1995 Acura TL

The 1995 Acura TL, a mid-size luxury sedan, came with a single engine option: a 2.5L SOHC 20-valve G25A4 inline five-cylinder engine producing 176 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. It was exclusively paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the TL for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Honda reliability, while some criticisms included its somewhat bland styling and lack of more powerful engine options compared to competitors.

Engine

2.5L SOHC 20-valve G25A4 Inline Five-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly occur around the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. These leaks can lead to oil consumption, low oil levels, and potentially engine damage if left unattended. Visible oil spots under the car are common.
  • Solution: Replace the affected gaskets and seals. Thoroughly clean the affected area to prevent future leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on the location of the leak and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail due to age and wear, causing misfires, rough running, difficulty starting, and eventually a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor with a new or rebuilt unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The IAC valve can become clogged or malfunction, leading to erratic idling, stalling, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit slipping between gears, especially during acceleration, or shift harshly. This is often due to worn clutch packs or valve body issues.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush might temporarily alleviate the issue in minor cases, but a rebuild or replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+ (for rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially when the torque converter is locking up. Also, difficulty accelerating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. Sometimes requires transmission removal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, especially over bumps, and vague handling. Common culprits include control arm bushings and sway bar bushings.
  • Solution: Replace the worn bushings. It’s often recommended to replace bushings in pairs (e.g., both front control arm bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the bushing and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering, and fluid leaks from the struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shocks. Again, it is recommended to replace them in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on brand and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may operate slowly, erratically, or not at all. This is often due to worn window regulators or motors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may blow only hot or cold air, or the fan may not function correctly. This can be due to a faulty blend door actuator, blower motor resistor, or compressor.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue and replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed ECU
  • Description/Symptoms: Random misfires, stalling, check engine light, poor fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace the ECU
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust commonly develops on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and around the rear window.
  • Solution: Rust repair involves cutting out the affected areas, welding in new metal, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the severity and location of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may not open or close properly, get stuck, or leak. This is often due to a broken track or motor.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof track or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks can develop in the dashboard due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover are common solutions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1995 Acura TL, while generally reliable, can suffer from age-related issues typical of vehicles of that era. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical gremlins are the most common concerns. Repair costs can range from relatively minor gasket replacements to more substantial expenses like transmission rebuilds. The severity of these issues can vary depending on the car’s maintenance history and driving conditions. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the car for signs of these problems and factor in potential repair costs.