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Acura · Known Issues

1996-2014 Acura TL Problems: 14 Known Issues

1996-2014 model years · 7,100+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 7,100+ owner reports, the 1996-2014 Acura TL has 14 documented known issues, with 10 rated critical. The most serious are Automatic Transmission 3rd Gear Failure ($2,500-$4,500 repair), Second Airbag Recall: NADI Replacement Driver Inflator (NHTSA 20V027000), Front suspension lower ball joint recall (99V069000) — premature wear, risk of suspension collapse, Ignition Interlock Recall (05V025000) — Key Removable Without Shifting to Park, Ignition Switch Wear Allows Key Removal Without Shifting to Park (Recall 03V423000), Ignition Switch Contact Wear Causing Sudden Stalling — Recall 02V120000, 1999-2000 3.2TL NADI Driver Airbag Inflator Recall (NHTSA 20V026000), Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall ($0-$0 repair), 1999 3.2TL 5-speed auto was the start of the famous Acura V6 transmission failures ($2,500-$4,500 repair) and Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6 ($100-$4,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Automatic Transmission 3rd Gear Failure with 3,200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • TL Safety/Recalls3
  • TL Electrical3
  • TL Transmission2
  • TL Suspension1
  • TL Engine1
  • TL Interior1
  • TL Steering1
  • TL Drivetrain1
  • TL Brakes1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Safety/Recalls3
  • Electrical3
  • Transmission2
  • Suspension1
  • Engine1
  • Interior1
  • Steering1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Brakes1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 14 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls3 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.

Campaign #19V18200006/03/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013 Acura ILX, 2015 RDX, 2005-2010 and 2012 RL, 2009-2014 TL, 2010 and 2012 ZDX, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2011-2013 and 2015 CR-Z, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013 Fit EV, 2010-2011 and 2013 Insight and 2007-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Acura TL problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 7,100+ owner reports, the 1996-2014 Acura TL has 14 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Automatic Transmission 3rd Gear Failure, Second Airbag Recall: NADI Replacement Driver Inflator (NHTSA 20V027000), Front suspension lower ball joint recall (99V069000) — premature wear, risk of suspension collapse. Of these, 10 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Acura TL reliable?

The 1996-2014 Acura TL has 14 known issues documented across 7,100+ owner reports. 10 issues are rated critical: Automatic Transmission 3rd Gear Failure and Second Airbag Recall: NADI Replacement Driver Inflator (NHTSA 20V027000) and Front suspension lower ball joint recall (99V069000) — premature wear, risk of suspension collapse and Ignition Interlock Recall (05V025000) — Key Removable Without Shifting to Park and Ignition Switch Wear Allows Key Removal Without Shifting to Park (Recall 03V423000) and Ignition Switch Contact Wear Causing Sudden Stalling — Recall 02V120000 and 1999-2000 3.2TL NADI Driver Airbag Inflator Recall (NHTSA 20V026000) and Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall and 1999 3.2TL 5-speed auto was the start of the famous Acura V6 transmission failures and Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Acura TL problems?

Repair costs for known Acura TL issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Automatic Transmission 3rd Gear Failure, typically costs $2,500-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Acura TL is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Acura TL. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1996-2014 Acura TL with 14 documented issues documented across 7,100+ owner reports.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 7,100+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Filter:
ALL YEARS20142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200120001999199819971996

When Issues Typically Appear

Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall
0K-200K
Brake Pedal Vibration and Premature Front Brake Rotor Warping
20K-80K
SH-AWD Rear Differential Whine or Groan from Fluid Breakdown
30K-100K
Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6
50K-130K
1999 3.2TL 5-speed auto was the start of the famous Acura V6 transmission failures
60K-120K
050K100K150K200K mi

2000-2001 Acura 3.2TL owners already dealing with airbag recall history have a separate campaign to check: NHTSA 20V027000. It targets TLs that were given a replacement driver frontal air bag module during a vehicle repair. Those replacement modules used a NADI inflator that, because of a manufacturing issue, may absorb moisture. A moisture-contaminated inflator may rupture instead of inflating normally, and NHTSA warns that rupture can drive metal fragments into the driver or other occupants. The alternative failure is quieter but also dangerous — the cushion underinflates and does not properly protect the occupant. Both outcomes only reveal themselves in a crash, which is why the recall matters even though the car drives normally. The 875,966 units cited are the campaign total across every Acura and Honda model in it.

