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2003 Acura RSX type s

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pricing
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2.1K views 18 replies 5 participants last post by  MoHo  
#1 ·
I’m looking to buy a type s since it seems like it would be a nice daily. I found this 03 type s with 158k miles in really good condition from the original owner, garage kept, clean title. It does have a harsh vibration especially at idle. And the interior smells like mildew not sure what that can be. Other than that it drove fine. What would be a good deal on this?
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#2 ·
A lot of this (asking price/offer price) depends on your location - If you can share what City/State you're in we might be able to help price-check, KBB, or similar for this RSX to help ya out!

*Also, did you ask the owner about the smell and vibration i.e. if they knew about either? If yes, what did they have to say about the two issues?
 
#5 ·
Anywhere from $7k-10k is fair asking price, that's just based on Edmunds alone though (using a Charlotte Zip code):

With the smell and vibration you can try offering $6k, I would see how/if they bite (I'll spare you the full fishing joke reference lol)
 
#6 ·
Asking my chatbot, it states:

For a 2003 Acura RSX Type-S, which is a sought-after model, especially among enthusiasts.

Here’s a more accurate market context:

  1. Private Party Value(Good condition, 158k miles, clean title, well-maintained):
    • Expect $6,000–$10,000, depending on location and demand.
    • The RSX Type-S is a desirable car due to its K20A2 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, and overall reliability. Prices can vary significantly based on modifications and overall condition.
  2. Dealer Pricing:
    • Dealers may list similar cars for $8,000–$12,000, though this typically includes some level of reconditioning or warranty.
    • Dealer inventory tends to have slightly inflated prices compared to private sellers.
  3. Special Cases:
    • An exceptionally well-maintained, low-mileage RSX Type-S could fetch $12,000–$16,000. Conversely, cars with significant mechanical or cosmetic issues could go as low as $4,500–$5,000.
Considerations for This Specific Car:
  • Mildew Smell: This can indicate a water intrusion issue, such as a leaking sunroof, door seals, or HVAC system. Repair costs can range from a simple cleaning (~$100) to major repairs if the water damage is severe.
  • Harsh Vibration at Idle: Common culprits include:
    • Engine mounts: Particularly the front and side mounts (~$300–$500 parts and labor).
    • Idle Control Valve/Throttle Body Cleaning: Less expensive (~$100–$200).
    • Other possibilities include misfires or transmission-related issues, which may cost more to diagnose and fix.
Fair Offer Range:
  • With these issues considered, a good deal would likely be $6,000–$7,500, provided there are no major underlying mechanical or structural problems.
  • If repairs for the vibration and mildew are straightforward, the car could easily be worth $8,000+ after resolving these issues.
*I would await a few more replies by our resident experts here (there are a few here, awesome folks!)
 
#7 ·
KBB in "Very Good" condition ranges from $4,229-$6,918 (Private Party Value) with a Private Party Range of $5,574. This is selected the Standard (preselected) Options when checking price.


Okay, that's it from me, I would still await a few more replies before formulating your own opinion about the price :cool:.
 
#10 ·
Don't rely on KBB. You'l be giving stuff away...unless your buying in that case it is your reference! It seems like ez fixes. Did the guy not drive it for awhile. Just sitting in a garage for a time can cause this. Rubber is kinda like use it or lose it. You can get 50 k out of a set of tires. If you let them sit they will dry rot in no time. Case in point. These cars are drying up all I got say.
 
#11 ·
Are you thinking maybe the motor mounts are all dryed up and one or more might need replacing? Could explain the vibration when running.
 
#14 ·
service manual says to also replace the front engine mount bolt and lock-tab nut. It is the only engine mount where this is mentioned.

I have a rear engine mount "energy suspension" insert for sale for a few $1's if you interested.

I have (3 of 4) OEM engine mounts "used" in good condition if you interested in buying them for a good steal. I do not need them anymore.