2002 Acura RSX Reliability ReportKeepScore 88/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2002 Acura RSX
- Scores roughly in line with adjacent Acura RSX years — consistency that often signals a stable platform generation.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (critical severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting.
2002 Acura RSX: Buy or Avoid?
The 2002 Acura RSX, particularly with a manual transmission, stands as one of the most dependable sporty compacts from its era, offering robust Honda engineering and engaging dynamics. While early automatic transmissions pose a significant risk that must be thoroughly vetted, a well-maintained manual example can deliver years of trouble-free enjoyment and represents an outstanding value in the used market. It's a smart choice for those seeking a practical, fun, and highly reliable daily driver.
Biggest Strengths
- Extremely durable K-series engine
- Engaging driving dynamics and handling
- Strong resale value for manual Type-S models
2002 Acura RSX — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that break first on the 2002 Acura RSX. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
Safety Recalls on the 2002 Acura RSX
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
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 REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
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 VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
What breaks on the 2002 Acura RSX?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Acura RSX — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Acura RSX. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2002s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2002 Acura RSX
Parts and accessories matched to your 2002 Acura RSX
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2002 Acura RSX? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Acura RSX's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
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