1998 Acura Slx problems
The Isuzu Trooper is a full-size SUV that was produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu between September 1981 and September 2002. In the domestic Japanese market it was sold as the Isuzu Bighorn, the car was exported internationally mainly as a Trooper but it also received several other nameplates including Acura SLX, Chevrolet Trooper, Subaru Bighorn, SsangYong Korando Family, Honda Horizon, Opel Monterey, Vauxhall Monterey, Holden Jackaroo, and Holden Monterey.
In total, there were two generations of this vehicle: the first, produced between 1981 and 1991; and the second (UBS) produced between 1991 and 2002, with a substantial refresh in 1998.
The Trooper began as a rather basic and somewhat underpowered on- and off-road vehicle, offered only with four-cylinder motor, four-speed manual transmission, and part-time four-wheel drive. The first generation evolved to add both amenities and luxuries, including optional air-conditioning, power windows, and a more powerful V6 engine. The second generation was even more refined and available in two-wheel drive as well as four-wheel drive.
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Common 1998 Acura Slx problems
The 1998 Acura SLX is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues include electrical connection problems, ignition system issues, and transmission failures.
One of the most common problems with the 1998 Acura SLX is related to the electrical connection inside the main relay, also known as the PGM-FI relay. This issue can prevent the fuel pump from pressurizing the fuel lines at start, causing the fuel to not reach the engine. This problem has been reported across various Honda/Acura vehicles since the early 1990s and can be fixed by re-soldering existing connections after removing the relay to a bench for soldering. This is a 30-minute repair.
Another common problem with the 1998 Acura SLX is related to the ignition system. Some owners have reported issues with the ignition fuse or the ignition system itself, causing the engine to turn slowly or not start at all. This issue can be resolved by replacing the ignition fuse or checking the ignition system for any issues.
Transmission failures are also a common problem with the 1998 Acura SLX. From 1998 to 2003, Hondas equipped with the V6 engine and 5-speed automatic experienced failure rates that were among the highest in the industry. This issue was resolved through recalls and a redesign, but it still affected many Acura SLX owners. In 2010, another unexpected hiccup occurred with the introduction of a 6-speed automatic that had trouble handling the heft of the SUV. To avoid transmission issues, it is recommended to stick to models equipped with the improved 5-speed automatic, which has proven to be quite reliable.
In addition to these common problems, the 1998 Acura SLX also has some unique issues, such as problems with the bluetooth system draining the battery. This issue can be resolved by removing or repairing the bluetooth system.
In conclusion, the 1998 Acura SLX is known for several common problems, including electrical connection issues, ignition system problems, and transmission failures. These issues can be resolved through repairs, recalls, and replacements, but they can still affect the reliability and performance of the SUV.
Why was the Acura SLX discontinued?
The SLX received a restyled front end for the 1998 model year, but continued to sell poorly and was ultimately discontinued after 1999. It is said that sales were affected by bad press when the 1996-1997 models were rated "Not Acceptable" by Consumer Reports for their tendency to roll over during testing.
Are there any problems with the Acura MDX?
Acura MDX owners have reported problems with their air conditioning systems, including issues with refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, and inadequate cooling. Regular maintenance of the air conditioning system—such as refrigerant level checks and cleaning of the condenser—can help prevent these issues.
Is Acura still a luxury brand?
Acura is a luxury automotive brand! Acura models offer high quality, sophisticated builds, top-of-the-line technology, premium safety features, and much more. Explore our new and certified pre-owned models to see which of these luxurious vehicles fit your driving needs. Readd on to explore the Acura brand!
Is Acura a luxury model?
Acura is a luxury brand that offers the highest of quality in terms of interior amenities and drive quality.
1998 Acura Slx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Slx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Tires problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Acura Slx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Acura Slx complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Acura Slx.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-04
- VIN: JAEDJ58X8W7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY 1998 ACURA SLX, WITH 122,000 MILES, REQUIRES A NEW ENGINE. THE CAR DEVELOPED A LOUD SLAPPING NOISE AND WAS DIAGNOSED BY 2 MECHANICS AS A BROKEN PISTON SKIRT. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THESE CARS - A RESULT OF A MISMATCH BETWEEN THE ISUZU ENGINE AND THE ACURA TRANSMISSION. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: JAEDJ58X0W7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IN JUNE OF 2003, WE TOOK OUR 1998 ACURA SLX W/45K MILES ON IT INTO STEVENS CREEK ISUZU DEALERSHIP FOR A MAJOR SERVICE AND TO CHECK OUT THE "PINGING/GRINDING" NOISE THAT WE HAD BEEN HEARING FOR A LONG TIME. WE WERE TOLD THEY COULDN'T DUPLICATE THE NOISE. IN JUNE 2004, WE TOOK IT TO THE RENO ISUZU FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND TO CHECK OUT THE NOISE AND WE WERE TOLD THAT WE NEEDED A NEW ENGINE. OUR CAR NOW HAS 54K MILES ON IT. WE TOOK IT TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC SHOP FOR A SECOND OPINION AND WERE TOLD THAT A ROD WAS BLOWN AND A NEW ENGINE WOULD BE NEEDED. THE CAR IS STILL IN THE SHOP. WE PAID $4K FOR A NEW ENGINE SO FAR AND WILL OWE ABOUT $3K IN LABOR & MISC. PARTS. WE FEEL THAT SINCE THIS PROBLEM STARTED WHILE STILL UNDER "MILEAGE" WARRANTY BUT COULD NOT BE DIAGNOSED, ACURA/ISUZU SHOULD PAY FOR THE ENGINE AND LABOR THAT WE HAVE INCURED. OUR MILEAGE IS EXTREMELY LOW AND THERE SHOULD BE NO REASON TO REPLACE THE ENGINE THIS SOON. WE OWN A 1993 JEEP CHEROKEE THAT HAVE 117K MILES ON THE ORIGINAL ENGINE! WE HAVE READ MANY COMPLAINTS ON OTHER WEBSITES ABOUT THE ACURA/ISUZU ENGINES BLOWING SO EARLY. WE ARE VERY DISAPPOINTED AND WILL NEVER RECOMMEND NOR BUY AN ACURA/ISUZU AGAIN.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-20
