURT. I LEAVE THE CAR; I NOTICE ONE REAR TIRE OFF THE RIM AND THE OTHER ONE FLAT. THE POLICE WRITE UP AN ACCIDENT REPORT. THE CAR IS TOWED TO A GARAGE. MY INSURANCE COMPANY RAPIDLY DETERMINES IT IS A TOTAL LOSS. IT WAS THE FIRST TIME EVER THAT A CAR OF MINE VIBRATED -- NOT ONCE BUT TWICE IN TWO WEEKS. THE FIRST TIME, ONE TIRE BLEW OUT; THE SECOND TIME, BOTH REAR TIRES WERE EITHER OFF THE RIM OR FLAT. AND THIS IMMEDIATELY AFTER AOM HAD REPLACED ALL 4 TIRES. I SENT A CERTIFIED MAIL LETTER TO [XXX], PRESIDENT AND CHAIRMAN OF AOM, ASKING FOR AN EXPLANATION. I GOT 3 NON-EXPLANATORY E-MAILS FROM A [XXX]; NONE ADDRESSED THE QUESTIONS RAISED IN MY LETTER. I REPORT THIS TO NHTSA TO PREVENT FURTHER ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY IMPROPER SERVICE BY AOM. WERE THE TIRES DEFECTIVE? DID THE LOCAL DISTRIBUTOR PROVIDE OLD TIRES WITH REDUCED ELASTICITY? DID THE TIRES PROPERLY FIT MY CAR'S RIMS? DID AOM CORRECTLY INSTALL, CALIBRATE AND BALANCE THE TIRES? AS OF THIS WRITING, NO RESPONSE HAS BEEN GIVEN BY AOM WHICH IS AVOIDING THE ISSUE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

ODI #10339050ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

I HAVE 2005 RSX TYPE S, AND WITHIN PAST 2.5 YEARS I HAD CIRCUITRY RELATED TO THE AIRBAGS PASSENGER AND DRIVER FAILED. AT 64,000 MILES PASSENGER DETECTION SENSOR IN THE SEAT FAILED AND WAS REPLACED WHEN SRS LIGHT CAME ON, AT 87,584 MILES AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT FAILED AND AIRBAG NOT FUNCTIONING LIGHT CAME ON. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THIS IS JUST MY CAR HAPPEN TO HAVE BAD AIRBAG CIRCUITRY OR IT IS AN ONGOING ISSUE THAT ACURA DOES NOT WANT TO ADDRESS. I CHECKED MULTIPLE BOARDS OF RSX OWNERS LIKE WWW.CLUBRSX.COM AND SEE MANY OF THEM HAVE SIMILAR PROBLEMS. *TR

ODI #10330224WHEELS

ALL THE ALUMINUM WHEELS ON MY 2005 ACURA RSX-S ARE SHOWING SIGNS OF EARLY CORROSION DUE TO BUBBLING & EROSION OF THE PAINTED SURFACE. ONE IS PARTICULARLY BAD AND IS LOSING PRESSURE AT A RATE OF ~3LBS/SQIN PER WEEK. THIS WAS FIRST DISCOVERED ON NORMAL MONTHLY PRESSURE CHECK WHEN THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS 12LBS/SQIN BELOW SPECIFICATION. ON INSPECTION NO PUNCTURE OF THE TIRE WAS FOUND AND THE LEAK WAS TRACED TO CORROSION AT THE RIM AND VALVE SEAT. ON COMPLAINING TO THE ACURA DEALER UNDER WARRANTY, I WAS TOLD THAT WHEEL DAMAGE IS NOT COVERED BUT THIS IS NOT "DAMAGE" - IT'S CORROSION DUE TO POOR MATERIALS AND ESPECIALLY PAINT FINISH. THE WHEELS ARE ALL COMPLETELY FREE OF ACCIDENTAL DENTS OR NICKS AND THE LEAK IS ENTIRELY DUE TO CORROSION AND I NOW FEAR THAT IT WILL SHOW UP IN ALL THE OTHER WHEELS. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD AND I NOW HAVE TO CHECK ALL TIRE PRESSURES WEEKLY AND RE-INFLATE THE CURRENTLY AFFECTED SINGLE WHEEL. MY ONLY REMEDY HERE IS TO HAVE ALL FOUR WHEELS REFINISHED AT CONSIDERABLE EXPENSE. *TR

