Is the 2002 Acura RSX a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B7.5/10
Solid choice if transmission is in good condition and has been well-maintained.
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Pros
- Sporty design and handling
- Reliable engine
- Good fuel economy
Cons
- Transmission issues can be costly
- Interior plastics prone to wear
- Limited rear seat and cargo space
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
23 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,500/yr
Expected lifespan
200,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Transmission shifting problems
- Faulty power window motors
- Clutch failure in manual transmissions
- Suspension wear issues
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (4)
The 2002 Acura Rsx has 4 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Exterior Lighting — Headlights (campaign 06E023000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Exterior Lighting — SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREME…
- Exterior Lighting — CERTAIN ALFAOTTO COMBINATION HEADLAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR V…
- Exterior Lighting — CERTAIN 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 M…
- Exterior Lighting — Headlights — CERTAIN 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 VEH…
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.