Older Acura TLs

aussie222

I bought my TL-S with Nav two weeks ago from Brunswick Acura in central NJ. They gave me a finance rate of 5.75% for 60 months. The car was $31,800 and also included the wood kit, mud guards and wheel locks. I financed $20,000. I think you can probably do better on the price if you wait another month or two.

stooge2000

What is the wood kit you bought? Real wood instead of fake wood in the cockpit? How much does it cost?

aussie222

The Wood Kit is just more of the fake wood around the dash and instruments. It is not something I would add. It was already on the car. I am not sure of the price. The dealer claimed it cost $600, but it is listed under accessories on www.acura-tl.com for about $220.

lonesomeduv

I apologize if this has already been discussed, but does anyone know how difficult it is to install splash guards on a 3.2TL?

My fiance is getting ready to buy a TL and we were thinking about using the splash guards as a bargaining point. But, if it doesn't work, we'll still want the guards and I was just wondering if this was something I could do myself without too much of a hassle.

Thanks!

phild_mason

I have not done them on a TL, but did on an Accord which I expect is likely the same. Piece of cake. You unscrew a couple fasteners at on the front wheel wells and attach the flaps and put them in the bumper cover on the back. There are indentions where they go. You might want to pre-drill a small hole to get them started easier.

eddiemac

They are not difficult at all. You need a short(stubby) screwdriver, and an offset screwdriver. Go to www.hondacuraworld.com. They have a list of all accessories and prices for the TL, and you can also print out the installation instructions for the splash guards. I purchased a Type-s in August, and my dealer matched the website prices for the splash guards. I then printed the instructions from the website, and did it myself.

desjmj

Is anyone having a problem with their SRS light?

Mine came on a few weeks ago and the Service Dept at the dealership where I bought my car told me that there was no mfr fix available yet.

Not a good answer.

varmit

Desjmj - This is kind of a basic question. Forgive me, as I don't intend to insult.

Is there anything on the passenger seat?

I ask because even car mags have neglected the fact that the SRS light will come on if something small or a small passenger is resting on the passenger seat.

hunter001

Please find below the pictures of the 6-speed manual transmission of the Acura CL-S (TL 2-dr)...... a belated but welcome move from Acura.

http://www.vtec.net/news/items/936.html

Later...AH

steevdan

I currently own a 2001 Black 3.2CL Type-S, my sixth Acura, and have discovered several major paint flaws, mostly on the top of the car. They look like "burn marks" wherein the clearcoat seems to be dissolving. Have TL owners experienced similar problems?

jpeart0

I have a 2002 TL Type-S and have not noticed any problems with the paint job. In fact it is flawless.

inky

order online set of 4. turn front wheels all the way to put on. Rear, stubby screw driver or angle screw drivers helpful. I would never pay local Acura dealer prices.
INKY

desjmj

Varmit -- No insult taken. There isn't anything on the passenger seat.

The "side air bag light" will come on when something or someone is blocking it's deployment path.

When the SRS light stays on constantly, there is a failure in the Supplemental Restraint System and you need to take your car to get it serviced.
As my car is a '02 and under warranty, I took it to the dealer and they are unable to fix the problem.

Not a good answer.

gemini007

I have my 2002 3.2 TL type S since July 2001. The previous car was Honda Odyssey with custom installed Alpine Nav system NVE-N851a(DVD). Almost the same DVD system on TL, but what the big difference!!! First of all so called "direct route" too far from be even close to real direct. Second, there is no Canada map. Third, for dvd system it takes real "some" time to calculate you route to destination.
I asked few installers if it possible to change manufactured nav system to my old one. They said I have to replace everything including monitor. Can anybody help me find another way?

szellers

I am currently driving a 99 TL with 30,000 miles and am debating on whether to trade for the 2002 TL Type S, or a 2002 325i? My only question is if the TL body changes in 2003, I don't want to get a 2002 now. Has anyone heard or seen possibly what the next generation TL might be and if it will arrive in 2003? I also love the 325i and am thinking I might just go ahead and go for my first BMW? They are both great cars and have been an Acura owner for years with no problems, but maybe I should just wait for 2003?

richardgold

I recently leased a 2002 3.2TLS. I researched the new car model issue and came up with zero. I finally called Acura. They told me the TL will change in 2004. Who knows? Nevertheless, I went with the TL on a two year lease. I figure when the new TL arrives I will lease it. If it does arrive in 2003, so be it. A two year lease gives me options. I think BMW is great, but thee 330 not the 325. The 525 is changing in 2003. If I were moving to BMW, I would think the 5 is closer to the TL's size and comfort. I am a Honda person. I only buy/lease Honda. I don't think I would ever go with BMW. I like the Acura dealer and NEVER had a problem with a Honda product. I also think the Acura is more reasonable to service. Good luck.

