Are Acura TL reliable cars?
The Acura TL has long been a popular choice among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, thanks to its blend of luxury, performance, and affordability. But when it comes to reliability, how does the Acura TL stack up? As an experienced auto service provider, I’ll break down the key factors that determine the reliability of this vehicle and what you should consider if you’re thinking about owning one.
What Makes a Car Reliable?
Reliability in a car is determined by several factors, including the quality of its engineering, the frequency of repairs, and the cost of maintenance. A reliable car should be able to perform consistently over time with minimal unexpected issues. Acura, as Honda’s luxury division, is known for producing vehicles with strong reliability ratings, and the TL is no exception.
Acura TL Reliability: The Highlights
The Acura TL has earned a reputation for being a dependable vehicle. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Engine Durability: The Acura TL is equipped with robust engines that, when properly maintained, can last well over 200,000 miles. Regular oil changes and timely maintenance are key to ensuring longevity.
- Transmission Improvements: Earlier models of the TL (particularly from the early 2000s) faced some transmission issues. However, Acura addressed these problems in later models, making them more reliable.
- High-Quality Materials: Acura uses premium materials in its vehicles, which contributes to the TL’s ability to withstand wear and tear over time.
- Safety Features: The TL is equipped with advanced safety features that not only protect passengers but also contribute to the car’s overall reliability by preventing accidents.
Common Issues to Watch For
While the Acura TL is generally reliable, no car is without its flaws. Here are a few common issues that owners have reported:
- Transmission Problems: As mentioned earlier, some older models (especially 1999-2003) experienced transmission failures. If you’re considering a used TL, ensure the transmission has been serviced or replaced if it’s from this era.
- Suspension Wear: Over time, suspension components like control arms and bushings may wear out, especially if the car is driven on rough roads.
- Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the navigation system or dashboard electronics in certain models.
Tips for Maintaining an Acura TL
To keep your Acura TL running smoothly and reliably, follow these maintenance tips:
- Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid replacements.
- Address any warning lights or unusual noises promptly to prevent small issues from becoming major repairs.
- Use high-quality replacement parts, especially for critical components like the transmission and suspension.
- Keep an eye on tire pressure and alignment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Conclusion: Is the Acura TL a Reliable Car?
In summary, the Acura TL is a reliable car that offers a great balance of luxury, performance, and dependability. While older models may have some known issues, these can often be mitigated with proper maintenance and care. If you’re in the market for a used Acura TL, be sure to check its service history and have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. With the right upkeep, the Acura TL can serve you well for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many miles is too many for a used Acura?
A newer used model can last well past 100,000 miles – even past 200,000!
Are Acuras reliable after 100k miles?
Acuras remain reliable after 100,000 miles because of high-quality engineering, provided regular maintenance is done.
What are common problems with Acura TL?
Common problems with the 2021 Acura RDX include Engine problems, transmission problems, and brake problems. Two recalls have been issued for this vehicle, one for airbags not properly deploying and one for the driveshaft failing.
How long does an Acura TL last?
A fairly well designed, well maintained engine should be perfectly happy running 300K at least. 500K or more depending on typical use. Typically, a well maintained engine is one of the last things to fail. Under ideal use, most any modern engine will last 1,000,000 miles.
What are the cons of the Acura TL?
Known issues include shifting to lower gears, slipping between gears, and sticking when the driver shifts between gears. In the worst-case scenario, the transmission can fail outright and engage safety mode. The car can also jerk all over the road. In most cases, the entire transmission needs replacement.
Is Acura TL worth it?
Furthermore, the TL has excellent ownership costs. The frequency at which it develops problems is considered average, and the severity of repairs is low. The TL rarely develops major issues. Acura TLs can hit 100,000 miles or more and still drive like they're fresh from the Honda factory.
Is Acura TL expensive to fix?
The Acura TL Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 6th out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $467 which means it has excellent ownership costs.
Is Acura a long lasting car?
MotorAsk.com – “Acuras can last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. According to Acura owners, some of the brand's vehicles can even last 400,000 miles or more in ideal conditions and with a responsible owner… one Acura MDX was reported with 946,252 miles,” MotorBuscuit.com – “…
How long will an Acura engine last?
MotorAsk.com – “Acuras can last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. According to Acura owners, some of the brand's vehicles can even last 400,000 miles or more in ideal conditions and with a responsible owner…
Which year is the Acura TL the most reliable?
Here are a few of the most reliable years for the Acura TL:
- 2004 Acura TL.
- 2009 Acura TL.
- 2013 Acura TL.