ODI #10314872POWER TRAIN

TRANSMISSION GRINDS WHEN SHIFTING INTO 3RD GEAR, POPS OUT OF 3RD GEAR, OR IS HARD TO SHIFT INTO 3RD GEAR. THESE SYMPTOMS CAN BE INTERMITTENT ANDSOMETIMES MORE NOTICEABLE IN COLDER CLIMATES. *TR

ODI #10297972VISIBILITY

THE ISSUE I AM HAVING IS NOT A ONE TIME PROBLEM BUT SEEMS TO BE ONGOING IN THE WINTER MONTHS. WHEN IT GETS COLD OUTSIDE, THE WINDOWS OF MY CAR, INCLUDING FRONT AND BACK WINDSHIELDS, FOG AND ICE UP SIGNIFICANTLY. I HAVE THE DEFROSTER GOING AT FULL BLAST ON HIGHEST HEAT, BUT I STILL HAVE THIS ISSUE. THE SAFETY ISSUE WITH THIS IS THAT I CANNOT SEE OUT OF MY WINDOWS WHEN I NEED TO CHANGE LANES OR LOOK FOR ONCOMING TRAFFIC WHEN MAKING A RIGHT/LEFT TURN. I NEED TO ROLL DOWN MY WINDOWS TO ENSURE THAT TRAFFIC IS CLEAR. I WASN'T SURE IF THIS IS THE TYPE OF COMPLAINT THAT SHOULD BE SUBMITTED BUT I THOUGHT IT WAS BETTER TO SUBMIT, THAN NOT. THANK YOU. *TR

ODI #10221296POWER TRAIN

MY 05 ACURA RSX TYPE S WITH A 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION HAS A PROBLEM WHERE DURING SHIFTING FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR (WITH THE CLUTCH FULLY ENGAGED DURING THE SHIFT) IT POPS OUT OF 3RD GEAR WHEN THE CLUTCH IS DISENGAGED. THIS PROBLEM OCCURS ABOUT ONCE EVERY 7 HOURS OF DRIVING FOR ME. WHEN THIS OCCURS, THE CAR SHIFTS EASILY INTO THIRD, LIKE IT NORMALLY WOULD, THEN POPS OUT WHEN THE CLUTCH IS DISENGAGED. OCCASIONALLY THERE IS A POP SOUND WHEN THIS HAPPENS BUT SOMETIMES IT CANNOT BE HEARD. THIS HAS LEAD TO SOME FRIGHTENING INSTANCES WHERE THE CAR HAS BEEN IN NEUTRAL, WHEN I THOUGH THE SHIFT WAS SUCCESSFUL. ON MY COMMUTE THIS OFTEN HAPPENS WHEN TURNING LEFT THROUGH AN INTERSECTION AND WHEN MERGING ON TO THE FREEWAY. I HAD ONE INSTANCE WHERE I MERGED ONTO THE FREEWAY IN SECOND GEAR ON A SNOWY DAY, ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT TO THIRD, AND HAD THE CAR POP OUT OF GEAR TWICE, SLOWING ME DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY WITHOUT THE BENEFIT OF BRAKE LIGHTS. LUCKILY THE CAR BEHIND ME WAS ABLE TO MOVE INTO THE OTHER LANE TO AVOID BRAKING HARD IN SNOWY CONDITIONS. I HAVE BROUGHT THE CAR IN 12 TIMES TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM REPAIRED AND IT STILL IS NOT FIXED. THIS APPEARS TO BE A GROWING ISSUE WITH HONDA 6-SPEED TRANSMISSION. *TR

