1986 Acura Legend problems
The Acura Legend is a mid-size luxury car manufactured by Honda from Japan. It was sold in the U.S. and Canada under Honda's luxury brand, Acura, from 1985 until 1995. It was the first flagship sedan sold under the Acura nameplate, until being renamed in 1996 as the Acura 3.5RL. The 3.5RL was the North American version of the KA9 series Honda Legend.
The opportunity for Japanese manufacturers to export more expensive models had arisen with the 1980s voluntary export restraints, negotiated by the Japanese government and U.S. trade representatives, restricting mainstream car sales. The initial success of the Legend and Honda's Acura division in competing against established European and American luxury manufacturers would lead to Toyota and Nissan creating the Lexus and Infiniti brands, respectively, to compete in the luxury car market.
First generation (1986)
Honda introduced the model in Japan on October 22, 1985, to be their premier luxury model, and in North America for the 1986 model year, as the top of the line model for its then-new Acura lineup. Sedan models came to the market first, powered by a 151 hp (113 kW) 2.5 L C25A V6, with coupes making their first appearance in 1987, powered by a new 161 hp (120 kW) 2.7 L C27A engine. Sedans received the new engine for 1988.
The Legend was the first production Honda vehicle to offer a V6 engine. The 1987 Acura Legend LS coupe would be the first Japanese car to offer a driver's side airbag. The Legend was a result of a joint venture with Britain's Austin Rover Group called Project XX that started in November 1981 with the Austin Rover-Honda XX letter of intent signed by the two companies to replace the Rover SD1 and to provide a luxury vehicle for Honda. The Rover Company had a long established reputation as a luxury car in the United Kingdom and Europe, demonstrated with the Rover P6, and Honda wanted to introduce a luxury car for both domestic Japanese and the United States markets. The joint development produced the Legend and the corresponding British version was the Rover 800-series, which was badged under the Sterling brand in the United States and competed with the Legend.
Rover also wanted to return to the American market when they had reportedly sold only 1,500 cars in 1971, and a brief return in 1980, selling 800 Rover SD1s by offering the Sterling.
The Legend won Car and Driver's Ten Best three years in a row and Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1987. Manual-equipped models could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in under 8 seconds and reach a top speed of 135 mph (217 km/h). Sedan models had a drag coefficient of 0.32, while coupes were only 0.30.
When the Legend was introduced, Honda's newly established luxury car division just for the Legend was called Acura, using the advertising slogan "Precision Crafted Performance", and the Legend was offered with one factory installed option, the choice of transmission used, and one trim level. In the 1986 sales brochure, the Legend's full name used was "Legend Touring Sedan". The vehicle was virtually identical in luxury content to the Japanese market V6Zi, but was identical in size and the longer overall length of the top level V6Xi to comply with United States crash standards, using the larger 2.5 V6 engine. The Technics supplied 80W four speaker cassette tape stereo offered four user programmable equalizer settings, and was equipped with a dual diversity antenna, meaning it had a conventional extendable power antenna and an embedded antenna in the rear window. One of the novelty items was a simple volume control rocker switch and a pre-set radio station channel selector installed on the instrument binnacle within reach of the right hand; the opposite side of the instrument binnacle had a button to open, tilt or close the standard equipped glass moonroof with sun shade.
The North American Legend was not offered with some of the items offered in Japan, such as automatic, one-touch climate control, and 100% wool cloth interior in brown. Blue interior was shared with Japan and North America, but brown was not offered in North America, and "sand gray" was offered instead. Exterior colors were matched to only one interior color choice and leather was not offered. Due to the success Honda had with the Legend, it served as an inspiration for the Subaru Legacy with which it shares many visual resemblances and dimensions both inside and out.
In late 1988 for the 1989 model year, the sedan received some minor tweaks, upgrading to the one-piece front headlamps already in use in Japan since the 1985 introduction, a revised front bumper, trunk lid, tail light cluster, and an upgraded double-wishbone rear suspension, with a new alloy wheel appearance. By that time all Legends came equipped with a Honda-designed 4-wheel anti-lock brake system. A driver's side airbag was now standard on all Legends. Other features such as power driver's seat memory for 3 positions were added. High-end LS models featured a trip computer, electronic vehicle monitoring system in the center console and a Bose sound system. It was also joined by the Acura Vigor which set the stage for the larger second generation Legend introduced October 1990.
