2023-2025 Acura Integra Hood: Decoding Type S and Base Model Differences

Variant Differences: Base/A-Spec vs. Type S Hoods

The single most important factor when purchasing a hood for a 2023-2025 Acura Integra is the trim level. The hoods for the Base/A-Spec models and the high-performance Type S model are not interchangeable due to significant design differences related to engine cooling.

Base and A-Spec Models

• Part Number: 60100-3S5-A00ZZ
• Design: Features a smooth, clean surface with no vents. It is designed for the 1.5L turbocharged engine used in the Base and A-Spec trims.
• Material: Aluminum

Type S Model

• Part Number: 60100-31M-A00ZZ
• Design: Features a prominent, functional air vent in the center. This vent is essential for extracting excess heat generated by the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, especially during performance driving.
• Material: Aluminum

Symptoms of a Damaged or Failing Hood

Failure of the hood panel itself is typically due to physical damage. However, issues can also arise with its hardware.

• Visible Dents, Dings, or Creases: The most common issue, usually resulting from impacts, hail, or objects falling on the car.
• Poor Alignment or Uneven Gaps: If the gaps between the hood and fenders are uneven, it may indicate previous accident damage or simply that the hood is out of adjustment.
• Hood Flutter at High Speeds: This is a serious safety concern that suggests the hood latch is not securely engaged or is failing. The hood could fly open while driving.
• Difficulty Closing or Latching: If you have to slam the hood to close it, or if it won't latch at all, the latch mechanism or striker may be misaligned or damaged.
• Paint and Clear Coat Failure: Bubbling, peeling, or fading paint can occur due to sun exposure, environmental factors, or poor-quality refinishing work on a previously repaired hood.

Buyer's Guide: Inspecting a Used 2023-2025 Integra Hood

Buying a used OEM hood is an excellent way to save money, especially since the original part is made of lightweight aluminum. However, careful inspection is crucial.

1. Verify the Part Number

Before anything else, confirm you are buying the correct hood for your trim. Check the seller's description and, if possible, look for a sticker on the underside of the hood with the OEM part number. Do not rely on visual identification alone.

• Base/A-Spec: 60100-3S5-A00ZZ
• Type S: 60100-31M-A00ZZ

2. Physical Inspection Checklist

• Check for Straightness: Look down the length of the hood from multiple angles to spot any waves, ripples, or subtle bends that indicate past damage.
• Inspect for Body Filler: Run a small magnet over the entire surface, especially around edges and character lines. A magnet will not stick to the aluminum hood panel, but it will stick to any steel-based body filler (like Bondo) used for repairs. This is a red flag for a poorly repaired hood.
• Examine the Paint: Look for color mismatch, overspray on the underside, or uneven texture (orange peel) that signals a repaint. A factory finish is ideal. If repainted, the quality of the work is critical.
• Check the Edges and Seams: Inspect the folded seams on the underside for any signs of rust, cracking seam sealer, or separation, which could point to a history of damage or corrosion.
• For Type S Hoods: Carefully inspect the integrated hood vent. Ensure it is not cracked, warped, or separating from the hood panel. Replacements for the vent alone can be expensive.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

As of mid-2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Acura or the NHTSA for the hood panel, latch, or hinges on the 2023-2025 Acura Integra.

However, the vehicle platform has been subject to several other significant recalls, including for a steering gearbox issue (NHTSA Campaign Number 24V744000), a vehicle stability assist modulator (23V457000), and driver's seat cushion frames. While these do not affect the hood, they are important for a potential buyer to be aware of regarding the vehicle's overall service history. Always check a vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website for open recalls.

Replacement Overview and Difficulty

• Difficulty Rating: 2 out of 5 (Easy, but requires a helper)
• Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours
• Tools Needed: Socket set (typically 10mm or 12mm), painter's tape, a moving blanket, and a helper.

Replacing the hood is a straightforward bolt-off, bolt-on procedure. The main challenge is handling the large, relatively light aluminum panel without scratching the fenders or windshield. Always have a second person to help lift the hood off and guide the new one into place.

Alignment: After the new hood is bolted on, you will need to align it. This is done in two main ways:

1. Hinge Adjustment: The bolts that connect the hinges to the hood pass through elongated holes. Loosening these bolts allows you to move the hood forward, backward, and side-to-side to achieve an even gap with the fenders.
2. Rubber Stoppers: On the radiator support, there are adjustable rubber stoppers that the hood rests on when closed. Turning these stoppers clockwise or counter-clockwise raises or lowers the front corners of the hood to make it flush with the top of the fenders.

Cost Comparison

Prices for a 2023-2025 Acura Integra hood can vary significantly based on type, condition, and source.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)