How long can an Acura TL last?

With proper maintenance, an Acura TL can commonly exceed 200,000 miles, and many owners report reaching 250,000 miles or more. The exact lifespan depends on the model year, maintenance history, and how the car is driven. The TL line was produced from 1999 through 2014, after which Acura shifted focus to the TLX in its lineup.

Understanding the TL’s longevity across generations

Across its three generations, the TL established a reputation for solid engineering and durability when cared for. While each generation introduced refinements, long-term reliability largely hinges on routine upkeep and sensible usage rather than a single model-year anomaly.

First generation (1999–2003)

The early TLs paired a robust V6 with a straightforward chassis. Many reach high mileages with regular service, though owners report that older examples can show wear in aging transmissions or rust in certain climates. A well-maintained unit can still deliver reliable daily transportation well beyond 200,000 miles.

Second generation (2004–2008)

Improvements in interior, handling, and electronics marked this era. The V6 remained a durable powerplant, and with diligent maintenance, many cars surpass 200,000 miles. High-mileage examples may require attention to transmission wear or wear items on aging components, but overall longevity remains strong when serviced on schedule.

Third generation (2009–2014)

Often regarded as the most refined TL, this generation continued the Honda‑ Acura tradition of longevity. Many TLs on the road today exceed 200,000 miles when owners stick to maintenance plans and address issues promptly. As with any aging vehicle, electronics and suspension components can demand attention as miles accumulate.

Key factors that influence lifespan

Several elements determine how long an Acura TL will continue to perform. These are the core influences that buyers and owners should consider when evaluating a used TL or planning maintenance.

• Maintenance history and service quality: regular oil changes, fluid services, and timely repairs are crucial.


• Miles driven and driving conditions: highway cruising generally reduces wear compared with heavy city driving.


• Climate and storage: exposure to road salt, humidity, and temperature extremes can accelerate rust and wear.


• Component health: the engine, transmission, suspension, and electronics; prior accidents or major repairs can affect long-term reliability.


• Parts availability and repair costs: older TLs may require more frequent parts replacements, influencing long-term ownership decisions.

In practice, dedicated maintenance and prudent driving can push a TL well into the 200,000–300,000 mile range, with some examples exceeding 300,000 miles under favorable conditions.

Tips to maximize longevity

Owners aiming to squeeze the most life out of an Acura TL should follow a disciplined maintenance approach and stay proactive about wear and tear.

1. Adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections.


2. Use the recommended fluids and quality parts when replacements are necessary; avoid makeshift fixes that overlook long-term reliability.


3. Address warning lights and unusual symptoms promptly to prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs.


4. Keep the vehicle clean and protect against rust, especially in regions that use road salt in winter.


5. Regularly inspect belts, hoses, brakes, tires, and suspension components; replace worn parts in a timely manner.


6. Maintain the cooling system, radiator, hoses, and coolant to prevent overheating and associated damage.

Consistent maintenance and careful driving habits are the most reliable indicators that a TL will reach or exceed high-mileage milestones.

Market reality and long-term cost considerations

As mileage accumulates, the likelihood of expensive repairs grows for any aging vehicle. For the TL, components such as the transmission, cooling system, or electrical modules can become more costly to repair on older, high-mileage examples. Prospective buyers should weigh ongoing maintenance costs against the sky‑high value of keeping a well‑maintained, high-mileage TL on the road and consider a pre-purchase inspection to avoid hidden issues.

Summary

Bottom line: a well-maintained Acura TL has a proven track record of lasting beyond 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more. Longevity varies by generation, upkeep, and driving conditions, but a disciplined maintenance routine and timely repairs are consistently the strongest predictors of long-term reliability. The TL’s legacy endures in the used market, where well-documented maintenance histories and thorough inspections can reveal a vehicle that remains solid transportation for years to come.

What year to avoid Acura TL?

You should avoid Acura TL years 1999–2006, particularly 2003, due to significant transmission issues. Other years to be cautious of include 2007–2008 for a more robust transmission, but still some potential problems with the Bluetooth system and mounts, and 2009–2014 for torque converter issues. The 2010 model year also experienced excessive oil consumption. 
Years with significant transmission problems 

• 1999–2006: These models, especially the 2003 and early 3rd generation (2004–2006), are known for major automatic transmission failures, slipping, and hard shifting. 
• 2004–2006: While better than earlier models, these are still prone to transmission failure and should be approached with caution. 