szellers

Thanks for your comments. I have also only bought Honda/Acura products and have had very good luck with them. I realize that if I went with the BMW 325i I would be going to a smaller less powerful car, but unfortunately the 330i and 5 series are out of my price range. But the 3.2TLS is more powerful and has more features than my 99 TL which has been trouble free and is still fun to drive. I just don't know what the reliability of the BMW would be compared to the Acura, but at least you do get 3 years free service with it, which you don't with the Acura. I am so confused! My credit union here in Central Florida has a deal with the local Acura dealer to purchase the TL for only 900.00 over invoice which would be great and about 3-4,000.00 less than the less powerful BMW.

cncarlson

Test drove an '02 TL type-S yesterday. Nice car, but my question is do you still like it 12 months later, seems to lack that certain something that makes you want to drive it every day. Have owned an Acura in the past (89 Integra) that I put over 178K miles on, no problems. Currently in a '99 A4 1.8T Quattro, great fun to drive, but too small and too many problems.

Anyone owned both GS300 and 3.2 TL type S? Any comparisons? Am also thinking of a used GS300 98 or newer.

stooge2000

szellers, according to motortrends' web site, TL redesign takes place in 2003.
http://www.motortrend.com/future/index0.html

eddiemac

Are you trying to compare features and dimensions, or are you looking to compare comfort, ride and handling? If you are looking at features, go to www.acura.com. Once you get to the TL section, click on "compare". It will give you a side by side comparison of all features. As far as price I will say this: I purchased a TL-s/Nav at the end of August for $32100. I have a friend whose wife purchased a 2002 GS300 with the premium package for $38500. The car does not have heated seats, Navi, or HID lights, but is $6000 more.

richardgold

Forget Motortrend. Do an internet search and you will see it is 2004. szellers, try a two year lease at the $900 over. This way you can enjoy the TL and then purchase, if you like, the new model. Sometimes it is better not to buy a new model, even Acura, at the beginning of the production run.

cncarlson

My question is more of Performance, fun to drive factor, I recoginze the value of the TL, which is why I am looking at it, the price/feature is hard to beat. My concern is am I going to still enjoy driving it a year from now? I currently have an Audi A4 Quattro 5-speed, and before that an Infiniti J-30 (which really was a blast to drive). Is the Acura too bland, or does it age well like a fine wine/cheese?

cyranno99

was a boring car for me... my CL-S is over a year old... I won't have a problem putting many more miles on it.

golfgod2

I think I can help you with this. I've had a TL-S for about 6 months now and had a J30T (and I30) before that. I loved my J30T as well. Handled great through twisty canyons and had decent pick up. My biggest concern was going from rear wheel drive (which handled dramatically better than my I30) to the TL's front drive. My first day in the car I was a little concerned that maybe I didn't make the right move...HOWEVER... after about a week I fell in love with the TL-S. To this day I look for reasons (like picking up Milk or something) to go for a drive. Once you get a feel for the car it is really a blast - significantly better than the J30. The best part is that not only do I love driving it, but my lease payment is dirt cheap (puts an even bigger smile on my face). If you really liked the J30 your going to LOVE the TL. Enjoy.

bcjacob1

Don't complain too much about the nav sys on the TL. I have both a TL and a Lexus RX300 both w/ nav. The Acura sys is 1000 times better than Lexus. There's no option on Lexus to find shortest distance and the Lexus sys is takes you on even longer routes than Acura's

Crevels

Desjmj,

I had the same problem with my 2000 TL with the SRS light staying on. The problem was in the seat belt buckle on the passenger side. There was an initial recall for the seat belt buckles on the 2000 model. Have your Acura dealer check it out. They replaced both seat belt buckles and I haven't had a problem since.

desjmj

Thanks Crevels,

I will ask the Dealer to take a look at the seat belt buckles.

inky

If honda has new 03 accord (and it does) the TL would really suffer if not changed. As a 2002 TL owner, I am distressed at rumors of a 3.2 Accord EX V-6 with 5 speed tranny. Gone would be any advantage to the TL price premium. Based on that I would look for a new TL in Jan 03 timeframe.
INKY

varmit

Anyone guessing that the new Accord will force Acura to put the 260 hp V6 into all TLs and not just the Type S? Nissan has already upped the ante with the 3.5L Infinity. Acura might follow, but then what will they use to differentiate the Type S?

hunter001

would the 260hp become standard fare in the regular TLs and the TL-s moves even up-ward, possibly with the VTM-4 AWD from the MDX ??

