1987 Acura Integra problems
The Honda Integra (Japanese: ホンダ インテグラ, Hepburn: Honda Integura), sold in North America as the Acura Integra and later the Acura RSX, is an automobile produced by the Japanese company Honda from 1985 until 2006, and then since 2021. It succeeded the Quint as a more luxurious and sport-oriented derivative of the Civic. The Integra was one of the launch models for Acura in the US in 1986 alongside the Acura Legend. Throughout its production run, the Integra was highly regarded for its handling and performance. The 1995–2001 Integra Type R is widely regarded as one of the best front-wheel-drive cars of all time.
The Integra nameplate was revived in 2021 after a 16-year hiatus. The Honda Integra nameplate is used for a restyled Honda Civic sedan for the Chinese market, while the Acura Integra nameplate is used for a Civic-based liftback for North America, replacing the Acura ILX.
First generation (1985)
This vehicle debuted in Japan in February 1985 as the Honda Quint Integra, available only at Honda's Japanese dealership sales channel Honda Verno before going on sale a year later in North America as part of the then-new luxury Acura lineup. The three-door liftback was the only model available originally, with a five-door arriving in October 1985. The four-door saloon bodystyle became available in Japan in the autumn of 1986. Only the liftback versions were sold in the U.S. A 1.6 L DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine powered most versions. The engine was the vehicle's most publicized feature, as DOHC, multi-valve engines were not commonplace in entry-level models at the time. In most European countries, only the five-door liftback was offered, as a replacement for the Honda Quint. Typically for European Integras, only the 1.5-liter 85 PS (63 kW; 84 hp) 4 Weber carburetors engine was available. The five-door liftback model was also sold in Australia rebadged as the Rover 416i. Except for in Britain, Honda did not offer the more powerful 1.6 DOHC fuel injection engine (in the UK known as the Integra EX16) in Europe. The ZC engine was also shared with the Honda Concerto, which was sold at newly established Japanese dealership sales channel called Honda Clio, which sold luxury oriented products like the Honda Legend.
In Japan, while the VX- and RX-trimmed four-door (DA2) used the 1.5 L EW5 engine, all other model and trim combinations offered only the DOHC ZC engine, with a carburetor on GS, ZS, and LS trim packages, and PGM-FI on the top level GSi three- and five-door, and the RSi three-door trim package. Vehicles installed with a carburetor earned 15.4 km/L (44 mpg‑imp; 36 mpg‑US) in Japanese Government emissions tests and 115 PS (84.6 kW; 113.4 bhp), and 26 km/L (73 mpg‑imp; 61 mpg‑US) at consistent speeds above 60 km/h (37.3 mph). Vehicles with PGM-FI earned 14.4 km/L (41 mpg‑imp; 34 mpg‑US) in Japanese Government emissions tests with 135 PS (99.3 kW; 133.2 bhp), and 24.5 km/L (69 mpg‑imp; 58 mpg‑US) above 60 km/h (37.3 mph). In Japan, the Integra took the entry level marketing position at Honda Verno, below the sporty Prelude and larger, luxury focused Vigor.
Compared to the US, the European Integra was aimed downmarket and generally lacked equipment, with neither trim level (LX or EX) offering painted bumpers, central locking, power windows, nor air conditioning, even though a small number of fully equipped, left-hand drive fuel-injected Integras were sold in the Netherlands. The Integra EX16 did offer a sunroof, painted bumpers, a rear spoiler and Hi-Fi stereo equipment, but neither electric windows, central locking nor air conditioning were available. This was considered as a drawback to its European competitors such as the Peugeot 309 1.6 injection and the Renault 11 Turbo, that all could be equipped with comprehensive, albeit expensive, equipment. The first Integra never became as popular in Europe as it did in the US, but was praised by most motor magazines for its styling and overall road performance. The styling reflected the popularity of Honda's performance coupe, the Honda Verno sports coupe companion Honda Prelude, with the Integra offering a coupe for added cargo accommodation, and a slightly smaller appearance to the larger Honda Vigor. Largely unencumbered by emissions regulations, British market cars produce 85 PS (63 kW) in the 1.5 and 125 PS (92 kW) in the 1.6-liter EX16.
