1996 Acura TL 2.5 review from North America
"Luxury styling on a budget"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission seems to have a late up-shift, and more likely than not, shifts roughly. Down-shifts just fine though.
The rear motor mounts and the transmission mount seem to be worn out. Currently in the process of repairing, and waiting for parts. Hopefully this will fix the rough up-shift.
Front windows go up and down kind of rough. I believe it's the guides, but I'm not sure. I do know that they are starting to lightly scratch the windows.
General comments?
As long as it's properly maintained, this car runs great.
Interior is spacious, and comfortably accommodates my wife and baby (in a car-seat of course!) in the backseat.
Considering the length of the car, the turning radius is awesome. You can get in and out of fairly tight spaces.
I thought the car would ride a little smoother than it does, but with 125k+ miles on it, I think it just needs new struts.
The 2.5l engine is considerably weaker than the 3.2l model, and my recommendation to anyone looking for a TL, is to get the 3.2l.
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  | 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? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 128450 miles |
| Most recent distance | 129200 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan 240SX |
| Date of Entry | 21st June, 2006 |