How many miles per gallon does a 1998 Acura TL 2.5 get?

The 1998 Acura TL 2.5 typically achieves about 24 miles per gallon combined, with EPA estimates around 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway when equipped with the automatic transmission. Real-world results vary based on driving style and vehicle condition.

Official fuel economy figures for the 1998 TL 2.5

The following figures summarize the EPA-estimated performance for the common configuration of the 1998 TL 2.5, which was offered with an automatic transmission. These numbers serve as a baseline and can differ in everyday driving.

• EPA city mpg: approximately 20 mpg


• EPA highway mpg: approximately 28 mpg


• EPA combined mpg: approximately 24 mpg

In practice, drivers may see variations due to maintenance, driving conditions, and vehicle wear. The numbers above reflect the era’s test cycle and standard drivetrain configuration.

What affects MPG on the 1998 TL 2.5

Several factors influence the real-world fuel economy of the 1998 TL 2.5. Understanding these can help you gauge what to expect in daily use.

• Engine maintenance and tune-ups, including spark plugs, air filter, and fuel system cleanliness


• Tire condition and proper inflation; underinflated tires reduce efficiency


• Vehicle load and aerodynamics (roof racks, heavy cargo, and overall weight)


• Driving behavior (acceleration, idling, and braking patterns)


• Use of air conditioning and climate control


• Overall drivetrain health and transmission condition

Maintaining the car properly and adopting smoother driving habits can help you approach the official figures.

Tips to maximize fuel economy for the TL 2.5

To help squeeze the most miles per gallon from a 1998 TL 2.5, consider these practical steps. They cover routine maintenance and everyday driving adjustments.

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and rotate them regularly


• Follow a consistent maintenance schedule (oil changes, air filter replacements, fuel system checks)


• Avoid excessive idling and aggressive acceleration


• Minimize added weight and avoid roof racks when not needed


• Use the recommended grade of motor oil and consider lighter viscosity if advised for your climate

Even small optimizations can help you approach the EPA figures under typical driving conditions.

Summary

For a 1998 Acura TL 2.5 with automatic transmission, a reasonable expectation is about 24 mpg combined (roughly 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway). Real-world results vary with driving style, maintenance, and wheel/tire setup. By staying on top of maintenance and driving conservatively, you can maximize fuel efficiency closer to the published figures.

Is the Acura TL fuel efficient?

EPA mileage for the automatic SH-AWD is rated 18/26/21 mpg city/highway/combined. The six-speed manual transmission performs 1 mpg worse in all three EPA numbers. Our observed mileage in the TL was 21.6 mpg combined.

How much is a 1999 Acura TL worth?

The 1999 Acura TL has a wide value range, typically between $736 and $3,750, depending on condition, mileage, and options. The average retail price is around $2,375, while the trade-in value is significantly lower, often near $949-$971. Listings for this model show prices from around $4,350 to $8,300 or more, but these are often for well-maintained, low-mileage examples.
 
Factors affecting value

• Condition: A car in excellent condition with low mileage will be worth more than one with wear and tear. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage typically increases the vehicle's value. 
• Options: Features like leather seats, a moonroof, and a premium sound system can add to the overall price. 
• Location: Vehicle values can vary depending on your geographical area. 

Where to find a valuation

• Kelley Blue Book (KBB): Offers a resale value of approximately $2,511 and a trade-in value of $949. 
• Edmunds: Provides a range of $736 to $2,236 based on the condition, mileage, and options. 
• J.D. Power: Shows an average retail price of around $2,375 and a high retail price of $3,750 for a well-maintained vehicle. 
• Cars.com and Edmunds: Current listings on these sites show a wide range of asking prices, from around $4,350 for a high-mileage example to $8,300 for a low-mileage one. 

What to consider when selling

• Trade-in vs. private sale: The trade-in value is significantly lower than the resale value. If you want to maximize your profit, consider selling the car yourself through a private sale. 
• Vehicle history report: Check the vehicle's history to see if there are any accidents or title issues that could affect its value. 
• Repairs and maintenance: A car with a clean service history and no major issues will be more attractive to potential buyers. 

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 8, 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. 

How much horsepower does a 1998 Acura TL 3.2 have?

The 1998 TL ranges in power from the 2.5 Sedan 4D with 176 horsepower to the 3.2 Sedan 4D with 200 horsepower.