2003 Acura TL type S review from North America
"A 4-Door Rocket!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I purchased my TL in November of 2003. Ever since then I've taken the car back quiet a few times. First, when I came to pick up my car the ground effects weren't in yet, so I had to comeback for that. The day they came in the front air dam wasn't in, had to come back for that. Came in three different other times for my rims. I got a bad batch of chrome wheels (all were fading and peeling)!! Took care of the rim issue and had to come back because a someone in the service area scratched my front quarter panel, so that had to be sanded down and sprayed again!! I just took it back again because the rubber seals on the front windshield began to bubble and the inside seal of the right rear door was coming off. Acura had to re-glue the inner lining. I have no complaints in the transmission yet, Acura told me since it is a later model don't worry, we'll see?! I'm just disappointed with the fit and finish of this car. I paid a pretty price on this one! Nothing is missing: OEM body kit, spoiler, factory chrome wheels, navigation, 7yr/100k warranty (0 deductible, which I might need later).
General comments?
Other wise, this car does have ample room! A lot of power under the hood. I'm surprised how well this car scoots for how heavy it is! The exterior is an eye catcher, especially with the OEM body kit! Plus, I purchased the nighthawk black color, makes it look really stealth-like. The interior is a plus 10. Acura did spend some time on the way the car looks inside and out! Until the I have problems with the transmission (knock on wood), I'll be keeping this one for awhile!
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![]() ![]() | The car to own and drive! |
![]() ![]() | 2003 - TL Type-S with Navigation 3.2 Liter VTEC High-performance and conservative looks, typical Honda-Acura problems |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.2 Semi-Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 8 miles |
| Most recent distance | 9250 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 29th March, 2004 |

