Older Acura TLs

anee

My 2001 TL I bought new is 8 months old, with 11,000 miles. So far, it's got 4 chips/scratches in the paint right through to the metal. I do SOME highway driving but mostly gentle around the neighborhood stuff. When I brought the damage to the attention to my Acura dealer, I got little satisfaction. My family has two other cars without this type paint problem. The car I had before the Acura had 153K miles with NO paint damage. Anybody else have what seems to be very easily damaged paint?

bimmer5

kellogg_dk

Below is a list of things that irritate me about my 2000 TL. Let me know if any of you have any suggestions:

1) When the seatbelt is retracted the metal bangs against the plastic inside molding which is causing knicks in the plastic.

2) The "Bose" stero is lacking BASE. I listen to a lot of jazz CDs but cannot hear certain accustic sounds. In addition the sound is not loud enough. My mothers GM AC Delco stereo sounds way better !

3) There is a strange squeaking sound coming from the passenger seat. The dealership oiled the seat but the problem still exists.

4) The wood console which houses the stereo, temperature contols, etc is starting to seperate from the black plastic.

Well, those are all my complaints for now. Don't get me wrong overall I LOVE MY ACURA. But does anyone have any solutions for these small irritants ? Please advise

tgif888

1.) Just need to retract the seat belt more careful. Can't just let it go.

2.) Known problem. No solution unless you change the system.

3.) Someone in the acura-tl board that the dealer need to take out the whole seat and do a re-assemblation.

4.) Have the dealer fixed it.

phlee70

My 2002 ACURA TL
Day 1 - Took car in for excessive WHISTLING noise by side view mirror when traveling 70-80MPH. They said they fixed it. Turns out they did something with the doors so that both front and rear doors would not close unless you slam it with all your might. They said after a while it will get easier to close.

3 weeks after 1st visit - WHISTLING noise returned but the noise a little duller, but still loudly there at 70-80MPH. Took it in and they discovered that the weather strips on both drivers side front and rear were ripped because the doors that they adjusted from last time was not done correctly.
Part were ordered. I asked which part and the service manager looked through the paperwork and stated that 2 more parts needed to be ordered.

3 weeks after 2nd visit - Parts were arrived and I took my car in. 2 out 3 were correct. The third was completely off. No explanation except that they wanted me to be happy about getting 2 out 3 right. Whistling noise is still there.

1 week after 3rd visit - I left a detailed message for general dealer manager. He did not call back. I badgered the service reps to take me in right away. They agreed and replace the third of the weather strips. Doors were adjusted correctly, but Whistling wind noise is still persists.

2 weeks after 4th visit - has been scheduled and ready for a shake down. I managed to get through the dealership manager, and he seemed concerned about the situation and insisted that he will follow up on it when my car is brought in. We'll see.

Anyone else have this WHISTLING NOISE by driver's side view mirror?

This particular ACURA Customer Service is POS. If anyone wants to know the name of the dealer ship I'll be glad to provide it, but it seems like from what I've been reading this seems like ACURA's practice in customer service.

TO any potential ACURA buyers, don't buy it.

[Deleted User]

Please post the name of the dealership here. That's what these forums are for. Praise for the good ones is equally welcome and helpful as the warnings about the bad ones like yours.

tgif888

I had the TL-S. I didn't experience any whistling noise. Did you try other dealership's service department?

phlee70

That is my next plan if my 5th visit proves to be unsuccessful.

thanks for your advice.

pallc

Just purchased an '02 TL (non-nav) at Pohanka Acura (Chantilly, VA) for $28,164 (plus taxes), which included mud guards, wheel locks and cargo net. I previously test drove the '02 Maxima GXE, Toyota Avalon and Camry and the TL was the best deal by far. The Camry XLE, with less equipment, has a MSRP over a $1000 higher than the TL!

fishmonger1

Reading these other posts it seems that there are some initial quality problems related to the gaskets and seals around the windows and sunroof.

I took deliver of a new TL last week and like the others here, I really love my new car. However, I noticed some wind noise at high speeds -- just enough to make me wonder if there was a problem. It seemed not as quiet as my test drives had been.

Sure enough, when I visited the service department with 200 miles on the car, they jumped right on it with an attitude that suggested this wasn't the first time they'd heard such complaints. Now they have ordered a new shim (whatever that is) and I am waiting for it to arrive.

I would buy this car again, however it's a shame that the new car "honeymoon period" would have to be marred by this experience.