How to Fix

Have an Acura dealer inspect the air bags in your TL; they will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator with an inflator of a different design if it is one of the affected units. There is no charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (this campaign is separate from any Takata-related recall on the car) or contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

Acura 3.2TL sedans from the 1999 and 2000 model years are recalled under NHTSA campaign 20V026000. The driver frontal airbag in these cars uses a Non-Azide Driver airbag Inflator (NADI), a type that uses no phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant — meaning this recall is not the same as the PSAN inflator recall many TL owners already know about, and both can apply to the same car. A manufacturing defect allows the NADI inflator to absorb moisture. If the driver airbag deploys in a crash, a moisture-affected inflator may rupture, propelling metal fragments into the cabin at the driver or other occupants; alternatively, the airbag cushion may underinflate and not protect the driver as intended. Either way, the risk of serious injury or death goes up. Honda's filing covers 1,439,841 vehicles campaign-wide across all the Honda, Acura and Isuzu models involved.

How to Fix

The fix costs the owner nothing. An Acura dealer inspects the driver frontal airbag inflator and replaces it with an inflator of a different design if replacement is needed. The recall began October 1, 2020, and a car this age has often outlived its registered-owner records, so check the VIN yourself at nhtsa.gov/recalls rather than waiting for a notice. American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center can be reached at 1-888-234-2138.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

These TL model years were included in the major Takata airbag inflator recalls affecting many Honda and Acura vehicles. In a deployment, the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a severe injury or death risk. This is one of the most serious documented safety issues for the generation and remains relevant if recall work was never completed.

Common Symptoms

  • No warning symptoms before deployment
  • Open airbag recall status by VIN
  • Potentially dangerous inflator rupture in a crash

How to Fix

Verify recall completion by VIN through Acura or NHTSA. If open, the fix is replacement of the affected inflator or airbag module at no charge through an Acura dealer. Owners should not delay recall service, especially in high-humidity regions where inflator degradation risk was emphasized.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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NHTSA recall campaign 05V025000 covers 1999 and 2000 Acura TL sedans among the vehicles affected. On these cars the interlock operation of the ignition switch may not function properly, so it is possible to turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position and pull the key out even though the transmission has not been shifted into Park. Normally the interlock blocks that, and many TL owners rely on the key coming out as their cue that the car is safely parked. NHTSA lists 486,659 units affected, but that figure is campaign-wide across every Honda and Acura model included — it is not a count of TLs. The safety concern is a rollaway: if the driver removes the key without shifting to Park and also does not set the parking brake, the TL can roll and a crash could occur.

Common Symptoms

  • Ignition key can be turned to the "OFF" position while the transmission is not in Park
  • Key can be removed from the ignition without shifting into Park
  • Vehicle rolls after the key is removed if the parking brake was not engaged

How to Fix

This is a free safety recall repair. Take the TL to any Acura dealer and reference NHTSA campaign 05V025000. The dealer performs an inspection procedure that confirms interlock function, and the vehicle is updated with a redesigned interlock lever at no charge. The recall began March 7, 2005, so many cars were repaired long ago — check your specific VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm whether the remedy was ever completed on your car. Acura owner support is 1-800-382-2238 (Honda: 1-800-999-1009). Until the work is done, make a habit of shifting fully into Park and setting the parking brake every time you stop.

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High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

NHTSA recall 03V423000 covers the 1999 Acura TL, along with other Honda and Acura passenger cars and minivans, for excessive wear inside the ignition switch. As the cylinder body wears, the key-to-park interlock stops doing its job on the TL, so the driver can turn the key to "OFF" and pull it out even though the shifter is still in a drive gear rather than Park. The campaign covers 563,861 vehicles in total across every model included in the recall. The safety concern is what happens after the driver walks away: with the transmission not in Park and the parking brake not set, the TL can roll away on its own and cause a crash.

