The Acura TL is an executive sedan that was produced for the 1996 to the 2014 model years.
It has compelling performance, a roomy cabin, great build quality and lots of tech.
In this article, we’ll be examining all of its best and worst years.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Acura TL Are:
The best Acura TL model years are 2014, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 1998, 1997, and 1996. The worst model years of this model are 2004, 2005, 2006, 2003, 2000, 2001, 2002, 1999, and 2012. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Acura TL?
2014 and 2013 Acura TL
The 2014 and 2013 TL models are part of the fourth generation and are the final models to have been produced. They are our top picks – boasting strong reviews from owners and auto critics alike.
The two models are essentially the same and have lots of intuitive tech features, a spacious cabin, attractive pricing, and classic styling.
They benefit from updates introduced for the 2012 model including revamped front-end styling, a 6-speed automatic transmission, enhanced fuel efficiency, a revised navigation system and a quieter ride on the freeway.
There are 2 main trims: TL and TL SH-AWD.
The base TL comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (280 horsepower) attached to a 6-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the front wheels.
The higher-end TL SH-AWD has a slightly larger 3.7-liter V6 engine (305 horsepower) and all-wheel drive.
2014 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 81 / 100
2013 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 84 / 100
2014 TL, Edmunds Review:
“As a lifelong car enthusiast with a baby and a frugal spouse, the TL fit the bill. The car is an underrated sleeper. It gives four-door, mid-sized, practicality, sporty driving dynamics, comfort, and tasteful style to my otherwise “nose-to-the-grindstone” life…”
2011, 2010, and 2009 Acura TL
The 2009, 2010, and 2010 TL models are the first installments of the completely redesigned fourth generation. They are bigger than the previous models, have a more powerful V6 engine option, available all-wheel drive and new tech features.
Despite being bigger they are quicker than before and easier to maneuver at slow speeds.
They are equipped with ABS with brake assist, stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front restraints.
Owners praised models for their upscale interior, handling, steering, value for money, comfort, infotainment system, and overall ride quality.
2011 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 84 / 100
2010 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 85 / 100
2009 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 85 / 100
2010 TL, Edmunds Review:
“I have owned this car for a few years now and the worst thing I can say is that I have to part ways with it soon. I mostly trade every three to four years however I drove this Acura longer. It’s not the most appealing on the eyes but the tech is tremendous and it rides very well…”
2008 and 2007 Acura TL
The 2008 and 2007 TLs are the final iterations of the third generation.
They have a roomy and well-crafted interior, impressive handling, sweet V6 engine options, and plenty of standard features.
The 2007 TL also marked the return of the prestigious Type-S variant, which is a sporty version of the standard trim.
The base TL trim comes with a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 258 horsepower while the Type-S comes packed with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 286 horsepower.
According to the EPA, these models can achieve 21 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
2008 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 84 / 100
2007 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 80 / 100
2008 TL, Edmunds Review:
“Nice sized city car with ample power, high quality interior and attractive looks. Relatively quiet and comfortable. Bought used from Acura w/ 64k miles. Subsequent repairs/replacement that are endemic to this car as you’ll learn on the internet…”
1998, 1997, and 1996 Acura TL
The ’96, ’97 and ’98 TL models were the first models ever produced and they got off to a great start. They have great owner reviews and minimal complaints filed on the NHTSA website.
These cars are stereotypical Acura’s – luxurious, refined and reliable.
Classically styled with room for four, these TLs come with either a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder or a silky-smooth 3.2-liter V6.
According to owners, these are the aspects worth noting: reliability, manufacturing quality, appearance, driving experience, comfort, handling, and steering.
1998 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: NA
1997 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: NA
1996 Acura TL:
- Edmunds: 4.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: NA
1996 TL, Edmunds Review:
“Hi there! I just wanted to share my personal experience in driving an Acura 2.5 TL 1996, in stating that it has been a reliable vehicle ever since I purchased it. I’m still driving this vehicle, and it still runs well.”
Consumer Scores For Best Acura TL Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | J.D. Power Consumer Rating |
| 2014 Acura TL | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2013 Acura TL | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2011 Acura TL | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2010 Acura TL | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2009 Acura TL | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2008 Acura TL | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2007 Acura TL | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 1998 Acura TL | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 1997 Acura TL | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 1996 Acura TL | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: Acura TL Beeping Problems? (16 Common Causes)
What Are The Worst Years For The Acura TL?
2004, 2005, and 2006 Acura TL
The 2004, 2005, and 2006 TL models should be approached with caution for one main reason – a dashboard that is prone to cracking, especially around the airbags.
The location of the cracks on the dashboard severely affects the integrity of the airbag system which can pose a significant safety risk.
In the event of the airbags being deployed, sharp plastic would be fired into the cabin, also the sharp plastic could puncture the airbags.
“My 2004 Acura Tl dashboard on the passenger side is cracked on both sides of the airbag. I am concerned for my safety and the safety of the passenger because the position of the cracks could possibly deploy the airbag and cause injury.”
“I discovered that the dashboard, where the passenger’s airbag is located cracked. The crack outlines the shape of the airbag. I also discovered another crack directly in front of the steering wheel.”
“Passenger side dash left edge of airbag is cracked from the front to the windshield. Hundreds of complaints with this problem, Acura refuses to do anything.”
- The 2004 TL had a total of 41 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 681 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2005 TL had a total of 54 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 500 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2006 TL had a total of 62 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 317 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Cracked dashboard
- Premature tire wear
- Excessive battery drain
- Bluetooth failure
2006 Acura TL
1999 to 2003 Acura TL
The 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003 model years are another batch of models that were extremely problematic for one main reason. In this case, it is a faulty transmission.
