1996 Acura TL review from North America
"A great car, but a resale disappointment and junk CD player"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Both front windows developed scratch marks. Dealer replaced on warranty, but they scratched again.
Body sheet metal paper thin. Developed too many parking lot dents.
CD player failed and was replaced on warranty. Player again failed with same problem - chronic error message and failure to read CD. This is a pervasive problem with all similar Acuras, but company refuses to address obvious manufacturing defect.
Starter ridiculously expensive and rebuilt units are also absurdly priced (if you can find one).
Tires wear prematurely as wheels spin when starting from stop with wheels turned.
Premium gas is expensive.
Resale value has declined precipitously and is horrible compared to the Accord's relative resale value.
General comments?
Car styling is fabulous and timeless. It is much better looking than newer models, which are really nondescript.
Performance is excellent even with the five cylinder 2.5.
Car is extremely reliable and relatively trouble free except for sheet metal and CD woes.
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? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 15 miles |
| Most recent distance | 97000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 5th March, 2004 |