2005 Acura TL 3.2
Summary:
A fast, comfortable car for those with deep pockets
Faults:
Brakes. They're Brembo, like all manual transmission TLs are. Front rotors cost US$250.00 for both, and pads for front cost $200.00.
CV axle. It was around $250.00 to replace.
Clutch. The flywheel is dual-mass and must be replaced. It cost nearly $1,000 for the part. The clutch was $700. Labor was $1,000. The clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder were also replaced. Total cost was $3,200.
Power steering makes noise. There's a recall on the feed hose o-ring, but Acura will not help, as the recall was addressed by a previous owner. I have not checked cost yet, will replace the o-ring and hope that the power steering pump does not need replaced, as it is $400.
General Comments:
I searched high and low for a manual transmission Acura TL. I insist all of my vehicles have a manual transmission.
If I had done my due diligence, I would've purchased an automatic. The clutch is single-handedly the most expensive repair that can be done to this car, aside from full engine or transmission replacement.
Overall, the engine purrs, I haven't had any major reliability issues, it's very comfortable, very fast, and I would trust it driving across country now that I've owned it for around a year, and addressed the issues with it.
It's a luxury brand, and costs reflect it. I've had a few interior lights go bad, and I get a few rattles, but I compare it to a BMW, and I relax on the repair costs.
It's only FWD, but 270 horsepower and the large amounts of torque make it difficult in deep snow. Good tires help, but I damaged the plastics underneath driving in deep snow (10-13 inches deep). They don't affect driving much.
The sound system is great, but I'd have sprung for a newer model with an AUX input. I use a tape adapter, as there's no iPod integration, and no easy way to add it.
Navigation is DVD-driven, so it's out of date. A new disc from Acura costs around $100. When using directions, the map doesn't turn, your icon does, which can be confusing if you're used to modern systems. It also doesn't have the features like traffic avoidance or fastest route. It can get pretty confused at times, routing down side streets only to re-route to main streets a block or two later.
It has no backup camera. Later models added it.
I've had issues with the multi-information screen above the NAV screen not working/dimming. I eventually just tied rubber bands to the connector behind to stop the problem temporarily.
The airbag warning light (not passenger airbag off light) comes on whenever someone sits in the passenger seat. I'm taking it to get diagnosed soon.
Bluetooth phone integration has not worked since I got it. The problem lies in the module/computer, and it's located above the garage door homelink buttons. The module isn't too expensive, but they are known for only lasting around 5-7 years. There's no recall, but if left unattended, it can drain your battery overnight. I unplugged mine until I have the funds to replace it.
The paint on bumpers seems easy to damage. I have had several people say they have the same issues.
All in all, if I had to do it again, I would have waited for a 2008 Type-S with a 6-speed manual, or bought a lower mileage automatic.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 3rd December, 2016
5th Dec 2016, 23:25
Manuals are fun, but be careful on how to drive them, especially if you have kids who go for a joyride and tear up the clutch the first day you bring the car home.
6th Dec 2016, 13:32
Yes indeed that happened to me. I wasn't kind to a couple of my father's cars as well as a teen. He grew up though, got into mortgage banking and bought a Viper RT/10 at 30. Biggest expense has been tire replacements tracking it. But it's now his dime! As far as Acuras, my best (actually my wife's cars) were new Legends. They were among the best ever and they didn't need to come in often for dealer warranty. Very well made and great for their time. I even think they were better looking than the latter TL The RL was an alternative, but we didn't want to pay the high price around 50k then. We do often switch brands for daily drivers. Test drive different ones and buy new all over again.
5th Dec 2016, 11:40
Manuals are great. We had a number of Acuras and regretting buying the automatic with premature trans failures. You cannot beat many of the features in the TL. It's a fun sports sedan and pretty quick. Very nice sound system. I liked the black leather and black marble look console. Tires and replacement headlights were a bit high. We currently have GMs and a new Audi supercharged sedan. If you tire of the TL, it's a really great alternative. Multiple learning driver modes and a great dash display showing a pic of the car on screen. And approach warnings of cars in your blind spots among others. Really comfortable as well. Good luck!