1997 Acura TL

The 1997 Acura TL was a mid-size luxury sedan that offered a blend of comfort, reliability, and performance. The 1997 Acura TL came with two different engine options: a 2.5L SOHC 20-valve inline 5-cylinder (producing 176 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.2L SOHC 24-valve V6 (producing 200 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque). Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the TL for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and Acura’s reputation for reliability. However, some common complaints included issues with the automatic transmission, electrical glitches, and certain components wearing out over time.

Engine

2.5L Inline 5-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can develop issues such as harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly. This is often due to worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change may temporarily alleviate the problem. However, a more permanent solution may involve rebuilding or replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $800+ (rebuild/replace).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Common issues include worn shocks/struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings. Symptoms include clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate intermittently due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the part and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators may fail, causing the doors to not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+ depending on the part and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Antenna Mast Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power antenna mast can become bent or broken, preventing it from retracting or extending properly.
  • Solution: Replace the antenna mast or the entire antenna assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $150+ depending on the component and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, fail to open or close smoothly, or leak. This is often due to worn tracks or a faulty motor.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof tracks, motor, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the issue and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Acura TL, while generally reliable for its time, does exhibit certain common issues. The most significant problems often revolve around the 4-speed automatic transmission, potentially leading to costly repairs if neglected. Oil leaks are also common, although typically less severe. Electrical issues such as power window and door lock failures can be annoying but are usually relatively inexpensive to fix. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the transmission, engine for leaks, and all electrical components before purchasing.