How Long Will 2008 Acura Tl Go Without Major Repair
Best and Worst Years for the Acura TL
Acura's compact TL sedan was an underappreciated gem that offered exceptional value vs. German rivals. While ultimately replaced, the TL was a mostly reliable, enjoyable car during its tenure.
Key Points
- The Acura TL Type S model years 2007-2008 are by far the best TLs made, maybe even the best Acura made. It is reliable, reasonably priced on the used market, and fun to drive; everything you could ask for in a car.
- The worst Acura TL has to be the 2012 model year. A final generation model that lacks performance, has no style, and rates low in safety. Other cars, like the Lexus, provide a better value and offer more for the used car buyer.
- Overall, the Acura TL is a fun, reliable commuter, once you get past its conservative styling. It is a good value and owners like the TL. The Type S makes this car desirable and a truly exceptional sport sedan.
First-gen Acura TL: An Underappreciated Car Offering a Lot of Value
The Acura TL debuted in 1996 as a replacement to the Acura Vigor. This first-gen model lasted until 1998. The two available engines were a 176 horsepower 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder, and a 200 horsepower 3.2-liter V6. Even in 1996, Motor Trend deemed the styling of the first-generation TL conservative. That still holds true today, and these first-generation TLs are not considered particularly good-looking.
They are, however, among the most reliable cars you can buy. Some Car Gurus users even claim as much as 318,000 trouble-free miles, which is certainly above average.
Another thing that makes the first-generation TL interesting is that it was the last vehicle powered by the "G Series" engines. Five-cylinder engines are an uncommon design, and that makes the car a little more interesting. But that alone doesn't exactly endear the first-generation TL among enthusiasts. The 1997 Acura TL saw the introduction of variable-speed wipers and a standard power moonroof.
The first Acura TL represented a competitive value, facing down rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C Class. Though potentially underappreciated for its time, these Edmunds reviews suggest a very good ownership experience.
Second-gen. Acura TL: Benefits from New Powertrains & Introduces Performance 'Type S' Model
The second-generation Acura TL made its appearance in 1999. It was manufactured until 2004, and there was only one engine offered for the first few years. The J32 3.2-liter V6 replaced the aging powerplant from the first generation and promised a bump to 225 horsepower. But it gets much better than that.
In 2002, Acura introduced the Acura TL Type S, which bumped maximum output to 260 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. of torque. Car and Driver really enjoyed the car, complimenting the much improved at-speed acceleration. Notably, it only took the second-generation TL Type-S 4.5 seconds to accelerate from 50 to 70 mph. It even beat the current-generation BMW 3 Series to 100 mph.
The best part about the second-generation Acura TL is the advancements over the first generation. Motor Trend lauded this generation as a "true sports sedan" and claiming that Acura "clearly made a good car better" with the introduction of the Type S. Acura claimed that more than 500 hardware changes were made to make the Type S feel and drive as special as it was.
The second-generation Acura TL showed the world what Acura was capable of. With features like Acura's "SportShift", a sequential manual shift option, it became clear that Acura was moving towards more sporting intentions. From enthusiasts to general consumers, everyone loved it. And most owners seem to back that up too.
Vehicle History's owner reviews back up claims that the second-generation Acura TL offers a fun, mostly reliable, and rewarding ownership experience. But the best is yet to come.
Third-gen. Acura TL: A True Compact Luxury Sedan with Minimal Complaints
For the third-generation Acura TL (2004-2008), Acura retained the now-familiar J32 3.2-liter V6. As this comparison at Car Connection shows, this is when the Acura TL really solidified itself as a contender in the luxury compact sedan market.
It now produced 270 horsepower, which is a considerably higher output than its base Mercedes-Benz contemporary. It also returned better fuel economy, generally a more spacious cabin, and a more sophisticated suspension setup. Predictably, this was reflected by the high praise that most automotive journalists had for the newest Acura TL. Even after a long-term test, Motor Trend had minimal qualms about well, pretty much everything in the Acura TL. One fault is the torque steer induced by its front-wheel-drive architecture. Most of the time the safety benefits of the front-wheel-drive will outweigh the occasional discomfort of torque steer.
And let's not forget the third-generation Acura TL Type S. That's right, it came back for a sequel.
