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How many miles can an Acura RL last?

Typically, an Acura RL can reach about 200,000 miles or more with regular maintenance; some owners report 250,000 miles, and a few have surpassed 300,000 miles with diligent care.


What determines how long an Acura RL lasts


The longevity of an Acura RL depends on how well it’s maintained, the conditions in which it’s driven, and how the car has been cared for over its lifetime. The model’s reputation for reliability is rooted in Honda/Acura engineering, but staying on top of service is what ultimately pushes mileage higher.


Engine and drivetrain reliability


The RL uses a robust V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission. When they are kept up-to-date with maintenance, these components can accumulate high mileage. Long-term reliability is closely tied to cooling-system health, oil quality, and timely component replacements as wear items appear.


Maintenance history and record-keeping


A complete and documented service history is a strong predictor of how long an RL will last. Regular oil changes with the recommended viscosity, timely fluid services for the transmission and coolant system, and prompt replacement of worn parts all contribute to durability.


Driving conditions and usage


Highway driving tends to be gentler on components than frequent stop-and-go city use. Climate, road salt exposure, and exposure to heat or cold can influence corrosion, rubber components, and overall wear, affecting how long the car remains reliable.


Longevity milestones and common wear points


To illustrate typical expectations for a well-maintained RL, here are milestone ranges and the wear points commonly encountered as miles accumulate.



  • 200,000 miles (320,000 km): A common benchmark for well-kept examples; major systems can still perform well, but expect routine maintenance to become more frequent.

  • 250,000 miles (400,000 km): Achievable with proactive maintenance; potential need for more frequent servicing of the transmission, suspension, and cooling system.

  • 300,000 miles (480,000 km) and beyond: Not the norm, but possible with meticulous care, early attention to wear items, and a solid maintenance record.


These ranges vary by model year, maintenance history, and driving environment, but they illustrate that high-mileage RLs are within reach for attentive owners.


Maintenance actions to maximize lifespan


To maximize the RL’s lifespan, adhere to maintenance schedules and address wear items promptly. The following actions are widely recommended for long-term durability.



  • Follow the owner’s manual maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes with the recommended grade and viscosity.

  • Monitor and service the transmission fluid as recommended for your specific year and transmission type.

  • Keep the cooling system in good condition with periodic coolant flushes and inspection of the radiator, hoses, and water pump.

  • Inspect and replace spark plugs at the recommended intervals to maintain efficiency and smooth running.

  • Regularly inspect brakes, rotors, tires, and suspension components; replace worn parts before they cause secondary damage.

  • Address rust protection and underbody protection in areas with harsh winters or heavy road salt use.

  • Test and maintain the electrical system and batteries, which can become a reliability risk as the car ages.


In short, a well-maintained Acura RL can comfortably reach the 200,000-mile milestone and beyond, provided owners stay proactive about servicing and addressing wear before it escalates into bigger repairs.


Summary


The Acura RL is known for Honda-like reliability, and with disciplined maintenance it can last around 200,000 miles or more, with some examples approaching or exceeding 300,000 miles. Longevity hinges on consistent servicing, careful driving, and timely replacement of wear items. For potential buyers, a detailed service history and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are essential to gauge the remaining lifespan of a used RL.

What is high mileage for an Acura?


High mileage for an Acura is 150,000+ miles, but they can still be reliable beyond that with regular maintenance.



How many miles does an Acura Rl last?


Engine and Transmission will last 250k+ easy, if you take care of it you could see even over 300,400k.



Is the Acura Rl reliable?


The Acura RL is generally considered a reliable luxury car, with a good reliability rating from sources like RepairPal and positive owner reviews, though some models have specific issues. Common problems can include minor electrical glitches, interior wear on leather components, and specific issues like hazy headlights or suspension problems, depending on the model year. 
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems with the Acura RL: 1mKyle PantanoYouTube · Dec 16, 2019
General reliability

  • Strong reputation: The Acura RL is often praised for being a reliable car, especially with proper maintenance. 
  • Positive rankings: It ranks well for its reliability in the luxury full-size car category. 
  • Lower ownership costs: The average annual repair cost is lower than average for its class. 
  • Longevity: Many owners have reported driving their RL for very high mileage with few major issues, particularly after addressing any initial problems. 

Common issues and model-specific concerns
  • Interior wear: Leather on the center console armrests can tear, and other interior leather or vinyl can wear out. The glove box lid can also bubble from sun exposure. 
  • Electrical problems: Some owners have reported issues such as an alarm that goes off without cause, fuses blowing, or the trunk release not working from inside. 
  • Brakes: Some owners have experienced brake issues where they don't apply immediately, even with new pads and rotors. 
  • Suspension and steering: Problems with shocks/struts and the steering adjustment control have been reported. 
  • Electronics and lights: Newer models might have hazy headlights from the inside, and electronics and suspension components can be areas of concern for some owners. 
  • Transmission: Some reviews mention a "questionable transmission," though many owners have found it reliable. 

Model year differences
  • The later models (2009–2012) are considered by some owners to have been built better and have fewer mechanical issues, partially due to the shift to the 3.7L engine. 
  • The 2005-2008 models were the first to feature the SH-AWD system, which is generally reliable, but some owners noted potential issues with lightweight drive shafts in early versions. 
  • Early models may have original Pax tires, which are now less common and may have been converted to more conventional tires. 

You can watch this video to see what it's like to own an Acura RL with almost 200,000 miles: 44sKyle PantanoYouTube · May 11, 2020



Can an Acura last 300k miles?


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,”


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.