ODI #10181307STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT

I PURCHASED A 2005 ACURA RSX TYPE-S ABOUT A YEAR AND HALF AGO AROUND 4/20/05. I DROVE IT FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS AND I STARTED HEARING A CLICKING NOISE COMING FROM MY SUSPENSION, I BROUGHT IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY INSTALLED A NEW STRUT. THE NEXT MONTH THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED AND THEY HAD TO REPLACE THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STRUT. THAT SAME WEEK MY CAR STARTED DRIFTING TO ONE SIDE AND MY STEERING WHEELING WASN'T ALIGNED, I BOUGHT IT BACK AND EVERYTHING WAS OKAY. THE NEXT MONTH I STILL HEARD THE SAME CLICKING NOISE BUT I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO GO TO THE DEALER. THAT SAME WEEK, I HEARD A TAPPING NOISE COMING FROM MY ENGINE, I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT IT WAS SO I KEPT DRIVING. NEXT DAY, IT GOT WORSE AND I KNEW THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG, I CHECKED MY OIL LEVEL ON A SLOPED HILL BUT DIDN'T REALIZE IT, AND IT DIDN'T READ PROPERLY. SO, I ADDED TWO QUARTS OF OIL TO THE ENGINE, BUT IT STILL HAD THAT SAME TAPPING NOISE FROM THE ENGINE. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP, AND THEY TOLD ME I HAD DESTROYED MY ENGINE(CONNECTING RODS ARE BENT, PISTON #4 WAS DAMAGED) AND I WILL NEED A NEW ENGINE. THE WARRANTY WASN'T GOING TO COVER IT BECAUSE I ADDED EXTRA OIL. SO, I IMMEDIATELY GOT A LAWYER, BUT NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE IN A YEAR IM STILL IN THE SAME BOAT AND I'M MONEY. I HAVE SPOKE TO SEVERAL MECHANICS FROM VARIOUS DEALERS AND SHOPS AND THEY TOLD ME THERE'S NO WAY ADDING OIL COULD DAMAGE A ENGINE IN JUST A MATTER OF ONE DAY. IM RUNNING OUT OF IDEAS AND MY LIFE IS AT A STAND STILL IF THERE'S ANYTHING YOU CAN DO PLEASE HELP. *JB

ODI #10171072TIRESCRASH

TIRE BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH ON HIGHWAY RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE, AND A CRASH. THE CRASH CAUSED MAJOR FRONT BUMPER DAMAGE AND DAMAGED THE WHEEL OF THE BLOWN OUT TIRE TO THE POINT WHERE IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. FURTHERMORE, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, WHICH WAS DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP AS AN OVER REV CODE, PRESUMABLY AT THE POINT AFTER WHICH THE TIRE BLEW OUT. *NM

ODI #10169595SUSPENSION

I BOUGHT AN 05' RSX AND HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS. THE CAR SOUNDS LIKE A RATTLING CAB, HAS A TERRIBLE SUSPENSION AND MAKES A CLUNKING NOISE THAT THE DEALERSHIP HAS BEEN UNABLE TO FIX SINCE I GOT THE CAR ALMOST A YEAR AGO. THEY HAVE BEEN NOTHING BUT RUDE AND CONDESCENDING, AND ARE OBVIOUSLY NOT CAPABLE OF SELLING A CAR THAT IS FUNCTIONAL, NOR FIXING IT CORRECTLY. I WISH I NEVER BOUGHT IT. *JB

ODI #10167400SUSPENSION

LOUD CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM RIGHT FRONT OF VEHICLE. POSSIBLY STRUTS. SOUNDS HAPPEN AT SLOW SPEEDS, I.E. PARKING LOTS, BACKING UP. *NM

ODI #10143436EXTERIOR LIGHTING

THE NEW BRIGHT BLUE HEADLIGHTS ARE AN OUTSTANDING INOVATION WHEN THEY ARE PROPERLY AIMED, HOWEVER THE AIM OF THE HEADLIGHT IS AFFECTED BY VEHICLE LOADING AND MANUFACTURE AND BODYSHOP/DEALER MISALLIGMNMENT. THIS ALLIGNMENT IS CRITICAL. WHEN TOO MUCH WEIGHT IS PLACE IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, THE PORTION OF THE HEADLIGHT THAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE POINTING DOWN ON THE ROADWAY IS NOW DIRECTED AT ONCOMMING TRAFFIC. IF MANUFACTURERS CANNOT CONTROL THIS PROBLEM BY AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING THE HORIZONTAL TILT OF THIS LIGHTING SYSTEM, THEY SHOULD BE BANNED! *NM

ODI #10142331SUSPENSION

I PURCHASED MY RSX TYPE-S IN JULY 2005, AFTER APPROX. 1000 MILES IT BEGAN MAKING A LOUD POPPING NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AT LOW SPEEDS. AFTER 2000 MILES IT CONTINUED TO GET LOUDER SO I TOOK IT IN FOR SERVICE. THE SERVICE WRITER CLAIMED IT WAS NORMAL NOISE, THEY GREASED SOME BUSHINGS AND HE TOLD ME THAT IF I RETURNED THEY WOULD BE UNABLE TO DO ANYTHING FOR ME. IT'S ODD, WHY DIDN'T MY CAR MAKE THIS NOISE WHEN I PURCHASED IT, AND IF IT IS NORMAL, WHY WASN'T IT MAKING IT DURING THE TEST DRIVE? *JB

