2002 Acura Rsx Problems
The 2002 Acura RSX has 91 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls, with transmission and engine issues being the most reported problems. Based on 91 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2002 Acura Rsx has 91 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Transmission / Drivetrain.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2002 Acura Rsx Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 3 2002 Acura Rsx trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 3 trims analysed.
2002 Acura Rsx Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
ACURA RSX 2002 has 91 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls. Top issues include transmission/drivetrain (30 complaints) and engine problems (21 complaints). Airbag malfunctions (14) also reported. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Acura
- Model
- Rsx
- Model year
- 2002
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 91
- Crash-related complaints
- 10
- Safety recall campaigns
- 4
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 24
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 21 / 28
- Fuel type
- Premium Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2002 Acura Rsx problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Engine Problems
Airbag Malfunctions
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Engine Problems, Airbag Malfunctions. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2002 Acura Rsx?
The 2002 Acura RSX may be worth considering only if you are prepared for potential transmission or engine repairs. With only 91 complaints across one model year, the data is limited, so proceed with caution and a thorough inspection.
Transmission and engine problems are costly to repair and can affect drivability. Airbag malfunctions (14 complaints) also raise safety concerns.
May Suit
This year may suit a buyer who is mechanically inclined or willing to invest in pre-purchase inspections and potential repairs.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a worry-free, low-maintenance vehicle should avoid this year due to the high number of transmission and engine complaints.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2002 Acura Rsx
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission for slipping, hard shifting, or unusual noises.
- Check engine for leaks, misfires, or check engine light codes.
- Verify airbag system functionality and recall status.
Before You Close the Deal
- Have a mechanic inspect the transmission and drivetrain thoroughly.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and transmission repairs.
- Test drive to check for transmission slipping or engine hesitation.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2002 Acura Rsx, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2002 Acura RSX shows a low confidence level due to limited data. The top concerns are transmission/drivetrain (30 complaints) and engine problems (21 complaints), which may indicate potential reliability issues. Buyers should prioritize inspecting these systems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, the 2002 RSX has a moderate complaint count, but data is limited to one year, making direct comparisons difficult.
Recall context: With 4 recalls, it is essential to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
- Transmission/drivetrain accounts for 30 of 91 complaints, the highest category.
- Engine problems total 21 complaints, the second most reported issue.
- Airbag malfunctions are reported in 14 complaints, indicating a potential safety concern.
- Transmission / Drivetrain issues are the most frequent complaint.
- Engine Problems are the second most common issue.
- Airbag Malfunctions are a notable safety-related concern.
Full breakdown
All 2002 Acura Rsx complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2002 Acura Rsx. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 30 | 1 | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 21 | — | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 14 | 6 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 3 | 1 | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Other | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 1 | 1 | — | — | |
| Air | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2002 Acura Rsx. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2022 Acura RSX. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that there were holes underneath the front driver’s and passenger’s side seats. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacture…
The car stopped at an traffic intersection when making a left turn. Fortunately, the traffic was light. Later, a broken driver side cv axel was identified, which had sever corrosion inside the damper. the narrowest diameter is only 16mm vs 25mm of the axel.
THE LIGHT FOR MY AIR BAG IS ON AND THE PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT FLICKERS ON TOO. THE CRUSE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK.
MY CAR HAD A STRONG GAS SMELL INSIDE AND OUTSIDE VEHICLE WHENEVER I DROVE IT. I LOOKED AND FOUND THAT THE GAS PUMP PLASTIC HOUSING WAS CRACKED IN MULTIPLE PLACES AND A LARGE AMOUNT OF GAS HAD LEAKED INTO THE COMPARTMENT UNDER THE SEAT AND DOWN BELOW MY VEHICLE.
