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Acura Legend Problems

The Acura Legend was Honda's flagship luxury sedan from 1986 to 1995, establishing Acura as a credible luxury brand in North America. With 1,010 complaints and no fatalities, it maintained excellent safety for its era. The 1991 model year has the most complaints, while the early 1987 model is often praised for its simplicity and reliability. The Legend offered a compelling alternative to European luxury with Japanese reliability, and its 3.2L V6 remains known for durability.

1,010
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
10
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

1991
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1986 1987 1995

Common Problem Categories

Equipment 218
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 134
Air Bags 104
Vehicle Speed Control 82
Power Train 78

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
1995 40 0 2 0 Good
1994 52 0 10 8 Average
1993 60 0 8 0 Average
1992 222 0 30 10 Below Average
1991 316 0 32 12 Avoid
1990 90 0 22 2 Average
1989 94 0 12 2 Average
1988 84 0 22 0 Average
1987 18 0 6 0 Good
1986 34 0 2 0 Good

Acura Legend Years to Avoid

1991, 1992, 1993

Best Acura Legend Years

1987, 1988, 1989, 1995

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Acura Legend?

The automatic transmission is the Legend's Achilles heel, with failures common around 100,000-150,000 miles. The 3.2L V6 may develop timing belt issues if maintenance is neglected. Electrical problems and power window failures increase with age.

Which Acura Legend years should I avoid?

The 1991 model year has the highest complaint count. The second-generation models (1991-1995) have more transmission complaints than the first generation. Manual transmission examples avoid this concern entirely.

Is the Acura Legend reliable?

The engine is extremely reliable with proper maintenance. The automatic transmission is the weak point. First-generation models (1986-1990) are simpler and often more dependable. A manual transmission Legend is the most reliable choice.

Is the Acura Legend a classic car?

The Legend has developed a following, particularly the 1991-1995 coupe and manual sedan variants. Clean examples are increasingly valued. The Legend represents the beginning of Japanese luxury car credibility in America.

Should I buy a used Acura Legend?

For a classic Japanese luxury experience, the Legend rewards patient searching. Prioritize manual transmission models or those with documented transmission service. The first generation offers simpler, more reliable ownership.