Common Symptoms

  • Ignition key can be turned to "OFF" and removed while the transmission is still not in Park
  • Key-to-park interlock does not hold the key in place as designed
  • Vehicle rolls after the key is removed if the parking brake was not set

How to Fix

The repair is free at any Acura dealer. The dealer follows an inspection procedure that measures how much the ignition cylinder body has worn. If significant wear is found, they replace the cylinder body, collar, and latch plate; if no wear is found, they install a redesigned latch plate. Owner notification began December 8, 2003. Acura owners can call 1-800-382-2238, and you can confirm whether your specific TL is still open on this campaign by entering your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The 1999 Acura TL is covered by NHTSA recall campaign 02V120000, which addresses degradation of the electrical contacts inside the ignition switch. Every time the TL is started, high electrical current passes through the switch, and over time that current wears the contacts down. Once the contacts are worn, the engine can stall without warning while the car is being driven. NHTSA lists roughly 1,000,000 units for the campaign as a whole — that figure covers all of the Honda and Acura sedans, coupes, hatchbacks and SUVs included in the recall, not the TL alone.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine stalls suddenly and without warning while driving
  • Loss of engine power at speed

How to Fix

The remedy is a free ignition switch replacement at an authorized Acura dealer — the dealer removes the worn switch and installs a new one at no charge to the owner. Owner notification for this campaign began June 14, 2002, but an unrepaired 1999 TL remains eligible, so enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm whether the switch was ever replaced. If a dealer has agreed to a service date and the free repair is not performed within a reasonable time, Acura owner support can be reached at 1-800-382-2238.

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High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
3,200 owners

The third-generation TL automatic transmission is notorious for 3rd gear clutch pack failure, often between 80,000-120,000 miles. The 3rd gear clutch pack burns out due to insufficient fluid flow and a weak pressure regulator design, causing the transmission to slip, flare, or refuse to engage 3rd gear entirely.

This issue also affects: Acura CL, Acura ILX, Acura MDX

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission slips or flares when shifting to 3rd gear
  • RPMs spike without acceleration in 3rd
  • Harsh engagement into 3rd gear
  • Check engine light with transmission codes
  • Burning smell from transmission

How to Fix

Rebuild or replace the transmission with upgraded 3rd gear clutch pack and updated valve body. Use only Honda DW-1 ATF. Install an aftermarket transmission cooler to reduce operating temperatures. Change ATF every 30,000 miles to extend the life of the rebuilt unit.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Honda DW-1 service fluid

    Verified repair fluid. Approved replacement: Genuine Honda DW-1 service fluid.

    eBay

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningChange the ATF every 25,000-30,000 miles religiously. The TL transmission is a known weak point, and fluid changes are the single best preventive measure. Do NOT use non-Honda ATF — it accelerates clutch pack wear.
Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,500

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Based on 3,200 owner reports

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Community Reported
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1999 was the launch year of the 2nd-gen TL with the 3.2L J32A V6 and a new 5-speed automatic. This transmission family turned into one of the worst Acura defects of the early 2000s — torque converter failure, 3rd-gear clutch pack burn-up, blocked oil passages from debris, and complete failure became common. American Honda extended the transmission and torque converter warranties in 2003 (per TSB 02-027). The 1996-1998 TL uses the older 4-speed automatic which is generally reliable; the failure pattern is specifically the 5AT introduced for 1999. If you are car-shopping a 1999 TL, the model year alone does not tell you which transmission you have — the early-1999 carryover may have the older 4AT while the mid-year 2nd-gen launch got the 5AT. Check the build date and trans serial to know.

This issue also affects: Acura CL, Acura ILX, Acura MDX

Common Symptoms

  • Flaring on 2nd-to-3rd or 3rd-to-4th upshifts
  • Harsh 'thunk' downshifts when slowing
  • Slipping in 3rd gear under load
  • Transmission shudder at highway cruise
  • Burnt-smell or dark transmission fluid
  • Check engine light with P0700-series transmission codes
  • Complete loss of forward drive (catastrophic stage)

How to Fix

If you own a 1999 TL with the 5AT and it's slipping, flaring on shifts, or showing harsh 1-2 / 2-3 changes: STOP driving aggressively immediately. The damage compounds quickly. Get a transmission specialist (not a dealer) to drop the pan and check for clutch material in the fluid. If found, the only durable fix is a rebuilt transmission ($2,500-4,000) — not a fluid change, not a solenoid swap. The original Honda warranty extension to 7/100k expired in 2006, so out-of-pocket cost is now on the owner. Many owners install an aftermarket transmission cooler with the rebuild — the original spec is undersized for the load and contributed to the failure pattern. Avoid 'flush' services — pressurized flushes on a worn transmission accelerate failure by dislodging clutch debris.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningDo NOT 'flush' a worn 5AT. Pressurized flushes dislodge clutch debris from the case and accelerate the death of a struggling transmission. Drop and fill with manual fluid changes only.
  • TipAlways add an aftermarket transmission cooler with any rebuild. The factory cooler is undersized for this transmission's load and was a contributing factor to the original failure pattern.
  • TipWhen shopping a 1999 TL used, check the build date and transmission serial number. Cars built before the mid-year 2nd-gen launch have the older 4-speed and are far more reliable.
Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,500

