1990 Acura Legend L from North America - Comments

This review is for a 1990 Acura Legend L Coupe (2 door), 5-Speed

Purchased with 151,322 miles.

1) At 155,878 miles

Replaced Driver's CV Axle.

2) At 159,617 miles

Replaced front brakes.

3) At 161,455 miles

Air Conditioning converter needed replacement and broken power steering hoses.

4) At 167,074 miles

Replaced rear brakes and Driver's CV axle again and alignment done.

5) At 170,879 miles

Replaced Master Cylinder & Brake Flush.

6) At 175,682 miles

Replaced Front O2 Sensor and Front Valve Cover Gasket in order to pass California Smog Test.

7) At 182,585 miles

Replaced Clutch, Alternator & Rear Main Seal Gasket.

8) At 183547 miles

Replaced Anti-Lock Brake Pump.

9) At 184411 miles

Replaced Rear Valve Cover Gasket.

10) At 184700 miles

Replaced Anti-Lock Brake Accumulator.

11) At 186910 miles

Replaced Front Brake Pads and Rotors, Resurfaced Rear Rotors and Coolant Flush.

12) I took the car to two different independent shops for a full inspection. I was told the following needed immediate attention:

brake pump, brake accumulator, brake modulator, belts, hoses, both valve cover gaskets, power steering flush, both lower ball joints, both front brake hoses, oil pan gasket, timing belt.

I have not listed the estimated prices on any of the above problems, it would stagger the average reader.

The car handles honestly and powerfully for a V6/front wheel drive, no rattling noises like with American cars with similar mileage. Although the car is a 1990, the styling can fool people into thinking it is only a couple of years old. When purchased, the car was flawless inside and out. I didn’t abuse the car and drove it locally.

I purchased the car with such high mileage (151,322) since all resources checked concluded it was a quality car that could go over 200,000 miles with dignity. When I first purchased the car, it drove like a dream. Even with all the problems listed above, it still drives like a dream. Unfortunately, it has become a nightmare of not insignificant proportions to my financial health. It’s a real shame because the car is sport, luxury and comfort. However, because of the costs and mental exhaustion involved of keeping it actually rolling, it’s the kind of car that you’d like to give to somebody that has done you wrong.

Id say that kind of work is about consistent with the mileage. Its largely due to old age and lots of miles.

Agree with that. If you really don't want to get involved with car maintenance, you need to buy a new or nearly new car completely ringfenced by a warranty.

I have to agree with the above two comments. I "retired" my 89' L when it hit 181,000. Things like the main relay, alarm system and ABS pump were starting to go. You really need to know/have mechanical ability if you buy one of these past 170,000 miles or you will go broke fast!

I disagree with all of you!!! My 92 Honda Accord (same as the Acura Legend, but not as nice) ran 425,000 miles without ever breaking down, and was still purring when I sold it.

I agree that repairs and replacements are necessary when your Legend's mileage reaches those levels.

I have a 1989 Legend LS, 2-Door and it is turning 189,000 miles. I have replaced many expensive parts, including the air-conditioner and rebuilt the transmission. I had to decide whether I liked the car enough to put the money into it, and keep it running and looking like as new a Legend as possible. I have had the leather and padding for the front seats replaced also.

Just had to pass California smog 10 days ago, and that required a new sensor and catalytic converter.

Had the driver-side hit 7 months ago and decided to add some money to the insurance $ and have the whole car re-painted the same Acura Green. The thing drives like a Champion and still looks like one. Even 5 years ago I had people ask me if it was a new model something or other.

I have been lucky to have a Honda Corp./Acura-Certified Mechanic that is as honest as he is a PHD with Acuras. He has given me an education in the 16 years he has worked on this Legend. I think it's got another 100,000 miles in it. What do you all think?