You might not know that the Acura TL, even though it’s usually reliable, has some years with major problems.
For example, 2003 models often have transmission issues, and 2010 models are known for using too much engine oil.
The 2006 model also has its own problems, like cracked dashboards and faulty airbags.
So, if you’re thinking about buying an Acura TL, it’s important to know which years to avoid to save yourself from unexpected hassles and costs.
Want to make sure you choose wisely? Keep this information in mind.
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Key Takeaways
- Stay away from the 2010 Acura TL because it uses too much oil.
- The 2003 Acura TL has major transmission problems.
- The 2006 Acura TL is known for issues with the dashboard, airbags, and electrical system.
- The 2000 Acura TL often has odometer and transmission failures.
- Models from 2004 to 2006 Acura TL frequently have cracked dashboards and airbag safety issues.
Overview of Acura TL Models
The Acura TL has been around since 1996, and over the years, some models have had more problems than others.
If you’re thinking about getting an Acura TL, you should know that the first-generation models from 1999 to 2003 had a lot of transmission issues, with the 2003 model being especially bad.
There were also engine problems with the 2010 TL, like using up too much oil, making it one of the least reliable years.
It’s important to keep these issues in mind so you can make a smart choice when looking at an Acura TL.
Common Problems by Year
If you’re thinking about getting an Acura TL, there are some specific years you should watch out for due to recurring issues. The 2010 models are known for using too much oil, and the 2003 models had a lot of problems with the transmission.
In 2006, the Acura TL had several issues, like cracked dashboards and airbag problems, which affected both safety and appearance. The 2006 models also had problems with interior accessories, including battery drain that made it hard to start the car.
The 2000 Acura TL often had odometer failures, leading to inaccurate mileage readings. Transmission issues were a big problem for the 2003 models, with issues like slipping and sticking often leading to expensive repairs.
Knowing these issues can help you make a better decision.
Oil Consumption Issues
When looking at the common problems with the Acura TL, oil consumption is a big issue, especially for those driving the 3.7L SH-AWD models. About 30% of owners say their cars use too much oil, which can cause serious engine problems if not dealt with.
Using 5W-30 oil might help, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. Regularly checking and adding oil is crucial to keep the engine running well. This problem is particularly common in the SH-AWD models, so owners need to be extra careful.
Even with these precautions, the ongoing oil consumption problems in these Acura TL models are a major downside for potential buyers.
Propeller Shaft Whine
If you hear a whine from the propeller shaft in your Acura TL, especially in SH-AWD models, you might need to replace the whole assembly to get rid of the noise.
About 30% of Acura TL owners have this problem, and it can really affect how enjoyable your drive is. This whine is usually a high-pitched sound that can be annoying and might mean there are other mechanical issues.
Regular check-ups are important to catch this early and avoid more damage. The SH-AWD system, which helps with performance, seems to have this issue more often, so it’s crucial to stay alert.
Fixing the whine by replacing the faulty part ensures a smoother and quieter ride, keeping your Acura TL in good shape and enjoyable to drive.
Torque Converter Problems
If you have a 2009-2014 Acura TL, you might run into torque converter problems that can mess up your transmission. About 30% of owners deal with this, showing up as shuddering, slipping, or delayed engagement. Don’t ignore these symptoms because they can make the damage worse. A software update can help reduce the wear and improve how your car runs, but it’s important to act quickly.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Symptom | Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Shuddering | Worn-out torque converter | Get a software update |
| Slipping | Transmission fluid breakdown | Get it inspected now |
| Delayed Engagement | Mechanical problems | Go to a professional |
Taking care of these issues right away can save you from expensive repairs and keep your car running smoothly.
Electrical System Faults
Certain Acura TL models have had significant electrical problems that affect their reliability and performance. For example, the 2006 Acura TL often had battery drain issues, making it hard to start the car.
This model also had problems with dashboard cracks, especially near the passenger airbag. Older models like the 2000 Acura TL had issues with the odometer, causing inaccurate mileage readings.
