25th Nov 2006, 17:44

We Can Relate to all of you!

Our 2003 Acura TL Type-S factual experience:

My boyfriend and I own a 2003 Acura TL type-s and are currently awaiting approval of our third transmission.

We first began experiencing problems when the car had approximately 25,000-30,000 miles; jerking of the car and unusual noises. Our Acura dealer told us they needed to install an "oil jet kit" instead of a completely new transmission because there wasn't any damage in the form of "heat discoloration". Unfortunately we continued to experience problems and had to have the transmission replaced at 75,000 miles (transmission #2). We were also notified via mail that there was a recall on some Acura transmissions due to a manufacturing defect.

Our car is presently at the Acura dealer pending approval for a third transmission. We are quite frustrated because the dealer is saying that we are 10 miles outside our warranty coverage; which is ludicrous considering the fact we had to drive over 20 miles to take the car in!

Furthermore, we were just told that our car isn't included in the class action lawsuit nor is our VIN listed under the extended transmission warranty! Why? I have no idea, but could use some help if anyone else can relate. I am hoping to end our transmission woes as soon as possible.

I would say that with the exception of the problems associated with the transmission we loved the car. However, at this point the problem is turning into a huge inconvenience and is quite frustrating.

Does anyone know how to find out why my VIN# isn't listed? We purchased the car 6/2002 as a new 2003 TL and I don't feel we should be excluded considering we are on our third transmission!

25th Nov 2006, 17:48

Has anyone been able to associate any transmission problems with the "computers" within their Acura's? I recently came across someone who said their dealer told them that the transmission problems were due too bad computers. I am hoping verify this comment. If this is true does anyone know what is being done about this. We are on our third transmission with our 2003 Acura TL type-s! Thank you kindly!

27th Nov 2006, 15:08

Thank you for posting the class action information, I will have to check my vin and see if I am covered.

I also am on my 3rd engine and my car has a mere 29,000 miles on it. The 1st replacement engine lasted about 4,500 miles.

I am definitely thinking of trading the TL in for a Lexus or something else more reliable. It's really such a shame because I love my car, but for the transmission.

4th Dec 2006, 20:19

It must be the Acura dealer. I know of Honda and Acura dealers accepting anyone of those transmissions from 2000-2004 usually under 100,000 miles, but I have heard of some with over 100k being replaced for free.

14th Dec 2006, 12:22

I wanted to add my experience with the infamous Acura transmission problems. I am the original owner of a 2000 TL, with 110,000 miles on it. It's been a great car, nearly problem free, until I began experiencing the well-documented intermittent jerky shifting at about 90K miles.

About two months ago I got notice of the Class Action lawsuit, and last month the transmission got really bad, making grinding noises and jerking at cruising speed. I took it to the dealer and asked them to replace it under warranty, even though I was 10,000 miles out of the current warranty. They agreed to replace it and charge me for labor only (about $900).

When I got the car back, I immediately wrote a letter to the president of Honda America, with copies to Acura Client Services as well as the dealer. I've included the addresses below if anyone else wants to write.

Today I received a phone call from a Client Services rep, informing me that Acura would not reimburse the labor charges. She got a bit snippy with me when I refused to agree and asked for a response in writing, but she finally agreed to do that.

I'll continue to pursue reimbursement, but meanwhile I'm preparing an ad to sell the vehicle. Needless to say, this will be my first and last Honda product, and we'll be off to the Toyota dealer soon.

MR. AKIO HAMADA

PRESIDENT AND CEO

HONDA OF AMERICA

24000 HONDA PKWY

MARYSVILLE OH 43040-8612.

ACURA CLIENT SERVICES

1919 TORRANCE BLVD

TORRANCE CA 90501-2722.

18th Dec 2006, 17:07

Hello with another Acura 3.2Tl type S. My Girlfriend and I were stranded along the side of the highway when our Transmission went out. I called Acura's TLC hot line for roadside assistance and to my surprise, The did not help! This has been my third Acura and it will be my last. We were driving along at 80 when the Tac went to 6 thousand and we lost all forward movement. We pulled over and opened the hood only to find transmission fluid all over the engine compartment. I had the car towed to a local garage and put two quarts of fluid in it and made it home. The car has not moved in two days. We can't trust it and Acura gave me the one figure... Thanks Acura...I love you too. Can any one help us. The car has 127k with it's second transmission. My name is Robert 910.540.0143.

18th Dec 2006, 19:41

I am another that has had problems with my 2002 TL Type S. I purchased the car and within 15,000 miles I had to have the transmission replaced. The car wouldn't get out of first gear. Now at 98,000 miles my transmission is completely shot again. This time it won't even go into gear. The car will start, but acts like it's in neutral. I should of brought it in earlier, as it would do as some have previously noted "jerk (mildly) at cruising speeds".

I can say after this transmission replacement, I will be selling the vehicle and won't be purchasing another Honda product. It's pretty unfortunate that Honda is putting out a product that is causing consumers such frustrations.

27th Dec 2006, 19:26

First, I wanted to write that I really found these comments extremely useful in regards to the transmission issue on the Acura TL.

I purchased a certified 3.2 TL Type S in 2005 with 26K miles. In a year and a half, the car was rock solid. This past weekend on a weekend trip, I noticed that the car's transmission was having some "slips" between 2nd and 3rd gear, and the tachometer was redlining in a few instances. The car also had some issues engaging in the Reverse gear.

Wasn't sure if these were covered under the certified warranty, until everyone who's contributed to this comment thread mentioned very similar issues. I plan on taking the car to the shop shortly to find out if (1) the car's issue falls under the transmission warranty and (2) if this car had a transmission issue prior to me purchasing through the certified program. Thanks everyone.

Next, I wanted to bring to people's attention that there was also a class action law suit on selected Honda / Acura vehicles purchased between April 13, 2002, and Nov. 7. This suit deals with overstating ODOMETER readings by 2-4%, which may affect some warranty issues or lease over-mileage charges.

This information can be found in the following web-page.

http://www.law.com/jsp/article.jsp?id=1163194119145

Good luck to us all.