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High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed May 2026

If you own a 1996, 1997 or 1998 Acura TL, NHTSA recall 99V069000 applies to your car's front suspension. Acura recalled the front lower ball joints because they can wear out ahead of their intended service life; in the worst case the joint separates entirely and the front suspension collapses. NHTSA's stated consequence for the driver is that the vehicle decelerates with a sudden loss of power and steering controllability is reduced — a serious situation at road speed. This is a safety recall, not a service bulletin, so the fix is owed to you by the dealer. The 124,875 unit figure NHTSA lists applies to the campaign as a whole, across all vehicles named in it.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden loss of power and deceleration
  • Steering becomes harder to control
  • Collapse of the front suspension if the ball joint separates

How to Fix

Have an Acura dealer perform the recall: they replace the front suspension lower ball joints, free of charge. Safety recalls do not expire and are honored for any owner. Before booking, run the VIN through nhtsa.gov/recalls — on a car of this vintage the repair may already have been done by a previous owner, and the VIN lookup will tell you if the recall is still open.

Find a Acura dealer

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High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The 3.7L J37 V6 used in many TL SH-AWD models has a documented pattern of excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil level warnings, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Acura/Honda issued warranty extensions and service information for affected V6 engines in this family due to piston ring-related oil consumption. Owners often notice the engine using significant oil between changes, and if ignored, the condition can progress to rough running and catalyst damage risk.

This issue also affects: Acura Integra, Acura MDX, Acura RDX

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level drops between oil changes
  • Low oil warning or dipstick reading low
  • Misfire under load or at idle
  • Fouled spark plugs
  • Blue smoke on startup in some cases

How to Fix

Monitor oil level closely and document consumption over a measured interval. Diagnosis typically includes checking for external leaks, inspecting plugs for oil fouling, and performing the manufacturer oil consumption test procedure. Repairs may involve updated pistons/rings under prior warranty programs or ongoing oil top-offs if consumption is mild and the vehicle is outside assistance coverage.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipCheck oil every 1,000 miles on the 3.7L, especially if service history is unknown; many owners avoid engine damage by topping off early.
Typical repair cost:$100 - $4,500

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Community reported
2,800 owners

The dashboard material on 2004-2008 TL models develops deep cracks and a sticky, melting surface texture from prolonged sun exposure. The issue is caused by the plasticizer in the dashboard material breaking down under UV light, creating an unsightly and sometimes reflective surface that can obstruct the driver view.

This issue also affects: Acura RL

Common Symptoms

  • Visible cracks spreading across dashboard surface
  • Dashboard surface becomes sticky or tacky
  • Shiny reflective spots on dashboard
  • Dashboard material flaking off
  • Strong chemical odor from dashboard in hot weather

How to Fix

Replace the dashboard assembly with a new unit — Acura extended a warranty program covering dashboard replacement at no cost for affected VINs. Contact your Acura dealer to check eligibility. Aftermarket dashboard covers can mitigate the cosmetic issue but do not fix the underlying material degradation. Use a windshield sunshade to slow progression.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • DashSkin molded dash cover for 2004–2008 Acura TL

    Cosmetic mitigation 2004–2008 TL. This covers the cracked dash; it does not replace the degraded dashboard assembly.

    Dashskin
  • Black PolyCarpet dashboard cover for 2004–2008 Acura TL

    Cosmetic mitigation 2004–2008 TL; cosmetic cover only.

    eBay

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipCall Acura Client Relations at 1-800-382-2238 and reference the dashboard warranty extension. Many owners have received free replacement even outside the original warranty period. Document the cracking with photos.