- VIN: JAEDJ58X5W7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED SHE HEARD KNOCKING AND A LOUD PINGING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. SHE THEN PULLED OVER AND HER HUSBAND CHECKED THE VEHICLE AND SAW THAT THE OIL WAS EMPTY ALTHOUGH SHE HAD AN OIL CHANGE BEFORE THE TRIP. ALL OF THE OIL SPILLED FROM THE ENGINE. ENGINE HAD BLOWN. *AK *SC *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JAEDJ58X4W7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THROTTLE SUCKED TO THE GROUND AND WOULD NOT RELEASE WHEN BRAKES APPLIED, WHEN EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS EXTENDED. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-20
- VIN: JAEDJ58X8WB
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: UNABLE TO STEER STRAIGHT LINE AT 70 MPH 95 DEGREES, WANDERS OVER ROAD, OKAY WHEN TIRES COLD. *AK( DOT NUMBER: CLL417 TIRE SIZE: P245/70R16 )
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-03
- VIN: JAEDJ58XXW7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE QUICK DISCONNECT GAS TANK CONNECTION CAME LOOSE ON THE HIGHWAY. DRIVER IS UNAWARE OF LEAK UNTIL MADE AWARE OF IT BY SOMEONE ELSE.
1998 Acura Slx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Acura Slx.
- Manufacturer: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED
- Components: POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE TRANSFER GEARBOX FLANGE NUTS WERE NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED, CAUSING THE NUTS TO LOOSEN.
- Consequence: IF THE FLANGE NUTS LOOSEN, THE PROPELLER SHAFT CAN SEPARATE, RENDERING THE VEHICLE INOPEATIVE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FRONT AND REAR FLANGE NUTS AND, IF FOUND LOOSE, TIGHTEN TO SPECIFIED TORQUE AND SECURED STAKED AT TWO PLACES.
Negative 1998 Acura Slx car reviews
Positive 1998 Acura Slx car reviews
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Great truck! It has nice features and is very reliable.
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This thing is great! The 4-wheel drive works well, and it holds plenty of gear in the back. While it may not handle like a BMW, no SUV does.
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I love the size of this SUV! It has lots of storage space in the back and plenty of headroom. Plus, the back seat is spacious enough to fit three carseats!
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Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my SLX. Until recently, it has held up very well and I had planned to keep it for another five years. Unfortunately, the crossover pipe from the head just went bad and the cost of parts is quite high. It could cost up to $3500 if both pipes need to be replaced. This is due to the limited supply and demand of parts for the SLX, as not many were made. While I loved my SLX, I would recommend against buying a used one. Instead, I suggest spending your money on an MDX. I wish I had done so myself. It was a mistake made by Acura, and unfortunately, SLX owners will suffer. Thank you for taking the time to read my experience.
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Plenty of room. The family really enjoys the large sunroof. We are so glad we got it for a great price (paid 17k) one year ago. We haven't had any issues so far.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Acura Slx problems:
Acura SLX Questions - Acura SLX Owners - Represent - CarGurus
Feb 12, 2015 ... I am the proud new owner of an 1998 Acura SLX. ... Their common problems include noisy lifters especally on start up. ... It sits high enough to ...
1998 Acura SLX Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1998 Acura SLX Problems ... Incorrect oil in rear differential may cause cl... Using the incorrect oil in the rear differential on cars with a limited ...
I'm Officially Insane: Acquiring a (Cheap) 1997 Acura SLX – the ...
Jan 1, 2019 ... Odometer (NSX): 113832 Odometer (SLX): 178359 Oh no I didn't. Oh, yes I did. Roll those eyes! On August 18, 2017, I got an email - as I ...
Strange No Start problem - 1998 Trooper/slx | Isuzu SUV Forum
Dec 26, 2013 ... Strange No Start problem - 1998 Trooper/slx ... a) Is there a common gremlin that can cause this? ... 1998 Acura SLX. OME 929s and front crank ...
Other years of Acura Slx
Are you having problems with your 1998 Acura Slx?
Ross Corwin 2024-11-18
This SUV is reliable and has a great size. It's bigger than most, but not as cumbersome as a Tahoe.
Antwan Mayer 2024-09-26
We purchased this vehicle used three years ago with 120,000 miles already on it. Surprisingly, we have not had to perform any maintenance on it despite having driven it over 30,000 additional miles since then. It's essentially a dressed-up Trooper, and while we were initially concerned about the Isuzu engine burning oil, we have not experienced any issues with it even after 150,000 miles. The previous owner had used synthetic oil, which we have continued to use, and the oil still looks fresh after 3,500 miles. Perhaps we were lucky to find a great one, but this car has been fantastic, especially considering the price of used vehicles. The only downside is its poor gas mileage for a smaller SUV, which is comparable to that of a Suburban despite being half the size. Additionally, it rides a bit like a truck.
Reymundo Buckridge 2024-08-16
It's great to hear that you have a nice vehicle with lots of space and that it runs well. While it may not hug the road like some other vehicles, it's still pretty reliable. It's important to drive carefully, especially since it has a lower roll-over rating. Additionally, it's good to know that it delivers when towing and hauling. Thank you for sharing your experience!