1999 Acura TL review from North America
"A good car for the first 9 years of ownership"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The GPS navigation computer failed around 2004 and the dealer stated Acura no longer supports the earlier model of GPS navigation device.
The hinged, leather covered console cover between the front seats rubs against the driver's lumbar adjustment creating a constant squeaking noise.
A black film trim around the car deforms and peels away.
The Check Engine or Maintenance Required light is activated with regularity as can be due a loose gas cap.
The oxygen sensor has been replaced multiple times.
There is no run-off channel between the door and roof so that if the window is opened while driving any water on the roof will run into the car.
General comments?
Seat and seating position are comfortable. All ergonomics are well located.
The 3.2 liter engine is very responsive and fuel mileage is in the 23 - 26 mpg range.
The automatic transmission is generally satisfactory. However, downshifts can be harsh and jerky. The manual mode is really unnecessary on the TL as the responsiveness of the transmission is not good enough to take full advantage of manual shifting.
The leather seats have held up well.
A recent service indicated worn motor mounts and ball joints with costs in the neighborhood of $2000 to fix (as of 1-Apr-08). While inexpensive to operate, the cost for relative minor repairs can be quite high.
Recommended reviews
| Great featured car with bad transmissions |
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| Great car for anybody, college kids to the elderly |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.2 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 32 miles |
| Most recent distance | 137000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 18th May, 2008 |