Years with other notable issues

• 2007–2008: These years have a more reliable transmission, but owners have reported issues with the hands-free Bluetooth draining the battery and failing. 
• 2009–2014: Some models have reported torque converter problems, which can be expensive to fix. 
• 2006: This year had several recalls and issues, including a faulty display screen, power steering leaks, and frozen rear brake calipers. 
• 2010: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, with engines showing no leaks. 

Years to consider for better reliability 

• 2007–2008: Generally considered the most reliable, especially compared to the years immediately before them. 
• 2013–2014: Some owners report these years as very reliable. 

Other factors to consider

• Manual Transmission: If buying an automatic, aim for the 2007–2008 models. A manual transmission from any year is often a more reliable option.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Proper maintenance is crucial for any used car, especially for models with known issues. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle and review its maintenance history before purchasing. 

Is Acura reliable after 100K miles?

Yes, Acuras are generally very reliable after 100k miles, especially with consistent maintenance, as they are built with quality engineering from their Honda roots. Key to this reliability is following the recommended maintenance schedule, which includes performing major services like transmission fluid changes and, for models with a timing belt, replacing it around the 100k mark. 
Key factors for long-term reliability

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Regular oil changes, fluid replacements, and other services are crucial for longevity. 
• Pay attention to major service intervals: At around 100,000 miles, certain components, like the timing belt in older models, need to be replaced. 
• Transmission fluid is critical: Changing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals is one of the most important aspects of keeping the car running smoothly long-term. 
• Consider the engine: While many Acura engines are very reliable, some J-series engines have a history of oil consumption issues, especially older ones. 
• Potential for issues: As with any car, some issues can arise after 100k miles, such as air conditioning system problems or oil consumption, so it's wise to factor in potential repair costs. 

What drivers say

• Many owners report driving their Acuras for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues if proper maintenance was performed.
• Owners of older models like the TL and MDX often report that the engines remained in good condition even after the transmission began to show wear. 

How long do Acura engines last?

Acura engines can last for 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, and many owners report reaching over 200,000 miles with few major issues. Key to their longevity is consistent and timely maintenance, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and timing belt replacements. 
Factors that impact engine lifespan

• Maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and other fluid flushes is the most crucial factor. 
• Timing belt: For engines that use a timing belt, replacing it around the 100,000-mile mark is critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure. 
• Driving conditions: The type of driving (e.g., city vs. highway) and how the vehicle is maintained over time will affect how long it lasts. 
• Wear and tear: While engines may last a long time, other components like the suspension, brakes, and cooling system will have their own lifespan and require replacement. 

What to expect

• High mileage is common: It's not unusual for an Acura to reach 200,000 miles or more, with many owners reporting engines that run smoothly even after hundreds of thousands of miles. 
• Extremely long-lasting examples: Some owners have documented engines exceeding 300,000, 400,000, and even over 900,000 miles. 
• Focus on preventative care: By staying on top of routine maintenance, you can significantly extend the life of your Acura engine and prevent expensive repairs. 

Is an Acura TL a reliable car?

The Acura TL is a reliable luxury sedan, often achieving over 100,000 miles with proper maintenance. It has earned good reliability ratings from sources like RepairPal (4.0/5.0) and J.D. Power (87/100), with owners reporting that many issues are low-severity and that the car is generally dependable. Common issues to watch for include potential transmission problems, engine or electrical glitches, and worn interior components or weatherstripping, but these are not always major.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the common issues with the 3rd generation Acura TL: 46sMark RodenYouTube · Jun 7, 2023
Reliability and lifespan

• Overall reliability: The Acura TL generally has a good reputation for reliability, with consistent ratings from various sources. 
• Longevity: With proper maintenance, the TL can last well over 100,000 miles, and some sources suggest a potential lifespan of 300,000 miles. 

Common issues to be aware of

• Automatic transmissions: Some automatic transmissions may require service every 30,000 miles, and certain older models have been known to have issues. 
• Engine and electrical problems: Some common issues reported include engine problems and general electrical glitches. 
• Wear and tear: Like many cars, the TL can experience wear and tear on components such as the engine and transmission mounts, suspension ball joints, weatherstripping, and interior plastics. 
• Bluetooth connectivity: On some models, the factory Bluetooth may be outdated and could be replaced with a modern system. 

Tips for maintaining reliability

• Follow the recommended maintenance schedule, especially for the automatic transmission.
• Address warning signs like clunking sounds during turns or vibrations promptly.
• Regularly check the air intake system for leaks to prevent rough idling.