I will put in a plug for RADLEY ACURA in Baileys Crossroads, Virginia. They outbid Pohanka to get my business, and if my first service experience is any indication, I'll enjoy continuing to do business with them. And get this: their service dept is open until 2am daily!

QUESTION: All things being equal, will installing a sunroof wind visor make any difference in terms of wind, or is it just an asthetic add-on?

s852

I have heard that they do reduce air buffeting in the car at high speeds. However, I think they are the opposite of an aesthetic add-on. It looks clunky and messes up the lines of the car.
I would live without the visor and just not open moonroof at highway speeds instead.

blexv6

I have a 2002 TL, non-nav, which I have had for 3months. I think there is too much criticizm of this car. I have found mine to be excellent, with no real problems, other than minor ones. What kind of car did you guys drive before?

Did nobody ever have problems with their prior cars. For the cash, you cannot beat this car. Buy a similar equipped Lexus or BMW, and you will pay substantially more.

Like any dealer, you unfortunately have to whine for every thing you get. You have to be firm. and no I am not an Acura salesman.

maxzoey

I had a 2000 TL and at 70 mph the tach read 1900 rpm. my 2002 at 70 mph the tach is reading 2300 rpm. I also find the 2002 to be louder on acceleration. I find the ride in my 2002 to be a little stiffer than my old 2000. Has anyone else found this ? Your comments would be appreciiated.

jjwhite6921

I am looking to purchase and have narrowed down to Accord V6 EX, Maxima SE, and TL. Concerned about ride and rear seat room more than a few $ difference. I would be interested in any options to help in decision. I have had 3 Maximas SE and wonder if I will miss my Manual Trans. Also local dealer's service iffy, hence interest in Honda products. Thanks

jjwhite6921

I am looking to purchase and have narrowed down to Accord V6 EX, Maxima SE, and TL. Concerned about ride and rear seat room more than a few $ difference. I would be interested in any opinios to help in decision. I have had 3 Maximas SE and wonder if I will miss my Manual Trans. Also local dealer's service iffy, hence interest in Honda products. Thanks

skinnygandu

I am looking to purchase a mid size entry level luxury car to replace my 97 Maxima SE. I have not driven any of the cars yet, but am actively researching. Hoping to get out next weekend and drive some cars. Looking at either the Acura 3.2TL or 3.2TL type-S, 2002 Lexus ES300, BMW 330i, Benz C320, Volvo S60.

For owners-please list any postives and negatives that you have found with your 3.2TL's.

Thanks.

tgif888

If you want reliability, Honda products all the way.

TL-S-got the fastest engine in its class. It is a bang for your buck. Only available option is the Navigation system. Dealer is willing to make deal on these cars.

2002 Lexus ES300-too Camry look alike. Too many options. It will sell for MSRP for a while. Unless you are not in a hurry.

BMW 330i-Own a 2000 323i before. It is like a nightmare. Every couple weeks new problem comes up. It require a trip to the dealer and the dealer need to order parts and need to go back to dealer again.

Benz and Volvo-didn't own one and cannot say anything.

Did you consider the Infiniti I30t or the I35? The I30t inside finish is better than the Type-S and the sound sytsem in the I30t rocks.

skinnygandu

tgif,

Speed is not the ultimate concern to me. The TL Type-S's 260 bhp doesn't really impress me. The darker fake wood trim does as well as the nicer looking 17" wheels(although I must also admit handling isn't a priority either).

The Infiniti I30 or I35 I won't consider. I simply don't find anything attractive in Infiniti products. I would rather save thousands of $$$ and get a very similar Maxima and only a few less horsies under the hood.

I saw a 2002 ES300 on the road recently, and yesterday I saw my first view of the 2002 Camry on the road. And I can say that without a doubt, the 2 cars styling is like South Pole and Equator.

fishmonger1

Acura quietly changed the transmission from a 4-speed to a 5-speed, which would give you a noticable difference in acceleration noise and RPM. What I can't remember is whether this was in 1999 or 2000. Was your old TL a 4-speed?

fishmonger1

The Accord is virtually the same in terms of creature comforts, with a few minor differences (no memory seats, no rear vents). The big difference is in the engine and transmission. The Accord V-6 engine is very competent. The TL is powerful. The Accord transmission is competent. The TL with manu-matic is powerful. The Accord takes regular gas. The TL is quieter. The Accord looks identical to your neighbors car. The TL makes a little bit of a statement (but not too much).

Listen to your brain and you may say Accord. Only you know whether your heart says TL.

fishmonger1

The Maxima is a great car. In many ways, from styling to acceleration and handling to creature comforts, it is very similar to the base TL.