ODI #10134814SUSPENSION

FRONT SUSPENSION SAFETY DEFECTS. NEW 2005 ACURA RSX REQUIRED FRONT STRUT ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENTS DUE TO CLUNKING NOISE WHEN TURNING AT SLOW SPEEDS. STRUT ASSEMBLIES BOTH ON BACK ORDER, TAKING THREE (3) WEEKS FOR REPAIRS. AMERICAN HONDA MOTORS CO., INC., ORIGINALLY CLAIMED THAT "THE FIX" FOR THE PROBLEM, ("NOT A SAFETY ISSUE") WAS TO APPLY A "SPECIAL LUBRICANT" COMING FROM JAPAN, AS DETERMINED BY "OUR ENGINEERS." TEN (10) DAYS LATER, HONDA SAYS THAT THE "SPECIAL LUBRICANT" WAS NOT "THE FIX" BUT THAT "SHAVING DOWN THE LOWER SPRINGS WAS "THE FIX." WITHIN AN HOUR, AMERICAN HONDA MOTORS CO., INC., BY ITS LEGAL TEAM, CLAIMED THAT "SHAVING DOWN" THE SPRINGS WAS "NOT ENTIRELY ACCURATE" FOR THE CURRENT FIX, BUT RATHER THEY WOULD "TWEAK" THE SUSPENSION. NO FURTHER DESCRIPTION OF THIS "TWEAKING" WAS PROVIDED. FINALLY, AFTER DECIDING NOT TO REPURCHASE THE CAR WITH DEFECTIVE STRUT ASSEMBLIES, HONDA CLAIMS THAT ITS ENGINEERS HAVE DETERMINED THAT THE STRUTS WERE BENT IN SHIPPING. THE CURRENT "FIX" IS TO BEND THE STRUT IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION, I.E., AWAY FROM THE SPRING, AND THAT ALL WILL BE WELL. NO CONSIDERATION WAS GIVEN TO ANY METALLURGICAL DEFECTS FROM BENDING THE STEEL IN OPPOSITE DIRECTION, NOR ON ANY OTHER PART OF THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM AS A RESULT OF THIS "TWEAKING." THE IDENTICAL SUSPENSION DEFECTS HAVE BEEN REPORTED TO THIS WEBSITE AS EARLY AS APRIL 6, 2005, AND TO VARIOUS ACURA DEALERS IN THE WASHINGTON METROPOLITAN AREA. A SINGLE DEALER REPLACED STRUTS ON FOUR (4) 2005 RSX CARS. MOREOVER, HONDA HAS KNOWN ABOUT THE DEFECT AT LEAST SINCE MID-JULY, 2005, IF NOT BEFORE, YET REFUSES TO REPLACE THE CAR OR TO DEFINITIVELY DETERMINE THE PRECISE PROBLEM AND A UNIFORM AND PROPER CORRECTION SINCE THE REPLACEMENT STRUTS HAVE THE SAME DEFECT AS THOSE INSTALLED ORIGINALLY. INDEED, HONDA ADMITS THAT ALL 2005 RSX BASE MODEL CARS HAVE THE PROBLEM BECAUSE A NEW STRUT SUPPLIER HAS BEEN PROVIDING THE STRUTS AND SPRINGS THAN HAS DONE SO PREVIOUSLY. *JB

ODI #10134657SUSPENSION

WHEN TURNING LEFT AT SLOW SPEEDS (15-25 MPH) I HEAR A CLICKING/CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT LEFT OF THE CAR. I JUST PURCHASED THE CAR 2006 RSX AND WILL BE TAKING IN TOMORROW TO SEE IF THEY CAN FIX IT. ALTHOUGH I HAVE READ THAT MANY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH NO FIX. *JB

ODI #10133274SUSPENSION

THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL STARTED MAKING A BANGING NOISE GOING OVER SOME BUMPS WITH A BRAND NEW AUTOMOBILE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY DENIED ANYTHING WAS WRONG. AGAIN, THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR WITH LESS THAN 500 MILES ON IT. IT STARTED OCCURRING WITH 100 MILES ON IT.*JB