WHILE DRIVING I STARTED TO SMELL FUEL IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. UPON INSPECTION OF THE FUEL PUMP, I DISCOVERED THAT THE PLASTIC ON TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP HAD CRACKED FILLING UP THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK COVER WITH RAW FUEL. SOME OF THE FUEL HAD MADE ITS WAY INTO THE PASSENGER CO…
EVER SINCE I PURCHASED THE CAR IT HAS HAD A SMELL OF GAS. I THOUGHT IT WOULD GO AWAY AFTER A CERTAIN TIME BUT IT DIDN'T SO I GOT THE CAR CHECKED OUT. I COME TO FIND OUT IT HAS A GAS LEAK. THIS IS SOMETHING VERY DANGEROUS BECAUSE IT PUTS MY LIFE AT RISK AND IF ANYTHING HAPPENS THE…
HEADLAMPS ARE VERY DULL MAKING VISIBILITY AT NIGHT VERY DIFFICULT. THERE IS CURRENTLY AN AFTERMARKET RECALL FOR EXTERIOR LIGHTING FROM (4) MFG'S. I BELIEVE I HAVE ORIGINALS FROM THE MANUFACTURER.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA RSX. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN, THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY MALFUNCTIONED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO TURN. AFTER TURNING THE ENGINE OFF AND RESTARTING THE VEHICLE, IT RESUMED …
WHILE DRIVING APPROX 60 MPH FREEWAY, MY CAR SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING STARTED RUNNING VERY ROUGH AND NOISILY AND SHUDDERED, A VERY FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE. MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN PERFECTLY MAINTAINED SINCE PURCHASE AND HAD ONLY A FEW WEEKS EARLIER UNDERGONE A 75,000 MILE TUNE-UP. …
2002 ACURA RSX. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH VALVE ASSEMBLY *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A DRC CODE OF 91077. THE DEALER FOLLOWED THE REPAIR STEP IN ORDER TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THEY INSTALLED 17120-PPA-A01 VALVE ASSEMBLY. HOWEVER, WHEN SHE WENT TO PI…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA RSX TYPE S. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10-60 MPH, THE THIRD GEAR SHIFTED OUT OF GEAR. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS A VERY LOUD GRINDING NOISE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY A DEALER NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CO…
2002 FORD EXPLORER XLT 4.0 LITER JERKS WHEN ENGAGING INTO REVERSE. VEHICLE JERKS HARD ENOUGH THAT THE BRAKES ARE NOT ENOUGH TO STOP IT FROM MOVING. NO OTHER GEAR IS LIKE THIS. UPON FURTHER STUDY FROM ONLINE JOURNALS AND DISCUSSIONS PAGES AS WELL AS SPEAKING WITH TRANSMISSION TECH…
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA RSX. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE SRS SERVICE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WOULD NOT LATCH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE SEAT BELT WAS REPLACED. THE VE…
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA RSX. WHEN SWITCHING FROM SECOND TO THIRD GEAR, THE SHIFTER WOULD POP OUT OF GEAR AND MAKE A GRINDING NOISE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT ASSIST BECAUSE THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WE…
I'VE HAD TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS EVER SINCE I PURCHASED THE NEW RSX IN 02... THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN WIDELY REPORTED ON THE INTERNET... HOWEVER ACURA HAS FAILED TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE... THE PROBLEM ONLY GOT WORSE OVER TIME AND FINALLY THE ENGINE BLEW OUT COMPLETELY AND STARTING SMOKI…
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA RSX. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE SRS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT CONTROL PANEL, WHICH INDICATED THAT THE RESTRAINT ASSEMBLY WAS INOPERATIVE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 0…
I WAS DRIVING AND SHIFTED FROM 2ND TO THIRD AND I LET OUT THE CLUTCH AT 30 MPH AND THE TRANSMISSION CAME APART WITH GEARS ON THE GROUND. ACURA NEVER CALLED THE WARRANTY COMPANY SO IT WAS NEVER FIXED AND THEY REPOSED IT. *TR
MY BUSINESS PURCHASED TWO BRAND NEW 2002 ACURA VEHICLES, A CL AND A TL IN SEPT. OF 2001. THE TRANSMISSION ON OUR TL WAS REPLACED 4 TIMES FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE ALL OF THE TRANSMISSIONS ON THESE MAKE/MODELS ARE BAD AND WHEN THEY GO OUT ACURA PROMISED TO REPLACE THEM AS LONG AS WE …
MY 2002 MDX HAS 75,000 MILES AND NEEDS THE ENGINE MOUNTS REPLACED. IT WAS REPORTED BY LOTS OF PEOPLE THAT ACURA'S DESIGN FLAWS ON THE MOTOR MOUNTS FOR 2001, 2002 MDX. LOTS OF DISCUSSIONS MAY BE FOUND ATHTTP://WWW.TOPIX.NET/FORUM/AUTOS/ACURA-MDX/T54QBSPDKRMCCNV0A IT IS A DISASTER…
MIL COMES ON WITH DTC P1457 - SIGNALING EVAP BYPASS SOLENOID FAILURE. *TR
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2002 Acura Rsx.
Safety recalls
2002 Acura Rsx recalls
4 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2002 Acura Rsx. With 4 recalls, it is essential to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2002 Acura Rsx buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2002 Acura Rsx reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 91 owner complaints, 10 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2002 Acura RSX may be worth considering only if you are prepared for potential transmission or engine repairs. With only 91 complaints across one model year, the data is limited, so proceed with caution and a thorough inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2002 Acura Rsx?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (30 complaints). #2: Engine Problems (21 complaints). #3: Airbag Malfunctions (14 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2002 Acura Rsx?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2002 Acura Rsx?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2002 Acura Rsx, NHTSA complaints include 10 crash-related reports and 1 fire reports out of 91 total complaints. 11 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2002 Acura Rsx have any recalls?▾
Yes. 4 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2002 Acura Rsx. A major recall area is EXTERIOR LIGHTING. With 4 recalls, it is essential to verify that all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2002 Acura Rsx?▾
The 2002 Acura RSX may be worth considering only if you are prepared for potential transmission or engine repairs. With only 91 complaints across one model year, the data is limited, so proceed with caution and a thorough inspection. Transmission and engine problems are costly to repair and can affect drivability. Airbag malfunctions (14 complaints) also raise safety concerns. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Acura Rsx reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2002 Acura Rsx based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.