Here's the problem. I got my TL for $27,800. When you you consider the whole picture, all the Maxima options, including insurance, resale value, etc., the Maxima would have to come in a lot cheaper than that for me to choose it over the TL.

Will you miss your manual transmission? Maybe, but I predict no. It's hard to get a feel for the manu-matic on a test drive, but it only takes a few days of use to get it ingrained in your psyche. If you like having that level of control, the Acura shifter can give you that experience.

fishmonger1

Skinnygandu,

The TL has a few clear advantages:

1) You will land a TL for thousands less than the Lexus, BMW, or Benz. If value is an imporant criterion, Acura wins in a walk.

2) Your Acura will be virtually maintenance-free relative to a BMW or Volvo, and service when you need it will cost much less than Lexus or Benz.

If, as you state, power and handling aren't your most important criteria, then don't get the TL-S. It's a great car, but it has 2 disadvantages vs. the base TL: The turning radius is almost 4 feet wider, and those beautiful 17" tires won't last nearly as long and will cost much more to replace than the base 16" tires. I also don't know for sure, but I imagine insurance is higher.

For the record, I have owned 2 Hondas and 2 Acuras, and keep coming back for the quality fit and finish, smart ergonomics, and durability. I just sold a Volvo with 49K miles on it and it was a nightmare. Never again!

bcjacob1

The TL went to a 5speed for the 2000 model year

lgtltd

I've had my '02 TL since March and it never fails to please. I only wish my daily commute had more open roads because this baby likes to move. One thing does bother me though and am wondering if others have noticed the time lag that occurs when shifting from reverse to drive before it fully engages. I have to make a conscious effort not to apply the gas until I feel it fully engage which is annoying. When I contacted the service manager he immediately had an answer which tells me this is a common complaint. His reasoning was that the transmission was designed that way to protect itself from abusive drivers who do not fully stop before shifting from R to D. I pamper this car and always stop before shifting. Appreciate any comments from other TL owners.

matt333

and the shifts take about 2 minutes.. of course, on my civic si i can shift as fast as anybody i know, but the shifts really take too long on the sport shift, the only thing it's good for is holding a lower gear, of course we all know it won't even hold 1st.

ftm1

The hesitation when shifting from drive to reverse or visa-versa is normal for the TL. I myself have the hesitation on my 2000TL that was purchased 12/28/99. This question has come up many times on the www.acura-tl.com forum.
I have been a member on there for well over a year. They talk TL & Type-S models on this forum & registration is free. I did a search on the forum for this problem & here is the answer. This is from a dealerships service maintenance pamphlet
of commonly asked question. Transmission makes metallic noise when shifting from forward to reverse or visa-versa. This is do to the fact that it has a direct drive reverse simular to a manual transmission. For this reason ,the vehicle must come to a complete stop before moving the gear selector to forward or reverse. This is complete answer for me but I will do another search for this topic on the forum. I do remember someone gave a good answer but it was well over a year ago. The hesitaion is normal for the TL so its nothing to worry about.

wtierney

I am researching a 2002 TL and wanted peoples experience on prices paid (how much over invoice) TY

nvc

Don't know if this still applies since throttle may be electronic...

I had this problem in my a honda...

Make: HONDA
Model: ACCORD
Year: 1990
Service Bulletin Number: 89-040R
Bulletin Sequence Number: 012


Summary Description:

DELAY AFTER SHIFTING INTO DRIVE-TRANSMISSION DOES NOT ENGAGE FIRST GEAR IMMEDIAT ELY AFTER DRIVE SELECTED AND ACCELERATOR QUICKLY DEPRESSED-ADJUST A/T THROTTLE P RESSURE CONTROL CABLE TO INCREASE TRANSMISSION'S HYDRAULIC PRESSURE-ALL 1990 A/T EQUIPPED HONDA ACCORDS THROUGH TRANSMISSION PX4B1119531 PYM

jdigeorgio

I have a 2002 TL with almost 6000 miles on it now. Bought it in March - one of the first on the lot and paid 27,900 before tax, tag and title ($30k out the door). Anyway, I don't know if it's me but it sure seems like the ride quality is POOR. I don't remember feeling this way when I test drove it but then again, I did test drive a 2001 model a lot more than I drove the car I eventually bought which was a 2002 model. I have had the dealer rotate and balance the tires to no avail. On anything but the SMOOTHEST roads - you can feel every quiver from the suspension due to minor road irregularities. I tried letting some air out of the tires and it helped a little bit - they are now at 30 psi. I don't know if there's really a problem or if I am just used to cars that isolate more. My last car was a 94 Tbird which I drove for 7 years. It wasn't real isolated like a Buick or Cadillac and the quality was no where near the Acura but I sure liked the way the road felt in that car as compared to the TL. I never thought it a million years I would make a statement like this. Does this make ANY sense? Anyone else think the ride is poor?