ODI #10133276VISIBILITY

THE HVAC (AIR CONDITIONING / HEATING SYSTEM / DEFROSTER) STARTED SMELLING BAD WITH A TOXIC MILDEW ODOR THE VERY FIRST DAY WITH A BRAND NEW AUTOMOBILE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY DENIED ANYTHING WAS WRONG. HOWEVER, THEY PUT A CITRUS SMELLING CHEMICAL INTO THE VENTS THAT ONLY PARTIALLY MASKED IT. IT SMELLS BAD AFTER RUNNING THE AIR CONDITIONING FOR A COUPLE OF MINUTES AND TURNING IT OFF, LEAVING THE FAN RUNNING FOR A FEW MINUTES, WHILE DRIVING. THEN, IT DISAPPEARS AFTER A FEW MINUTES. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE CAR OR CYCLE THE AIR CONDITIONING. AGAIN, THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR WITH LESS THAN 500 MILES ON IT. IT STARTED OCCURRING WITH 100 MILES ON IT. I RENTED ANOTHER (DIFFERENT BRAND) CAR FOR A WEEK WITH NO PROBLEMS. *JB

ODI #10133183UNKNOWN OR OTHER

PLEASE MOVE ODI 10132694 AND 10132696 TO THE HONDA RSX AREA AS I WAS UNABLE TO FIND THE HONDA RSX AREA WHEN FIRST SUBMITTING THE COMPLAINT. THANK YOU. *JB

ODI #10132696SUSPENSION

THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL STARTED MAKING A BANGING NOISE GOING OVER SOME BUMPS WITH A BRAND NEW AUTOMOBILE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY DENIED ANYTHING WAS WRONG. AGAIN, THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR WITH LESS THAN 500 MILES ON IT. IT STARTED OCCURRING WITH 100 MILES ON IT. THIS REPORT IS FOR A ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE. THERE IS NO SELECTION FOR THE ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE ON THIS WEBSITE (NEXT PAGE). *JB CORRECT VEHICLE ADDED 9/8/2005, DUPLICATE ODI REPORT ALSO EXISTS. *DSY

ODI #10132694VISIBILITY

THE HVAC (AIR CONDITIONING / HEATING SYSTEM / DEFROSTER) STARTED SMELLING BAD WITH A TOXIC MILDEW ODOR THE VERY FIRST DAY WITH A BRAND NEW AUTOMOBILE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY DENIED ANYTHING WAS WRONG. HOWEVER, THEY PUT A CITRUS SMELLING CHEMICAL INTO THE VENTS THAT ONLY PARTIALLY MASKED IT. IT SMELLS BAD AFTER RUNNING THE AIR CONDITIONING FOR A COUPLE OF MINUTES AND TURNING IT OFF, LEAVING THE FAN RUNNING FOR A FEW MINUTES, WHILE DRIVING. THEN, IT DISAPPEARS AFTER A FEW MINUTES. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE CAR OR CYCLE THE AIR CONDITIONING. AGAIN, THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR WITH LESS THAN 500 MILES ON IT. IT STARTED OCCURRING WITH 100 MILES ON IT. I RENTED ANOTHER (DIFFERENT BRAND) CAR FOR A WEEK WITH NO PROBLEMS. THIS REPORT IS FOR A ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE. THERE IS NO SELECTION FOR THE ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE ON THIS WEBSITE (NEXT PAGE). *JB CORRECT VEHICLE ADDED 9/8/2005, DUPLICATE COMPLAINT EXISTS. *DSY

ODI #10132698SUSPENSION

THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE PULLS TO THE SIDE WHEN USING THE BRAKES ON THE FREEWAY. WHEN I HAD MY MECHANIC CHECK IT, HE FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL HAD EXCESSIVE TOE-IN AND CORRECTED IT. THIS IS WITH A WITH A BRAND NEW AUTOMOBILE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR OTHER PROBLEMS ALSO AND THEY DENIED ANYTHING WAS WRONG. AGAIN, THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR WITH LESS THAN 500 MILES ON IT. IT STARTED OCCURRING WITH 100 MILES ON IT. THIS REPORT IS FOR A ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE. THERE IS NO SELECTION FOR THE ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE ON THIS WEBSITE (NEXT PAGE). *JB

ODI #10132701AIR BAGS

THIS IS A SAFETY DESIGN FAILURE WHEREBY THE FRONT PASSENGER CAN EASILY GET THEIR FEET TRAPPED AND/OR BROKEN IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE SOME UNKNOWN OEM PIECE OF EQUIPMENT IS LOCATED WHERE THE FEET NORMALLY GO. IT IS PROBABLY PART OF SOME AIR BAG ASSEMBLY. THE ONLY EXCEPTION, WHERE THIS WOULD NOT BE A PROBLEM, IS IF THE PASSENGER HAD VERY SMALL FEET. THIS HAS NOT BEEN REPORTED TO THE DEALER. THIS REPORT IS FOR AN ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE. THERE IS NO SELECTION FOR THE ACURA RSX AUTOMOBILE ON THIS WEBSITE (NEXT PAGE).*JB

