I has my transmission replaced 3 times.
Most people do not realize this, BUT...
The reason why 99 - 2003 TL transmission is failing is because of a faulty design by Acura! They did extend the Warranty on their transmissions to 160000km. But when you get your transmission replaced, they replace it with the same faulty designed transmission! That is why it breaks again in 40000 - 60000km.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 29th August, 2007
Not gonna buy another Acura
I have 2nd transmission replaced today @ 109K, but the dealer said this is it. I don't have any more warranty on the tranny. So if this 2nd tranny goes bad, I'm on my own. Is that true? Does anyone know what exactly Acura warranty on their problematic tranny? I'm nervous about this, since reading the thread and see other cars swapped out a 3rd time...
Need info.
Beside the tranny problem, this car is good.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 23rd July, 2007
According to a settlement in a recent lawsuit, Acura doesn't have to cover the power train after 7 years, 9 months or 109k miles, which is actually a pretty good warranty, since most are 3 years/36k.
I have an 01 TL and am on my second transmission since I've owned the car (bought at 49k miles, replaced trans at 52k miles (under warranty) and now have 72k miles on the car). My 7 years, 9 months is up next September, and I'll be rid of this car by then - just too much of a risk to keep. I love this car, but I love my money and safety more.
You should also read this thread for more info on the problems of this generation of TLs - you'll want to get rid of your car, too.
Excellent performer with questionable transmission
I flew out of town to purchase my used 2002 TL Type-S w/NAV due to the awesome deal I got on the car compared to local dealers at the time (2004). Since then (44k miles), the car has performed flawlessly (has 103k miles now) and having owned a 93' Nissan Maxima SE previously, you can tell that I am a so called car enthusiast. Cutting to the chase, just a few short hours ago, whilst running some errands with my wife, the car began jerking after take off from a dead stop. It happened 4 times in a row! Having read about transmission problems on this page, I dutifully called my local dealership and they asked me to take the car in for examination tomorrow morning. I've already gone to the class action suit website and verified that my VIN is covered and am now anxiously waiting for what comes next. I absolutely LOOOOOVE the car, but, if the "T" word is mentioned by the service folks at the dealership, I'll cut my losses and sell for what is still owed on it and move on. It's sad (I know) but with kids looking at college in a couple of years and 'life' in general to live, this is one hassle that I can do without. To close, I'm hoping that it's not the case and that I'll get to live out my goal of driving this thing well into oblivion. If not, oh well, back to scouring the used car lots for something cheaper and more reliable. If the TL does go, I will surely miss it! It's been a thrill.
The 2002 TL Type-S w/NAV was a car I had set my eyes on the day it was made available for sale. The combination of looks, peformance and world-class navigation system were unmatched! Adding to this, when a buddy of mine got one (delivered to him with 6 miles on the odometer) and let me test drive it, the fate of my wallet was sealed - I had to have one! It's been a joy to own and drive. Highway road trips are a breeze and it's quickness catches many by surprise. I'm yet to see a car, even today (2007) that combines everything in such an excellent package as the 2002-03 TL Type-S's did - at least from a car enthusiast's standpoint. That said, the transmission problem I'm just now about to get into, if it ends up being similar to the others I've read about on this page, then my dream will sadly have to come to a speedy and abrupt end.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 17th January, 2007
27th Jul 2007, 19:16
How many times has the car been taken into the dealership regarding transmission issues? Two replacements = two attempts, any other times the car was taken in without having the transmission replaced (ie dealership was unable to diagnose)? There are laws that protect you if Acura is not helping. Signed, a concerned citizen.