Impressively, it even made Car and Driver's quickest cars of 2008 between $30,000 and $40,000. But even after resoundingly positive reviews, Acura brought even more goodies to the third-generation TL Type S. This includes bits like Brembo-sourced brakes, lightweight wheels, a limited-slip differential, a more track-ready suspension, and even an optional manual transmission. It also got a bump up to 286 horsepower, further closing the gap between it and its BMW and Mercedes rivals.
But it wasn't just the Type S TL that made people really start appreciated Acura. As you can see from the many owner reviews here on Vehicle History, the third generation Acura TL really does do it all. The third-generation Acura TL represents a huge leap forward for Acura. Type S or base, the TL makes good on its sleek and sporty looks and offered a fantastic value and driving experience.
Fourth-gen Acura TL: Adds Optional AWD, but is Ultimately Discontinued
The fourth and final generation debuted in 2009 and lasted until 2014. Most notable was the long-awaited SH-AWD system; preliminary testing with Car and Driver promised "Velcro handling" and praised the 305 horsepower from a 3.7-liter V6.
Sadly, no enthusiast flavor Type S variant existed for the fourth-generation Type S. Luckily, Road and Track reports that you could still get a traditional six-speed manual transmission, which is genuinely cool and exceedingly hard to find. Plus, even in 2014 when the TL was beginning to show its age, owners had great things to say about it. Edmunds users have only nice things to say about the car; citing its sporting intentions, reliability, and overall practicality.
Unfortunately, the fourth-generation Acura TL never really hit its mark. By the early 2010s, the Germans had really stepped up their game, and Acura was left gasping for air by comparison. Lexus had come a long way, too, offering a more luxurious and sometimes cheaper alternative.
The Worst Year for the Acura TL
The final generation of the Acura TL certainly became a little long in the tooth by the end of its lifecycle. But it still offered a compelling price and value proposition to their buyers that cared less about performance. And while the first-generation Acura TL offered the very novel five-cylinder Honda engine, that's about where the positive points end. Its intentionally conservative styling isn't doing it any favors on the used market, either. Of all the TLs in this generation, we nominate the 2012 model as the worst year, for the above reasons, as well as its subpar NHTSA ratings.
The Best Year for the Acura TL
The Acura TL has always represented a workhorse, regardless of generation. Almost every generation sacrifices some degree of dynamics for a little more reliability, except the third-generation Type S. All of the extra bits Acura didn't have to add in but chose to, makes the third-generation TL Type S a truly unique and special car, even today. Plus, today, on the used market, a Type S costs as little as under $20,000.
Reliable, fun, great looking, and genuinely special, the third-generation Acura TL Type S from 2007 and 2008 truly represents the best of the TLs – and maybe some of the best of Acura – that money can buy.
Photos: Acura
Frequently Asked Questions
Nov 3, 2021
What goes wrong with the Acura TL?
The most common problem that has been reported with the Acura TL is transmission failures. The transmissions in these cars, and all Honda and Acura vehicles with a V6 engine made from 2000 through 2010 are known to have transmission issues. These problems usually occur between 60,000 and 120,000 miles and it can result in the transmission failing and needing replacement. Usually, you will notice the vehicle shifting rough between gears and the D4 light on the dash will start to flash indicating a problem with the transmission.
Another common problem that owners report with the Acura TL is that the engine idle speed is not constant. This is usually caused by a problem with the idle air control valve or the throttle body and when one of these gets stuck it can result in the engine surging and potentially stalling.
The third most common problem with the Acura TL is a suspension problem. These have been known to have issues with the front suspension components wearing out which can result in the vehicle shaking excessively around 50 miles per hour while driving.
What is the fastest Acura TL?
In the course of production for the Acura TL, two models stand out as being the fastest. The first is the 2008 Acura TL Type S. This version of the TL had the 3.5L V6 engine that produced 286 horsepower and was paired with either a 5 speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. This was still a front-wheel-drive TL, but it was capable of getting from zero to sixty miles per hour in 5.5 seconds.
The second fast Acura TL is the 2021 Acura TLX Type S. This has a slightly different name, but it is still on the same platform as the TL. This comes standard with a 3.0L turbocharged V6 that produces 355 horsepower and has an all-wheel-drive system on it. This will let the car sprint to sixty miles per hour in 4.9 seconds, making it the fastest TL ever made.
Acura has a long history of making sedans that were sportier than some of the competition. They lost that edge for several years, but it seems like they are focused on performance again with the latest TLX Type S.
