Acura Integra Ignition Distributor Shaft Bearing

If your Acura Integra won’t start, or is experiencing stalling, weird vibrations,  hesitation, misfire, and the engine light, you likely have an ignition distributor shaft bearing issue or a crankshaft position sensor problem.  These issues can lead to multiple problems listed above, but the issue isn’t as severe as it seems, as long as it’s taken care of quickly.  We’ll have a closer look at diagnosing and repairing so we can resolve all these along with the dreaded engine light.

Check here if you have an oil leak.  Front end noise? Alternator? Not starting, could also be this.

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The Acura Integra Ignition Distributor Shaft Bearing

The ignition distributor shaft bearing ensures the smooth rotation of the distributor shaft, which is responsible for accurately timing the spark plug firing. When it fails, it can cause a few problems.

1. Won’t Start: Your car might not start if the bearing is severely damaged.
2. Engine Misfire: Due to erratic spark timing.
3. Engine Light
4. OBD Codes: Codes like P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P1336, and P1337 might show up.
5. Engine Vibrations
6. Hesitation or Stalling: The car might hesitate or stall during acceleration.
7. Oil Leak: Oil can leak from the distributor cap due to a faulty bearing.

Diagnose

1. OBD codes: Use an OBD scanner to check for codes.  See all the OBD codes here.
2. Locate the Distributor: It’s usually near the front of the engine. This is where all the wires from the engine block end back at.
3. Removal: Remove the wires, distributor cap, and rotor.  Take note of which wires go to which connection on the distributor cap. Take out the distributor cap.
   • Examine the distributor rotor and cap for signs of wear, cracks, or carbon deposits.
   • Grab the rotor or the shaft and gently wiggle it. There should be minimal lateral movement.
   • Rotate the shaft. It should turn smoothly without any roughness or binding.
   • Check for any visible signs of damage to the shaft (scoring, corrosion, discoloration).
   • Check around the bearing for any signs of oil leakage or grease buildup, which can indicate a seal failure.
4. The Bearing: Inspect the distributor cap, rotor, wires, and the bearing.
5. Reassemble: Put everything back in reverse order.
6. Visual: Check for oil leaks around the distributor cap.  This is where all the wires from the engine block end back at.
7. Engine Vibrations: Experiencing these?
8. Spark Timing Test: Have a professional check the spark timing.  Leave this for later.

Acura Integra Crankshaft Position Sensor

It monitors the position and rotational speed of the crankshaft. It can affect ignition timing and fuel injection causing multiple symptoms.

1. Engine Misfire
2. Poor Acceleration: Acceleration might be sluggish.
3. Engine Vibrations: You may notice excessive vibrations.
4. OBD Codes: Additional OBD codes like P0335 or P0336 might appear.

Diagnose

1. Usually mounted on the front side of the engine block typically near the bottom, where the crankshaft is located.  Look for it near the crankshaft pulley (also known as the harmonic balancer), which is the large pulley at the bottom of the engine and often drives accessories like the alternator and water pump.  Typically a small, black component with electrical connections.
2. Before removal:  If it operates on a Hall effect principle, you may need to check for a voltage signal.  Back-probe its connector with the multimeter set to the DC voltage setting.  As the engine is cranked (by another person), observe the voltage reading. There should be a fluctuating voltage signal if the sensor is working correctly.
3. After removal: Use a multimeter to see if the internal resistance value is 200 to 1,000 ohms (depending on the reference value), then the sensor is OK. If the value is 0 ohms, there is a short circuit, and in the case of M Ohm there is an interruption.

If after all these steps you still aren’t sure, now is the time to consider taking it to a mechanic.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s the ignition distributor shaft bearing or crankshaft position sensor, symptoms like stalling and hesitation are mostly the same.  The engine light is telling you there are codes identified by your car, these will help to point you in the right direction.  Stalling, misfire, and hesitation may seem like the car’s still drivable, but they’re all leading to a car that won’t start.  If you unsure or don’t feel comfortable with any step, contacting a professional mechanic is the right thing to do.

Dealing with ignition distributor shaft bearing and crankshaft position sensor issues in your Acura Integra can be challenging. However, with this guide, you’re well-equipped to identify and fix these problems. Remember, regular maintenance and early detection are key to avoiding major issues.

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