Being designed as the successor of the Honda Quint, the Integra is closely related to the Civic, although it featured a small list of key upgrades over its smaller stablemate to help merit a price increase over the CRX Si, which was otherwise the sportiest subcompact vehicle being offered by Honda Verno; enlarged 4-wheel disc brakes replaced the small front-disc/rear-drum setup used by the Civic and CRX, suspension calibration was re-worked, better tires were used and a 113-hp DOHC fuel-injected 16-valve engine was used in place of the SOHC unit from the CRX Si. Just like the Prelude and the Vigor of that period, the Integra featured sleek, sporty pop-up headlights, like its Japanese dealership Honda Verno stablemates, with the CRX adopting semi-concealed doors over the headlights. Nearly 228,000 units were sold during the four-year run of the first-generation model, most of them in the United States.
The first-generation Acura Integra came with 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder (D16A1) engine which received an update mid-cycle. The 86–87 engine is commonly called the "Browntop" while the 88–89 engines are referred to as the "Blacktop" due to the color of their valve covers. The improvements in the "blacktop" engine included lighter rods, domed pistons for slightly higher compression, and an electric advance distributor (the "browntop" came with a vacuum advance distributor). The overall gain in performance was about 5 hp (3.7 kW) for 118 hp (88.0 kW).
The Integra received a minor facelift for the 1988 model year which featured slightly reshaped indicator lights, an improved climate control system and an update of the instrument clocks. In Europe, the Integra five-door Liftback was discontinued in October 1989 following the launch of the Rover-based Honda Concerto.
This was the only generation to offer 3-, 4-, and 5-door models. Production of the 5-door liftback ceased in 1988.
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Common 1987 Acura Integra problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1987 Acura Integra, several common problems have been reported:
- Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) Issues: Owners have experienced idle fluctuations, surging RPMs, and stalling due to problems with the Idle Air Control Valve. Cleaning or replacing the IACV may be necessary to address these issues.
- Engine Performance: Some owners have expressed concerns about the engine's power output, with the original D16A1 engine producing around 113 horsepower. Upgrading the powertrain, such as with a small turbo kit, is recommended to achieve higher horsepower levels.
- Mechanical Adjustments: Issues related to idling speed adjustments and mechanical adjustments made during repairs, like adjusting the idling speed, can impact the car's performance and reliability.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and potential upgrades to address performance issues in the 1987 Acura Integra.
Is the Acura Integra a reliable car?
We expect the 2024 Integra to have about average reliability when compared to other new cars. This prediction is based on the Acura brand score.
Why did they stop making Integra?
The RSX was sold as a Honda Integra in Japan and Australia, markets where Acura did not exist. In June 2006, Honda discontinued the Integra after its final 300 cars were sold, due to the shrinkage of the coupe market.
Is Acura Integra worth it?
We think the Integra is at its most well rounded when equipped with its A-Spec with Technology package trim. For not much more money than the base model, you get a substantial number of comfort and convenience features. However, it's pretty boring.
What is so good about Integra?
What else is so great about the Integra Type S? This is simply a car that is a joy to drive in any real-world scenario, from highway commuting to your local backroads. 320 horsepower is produced by the two-liter engine, featuring a big wallop in the way of turbocharged forced-induced boost.
