1996 Acura TL 2.5 review from North America
"A great car for the money"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
ABS Brake System Failure at 50,000 miles.
2,000 dollar repair. Declined service. Currently running the car without ABS.
Car will function fine without ABS.
ABS light comes on often.
ABS Pump runs often.
CD Player failure. Common in this model.
General comments?
The quality of the 1996 Acura TL 2.5 is TOP Notch.
Maintenance costs can run high if you have to rely on a dealer without a warranty. But This car only begins to need major maintenance at 75,000 Miles.
Maintenance costs run 400-600 dollars.
For things like brakes and shocks.
Timing belt at 120,000 miles can cost 700 dollars.
It has been a highly dependable auto.
It always starts. It has never left me stranded on the road.
There is also an emissions Warranty to 150,000 miles that covers O2 sensors, Plugs and wires. Be sure to check with your local dealer about this Warranty.
This Warranty only covers the 2.5 TL.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | If you have a chance at a 1st gen TL BUY IT!! |
![]() ![]() | Best car I've ever owned and I've had a few in my 67 years |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 5 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 30000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 78000 miles |
| Previous car | BMW 7 Series |
| Date of Entry | 22nd February, 2005 |

