Does the Acura TL have a subwoofer?
The short answer: Yes—most Acura TL models that are equipped with a Bose or other premium audio package include a subwoofer, while base audio trims typically do not. Availability varies by year and trim, so your exact car may differ.
Across its generations, the TL offered several audio configurations, and a subwoofer was usually tied to the premium audio option rather than the base setup. Below, we break down how subwoofers were typically included across the major TL generations and offer practical tips to verify their presence in your vehicle.
Subwoofer presence by audio package
The following sections summarize typical configurations by generation; if you own a TL, check your specific trim and window sticker to confirm.
First-generation TL (1999–2003)
In the earliest TL years, the Bose premium audio option was the main route to a subwoofer. The base system did not include a subwoofer, while the Bose upgrade added a subwoofer as part of the package.
- Base audio: no dedicated subwoofer.
- Bose premium audio: includes a subwoofer as part of the package.
Bottom line: If your first-generation TL has the Bose badge or the premium audio label, it almost certainly includes a subwoofer. If not, you’re listening to a non-subwoofer setup.
Second-generation TL (2004–2008)
For the second generation, Acura offered upgraded audio options, with Bose and other premium systems continuing to include a subwoofer as part of the package. The standard, non-premium audio lacked a dedicated subwoofer.
- Standard audio: no subwoofer.
- Bose or other premium audio: subwoofer included.
- Optional navigation or premium packages often accompanied the premium audio with the subwoofer.
Takeaway: Subwoofer availability tracked with the premium audio option rather than the base trim.
Third-generation TL (2009–2014)
The third-generation TL continued the trend, with premium audio packages that included a subwoofer. The base audio remained without a dedicated subwoofer, while the Premium Audio or ELS Studio packages added one, typically mounted in the rear cargo area or adjacent panels depending on configuration.
- Base audio: no subwoofer.
- Premium Audio: includes subwoofer.
- ELS Studio Premium Audio: includes subwoofer as part of the high-end system.
In summary: all TL variants equipped with Bose or ELS Studio (premium) include a subwoofer, whereas the base audio trims do not.
How to verify in your specific TL
If you want to confirm the presence of a subwoofer in your own car, use these quick checks. This section provides practical steps you can follow at home or with a quick inspection.
- Inspect the trunk side panels and rear floor area for a dedicated subwoofer enclosure. Common locations include under a floor mat or in a side panel.
- Look for badges indicating Bose or ELS Studio on the dashboard, doors, or logo plates, which typically align with premium audio setups that include a subwoofer.
- Check the owner's manual or the original window sticker (Monroney) for the audio system specification and subwoofer mention.
- Inside the infotainment system's audio settings, look for a subwoofer level or Bass management control, which often indicates the existence of a subwoofer.
The exact location and naming can vary by model year, but a premium system is the reliable tell-tale sign of a subwoofer in the TL lineup.
Summary
In short, the Acura TL generally includes a subwoofer when equipped with a Bose or other premium audio package. If you drive a base model, you likely won’t have a dedicated subwoofer. Always verify via badges, the window sticker, owner’s manual, or a physical inspection to be certain of your specific vehicle's setup. For TL buyers and owners, premium audio packages are the clearest indicator of a subwoofer.