Later...AH

varmit

Can they do that? Pardon me if this makes no sense. It's late and my brain hurts...

VTM-4 distributes power when a wheel is moving at a different speed (such as during slippage). VSA, which is already part of the Type S package, brakes specific wheels under the same conditions. Wouldn't the two counteract each other?

hunter001

VTM-4 is the AWD system, that re-distributes power/torque front/rear rear/front right/left left/right, proactively, before slip occurs in surfaces where traction is un-available. VSA would not do anything even remotely resembling that.

The VSA is merely a Stability/traction control system, which acts on individual wheels (by using the ABS brakes of the car) and also cuts engine power (depending on need). In fact, enthusiasts shut the system off at times for intruding into the driving experience. VTM-4 on the other hand, would enhance the driving experience by its proactive redistribution of power/torque based on the need. For instance, when accelerating, VTM-4 would distribute 80% of the power to the rear wheels, which is where you need power while accelerating and so on.

If both systems were available, the overall setup would be the best. Like in case of the Subaru VDC Outback, it has both a sophisticated AWD system and a Stability control system similar to VSA (Subaru calls it VDC).

Later...AH

varmit

Nope, or at least, not quite. I'm nit-picking, but saying that it is completely proactive isn't quite accurate. VTM-4 only proactively distributes power if it senses that the car/truck is trying to accelerate aggressively. IOW, you have to stomp on the gas. Otherwise it only redistributes power when there is slippage.

I believe that it is possible to use AWD along with a stability control system, but VTM-4 is not your average AWD system. Unlike other AWD systems (Audi, Subaru, MB...), VTM-4 shares the same issues as the CR-V's RT4WD. It is effectively an automatically engaging part-time system. Like a part-time (push that lever on the floor) system it is subjecting to binding. That's why the locking feature must automatically disengage at higher speeds (above 18mph). Other AWD systems use things like Torsen differentials that can handle multiple axle and tire speeds without self destructing.

So here's the reason for my question... Let us say that you are stopped at a traffic light and there is ice on one side of the road. The two wheels on the passenger's side start to slip. VSA is going to try to brake some those wheels. Meanwhile, VTM-4 is going to try to send power to the rear wheels. So I'm wondering if it's possible for VSA to be braking the same wheel(s) where VTM-4 is sending power?

brentc1

Hello everyone,
Just wondering if there is any difference in the ride quality of the 2002 Acura TL and the 1998 Honda Accord EX. I currently own an Accord and am considering purchasing the new TL. Any thoughts on this subject would be appreciated.

cyranno99

I doubt that VSA would kick in during acceleration like that. Traction control and VTM-4 would work under that situation. VSA would work while the vehicle is in motion, most likely going through a curve.

cyranno99

I might be hard to distinguish between the ride quality. The TL would have a stronger engine and more features that you won't find on the Accord. For example, five speed auto.

acura0419

I just bought a new TL to replace my 93 Honda Accord. Before purchasing the TL, I test drove the new V6 Honda Accord. I would have to agree with cyranno99. The ride quality is a bit hard to distinguish between the two vehicles, but in terms of a better quality car the TL was a "better choice" by far.

godeacs

$6K better? I test drove both too and didn't see much of a difference - def not enough to justify the extra $$$ (or extra maint costs).

No doubt though, the TL is nice....

bcjacob1

Brent, I owned a '98 Accord EXL before purchasing my '00 TL w/ Nav. The ride quality is much better w/ the TL

varmit

I test drove the Accord, and Maxima, but ended up with the TL. IMHO, ride quality in the TL is a notch above the Accord, but not a huge difference. That alone wouldn't make the extra $ worth it.

The thing that sold me (actually my wife) on the TL was the effortless way it gets around. The car sounds and feels great when you push it hard, but there's never really a need to. You say, "go", and it just goes. You don't even has to say, "please". It handles corners, passing, highway cruising, and braking without any fuss what-so-ever. The low roofline is a minor peeve, but the seats are exemplary.

jwacura

Hi All-

I've just completed Acura sales training and will began at the dealership tomorrow. It's a career change for me (20+ years as a mechanical engineer)and I'm excited about it.

If anyone has a question or more information they'd like from the dealer, I'll be happy to look into it for them. Of course, I can't guarantee I'll be able to answer everything, but I'll do my best to supply the most accurate info I can.

Also I'll try to post TL relevant info as I find out about it.

The training showed me what engineering marvels these cars really are.

BTW, I'm in the SF Bay Area.