Research This Issue

Based on 2,800 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence2,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners May 2025Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
1,100 owners

The high-pressure power steering hose on the TL develops leaks at the crimp fittings where the rubber hose meets the metal line. The power steering fluid drips onto the exhaust manifold, creating a burning smell and visible smoke. The leak typically appears between 80,000-120,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Acura RL

Common Symptoms

  • Power steering fluid leak at hose fitting
  • Burning smell from engine bay
  • Smoke or steam from exhaust manifold area
  • Power steering whine on turns
  • Low power steering fluid level

How to Fix

Check the VIN for open recall or campaign eligibility before buying a hose; coverage did not include every 2008 configuration. If not covered, replace the high-pressure power-steering feed hose with the year-matched updated assembly. Flush with Honda PSF, bleed the system, and inspect the pump for damage from low fluid.

Find a Acura dealer

Choose to share your location for this search, or enter an area below. Your search location is sent to Google to find dealers.

Open Acura dealer map in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they service Acura vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

Check your VIN for an open recall before buying.A dealer repairs an open manufacturer recall at no charge. Confirm coverage with NHTSA first.
  • Recall/VIN eligibility check

    Check the VIN for open recall or campaign eligibility before purchasing the hose.

  • 2004–2006 genuine feed/pressure hose 53713-SEP-305
    Fits 2004-2006

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2004–2006 genuine feed/pressure hose 53713-SEP-305.

  • 2007–2008 genuine feed/pressure hose 53713-SEP-A14
    Fits 2007-2008

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2007–2008 genuine feed/pressure hose 53713-SEP-A14.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDo NOT delay this repair — power steering fluid on the exhaust is a fire hazard. The hose is $80-120 from Acura and takes about an hour to replace. Top off with Honda PSF only, never use generic ATF.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 1,100 owner reports

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TL SH-AWD models are known for rear differential noise, typically a whining, moaning, or groaning sound during low-speed turns or steady cruising. Owners and Acura service literature commonly tie this to differential fluid deterioration or contamination, and in some cases to internal wear if the condition is ignored. The issue is specific to SH-AWD-equipped cars and often improves temporarily or permanently after fluid service with the correct Acura fluid.

This issue also affects: Acura RL

Common Symptoms

  • Groaning from rear during turns
  • Whining or humming from rear at speed
  • Binding sensation in tight turns
  • Noise improves after differential fluid change

How to Fix

Confirm the noise source with a road test, checking whether it changes during turns or under light throttle. Drain and refill the rear differential with the specified Acura fluid, sometimes with multiple fluid changes if the fluid is badly degraded. If noise persists, inspect for internal differential wear, axle issues, or bearing damage.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse only the Acura/Honda-specified rear differential fluid; generic gear oil is frequently reported to worsen noise.
Typical repair cost:$120 - $1,800

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Many TL owners report front brake judder, steering wheel shake, and pulsation under moderate braking, often traced to uneven rotor deposits or rotor distortion. The heavier curb weight of the TL, combined with driving style and pad/rotor material, appears to make the front brakes prone to repeat issues. Complaints and forum reports show some owners needing multiple resurfacing or replacement jobs over the life of the car.

Common Symptoms

  • Brake pedal pulsation
  • Steering wheel shake during braking
  • Front-end vibration when slowing from highway speeds
  • Repeated need for front brake service

How to Fix

Inspect rotor thickness variation, pad condition, caliper slide movement, and wheel torque. Replace or machine rotors if within spec, install quality pads, and service caliper hardware to prevent uneven pad contact. Proper wheel lug torque and a careful pad bedding procedure help reduce recurrence.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Front and rear brake rotors and pads kit for 2009–2014 Acura TL

    Confirm engine/drivetrain option in compatibility table.

    eBay
  • Detroit Axle front and rear brake-pad and rotor kit

    Repair parts 2009–2014 Acura TL; full-car kit includes the required front rotors/pads.

    Walmart

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Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse premium rotors and ceramic or OE-quality pads rather than the cheapest aftermarket kits; owners report better longevity with higher-quality components.
  • TipTorque lug nuts evenly with a torque wrench after wheel service to avoid inducing rotor distortion.
Typical repair cost:$300 - $900

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Campaign #19V500000
27/06/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Campaign #16V06100003/02/2016

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

get a full repair guide

What is the 2004-2008 Acura TL Automatic Transmission 3rd Gear Failure?

The third-generation TL automatic transmission is notorious for 3rd gear clutch pack failure, often between 80,000-120,000 miles. The 3rd gear clutch pack burns out due to insufficient fluid flow and a weak pressure regulator design, causing the transmission to slip, flare, or re… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2000-2001 Acura TL Second Airbag Recall: NADI Replacement Driver Inflator (NHTSA 20V027000)?