The 2007 Acura TL also faced battery drain problems, which could prevent the car from starting after being parked overnight. These electrical issues not only make the car less reliable but also increase maintenance costs and create potential safety risks.
Dashboard Cracks
Cracks in the dashboards have been a common problem in several Acura TL models, especially the 2004, 2005, and 2006 versions. These cracks usually start around the passenger-side airbag. They’re more than just a cosmetic issue; they can interfere with how the airbag works.
If the airbag doesn’t deploy properly because of these cracks, it can be a serious safety risk. This problem not only affects the safety features but also makes the car less reliable overall. Additionally, the cracks make the car’s interior look worse, which can hurt its resale value.
Because of these issues, the 2004-2006 Acura TL models are less appealing when it comes to safety and resale.
Transmission Reliability
Transmission reliability in the first-generation Acura TLs, especially from 1999 to 2003, has been a big issue because of bad automatic transmissions. These models often had serious transmission problems that hurt overall reliability.
Common issues included:
- Shifting problems: Difficulty changing gears, leading to erratic performance.
- Slipping between gears: The transmission would slip, causing a sudden loss of power.
- Sticking: The transmission would get stuck in one gear, resulting in a jerky driving experience.
These transmission failures could trigger safety mode, making the car hard to drive. Replacing the faulty transmission is expensive and often doesn’t permanently fix the problem.
If you’re thinking about getting a first-generation Acura TL, be aware of these major automatic transmission reliability issues.
Worst Years to Avoid
The first-generation Acura TLs had a lot of issues with their transmissions, but some years were especially bad. The 2004 Acura TL had 522 complaints, showing significant reliability problems.
The 2005 Acura TL was even worse, with 2203 complaints, indicating serious concerns.
The 2003 Acura TL wasn’t much better, with 372 complaints, making it another year to avoid.
Also, the 2002 Acura TL had 326 complaints, highlighting ongoing issues.
These years are known for various mechanical and electrical problems, affecting their long-term dependability. If you’re thinking about buying a used Acura TL, avoiding these years could save you a lot of trouble and repair costs.
2000 Acura TL Issues
Even though the Acura TL is a popular choice among luxury sedan fans, it’s had some big problems over the years that affect its reliability and performance. Here are some of the main issues:
- Oil consumption and engine damage: The 2010 Acura TL had a problem with using too much oil, which could lead to engine damage.
- Transmission issues: Older models, especially from 1999 to 2003, often had transmission failures, with the 2003 TL being one of the worst.
- Electrical problems: Some years, like 2000, 2006, and 2007, had recurring electrical problems, such as battery drain and odometer failures.
Knowing about these issues can help you decide if buying an Acura TL is the right choice for you.
2003 Acura TL Issues
When looking at the Acura TL, three big problems could affect your experience with the car. First, the 2010 model has engine issues, especially with using too much oil, which can damage the engine. Next, the 2003 TL has transmission problems, like shifting issues and jerky driving. Lastly, the 2006 TL has problems with interior accessories, such as dashboard cracks and airbag issues.
| Year | Problem Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Engine Issues | Uses too much oil |
| 2003 | Transmission Problems | Shifting issues, jerky driving |
| 2006 | Interior Accessories | Dashboard cracks, airbag problems |
Knowing about these problems can help you pick the right year if you’re thinking about getting an Acura TL, making sure you have a better experience with the car.
2006 Acura TL Issues
If you’re thinking about getting an Acura TL, there are a few major problems you should know about.
Many models have issues like cracks in the dashboard, problems with the airbags, and electrical system failures.
These problems can really affect how reliable and safe the car is.
Knowing about these issues can help you decide which TL models to stay away from.
Dashboard Cracks Problem
Dashboard cracks are a common problem in Acura TL cars, especially in the 2004, 2005, and 2006 models. These cracks can make your car look bad and weaken the structure. They usually start around the passenger side airbag and, if not fixed, can make safety features like airbags unreliable.
