2003 Acura TL Type S 3.2

Summary:

I would have it for years and not get tired of it!

Faults:

No problems with the car so far...

General Comments:

I've been trying to get this car since I rented one (a non-S type). I fell in love with it's looks, power, headlamps, ample interior and trunk space. Even though it was the 227 HP version, it was pretty quick. The only complaint with the non S-Type would be the soft suspension. That's why I've got the Type-S. The only thing I would change on my car would be the tires (they are easily "overwhelmed" by any off-ramp, sudden acceleration or stop). Otherwise, I don't know what the top speed is with this car (I've driven it at about 140 mph and still has power to spare. Awesome car! Comfortable, agile, great looks, very reliable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th February, 2004

2003 Acura TL Type S w/Navi 3.2

Summary:

A lemon

Faults:

Brake rotors have been resurfaced four times and replaced twice under warranty.

Brake pads have been replaced twice under warranty.

Transmission has been replaced under warranty.

Sunroof has to be adjusted at every oil change due to squeaks.

Power window switch has been replaced under warranty.

Navigation screen has been replaced under warranty.

Engine has constant "ticking" noise that cannot be fixed, has been checked three times at the dealer with no fix available.

General Comments:

I was very excited to purchase this vehicle, but I have been extremely disappointed in the quality. I would not recommend this car to anyone and advise you to pay the extra for a Lexus, BMW or anything else for a better quality.

This car has many squeaks, has spent over one month total at the dealer for repairs in 13.5 months of ownership and still has issues.

The dealer provides a rental car, but only a compact car from Enterprise Rent-a-car, not a luxury car like I pay monthly for. Plus, the dealer rarely fixes anything on time.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 1st October, 2003

10th Sep 2004, 07:26

I share your sentiment. Question: How did you get the dealer to agree to cover the brake pads. When I called to complain about the rotors (which I had replaced), I had mentioned something about the brake pads as well and was told that brake pads would not be covered as any damage is considered purely wear and tear, due to one's driving habits. Your dealer seems to have accommodated you much better then any of the Acura dealers in my area. As for the moon roof, I have only had some type of "tape" repeatedly replaced in mine, but no offer to ever replace.

17th Jun 2008, 17:03

We purchased a 2003 Type S in October 2006, and the only problem in 20,000 miles was the heated drivers seat. The heating coil was replaced under dealer warranty, and a loaner car was provided as we live about 30 miles from the dealer.

It is a great car that is fun to drive and very comfortable on trips. We average 27 to 28 miles per gallon. Yes, we would buy another Acura.

2003 Acura TL Type S 3.2

Summary:

An overrated car that is priced too high

Faults:

Many things have gone wrong with my new 3.2TL-S.

First of all, this car is ridiculously hard to start in the morning. I live in California, so the weather is pretty mild. But the car sputters and doesn't want to start.

The suspension is horrible. I feel every little bump as I go down the road, unacceptable for a car in this price range.

The passenger seat has started to squeak, very annoying since the car shakes a lot due to the horribly mismatched suspension.

The noise in the cabin is unbearable when any of the rear windows are down. The wind noise seems to pulsate in the car.

General Comments:

This car is overrated and poorly designed.

Dealers need to be more responsive to customers.

Acura/Honda has serious catching up to do in the car business.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 22nd July, 2003

31st Jul 2003, 16:13

I totally agree with your review. My 2000 TL also suffers from unbearable wind noise when the rear windows are down. Actually, the car suffers from many poor quality / design issues. However, I am far more disturbed and angered by the complete lack of care exhibited by Acura dealerships. Their customer service is awful, unless you are willing to shell out lots of money. I have nothing but regrets with regard to this purchase. I should have bought a Lexus, Mercedes, BMW or Infiniti. Frankly, I should have bought anything, but an Acura.

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