1996 Acura RL
The 1996 Acura RL, also known as the Honda Legend in some markets, was a luxury sedan known for its smooth ride and comfortable interior. It came with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 210 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the car’s reliability and understated elegance, while some criticize its relatively low power output compared to some competitors and its somewhat dated styling even at the time.
Engine
3.5L V6 (C35A)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots on the ground, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Distributor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The distributor, responsible for distributing spark to the engine, is known to fail over time. Symptoms include rough running, misfires, and difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replace the distributor with a new or remanufactured unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slipping/Hard Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission is prone to wear and tear, leading to slipping between gears, harsh shifting, and delayed engagement.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush may help in some cases, but often a rebuild or replacement is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $200 (fluid flush), $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
Suspension
- Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The struts and shock absorbers can wear out, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
- Solution: Replace the worn struts and shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on parts and labor)
- Ball Joint Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Ball joints are a common wear item, and worn ball joints can cause clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Electrical
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The power window regulators can fail, causing the windows to operate slowly or not at all.
- Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Climate Control Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The climate control system can develop issues, such as failure of the blend door actuator, resulting in inconsistent temperature control.
- Solution: Replace the faulty blend door actuator or other climate control components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Batteries drain while the vehicle is off, especially if the car sits for an extended amount of time.
- Solution: Look for any aftermarket accessories that may be wired directly to the battery. If all accessories check out, get the battery tested.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 (for battery or accessories.)
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the body, particularly in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure.
- Solution: Rust repair involves removing the rust, treating the affected area, and repainting.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the extent of the rust)
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof motor may fail, preventing the sunroof from opening or closing properly.
- Solution: Replace the sunroof motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1996 Acura RL is a generally reliable vehicle but is prone to certain issues common with cars of its age. Oil leaks, transmission problems, and suspension wear are among the most frequent complaints. Electrical gremlins and interior component failures can also occur. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with associated costs varying accordingly. Pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.