How long will an Acura TL last?
An Acura TL should have no problem lasting over 200,000 miles, and there are plenty of first-generation TLs that have gone over 250,000 miles and are still running today. At the core of an Acura TL, it is a Honda and it shares the same legendary reliability that you would expect to get out of the Accord which it is based on.
If you want your Acura TL to last a long time the best thing you can do is service it and have it inspected regularly. Some of the earlier models of these are known to have transmission problems so it is a good idea to have that inspected at least once a year to see if there are any signs of problems with them. It can be more cost-effective to replace components in the transmission before they fail instead of replacing the entire transmission.
If you are in the market for a midsize luxury sedan and want Japanese reliability then an Acura TL is a great vehicle to look at. These are a little more engaging to drive than some of their competition which in the end helps them stand out from the pack.
Owner Reviews
Sharon F on October 27, 2021
My favorite car is the 2007 Acura TL
My Acura is a sports model, it is high performance. I get pretty good gas mileage on the highway and it looks good too. It is a good size for a sports model and the trunk is very spacious. I have driven it for over ten years and will probably hand it down to my granddaughter. The interior is leather black and grey. The pick up is excellent when you are merging onto the highway. Everything in electric including the windows and sunroof working with the key fob. The back is roomy enough for a toddlers car seat (with comfort). The car also has a pin strip that adds to the sharp look of the car.
Serena C on October 5, 2021
2008 TL is equipped with great tech and wonderful features. Great on gas.
Car rides really smooth. Love the tech that comes with the car. Long term and good on gas as well. The seats are leather and comfortable. Car barely gives any trouble and great for long road trips as well. I love the mirrors and how they adjust when I back up and the back up camera is great too. The brakes on the car are great and it's just a smooth ride. The car is good on speed too.
Theresa R on November 7, 2021
We love our 2008 Acura TL and would buy another one
We bought this car for road trips and we are very pleased with it. Since then, it's become our daily driver. It's very comfortable to ride in, has numerous power plugs and gets good gas mileage. The trunk is good sized so we can pack chairs, suitcases and metal detector along with other items. We would definitely buy a newer model if the opportunity arose.
Heather K on October 25, 2021
12 year-old 2007 Acura TL but still like new.
This is the best vehicle I have ever purchased. Although it is a 2007 (12 years old), you can not even tell. She still looks brand new, both in style, as well as condition. She has leather throughout, is comfortable, reliable, has great features, and is super fast. I would recommend any Acura to anyone but the tls is the cream of the crop.
Jaia L on September 22, 2021
Fast Rose Gold 2007 Acura TL with Limousine tints and colorful inside lights
The Acura TL is a great car. The gas pedal is very touchy but the brakes are perfect. The engine runs very smoothly and it's very quiet. It has memory seats where when you turn the car on it automatically goes to the place you want it. The leather seats are very comfortable. You can spend hours driving and won't get uncomfortable.
Ashley K on September 12, 2021
You'll love this 2007 Acura, smooth being your best drive yet!
I haven't had any problems with it! Performance is excellent, very smooth to drive. The speed on it is amazing! Very reliable, has not broke down and has lasted a while! I have leather seating and it's comfortable. I have heated seats and air control on both sides of the front! You could not be disappointed with this car!
Dylan B on November 5, 2021
Smooth car. Runs great and fully loaded 2007 TL
Amazing vehicle. I drive it every day and could not ask for a better car. Fully loaded, and drive so smooth. No problems with it at all. The car gets up to speed quickly for a stock car and shifts well. The sunroof is also a great feature. The car feels like you are driving a BMW or Lexus. It's so clean.
William M on October 12, 2021
2012 TL with deteriorating door seals
The main problem has been with the seals specifically the door seals because over time they have deteriorated and the adhesive that held them in place has disintegrated making the seals hang loose. This has happened on the passenger side door at the top and is starting to happen on the driver side doors.
Drew P on October 17, 2021
2012 TL with parasitic drain due to alternator
My tl has been extremely reliable with the exception of the alternator having a parasitic effect on it. Which caused the battery cells to die often I had to replaced the battery three times just finally fix the problem I ended up changing the alternator which slowed the problem for now at least.
Danielle Q on October 2, 2021
2008 Acura TL all the luxury none of the boujee.
I love Acuras. This is my third one actually. It's a luxury drive at efficient cost. Maintenance is manageable and its safety ratings are comforting. My car hardly gives me a problem and I love its features, aux port, steering wheel controls, hands free link, Bose speakers, heated seats.
