2003 model year · 2,780+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,780+ owner reports, the 2003 Acura RSX has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is 3rd Gear Synchro Grind on Manual Transmission with 2,100 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $500 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2002-2006 Acura RSX, the RSX 6-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions are notorious for 3rd gear synchronizer wear, causing a grinding or crunching sensation when shifting into 3rd gear during spirited driving. The brass synchro ring wears prematurely, especially on Type-S models driven aggressively on track.
Replace the 3rd gear synchronizer assembly with the updated Honda brass synchro set. Flush and refill the transmission with Honda MTF — do NOT use any other fluid. For Type-S models seeing track use, consider upgrading to carbon-lined synchros from a performance supplier. Change MTF every 30,000 miles.
Parts and tips from 2,100+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2002-2006 Acura RSX, the RSX AC compressor clutch bearing fails prematurely, typically at 80,000-100,000 miles. The bearing seizes and causes the serpentine belt to squeal or smoke, and the AC stops blowing cold. The same Keihin compressor design is shared with the Civic and other Honda models of the same era.
Replace the AC compressor clutch assembly or the full compressor. Replace the serpentine belt and tensioner if damaged. Evacuate and recharge the system. Use a Denso or OEM replacement compressor for best longevity.
Parts and tips from 680+ owners who fixed this issue
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2006 Acura RSX vehicles manufactured January 18, 2006, through August 12, 2006; and model year 2006-2007 Honda S2000 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2006, through November 13, 2006. The brake booster may be unable to maintain a vacuum when the brake pedal is depressed, decreasing brake assist.
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.
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 MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
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 VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
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According to Au7o's analysis of 2,780+ owner reports, the 2003-2003 Acura RSX has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3rd Gear Synchro Grind on Manual Transmission, AC Compressor Clutch Bearing Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
The 2003-2003 Acura RSX has 2 known issues documented across 2,780+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Acura RSX issues range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The RSX 6-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions are notorious for 3rd gear synchronizer wear, causing a grinding or crunching sensation when shifting into 3rd gear during spirited driving. The brass synchro ring wears prematurely, especially on Type-S models driven aggressively… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: medium.
The RSX AC compressor clutch bearing fails prematurely, typically at 80,000-100,000 miles. The bearing seizes and causes the serpentine belt to squeal or smoke, and the AC stops blowing cold. The same Keihin compressor design is shared with the Civic and other Honda models of the… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