For the 1990 model year, all Legends came with body-colored side mirrors. Legend coupes had a revised body-colored front grille, new red & clear tail lights, and improved front seats. LS model coupes also received a trunk-mounted lip spoiler. All LS models featured burlwood interior trim. Production of the first-generation models ended in 1990 as a second-generation version became available for the 1991 model year. At least by the 1990 model year, the fuel filler door on the sedan had been moved rearward about 15 cm (5.9 in).
From the exterior, there are only superficial similarities between the Legend and its Rover 800/Sterling cousin. Both cars share the 2.5L and 2.7L Honda engine with 160 hp (119 kW) and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The core structure and chassis design is also common to both cars, however the Rover version has its own exterior panelwork, interior and electrical systems. The Rover was also offered with a 2.0L in-line 4-cylinder engines, however the Legend was only available with V6 power regardless of market. In Japan only, Honda installed a turbocharger with variable geometry in the Legend with the smaller 2.0 L V6, called the "Wing Turbo" for model year 1989.
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Common 1986 Acura Legend problems
The 1986 Acura Legend is known for several common issues, including oil leaks, transmission failure, and power steering system problems.
One of the most common issues with the 1986-1987 Acura Legend is oil leaks, which are caused by worn-out valve cover gaskets and camshaft seals. These components can wear out quickly, leading to oil leaks that can affect the car's performance and fuel efficiency. To address this issue, the valve cover gasket and camshaft seals should be replaced with high-quality parts.
Another common issue with the 1986-1987 Acura Legend is a failing transmission. The automatic transmission is known to fail prematurely, causing slipping and difficulty shifting gears. The solution is to replace the transmission with a new or rebuilt one.
For the 1988-1989 Acura Legend, the most common issue is the power steering system. The power steering pump is known to wear out quickly, causing a whining noise and difficulty steering. The solution is to replace the power steering pump with a new one. Another issue with these models is the suspension system. The shocks and struts are known to wear out quickly, causing a rough ride and poor handling. The solution is to replace the shocks and struts with high-quality parts.
For the 1990 Acura Legend, the most common issue is the automatic transmission. The transmission is known to fail prematurely, causing slipping and difficulty shifting gears. The solution is to replace the transmission with a new or rebuilt one. Another issue with this model is overheating, which is caused by a failing radiator. The solution is to replace the radiator with a high-quality one and flush the cooling system to remove any debris or rust.
Across all years and models of the Acura Legend, there are common issues such as electrical problems and brake issues. Electrical problems, such as failing alternators and batteries, can cause starting issues and electrical system malfunctions. The solution is to replace the alternator and battery with high-quality parts and ensure that the electrical system is properly grounded. Brake issues, such as worn-out brake rotors and pads, can cause poor braking performance and noise. The solution is to replace the brake rotors and pads with high-quality parts and ensure that the brake system is properly maintained and lubricated.
What is the top speed of the 1986 Acura Legend?
Manual-equipped models could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in under 8 seconds and reach a top speed of 135 mph (217 km/h). Sedan models had a drag coefficient of 0.32, while coupes were only 0.30.
What happened to Acura Legend?
By 1995, the writing was on the wall for the Legend and Acura ultimately decided to pull the plug on the model altogether. The Legend was replaced in 1996 with the Acura RL, which the company continued making until 2020, along with some significantly speedier models.
What engine comes in the Acura Legend?
| Acura Legend | |
|---|---|
| Acura | |
| Transmission | Automatic 5-speed, Manual 5-speed, Front wheel drive |
| Engine | 2.7L SOHC V6 (C27A), 3.2L SOHC V6 (C32A) |
| Power | {{{Horsepower and Torque rating}}} |
When did they stop making Acura Legends?
1995
The Acura Legend ceased sale and production as of the 1995 model year. It was replaced by the 1996 3.5 RL.
