Fuel Crossover Pipe Leaks

The NSX uses twin fuel tanks connected by a crossover pipe, and 2017-2018 models were recalled because those pipes could leak fuel at the coupler connections. Acura recalled 967 vehicles for this issue, and the repair involves replacing both fuel tanks to ensure proper sealing under all conditions. We inspect fuel system components for any signs of leakage and verify that recall work has been completed on vehicles we service. A fuel leak on a mid-engine supercar creates obvious fire hazards, especially given the proximity of the exhaust system to the fuel tank locations.

Center High-Mount Brake Light Failure

The 2017 NSX was recalled for a brake light issue where road vibrations could loosen the metal screws securing the printed circuit board inside the center high-mount brake light assembly. Those loose screws contact the circuitry, blow the fuse, and disable all rear brake lights, which creates a serious safety hazard and actually prevents the car from restarting until the light assembly is replaced. We’ve replaced several of these units for owners who purchased used 2017 models and didn’t realize the recall work had never been performed. Checking recall status is essential before purchasing any used NSX.

Fuel Pump Module Failures

Honda expanded its DENSO fuel pump recall multiple times, eventually including 2015-2020 NSX models among the affected vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the tank can fail without warning, causing immediate engine stall regardless of speed or driving conditions. We verify recall completion on every NSX we service and recommend inspection of the fuel pump module on high-mileage examples that may have been missed during dealer recall notifications. Given what this car costs, ensuring the fuel system functions reliably should be standard practice.

Twin Motor Unit Fluid Maintenance

The front axle of the NSX houses the Twin Motor Unit, which contains two electric motors that provide torque vectoring and additional power delivery. This unit requires its own specific fluid, and Acura recommends changes at 7,500 miles initially, then every 15,000 miles for vehicles driven under severe conditions that include track use. Many NSX owners buy these cars specifically for occasional track days, yet they don’t realize the front motor unit needs service far more frequently than the engine oil. We perform TMU fluid changes using the correct Honda specification fluid and reset the maintenance minder to ensure proper service intervals going forward.

Valve Adjustment Requirements

The twin-turbo V6 in the NSX requires valve adjustment at 75,000 miles, and this is where ownership costs become very real. The mid-engine layout means the engine must be partially removed from the chassis to access the valve covers, and Acura’s official labor time for this service exceeds 28 hours. Dealers quote high for this procedure, which shocks owners who expected Honda reliability without Honda service costs. We’ve developed procedures to perform this work efficiently while maintaining factory specifications, and we discuss this upcoming service with every NSX owner who’s approaching the mileage threshold.

Cooling System Complexity

Ten heat exchangers manage thermal loads across the NSX powertrain, including separate cooling circuits for the engine, turbochargers, transmission, power delivery unit, hybrid battery, and Twin Motor Unit. Each circuit has its own coolant and service interval. Mixing fluids or neglecting any single circuit creates cascading problems across the entire thermal management system. We inspect all cooling system components during routine services, checking intercooler efficiency, hybrid coolant condition, and the DCT cooler for proper flow. Owners who store their NSX for extended periods should understand that the hybrid battery cooling system needs attention before returning the car to regular use.

12V Battery and Electrical Anomalies

The NSX is extremely sensitive to 12V battery voltage, and a weak auxiliary battery creates symptoms that seem like major electrical failures. Door handles fail to present, warning lights illuminate randomly, and the infotainment system behaves erratically when battery voltage drops below optimal levels. We test auxiliary battery condition on every NSX that comes through our shop, and we recommend replacement at four years regardless of measured cold-cranking amps. The exotic supercar sitting on the showroom floor still needs a healthy 12V battery to wake up its incredibly sophisticated systems.

Supercar Service at Precision Auto Care

The Acura NSX rewards drivers with performance that rivals vehicles costing twice as much, but that performance depends on maintenance from technicians who understand hybrid supercars at the component level. Our San Leandro shop has invested in the training, tools, and expertise to keep these remarkable machines running at their full potential. Call Precision Auto Care at (510) 351-8211 to schedule your NSX service.