This is why websites such as CarComplaints.com have labeled these models “Beware of the Clunker” and “Avoid Like the Plague.”
A variety of transmission-related symptoms were reported by owners:
- Non-responsive shifting
- Erratic shifting
- RPM revving
- Jerking
- Hesitation
- Lurching
- Vehicle stalling
- Total transmission failure
“While accelerating gears jerked. Dealer stated the entire transmission needed to be replaced.”
“While driving shifted gears hard, causing vehicle to jerk. Dealership serviced vehicle and noticed transmission needed to be replaced.”
“My 2000 Acura 3. 2 Tl out of nowhere started slipping and shifting gears while I was drivingone day. While I am driving my car the vehicle will suddenly slow down or jerk an slip after frequent stop and go’s. After research I found that this is a problem in over a million Acura’s.”
- The 1999 TL had a total of 4 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 176 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2000 TL had a total of 9 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 279 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2001 TL had a total of 9 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 177 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2002 TL had a total of 22 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 360 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2003 TL had a total of 57 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 430 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Not shifting properly
- Odometer stopped registering miles
- Air bag light came on
- Transmission failure
- Brake failure
- Transmission slipping
- Trunk release stopped working
- Car shakes during acceleration
- Clear coat peeling
- Shifter not responding
- Check engine light is on
2012 Acura TL
The 2012 TL received a large number of complaints for various steering issues – this often included a warning on the dash and the steering not turning.
“Came off work last night got into my car start it up and got a check power steering warning on my dashboard. Vehicle steering wheel is almost impossible to turn. Vehicle is not drivable.”
“The electric power steering went out while driving on the highway. I almost crashed when trying to move the car to a safe place. Luckily I had enough strength to steer the car without power steering but a smaller weaker person could have crashed hurting themselves and others.”
The 2012 TL also had complaints due to the infamous Takata recall.
The Takata recall affected millions of units across different makes and models due to an airbag that was prone to exploding.
Due to how widespread the issue was, a lot of owners were left with no choice but to either drive with the risk of airbag malfunction or leave the car at home while waiting for the necessary replacement parts to arrive.
- The 2020 TL had a total of 25 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 151 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Power steering failed
- Vehicle stalling, hesitating, and jerking
- Lack of throttle response
Related: Are Acura’s Worth the Money? (12 Important Facts)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 Acura TL | 5 | 15 | 3 |
| 2013 Acura TL | 4 | 70 | 3 |
| 2012 Acura TL | 25 | 151 | 3 |
| 2011 Acura TL | 2 | 21 | 3 |
| 2010 Acura TL | 28 | 72 | 3 |
| 2009 Acura TL | 18 | 46 | 3 |
| 2008 Acura TL | 32 | 169 | 4 |
| 2007 Acura TL | 28 | 160 | 4 |
| 2006 Acura TL | 62 | 317 | 6 |
| 2005 Acura TL | 54 | 500 | 7 |
| 2004 Acura TL | 41 | 681 | 6 |
| 2003 Acura TL | 57 | 430 | 5 |
| 2002 Acura TL | 22 | 360 | 7 |
| 2001 Acura TL | 9 | 177 | 3 |
| 2000 Acura TL | 9 | 279 | 6 |
| 1999 Acura TL | 4 | 176 | 4 |
| 1998 Acura TL | 4 | 30 | 2 |
| 1997 Acura TL | 1 | 34 | 2 |
| 1996 Acura TL | 5 | 38 | 2 |
What Problems Do Acura TLs Have?
- Excessive oil consumption
- Transmission failure
- Cracked dashboard
- Bluetooth failure
- Excessive battery drain
- Car shakes during acceleration
- Clear coat peeling
- Premature tire wear
- Seats ripping
- Air conditioning stopped working
- Power steering fluid leak
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Acura TL?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Lexus GS | 8.9 | $18,840 – $19,729 | City: 19 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| Lexus ES | 8.6 | $16,130 | City: 21 /Highway: 31 |
| Cadillac CTS | 8.4 | $11,921 – $25,893 | City: 12 – 20 /Highway: 18 – 30 |
| Hyundai Genesis | 8.4 | $11,097 – $12,849 | City: 15 – 18 /Highway: 23 – 27 |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class | 8,4 | $13,140 – $30,637 | City: 15 – 28 /Highway: 21 – 45 |
| Audi A6 | 8.3 | $13,617 – $24,363 | City: 17 – 25 /Highway: 27 – 38 |
| Infiniti Q70 | 8.0 | $14,734 – $30,120 | City: 16 – 29 /Highway: 23 – 34 |
| Acura TL | 7.9 | $12,868 – $17,428 | City: 17 – 20 /Highway: 25 – 29 |
| BMW 5-Series | 7.8 | $13,992 – $29,520 | City: 14 – 26 /Highway: 20 – 38 |
| Volkswagen CC | 7.8 | $11,189 – $14,363 | City: 17 – 22 /Highway: 25 – 32 |
| Jaguar XF | 7.7 | $12,217 – $23,950 | City: 15 – 19 /Highway: 23 – 30 |
| Volvo S80 | 7.7 | $13,273 – $20,401 | City: 18 – 20 /Highway: 25 – 29 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 6 Most Common Acura TLX Problems (Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/tl
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/acura/tl
https://www.edmunds.com/acura/tl/2014/review/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2014/acura/tl
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Acura/TL/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/acura/
https://www.cars.com/research/acura-tl/