1987 Acura Integra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Integra problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Acura Integra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Acura Integra complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Acura Integra.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-14
- VIN: JH4DA3353HS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-01
- VIN: JH4DA1759HS
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE CONSUMER'S 1987 ACURA INTEGRA LX EXPERIENCED STEERING WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLY FAILURE**CC UPON QUICK REMOVAL OF THE STEERING WHEEL CENTER COVER, A CIRCULAR CRACK WAS DISCOVERED THAT ENCOMPASSED ABOUT 95% OF THE CIRCUMFERENCE SURROUNDING THE STEERING WHEEL RETAINED NUT. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-12
- VIN: JH4DA1740HS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CLUTCH THROW-OUT LEVER BROKE WHICH CAUSED THE CAR TO LURCH FORWARD WHEN IT SHOULD HAVE REMAINED AT STOP. NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-12
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CLUTCH LEVER BROKE WITH CAR STOPPED AND IN GEAR. CAR LURCHED FORWARD INTO PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALK ENDANGERING THE PEDESTIANS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ACURA'S OWNER'S MANUAL MAKES NO MENTION OF THE TIMING BELT. ACURA'S SERVICE MANUAL MAKES NO MENTION OF THE PERIODIC MILEAGE INTERVAL AT WHICH THE TIMING BELT MUST BE REPLACED. ACURA HAS FAILED TO MAKE ANY RECOMMENDATION TO ITS AUTHORIZED SERVICE AGENTS AS TO THE MILEAGE INTERVAL AT WHICH THE TIMING BELT MUST BE REPLACED. AS A RESULT, ACURA VEHICLES ARE NOT BEING PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND ARE STALLING ON HIGHWAYS CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JH4DA185DHS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HATCH BACK STRUTS HAS NOT OPERATED PROPERLY, CAUSING CONSUMER TO BE HIT ON THE HEAD CONTINUOUSLY.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-01
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: THE PIN THAT THE EMERGENCY BRAKE CABLE CONNECTS TO AT BRAKE CALIPER BECOMES RUSTY/BINDING INSIDE CALIPER, CAUSING REAR CALIPERS TO FAIL. ALSO, REPLACED BOTH REAR CALIPERS. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-15
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING WITH HEADLIGHTS ON THEY SOMETIMES FLICKER AND SOMETIMES THEY WILL NOT COME BACK ON. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-25
- VIN: JH4DA3359HS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUB-FRAMES ARE COMPLETELY RUSTING AWAY FROM TORSION BARS; IF THEY SNAP OFF, DRIVER WILL LOOSE CONROL OF VEHICLE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-18
- VIN: JH4DA1858HS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHEN GAS TANK IS FULL GASOLINE VAPORS SEEPS INTO VEHICLES INTERIOR. TT
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-12-08
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TWO SUSPENSION RAILS THAT SUPPORT FLOOR VEHICLE AND TWO WHICH THE TORSION BARS ATTACHED, THERE IS RUST THROUGH ON ONE SUSPENSION RAIL IN ONE SMALL AREA. TT
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-01
- VIN: UNK
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: SEAT MATERIAL NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO ENDURE HEAT/SUN AND NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. *SKD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-06-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING BELT BROKE (4TH VEHICLE FROM 471584). *AK
1987 Acura Integra recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1987 Acura Integra.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES. CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. CHECK THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUG ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, THEN PRESS THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS ANY SIGN OF BREAKAGE OR CRACKING, OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, PROMPTLY CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED HONDA/ACURA DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
- Summary: UNDER HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTACT UNIT COULD LOOSEN AND BECOME DISLODGED.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE AND WOULDAFFECT DRIVER VISIBILITY.
- Remedy: INSTALL A CONTACT UNIT HOLDER THAT WOULD PREVENT LOOSENING.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
- Summary: OWNERS MANUAL INFORMATION REQUIRED BY FMVSS 210, SECTIONS 6A AND 6B WAS OMITTED FROM THE MANUAL.
- Consequence: VEHICLES MANUAL INFORMATION DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS210.
- Remedy: UPGRADE EXISTING MANUALS BY INSERTING ADHESIVE BACKED CORRECTION PAGES.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Acura Integra problems:
1987 Acura Integra Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Jan 31, 2011 ... Car had 260000 miles, and there was no issues whatsoever, it could go 90 miles/hr and had no problems with anything - transmission, steering ...
Wondering if a 1987 Acura Integra ls is worth buying - Honda-Tech ...
Jul 30, 2009 ... I would say it's not worth buying, go for something a little more clean if you can find it. I bought a '94 integra with some issues as those and ...
Battery drains If left for 3-4 days | Team Integra Forums
Oct 18, 2018 ... ... common problem I am not aware of. Save Share ... avianb Nov 29, 2017 · Battery cables for 1987 Integra....help please ... The Team Integra community ...
Alternator Battery Charging Experts HELP!!! | Acura Legend Forum
Sep 6, 2005 ... Stock 1987 Legend LS Coupe 180k (11/07) ... A common problem with time. Causes misc ... acura-legend.com is not in any way affiliated with Honda ...
1987 Integra hatchback 179K miles for $1750. Never owned a car ...
Jan 8, 2021 ... ... votes, 44 comments. 189K subscribers in the Honda community. Home for Honda & Acura enthusiasts ... Only problems were thermostat needs to be ...
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