1997 Acura 1.6 EL Sport review from North America
"An underpowered city driver"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission was replaced one year after purchase, on warranty.
OEM tires performance was horrible since the day the car was bought - winter performance horrible, I bought winter tires immediately.
Headlight filled up with water within one year - replaced under warranty.
After installing the Acura Gold Trim (emblems) - they peeled after warranty expired.
At 90,000 km the side mirror heater switch broke - had to pay for it, since warranty expired.
At 95,000 km the passenger side motor, which blows air from the AC/heater started to make noise - has to be replaced now - dealer quoted me $300 (approx.)
At 97,000 km Glove Box could not be opened, with my house keys inside - I had to pry it open and one week later paid $80 to replace & install a new hatch.
At 104,000 km the car noises from under the body got really loud - had to replace both rear Stabilizer Links for $220.
General comments?
The car handles much better on NEW tires, the OEM Michelin XGT V4 tires were poor, in summer and especially in winter.
The interior noise is almost unbearable.
The car is ideal for city driving and is not very comfortable for long trips.
The interior light - for viewing map is worthless and I have gotten in the habit of carrying batteries and a flashlight.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1997 - 1.6 EL Sport 1.6 litre VTEC Dependable, dependable dependable |
| Reliable!!! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 9000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 115000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Chrysler LeBaron |
| Date of Entry | 17th August, 2003 |