1990 Honda Crx Problems & Reliability

Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, you have a soft spot for classic cars that have stood the test of time. One such gem is the 1990 Honda CRX, a compact sports car that has captured the hearts of many with its sleek design and spirited performance. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just curious about this iconic ride, today we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of the CRX’s common problems and its overall reliability. So, buckle up as we take a trip down memory lane and explore what makes this car both a beloved classic and a bit of a challenge to maintain. The 1990 Honda CRX is often praised for its nimble handling and impressive fuel efficiency, but like any car that’s been around for a few decades, it has its share of quirks. From rust issues to electrical gremlins, we’ll cover the typical problems you might encounter with this vintage vehicle. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! Despite these challenges, the CRX is renowned for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it a favorite among DIY mechanics and car collectors alike. So, if you’re considering adding a CRX to your garage or just want to reminisce about this classic ride, keep reading to find out what makes it tick and how to keep it running smoothly.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Oil Leak at Spark Plug Area Due to Failing Valve Cover Sealing Rubber/Camshaft Holder O-Ring

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but one common issue that pops up is oil leaks around the spark plug area. This is often due to failing valve cover sealing rubber or a worn camshaft holder O-ring. While it’s a fixable problem, it’s something to keep an eye on to maintain the car’s overall performance.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Warped Front Brake Rotors May Cause Vibration When Braking

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but one common issue that pops up is warped front brake rotors, which can cause vibrations when braking. While this problem can be a bit annoying, its usually not a deal-breaker and can be fixed with a rotor replacement. Overall, the CRX remains a solid choice for those who appreciate its sporty feel and dependable performance.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Plugged Moon Roof Drains May Cause Water Leak

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but one issue to watch out for is the plugged moon roof drains, which can lead to water leaks. This problem isn’t uncommon in older vehicles with moon roofs, and it can cause some inconvenience if not addressed. Regular maintenance and checking the drains can help prevent this issue from becoming a bigger problem.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Oil Leak From Engine and Possible Check Engine Light

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but like any older car, it can have its quirks. One common issue is oil leaks from the engine, which might also trigger the check engine light. While these problems can be a hassle, they are often manageable with regular maintenance and timely repairs.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Grinding Noise From Engine

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but some owners have reported a grinding noise coming from the engine. This issue could be related to worn-out components like the timing belt or water pump, which are common wear-and-tear parts in older vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the CRX running smoothly despite these occasional hiccups.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Coolant Leaking and Engine Overheating

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but some owners have reported issues with coolant leaking and engine overheating. These problems can lead to more serious engine damage if not addressed promptly, so it’s important to keep an eye on the coolant levels and ensure the cooling system is in good condition. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these issues and keep the CRX running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Oil Leaking from Top of Engine

Analysis:

The 1990 Honda CRX is generally known for its reliability, but oil leaking from the top of the engine can be a common issue as the car ages. This problem might be due to worn-out gaskets or seals, which are typical in older vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep this classic ride running smoothly despite these minor setbacks.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Picture of Flagship One

Flagship One

The world's top supplier of programmed OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Engine Control Modules (ECM), Injection Control Modules (IDM), Body Control Modules (BCM), Transmission Control Modules (TCM), Engine Control Units and all other car control units. With over a decade in the business, we are the most reliable source when it comes to programming services for replacement engine control modules.

What Customers Think About Us