maxzoey

jdigeorgio I have noticed that the ride on my 2002 Tl is stiffer than the ride my 2000 Tl gave me. It also is a little louder on acceleration. I have also noticed that the engine revs higher, my 2000 TL would rev at 1900 rpm at 70 mph, my 2002 revs at 2300 rpm. I just hope they have soved the transmission problems I had on my 2000.

imoimo

and I have to say I loved it. My old car is a 93 Camry 4 cyl. The ride is a little stiffer but feels more solid. I love the acceleration of the TL and it gave me confidence when merging into traffic. It is a great car. I regret though I had the permashine and undercoating put on by the dealer which I think now is not necessary because I like the TL so much that I washed it very often to keep it clean and I like to wax it myself. I notice even with the permashine, after it rains, there's still white spots all over, but if I wax it, the white spots don't show, or maybe don't show as noticeably. Any ideas why? Is the permashine a waste of money?

uskiwis

I think most autos take about a half a second to a second from moving into D to being able to hit the accelerator without suffering a thud. Certainly Toyotas and Hondas anyway. I think the 2002 trans shifts very very smoothly, more smoothly than a Camry, which I didn't expect. Engine (non Type-S) is a more throaty sound than the quieter whir of a Camry, but it's a nice aural feedback when accelerating hard at higher revs.

I've not noticed anything poor about the ride. Test drove a Passat, and afterwards got out and tested the tire pressure as it was very bumpy. Sure enough, they were 40 all round, for some reason (and it was not that hot). The TL seemed very absorbant of bumps, ruts etc, I thought they were artificially dealer-soft, but no, all at 38. Since purchase have been very impressed, though have kept pressures above manufacturer recommendation because rear can squeel on corners with OEM tires if too soft (so have 34).

I noticed the revs too. In fact I was sure the SportShift was not working because, while in 5 it can be relatively higher than it is at other times. But I was told this is the lockup engaging/disengaging: you can be maintaining a speed or gently accelerating, but accelerate harder and it seems as though it changes down (eg revs go up 400 rpm) even though the car is still in 5, so revs might be difficult to compare unless same conditions apply. (Is this strange or not?)

Finally, I would have to say you'd get a bad impression simply relying on this Bulletin Board, which I followed for a couple years before buying. After a while it's easy to be convinced that a car purchased will almost certainly have rattling sunroof/seatbelt/console and a transmission that WILL blow. But, most owners are going to be satisfied and never visit the bulletin board again unless something goes wrong. I would strongly recommend buying the car, but test drive THE ACTUAL CAR YOU WILL BE BUYING first until you're very comfortable that everything is as you expect. Then enjoy (and don't grizzle unless problem wasn't there when you bought it AND the dealer won't fix it - ie, caveat emptor).

[Deleted User]

>>Is the permashine a waste of money?<<
Yes, as is the undercoating as well. FYI, most manufacturers warn AGAINST undercaoting as it can actually ADD to rust and corrosion in modern cars.
Those two dealer-installed-options are two of the biggest dealer scams that exist solely to squeeze extra money out of car buyers. I would not trust any dealer that sold them.

jdigeorgio

Thanks for your replies. Makes me feel a little better. One thing I don't understand is why the 2002 ride would be different than the 2001. Supposedly there were no changes to the suspension in the non-type S.

inky

I test drove a 2002 TL non S last week and it runs at 2000 rpm at 70 mph just like my 2000 TL did. I like the new front end, fog lights and mem seats along with 6 disk in dash. However prices are not so great. $500 discounts are the average in my area.
INKY

imoimo

I guess I just learned my lesson, the expensive way. I think I got a pretty good price on the 02 TL about 2000 off MSRP. But they got me with the undercoating & permashine!

BTW, my TL revs under 2000 at 110km. I do love the car now.

uskiwis

I get about 1900 rpm at 70mph, as we all agree. But, when you step on it (the gas) somewhat, do the revs go up? (Sport-shift into fifth to be sure it's not down-shifting.)

fishmonger1

During August and September, I spoke to 5 dealers in 3 states in the mid-Atlantic, plus the president of a car buying service (the ones who negotiate for you for a fee) who checked his database on deals they've gotten on TLs this year.

