Is the 1988 Acura Integra reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 1988 Acura Integra?

The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 1988 Acura Integra have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

1988 Acura Integra

○ Not enough data

1988 Acura Integra
RENDERED 2026-11-01T17:08:51.119Z

Only 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 9
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 1
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

1988: 9 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
1986	5
1987	11
1988	9
1989	16
1990	33
1991	37
1992	28
1993	21
1994	69
1995	52
1996	36
1997	22
1998	21
1999	8
2000	17
2001	6
2023	208
2024	64
2025	11
2026	3

Known problem areas

Only 9 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Power train

3 of 9 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission and axle assembly.

Service brakes

3 of 9 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASHINJURY

Visibility

2 of 9 total reports mention: visibility, most commonly citing switch/wiring and heater core.

FIREINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

While driving at 25 MPH heater core bursted, causing hot water to flow into the passenger's compartment. Driver sustained 2ND degree burns. Acura has been contacted.

NHTSA ODI report, 2000-08-02

The windsheild wiper switch shorted out and caused a passenger compartment fire. Please describe.

NHTSA ODI report, 1996-05-03

Fuel system, gasoline

1 of 9 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.

Exterior lighting

1 of 9 total reports mentions: exterior lighting, most commonly citing switch.

Safety timeline

1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

I
1994-10-27Engineering analysisClosed 1995-07-31 Seat belt buckle failure
R

1995-05-19Seat belts95V103001 The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "Press." If a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to…

Remedy: Owners should promptly check the condition and operation of both front safety belt buckles. Carefully inspect the red release button for any breaks or cracks. Check that both buckles are operating…

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

1988 Acura Integra — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
Service brakes: 3 reports on file for this year.
Visibility: 2 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 95V103001 · Seat belts

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 1988 Acura Integra reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1988 Acura Integra?: The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Acura Integra have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.