ODI #10132474SUSPENSION

ACURA RSX TYPE-S MODEL, 1,500 MILES OLD. TURNING WHEEL AT SLOW SPEED HEARING POPPING/CLUNKING/CLICKING NOISE IN FRONT, VERY HIGHLY POSSIBLY THE FRONT SUSPENSION/STRUT/SPRING BEING DEFECTIVE. POSSIBLY HIGH SPEED AS WELL BUT PROBABLY CAN'T HEAR IT. *JB

ODI #10132475SUSPENSION

ACURA RSX TYPE-S MODEL, 1,500 MILES OLD. TURNING WHEEL AT SLOW SPEED HEARING POPPING/CLUNKING/CLICKING NOISE IN FRONT, VERY HIGHLY POSSIBLY THE FRONT SUSPENSION/STRUT/SPRING BEING DEFECTIVE. POSSIBLY HIGH SPEED AS WELL BUT PROBABLY CAN'T HEAR IT.*JB

ODI #10130042SUSPENSION

BOUGHT RZX ACURA HAD IT FOR TWO WEEK LOUD NOICE FRONT RIGHT THE ORDER A NEW STRUT ASSEMBLY REPAIRED CAR. 4 DAYS LATER SAME SOUND WENT BACK THEY SAID SPRING IS RUBBING THE STRUT BASE FIXED IT SO FAR ITS BEEN TWO DAYS WE WILL SEE. IT IS HORRIBLE TO SAVE AND SPEND SO MUCH FOR A NEW CAR HAVE IT FOR 2 WEEKS AND ITS JUNK ALREADY UNBELIVEABLE...

ODI #10116889SUSPENSION

SQUEAKY FRONT RIGHT SUSPENSION WHEN BOUGHT NEW AND ALIGNMENT WAS OFF TO THE RIGHT. BROUGHT TO DEALER FOR REPAIR AND REALIGNMENT WHEN ONLY HAD 100 +/- MILES.SERVICE ADVISOR VERIFIED SQUEAK ON SUSPENSION. THEY FIXED THE ALIGNMENT BUT CLAIMED THAT THE NOISE WAS GONE ON SUSPENSION, OR THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE IT. NOW WITH 791 MILES,CAR IS BACK AT DEALER WITH SUSPENSION SQUEAK WORSE THAN BEFORE. FOUND THAT THE FRONT RIGHT STRUT IS BLOWN AND THE PART IS IN "NATIONAL BACK ORDER." THEY SAY THAT IT COULD TAKE WEEKS TO GET THE PART. THEY HAVE NOW HAD MY CAR LONGER THAN I HAVE EVER OWNED IT. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE, SHAME ON ACURA FOR CALLING THEMSELVES A LUXARY COMPANY.*AK

Annual complaints and reliability score for ACURA RSX — recall years marked in red
081505010020052008201120142017202020232026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 32 total NHTSA complaints filed over 11 years, with the worst year being 2005 (15 complaints).

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 96/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

Notably, despite 32 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.

Red dots on the amber line flag 3 years (2006, 2013, 2018) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$46,614
~$777/mo over 5 yrs
$0.2/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$21,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $46,614 (~$777/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Total recommended deduction−$1,000
HIGH
Verify recall EXTERIOR LIGHTING has been repaired
Recall on record for: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINAT
HIGH
Verify recall EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS has been repaired
Recall on record for: CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMB
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$1,590–$2,030/yr
~$133–$169/mo
Liability Only
$590–$750/yr
~$49–$63/mo
Category: Near-Luxury
21-year-old vehicle: −28% (lower ACV reduces comprehensive/collision cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VINJH4DC54895S011711
Model Year2005
MakeACURA
ModelRSX
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleHatchback/Liftback/Notchback
Doors2
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)1.999221808
Horsepower160

Manufacturer

ManufacturerHONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
Assembly CitySUZUKA
Assembly CountryJAPAN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)JH4
Check Digit (Char 9)9
Model Year Code (Char 10)5
Plant Code (Char 11)S
Sequence (Chars 12–17)011711

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count32
J
1
H
2
4
3
D
4
C
5
5
6
4
7
8
8
9
9
5
10
S
11
0
12
1
13
1
14
7
15
1
16
1
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
J
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
H
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
4
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
DC548
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
9
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
5
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
S
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
011711
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Japan
From VIN position 1 (J)
Model Year Character
"5" → 2005
Unambiguous model year
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 4/19/2026, 5:12:38 AM.