Fixing these cracks right away is important to keep your Acura TL looking good and working safely.
Key points to remember:
- Weakened Structure: Cracks can make the dashboard less sturdy.
- Safety Risk: Cracks might stop airbags from working properly.
- Fix Quickly: Repairing the cracks soon can stop more damage and keep your car in good shape.
Airbag Safety Concerns
Airbag safety problems in Acura TL cars, especially those from 2004 to 2006, have been a big issue. Many people have complained about dashboard cracks that can mess up airbag deployment and put passengers at risk.
Cracks in the dashboard, particularly on the passenger side of 2006 TLs, make things worse. Owners of 2004 and 2005 TLs have also reported airbag issues, often linked to these dashboard cracks. These cracks can block the airbags from working right in a crash, which is very dangerous.
Plus, problems with interior accessories in 2006 models have added to the airbag troubles. It’s clear that these airbag issues are a serious concern if you’re thinking about the safety of these Acura TL years.
Electrical System Failures
Electrical system problems have been a big issue for Acura TL models, especially the 2006 version, often causing frustrating and expensive repairs for owners. These problems include:
- Battery Drain Issues: In the 2006 and some 2007 models, electrical devices kept using power even when the car was off, causing the battery to drain overnight and leading to starting problems.
- Odometer Failures: The 2000 TL had odometer failures, which messed up tracking the car’s mileage accurately.
- Dashboard Cracks: The 2006 TL often had dashboard cracks around the passenger side airbag, which could be a safety risk.
Fixing these electrical problems has been crucial for keeping the car reliable and avoiding unexpected breakdowns, making some Acura TL years more troublesome than others.
2010 Acura TL Issues
The 2010 Acura TL has a big problem with engine oil consumption. Owners have to top off the oil a lot, and if they don’t, it can damage the engine.
The 2000 TL had issues with the odometer, making it hard to know the real mileage and affecting resale value and maintenance.
For the 2006 TL, many people reported cracks in the dashboard, which made the car look bad and raised safety concerns, especially with the airbag.
The 2003 TL had a lot of problems with the transmission, causing shifting issues and expensive repairs. Transmission problems were also common in the 1999-2003 models, making those years tough for Acura TL owners.
Maintenance and Upgrades
To keep your Acura TL running well and lasting longer, regular oil changes are crucial. Switching to 5W-30 oil can help reduce common oil consumption issues. Here are some key maintenance tips to improve your car’s reliability and driving experience:
- ATF Fluid: Regularly check and replace the ATF fluid to avoid transmission problems.
- Power Steering Unit Module: Ensure the power steering unit is in good shape to prevent steering issues.
- Tech Package: Upgrading to the Tech package can add advanced features and system improvements that enhance your driving experience.
Regular maintenance and timely upgrades are important. Taking care of these aspects will help keep your Acura TL running smoothly and reliably for years to come.
Recommended Model Years
After handling maintenance and upgrades, it’s crucial to focus on the best model years for the Acura TL to ensure you get a reliable and efficient car. While the 2003, 2004, and 2005 models have a lot of complaints and should be avoided, some years are known for their dependability.
| Model Year | Complaints Reported | Notable Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 120 | Minor electronic issues |
| 2007 | 111 | Suspension problems |
| 2008 | 98 | Transmission issues |
| 2011 | 90 | Braking system issues |
| 2012 | 85 | Electrical problems |
These years generally have fewer issues, making them more reliable choices compared to the problematic years. Always make sure to get a detailed vehicle history report and have a professional inspect the car before buying.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Acura Tsx, Acura Rdx and Acura Mdx. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
When buying an Acura TL, it’s important to do your homework. The 2003, 2006, and 2010 models have some common problems, like transmission issues and high engine oil consumption. By avoiding these years, you’ll have a smoother ride and fewer headaches.
Make sure to keep up with regular maintenance and look for recommended model years to get the most for your money. Remember, it’s better to prevent problems than to fix them later.
