How much does it cost to replace a timing belt on an Acura TL?
In the United States, you can expect to pay roughly $700 to $1,000 for a timing belt replacement on an Acura TL when the job includes a full belt kit and labor. If you also replace the water pump and do a coolant flush, the total commonly ranges from about $900 to $1,500, depending on the shop and region.
Timing belt service is a critical maintenance item for the Acura TL’s V6 engine, and prices vary based on model year, engine configuration, location, and whether you choose a dealership or independent shop. This article breaks down what drives the cost, typical price ranges, what to expect during service, and maintenance tips to help you plan.
What affects the price
Several factors determine the final bill for a timing belt replacement on an Acura TL. The following list highlights the main price drivers:
- Labor rate and time: regional hourly rates and the estimated hours required for access and replacement.
- Included components: whether the job uses a basic belt kit or a full kit with water pump, tensioners, idlers, seals, and coolant.
- Vehicle specifications: model year and engine variant can influence parts availability and labor complexity.
- Shop type and location: dealer service centers generally charge more than independent shops, and high-cost metro areas trend higher.
- Additional maintenance: coolant flush, thermostat, or other ancillary repairs scheduled at the same time can add to the cost.
Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes and avoid surprises when you sign the final invoice.
Typical price ranges in the United States
Prices vary by whether you choose an independent shop or a dealership, and by whether a water pump is included. The ranges below reflect common experiences across the U.S. in 2025:
- Independent shop — belt kit with labor (no water pump): about $450–$750
- Independent shop — belt kit plus water pump and coolant flush: about $700–$1,000
- Dealership or high-cost metro areas — belt kit with labor plus water pump: about $900–$1,500
Prices can vary based on local labor rates, parts costs, and whether special tools or additional timing adjustments are required. Always request a written estimate and confirm what’s included (pump, tensioners, seals, coolant, and labor hours).
What to expect during service
Being prepared for the service helps you understand the workflow and why prices differ. Below is a typical sequence for a timing belt replacement on an Acura TL:
- Diagnostics and confirmation of the correct belt kit for your engine variant.
- Draining coolant if a water pump is being replaced and gaining access to the timing cover.
- Removing components that block access to the timing belt and carefully aligning timing marks.
- Replacing the timing belt, tensioners, idlers, and seals; installing a new water pump if included in the kit.
- Reassembling, torquing fasteners to specification, refilling coolant, and performing a test start and brief drive to verify proper timing.
After the service, the technician typically double-checks for leaks and rechecks timing to ensure the engine runs smoothly and safely.
Maintenance tips and timing belt interval
The Acura TL’s timing belt is a wear item with a recommended replacement interval, commonly around 105,000 miles (approximately 169,000 kilometers) or about 7 years, whichever comes first. Given the potential for severe engine damage if a belt fails on an interference engine, many owners opt to replace the belt along with the water pump and related components as a preventative measure. Always consult your owner’s manual and your mechanic for the specific interval on your model year.
Summary
Replacing a timing belt on an Acura TL typically costs $700–$1,000 at an independent shop or $900–$1,500 at a dealership, depending on whether a water pump and full kit are included and on regional labor rates. Key factors shaping price include labor time, included parts, engine variant, and shop type. Plan ahead by securing written estimates, aligning expectations about parts (belt kit vs. complete kit with pump), and scheduling replacement near the recommended interval to avoid costly repairs from belt failure. Regular maintenance and proper component replacement help keep the Acura TL running reliably for years to come.
When should the Acura TL timing belt be replaced?
A typical timing belt is expected to last for up to 7 to 10 years, but you should arrange for it to be changed before it wears out. Usually, a replacement is recommended after completing 60,000 miles — 90,000 miles.
Is it worth replacing a timing belt?
These car parts are subject to great forces inside the vehicle's engine. For this reason, every vehicle that has a timing belt will require a new timing belt replacement at some point during its life. Without a fully functioning timing belt, the car's engine won't be able to run properly.
How much is a timing belt for a 2014 Acura TL?
$1386 - $1531. “Dealer” refers to service centers that specialize in one or two makes and sell those vehicles.
How much to replace a timing belt on an Acura TL?
The average cost for a Timing Belt Replacement is between $1,264 and $1,603 but can vary from car to car. Acura TL Timing Belt Replacement Cost Estimate.