Bottom line for the base TL: Price flexibility is pretty limited. You can get it for about $28,200 without much haggling, and if you push, some dealers around here will go as low as $27,800 - $27,900. I did not find anybody willing to go lower.

Of course, this was before September 11. I don't know whether or not the market has taken a sudden turn.

[Deleted User]

Try posting your experience on the Inconsiderate Salespeople Forum. I think it's pretty appropriate. It should get a variety of reactions.
I'm especially curious as to what the salespeople that hang out there would say. You might find it interesting, if not informative. :-)

varmit

Best thing you can do is post that story everywhere it's appropriate. Let everyone know the name of the dealership, too.

inky

I am not sure what sales tax is out there but your deal makes no sense to me. Why would they bother to sell a low volume car so cheap (not one of 400,000 Accords annually) and why did it take six months to buy a car? Acura 3.2's are low volume cars. An Acura dealer cannot stay in business for long at $100 to $400 over invoice due to volume. How did you get the deal in the first place? I do fault the dealer for giving you such a low ball price. It actually detracted from their ability or williness to treat you well. I would have taken the car and worked a deal out with Acura corporate about the damage. Something like what would it cost to fix damage? Give me 75% of that cash and I will release Acura from fixing under warranty. Transit damage is probably some sort of insurance pool in which Acura gets some help from the carrier. Anyhow, sorry to hear about the problem. But, they were willing to fix it.
INKY

[Deleted User]

TL is a low volume car? Compared to an Accord or Camry maybe. You must be thinking of the CL.

3peasinapod

I got the deal from the sales manager. He just did it for the sale. From what I figured they were making about $700.00.

Invoice-----26,802.00
over invoice--700.00
muds/locks----180.00
------------------------
27,682.00
Tax 7%
8.112 incl. tax & lic. 2245.57

29,927.56
warranty 800.00
--------------------------
30,727.56

I probably would have taken the car, except for a bad past experience I had with a 1992 Ford Explorer which was painted 6 times because of defects with the paint. It was not worth the time nor the trouble. Just a phobia I have now. I just could not see them breaking the factory paint and going through it again. I probably would have taken the car if it were the bumpers or somewhere down low where it was not noticeable,but not the front hood and the top of the left qtr. panel.

The dealership called me back and the general sales manager told me this time that they were only making $11.00 on the deal and that I should have taken it while I had the chance. They would not offer me the same deal on another TL. Funny how it started that they were making $400.00-$100.00 and now $11.00. Come on guys, get your figures straight.
The name of the dealership is Keyes Acura.

Thanks for listening

bergman5

respone to Joe D.
I have a 02 TL, 8k on the clock, with the same complaint! I think the ride is very "jiggly" and jostles you around from side to side. Like you, I purchased this TL in March, right after introduction.

Dealer checked tire balance and suspension components at last service, all 100%.

My wife actually becomes quite carsick riding in the TL, she all but refuses to ride in it at all! Am considering ditching it for another sedan to keep peace in the family!

Other complaint is the slow engagement of the transmission from R to D.

Regards,

Scott.

inky

I guess, you should look at the Buick Roadmaster.
Did it not do this during the test drive?
INKY-

jamiestockman

TL Fans,

I thought you'd all appreciate the lastest release information on 2003 TL's. Apparently, the 2002 will only be produced throught 1/01. The 2003 goes into prodcution 2/01. Deliveries of the new model should begin by Late Feb. - Early Mar. Aside from the addition of the new Manual Transmission for the Type-S's, no other information is available about the new model.

Jamie S.

3peasinapod

jamiestockman
Where did you get this information from?
Produced through 1/01????????

s852

That doesn't really make any sense considering the 2002's were just mildy restyled and updated a few months ago and the TL is usually a year behind the Accord for new models.

Also, there is no mention of this at the www.vtec.net site that usually has pretty reliable info and news.

inky

Looks like it will be last model year of current TL (maybe a 18 month run?), the next one will be an all new 2004 sometime in Fall of 2003 is my guess. Just a guess
INKY

jamiestockman

To all,

I apologize for for the Jan. '02 vs. '01 slip.

Later this month, all Acura dealers will be asked to specify their last production month's worth of 2002 TL's. These last 2002's will be asembled and shipped during January. 2003's begin shipping in February. Not much is known about the changes. The addition of a Six-Speed for the Type-S should be assumed, but I'll post the facts when they are known.

Jamie S.