1986 Acura Legend car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Legend problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Seat belts problems
- Visibility problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Acura Legend vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Acura Legend complaints
The NHTSA has received 17 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Acura Legend.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-23
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WE PURCHASED FOUR GOODYEAR AQUATRED 3 TIRES IN SEPTEMBER 2000. SINCE THAT DATE, THREE OF THE TIRES HAVE FAILED (IN SEPTEMBER AND DECEMBER 2003; AND MARCH 2004). ALL THREE TIRES EXPERIENCED A FAILURE (A BLOWOUT) INVOLVING THE SIDEWALLS OF THE TIRES. WE BELIEVE THE HIGH RATE OF FAILURE IN THE SIDEWALL AREA INDICATES A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. LUCKILY, WE WERE ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF OUR VEHICLE DURING EACH OF THE BLOWOUTS, AS WE WERE TRAVELING ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED ON EACH OCCURRENCE. SINCE THE DATE OF ORIGINAL PURCHASE, WE HAVE PLACED ONLY 33,101 MILES ON OUR VEHICLE TO DATE. THE AQUATRED 3 HAS AN 80,000-MILE WARRANTY RATING.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-08
- VIN: JH4KA2646GC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING IN HEAVY RAIN, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS SUDDENLY STOPPED WORKING, CONSUMER STATES HE WAS INSTANTLY BLINDED WHILE ROUNDING A TURN, AND DROVE OFF THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, CONSUMER STATES THE WIPER MOTOR CONTINUED TO RUN, BUT THE LINKAGE BETWEEN THE MOTOR AND THE WIPERS APPARENTLY FAILED, CAUSING BOTH OF WIPERS TO BECOME DISCONNECTED AND SUDDENLY STOP.*JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-07
- VIN: JH4KA2646GC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I WAS INSTANTLY BLINDED IN HEAVY RAIN WHEN WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING AND RAN OFF THE ROADRKING. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE RETRACTOR DOES NOT RETRACT, LEAVING SEATBELT LOOSE AROUND THE DRIVER. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN VEHICLE. *AK CONSUMER CONTACTED ANOTHER ACURA DEALERSHIP THAT INFORMED HIM THAT SEAT BELTS CAME WITH A LIFETIME WARRANTY AND PROMPTLY FIXED THEM. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JH4KA2648GC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ODOMETER WAS ROLLED BACK. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-28
- VIN: JH4KA2642GC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THERE IS FUEL ESCAPING THROUGH MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE. CONSUMERR STATED THAT IT IS A HEALTH HAZARD. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-10
- VIN: JH4KA2548GC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JH4KA2646GC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT FAILURE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-15
- VIN: JH4KA2645GC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL FILLER PIPE TO THE GAS TANK WAS IMPROPERLY PROTECTED FROM RUST, CAUSING LEAKAGE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-10
- VIN: JH4KA2646GC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: HAD SMELLED GAS WHILE DRIVING, FUEL LEAKING INTO TRUNK OF VEHICLE WHICH IS FOR PERSONAL USE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-15
- VIN: JH4KA2545G6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL FILLER TUBE HAS RUSTED, RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAK.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-03
- VIN: JH4KA2647GC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL FILLER PIPE HAS ROTTED OUT, CAUSING A FUEL LEAK. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-08
- VIN: JH4KA2648GC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL SYSTEM FAILURE, FUEL INJECTORS ARE LEAKING FUEL. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-03-10
- VIN: JH4KA26Y2G6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY PIPE FILLER NECK LEAKS. TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-05
- VIN: JH4KA2648GC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IGNITION KEY CAN BE TAKEN OUT, WHILE IN GEAR, EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JH4KA2644GC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE GAS LINE RIGHT BY TANK RUSTED THROUGH, CAUSING GAS LEAK. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JH4KA2640GC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED UPON SHIFTING GEARS FROM PARK TO REVERSE CRASHING INTO MAILBOX AND RAMP. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
1986 Acura Legend recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1986 Acura Legend.
- 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Acura Legend problems:
Legend Common Problems (Wont Start? Overheating?) | Acura ...
Aug 29, 2007 ... maybe one of you experienced acura legend owners may know why is this happening? please help! i love this car i do not want to get rid of it.
Acura Legend | Car Talk
The drawbacks are a blind spot, mushy steering and sluggish acceleration in high altitude mountain driving. If Acura had not changed the Legend while not ...
Common problems... | Acura Legend Forum
Aug 8, 2006 ... I've been looking into an 88' Acura Legend coupe. The price tag is $2,000, which seems a little cheap for such a good looking car.
Common Problems with 1991 Acura Legend | Q&A
Jan 11, 2013 ... My 1991 Acura Legend is hard to start when cold. Once warmed up, restarting is not a problem. Something happened - Answered by a verified ...
Common Problems with 90' Honda Legend | Acura Legend Forum
Jul 10, 2006 ... Hey welcome to the forums man!! Heres a quick short list: ~Ticking valve lifters ~Slipping auto tranny when not serviced regularly
Other years of Acura Legend
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