Analysis & Care

Use the following data to assist you if you're considering a CRX of your own, or to help you maintain your CRX if you're an owner.

PROS:

• Responsive, "tossable" handling. The CRX, like the VW Rabbit GTI before it, were the frontrunners of the "pocket rocket" revolution during the 80's. The CRX's handling has a very direct, go-cart-like feel. The proverbial wolf in sheep's clothing -- tons of fun.
• Firm, precise steering. Surprisingly stable at high speeds for such a light car.
• Smooth, tight gearbox. Honda gearboxes are the best, hands down.
• Responsive, free-revving engine. Like another 80's classic, the Toyota MR2, this engine wants to pull strongly all the way to its 6500 RPM redline.
• Great visibility and driver seating position. Large windows and a sloped hoodline (a great feature on all Hondas/Acuras) give the driver an "up-close" view of the road and an immediate sense of where the car's four corners are. With the side-mirrors-turned-outward technique, you can easily eliminate driver blind spots.
• Excellent ergonomics. All instrumentation and controls are clearly and immediately visible and within reach.
• Interior space. People sizing in at 6 feet + are astonished to sit comfortably in such a small car.
• Gas mileage. For a car designed for spirited driving, fuel economy in the mid 30 MPG's is an excellent fringe benefit.

CONS:

• Choppy ride. The car's tight suspension and short wheelbase can make life difficult, especially over rough roads.
• Excessive body roll during hard cornering.
• No power assist on steering. Makes parking more like a workout. :-)
• Rear visibility limited due to steep angle of rear hatch window. (Second-gen CRXs addressed this problem with a see-through rear tailgate.)
• Brake rotors are sometimes prone to overheating and warping, causing shimmy during braking.
• Carburetor quirks (base plate) appear on high-mileage cars, causing a cold engine to die right after starting.
• CV joint boots prone to tearing, and must be monitored frequently to avoid costly CV joint repairs.

OPTIMUM MAINTENANCE:

• Oil changes every 3000 miles. A CRX with this kind of care is virtually guaranteed to last.
• Transmission fluid changes every 15,000 miles.
• Valve adjustments every 30,000 miles.
• Timing belt replaced at (every) 60,000 miles.
• Water pump replaced at (every) 100,000 miles or preferably with timing belt.
• '84-'86 CRXs should have wiper motors replaced due to 1988 recall.

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