2000-2001 Acura 3.2TL owners already dealing with airbag recall history have a separate campaign to check: NHTSA 20V027000. It targets TLs that were given a replacement driver frontal air bag module during a vehicle repair. Those replacement modules used a NADI inflator that, bec… Severity: high.

What is the 1996-1998 Acura TL Front suspension lower ball joint recall (99V069000) — premature wear, risk of suspension collapse?

If you own a 1996, 1997 or 1998 Acura TL, NHTSA recall 99V069000 applies to your car's front suspension. Acura recalled the front lower ball joints because they can wear out ahead of their intended service life; in the worst case the joint separates entirely and the front suspens… Severity: high.

What is the 1999-2000 Acura TL Ignition Interlock Recall (05V025000) — Key Removable Without Shifting to Park?

NHTSA recall campaign 05V025000 covers 1999 and 2000 Acura TL sedans among the vehicles affected. On these cars the interlock operation of the ignition switch may not function properly, so it is possible to turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position and pull the key out even tho… Severity: high.

What is the 1999 Acura TL Ignition Switch Wear Allows Key Removal Without Shifting to Park (Recall 03V423000)?

NHTSA recall 03V423000 covers the 1999 Acura TL, along with other Honda and Acura passenger cars and minivans, for excessive wear inside the ignition switch. As the cylinder body wears, the key-to-park interlock stops doing its job on the TL, so the driver can turn the key to "OF… Severity: high.

What is the 1999 Acura TL Ignition Switch Contact Wear Causing Sudden Stalling — Recall 02V120000?

The 1999 Acura TL is covered by NHTSA recall campaign 02V120000, which addresses degradation of the electrical contacts inside the ignition switch. Every time the TL is started, high electrical current passes through the switch, and over time that current wears the contacts down. Severity: high.

What is the 1999-2000 Acura TL 1999-2000 3.2TL NADI Driver Airbag Inflator Recall (NHTSA 20V026000)?

Acura 3.2TL sedans from the 1999 and 2000 model years are recalled under NHTSA campaign 20V026000. The driver frontal airbag in these cars uses a Non-Azide Driver airbag Inflator (NADI), a type that uses no phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant — meaning this recall… Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall?

These TL model years were included in the major Takata airbag inflator recalls affecting many Honda and Acura vehicles. In a deployment, the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a severe injury or death risk. This is one of the most serious docum… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 1999 Acura TL 1999 3.2TL 5-speed auto was the start of the famous Acura V6 transmission failures?

1999 was the launch year of the 2nd-gen TL with the 3.2L J32A V6 and a new 5-speed automatic. This transmission family turned into one of the worst Acura defects of the early 2000s — torque converter failure, 3rd-gear clutch pack burn-up, blocked oil passages from debris, and com… Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6?

The 3.7L J37 V6 used in many TL SH-AWD models has a documented pattern of excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil level warnings, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Acura/Honda issued warranty extensions and service information for affected V6 engines in this famil… Repairs typically run $100-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2004-2008 Acura TL Dashboard Surface Cracking and Melting?

The dashboard material on 2004-2008 TL models develops deep cracks and a sticky, melting surface texture from prolonged sun exposure. The issue is caused by the plasticizer in the dashboard material breaking down under UV light, creating an unsightly and sometimes reflective surf… Severity: medium.

What is the 2004-2008 Acura TL Power Steering High-Pressure Hose Leak?

The high-pressure power steering hose on the TL develops leaks at the crimp fittings where the rubber hose meets the metal line. The power steering fluid drips onto the exhaust manifold, creating a burning smell and visible smoke. The leak typically appears between 80,000-120,000… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL SH-AWD Rear Differential Whine or Groan from Fluid Breakdown?

TL SH-AWD models are known for rear differential noise, typically a whining, moaning, or groaning sound during low-speed turns or steady cruising. Owners and Acura service literature commonly tie this to differential fluid deterioration or contamination, and in some cases to inte… Repairs typically run $120-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL Brake Pedal Vibration and Premature Front Brake Rotor Warping?

Many TL owners report front brake judder, steering wheel shake, and pulsation under moderate braking, often traced to uneven rotor deposits or rotor distortion. The heavier curb weight of the TL, combined with driving style and pad/rotor material, appears to make the front brakes… Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: medium.