Merry Motoring,
John W.

neuronbob

I own both a TL ('02) and an Accord EX ('01, more or less the same as your '98). There's some difference in ride quality, with the TL's ride being a bit less harsh than the Accord's, which itself isn't too bad. I personally didn't like the styling of the Accord (wife did, I bought it for her), and wanted more luxo features and went for the TL. You won't be sorry if you do, too. Trust me, it is worth EVERY penny in premium above even the Accord V6, and is a good deal when compared feature-to-feature with othe "entry" luxo cars.

imoimo

this morning. When I turned on the car, both the SRS & ABS light came on. I drove for a bit and they stayed on. I am a little worried because I remember the saleman told me when I took delivery of the car, he said I don't want to see the TCS light on when I drive, because that means it's off. So lights on, function off. I think that applies to the other functions too. I stopped the car, turned it off, turn it back on, well it's gone. Is it something that I should take to the dealer to look at or should I just leave it because that happened only once so far? I had the car since August 2001. It's a 2002 TL. Thanks for any information.

golfgod2

Why not take it in since you're under warranty.

acura0419

Well...6K better; I would have thought about it a bit more if that was the case; but for $4500 more, it is definitely worth it. I thought it was well worth the extra $$$ to have the extra features on the TL. Don't get me wrong, the Accord is a nice car too. Driving the TL is a bit more effortless than the Accord.

richardgold

I own a 2000 Accord EXV6 and a 2002 TLS. I also owned a 99TL. I drive both cars. The TLS is just more enjoyable to drive. Even when I had the 99TL, sometimes I got lost in the pleasure of driving the car. This never happens in the Accord. Maybe the 2003 will be different, who knows. I must also say the seats are better in the TL; more comfortable. My friend purchased an Audi A6. I told him not to. He drove my TLS and said he made a mistake. He wants to get rid of it. I test drove a Lexus ES300. That is not worth the money versus a Camry let alone an Accord. Consumer rates it higher than the Accord. I say they are wrong. The engine does not fit the car. Even the styling of the 2002TLS is superior to the Lexus. These are my personal opinions. I only buy/lease Honda. I never had any problem and both dealers have been great.

brentc1

Hello everyone,
Thanks for your opinions. I bought the 2002 Acura TL last Saturday at Gunn Acura in San Antonio. The people at the dealership were great and the car is just as great. This was one of the most pleasurable experiences I've ever had at an automobile dealership. Thanks John and James.
I was a little concerned that this car would be like my old Accord but was I mistaken! The ride quality is far superior than the Accord. I drove the TL home to Corpus Christi (about 180 miles from SA) and filled the tank up when I got there. I was absolutely amazed at my mileage. I got 33.5 mpg! That was driving 70 mph! I wasn't expecting that kind of mileage especially on a new engine. Has anyone here experienced that kind of mileage? Anyway, I love this car! Thanks again for your help.

godeacs

wow, you must have got a great deal! Here the 2002 Accord EX-V6 was going for $23K while the TL was $29K.....

godeacs

I'm in SA and went to Gunn Acura also. Wanted $29K (back in Sept) for the TL and gave a low trade-in so had to pass. Went to Gunn Nissan and got a better trade-in quote and a great car - Maxima for over $3K less. Better for my budget and don't give up much....was impressed with the staff at both Gunn dealers...

happy motoring!

daysailer

In fact, we had about decided to buy the Accord EX V6 last summer (as a replacement for the '89 Legend LS 5spd that my Wife primarily drove) when I read that the "'02" TL had been introduced early. I suggested that we stop at the Acura dealer in hope of finding an '01 at a good price. Serious tactical error! There were no '01s and once my wife drove the '02 TL, there was no turning back. I tried - we went back and forth comparing both cars, even drove the Accord to the Acura dealer for a side-by-side comparison. Even though the features and specifications are similar and the Accord is more useful with its folding rear seat, I had to agree that the TL was the better car (for us), if expensive. The most important difference to my wife, and important to me as well, is the more supportive and comfortable front seating. Better thigh support (the Accord seats seemed short) and just more comfortable overall. Most important to me was the substantially better transmission. The TL 5spd shifted better (particularly 1-2, 2-1) in automatic mode and the "sportshift" feature made it no contest since I despise automatics anyway (no substitute for a manual, but less annoying than a typical automatic). The promise of better handling (including lower profile tires) was another attraction although it could not be substantiated in a dealer road test. The improved power/weight was a plus as well although offset somewhat by the premium fuel requirement (and the additional weight of the TL is a downer). Whether it is worth the difference in price is arguable, but we decided that it was for us.