1999 Acura RL

The 1999 Acura RL is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, reliable engine, and elegant styling. It came with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 210 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the RL’s smooth and quiet ride, its well-appointed interior, and its reputation for longevity. However, some common complaints include issues with the transmission, electrical problems related to the climate control system, and suspension wear. The age of the vehicle means that many of these issues are surfacing due to normal wear and tear over time.

Engine

3.5L V6 (C35A1)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The distributor can fail due to age and wear, leading to misfires, rough running, and a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replacing the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, leading to poor engine performance, rough idling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, and delayed engagement can occur. This is often attributed to worn-out clutches, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change, valve body repair, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints, bushings, tie rod ends, and struts can cause clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Steering Pump Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power steering pump leaks lead to loss of power assist and a whining noise from the pump. Pump failure results in hard steering.
  • Solution: Replacing the power steering pump and/or hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the climate control system, specifically the blend door actuator. This can result in either only hot or only cold air blowing, or an inability to control the temperature.
  • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window motor, door lock actuator, or related wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in Rust-Prone Areas)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the undercarriage, rocker panels, and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, leak, or fail to open/close properly due to motor failure or track misalignment.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, track repair, or seal replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Acura RL, while a reliable vehicle overall, exhibits common issues related to its age. The engine can experience oil leaks and distributor failure. The transmission can suffer from harsh shifting and slipping. Suspension components wear out over time, leading to ride quality and handling issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the climate control system, are also common. Rust can be a concern in certain climates. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, ranging from relatively inexpensive fixes to more substantial repairs like transmission work. It is very important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing it so that a potential buyer is prepared for the costs associated with the age and condition of this vehicle.