Heather S on October 24, 2021
2008 Acura TL - beautiful and reliable
11 years - zero problems. Comfortable to drive. Love Bluetooth feature and Navi. Large trunk to haul around beach gear or golf clubs. Dealerships close by for oil changes. Mine is silver with dark tinted windows. I trust the Acura brand. Car has been a dream to drive for so long.
Lana M on September 14, 2021
I love the fact that the 2007 Acura TL seats are heated! It makes winter mornings easier.
Performs really well, smooth brakes, accelerates really well, nice leather seats. I bought it to take around my kids to and from school but it ended up being my go to for everything. I use her for groceries, long road trips, storage for airport runs. It's very reliable.
Cathy L on October 5, 2021
Tire sensors keep messing up on my 2012 Acura TL
Only problems I have has with the car is the auto sensors on the tires. The right side tires report that they are low a few days after adding air. You add air it goes away the a few days later the lights come back on. Have replaced them twice since owning the car.
Randy H on September 18, 2021
My 2008 Acura tl is perhaps the last car I will ever need to own.
I love to drive this car especially on trips. It is very comfortable and is loaded with all features available at the time. I especially love the heated seats in the winter months. Also the Bluetooth it has for my cell phone and the Sirius FM available as well.
James L on October 26, 2021
2012 Acura tl: engine oil consumption
The engine had an issue with oil consumption, as it affects those that are in the Midwest where a winter blend of gasoline is used. However Acura agreed or offered to address this issue. Engines affected were overhauled or rebuilt with new pistons and liners.
Mike M on October 22, 2021
I love my 2007 Acura TL it's great on gas and looks and drives amazing
Love it haven't had problems. Love the performance very comfortable and has the best features definitely recommend. If ur great on gas if you're looking for a Acura this is the one. Don't hesitate to get this vehicle one word amazingly describe this car
Odessa J on October 24, 2021
2012 Acura TL is a small car with technical issues
The technology is a little problematic. It is a care that is expensive when it is in the need of repairs. The inside is not that roomy and I need more trunk space. The tires often go flat and the steering is not that smooth.
Anna K on September 25, 2021
Engine replaced by dealer in my 2012 TL
I just recently came across a high oil consumption problem which burned a lot of my oil. I have to take it to the dealership to pretty much get a new engine. The good thing is this job is completely covered by manufacturer.
Dan L on October 12, 2021
Leather seats. Rims. Paddle shift. 2008 TL
Very reliable, well made parts that last. Came with a back up camera, Bose speakers, and navigation. For a 2008 its very advanced. Very clean look and super nice rims. The last of the nice ones in my opinion.
Morgan C on September 25, 2021
2007 TL is a great, long lasting, reliable car.
I love how my vehicle has run for over 270,000 miles. It has a sunroof, which I love. Have had very little problems with it mechanically over the last 6 years.
Beth D on October 20, 2021
Acura TL 2012 is overpriced for the quality
There are issues that it shouldn't have for a car of that price, like the power locks for example. The interior is comfortable.
Danny M on October 1, 2021
Problem with emission system on the 2012 Acura TL
Every once in a while a sensor issue will arise, primarily with the emission system.
Bob H on September 13, 2021
I've had issues with my manual 2012 Acura TL
The only problem is the stick shift can stall after having the car for awhile.
Michael M on September 26, 2021
2012 TL with electrical conundrum
Have never had an issue until recently - alarm will not go off randomly.
Mel B on October 21, 2021
2012 Acura TL rides rough
The only issue is that the ride could be better.
Steven Paul
Steven is a manager with a BMW store, where he's been for five years. He has been moonlighting as an auto journalist for nearly two years. A regular contributor to BMW enthusiast sites, he's owned nearly a dozen BMWs and has been a car enthusiast since his youth, growing up around his father's muscle car. He's driven M5s on Circuit of the Americas, toured BMW's facilities in South Carolina, and put down hot laps at the Performance Center track – so you could say he's a pretty serious BMW enthusiast. He also enjoys Porsches, jazz, and short walks to the pub. Catch him on Instagram: @s55steven
How Long Will 2008 Acura Tl Go Without Major Repair
Source: https://www.vehiclehistory.com/articles/best-and-worst-years-for-the-acura-tl
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