2001 ACURA NSX

Symptoms: sudden loss of all gears, transmission pops out of gear under load, metallic grinding on engagement, complete transmission lockup

Fix: Transmission removal and rebuild or replacement with updated snap-ring design; 12-16 hours labor for R&R plus internal rebuild time. Many '91-'92 units affected, but some early 2000-2001 cars got leftover defective transmissions from inventory. VIN check is critical.

Estimated cost: $4,500-8,000

Typical onset: 80,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: metallic knocking at idle that worsens with RPM, sudden loss of oil pressure, metal shavings in oil, catastrophic engine seizure if driven after symptoms appear

Fix: Often results from extended oil change intervals or running low on oil. Requires engine removal, teardown, crankshaft inspection/machining, new bearings, and reassembly. Engine-out is 18-22 hours; if crank is damaged, add machine shop time. Many owners opt for short-block replacement at this point.

Estimated cost: $8,000-15,000

Typical onset: 100,000-160,000 mi

Symptoms: slow coolant loss with no visible external leaks, white residue on spark plugs, slight misfire on cold start, sweet smell from exhaust on warm-up

Fix: C32B is an interference engine with timing belt. Head gasket job requires engine-out for proper access due to mid-engine layout; 20-24 hours labor. Always replace timing belt, water pump, tensioners, and cam/crank seals while in there.

Estimated cost: $5,500-8,500

Typical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: ATF puddles under center of car, low transmission fluid warnings, burnt ATF smell, slipping between gears if fluid level drops significantly

Fix: Rubber hoses and metal hard-lines corrode or crack where they route near exhaust. Access requires removing undertray and sometimes exhaust components. 3-5 hours labor to replace cooler lines and top off fluid.

Estimated cost: $800-1,500

Typical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: excessive engine movement on throttle blip, clunking during acceleration/deceleration, vibration through cabin at idle, difficulty engaging gears smoothly

Fix: Rubber mounts crack and separate. Transmission mount is most critical and fails first. All three engine mounts should be inspected and replaced as a set. Mid-engine layout makes access labor-intensive; 6-8 hours for all mounts.

Estimated cost: $1,800-3,200

Typical onset: 70,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: windows move slowly or stop mid-travel, grinding noise when operating windows, windows drop into door and won't raise, one-touch auto function stops working

Fix: Plastic gears in regulator strip, or motor brushes wear out. Door panel removal and regulator replacement; 2-3 hours per side. NLA parts from Acura mean sourcing refurbished units or aftermarket.

Estimated cost: $600-1,200

Typical onset: 90,000+ mi

Symptoms: rough idle and hesitation, fuel smell in cabin or near tank, check engine light with lean codes, hard starting after sitting

Fix: In-tank fuel filter clogs (not easily serviceable without tank drop), and steel fuel lines rust from road salt exposure. Tank drop is 4-6 hours; if tank has internal rust, replacement or professional cleaning required. Expect full fuel system service at this age.

Estimated cost: $1,200-3,000