2002 Acura TL S review from North America
"A very sub-par product from a trusted name"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The outside trim on the "B" pillars has worn off.
The front brakes kept warping at 20k,35k,48k,60k.
The interior trim is fading even though the car is usually in a garage.
The radio/amp produces a strange noise at low volume.
The transmission has been replaced twice and the latest replacement produces excessive vibration when in-gear.
General comments?
Overall, it is an okay car, but I bought it from my step-dad in 2004 for 40% of its (then) value. If I paid retail, I would really be upset. As it is, I am just want to get rid of it and go back to Lexus. The transmission problem is totally unacceptable for any car brand, let alone Honda/Acura. Moreover, the dealerships are not very forthcoming with detailed information on exactly what is wrong with the transmissions and what to expect from the replacement units. The last time I had the tranny replaced, I forced them to tell me it was a re-manufactured unit. I guess they will just keep replacing junk with junk until the problem sinks the company. Also, they refused to show me my old transmission as proof they actually replaced it. The last tranny I got looked dirty on the outside. The first replacement looked "new" even though now I know it was a reman.
The brake rotors are another area of repeat failure. I finally got tired of replacing pads and having the rotors turned and bought after market rotors. The new ones work much better, even with Acura pads.
Recommended reviews
| 2002 - TL Type S SOHC 24-valve 3.2 Liter V6 w/SMFI* Due to the transmission problem and the way it's handled, I feel disappointed with Honda |
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| The transmission was the only reason I sold mine! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | V6 gas Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 1 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 38000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 78600 miles |
| Previous car | Lexus SC400 |
| Date of Entry | 23rd September, 2007 |