2002 Acura CL

The 2002 Acura CL is a stylish and sporty coupe that aimed to offer a blend of luxury and performance. It was available with two engine options: a 2.3L inline-4 VTEC engine producing 150 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L V6 VTEC engine producing 225 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. The 2.3L was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.2L could be had with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual (in the Type-S model). Many owners appreciate the CL for its comfortable ride, attractive styling, and available features. Some criticisms include the automatic transmission’s reliability, and the fact that the model was not offered in subsequent model years.

Engine

2.3L Inline-4 VTEC

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent top-offs. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, especially upon start-up.
  • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals and piston rings may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6 VTEC

• Valve Adjustment
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough idling, and/or a decrease in fuel efficiency. Caused by valve clearances drifting out of specification over time.
  • Solution: A valve adjustment is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (2.3L and 3.2L Non-Type S)

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, rough or delayed shifts, and/or complete transmission failure. Common issues include worn clutch packs, failing solenoids, and low fluid levels (often due to leaks).
  • Solution: A transmission rebuild or replacement is often required. Regular fluid changes can help prolong the life of the transmission, but is often only a preventative measure and not a fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (3.2L Type-S)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. The strut mounts can deteriorate over time, leading to excessive movement.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and/or vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Driver’s Side Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window is slow to go up or down. Sometimes it might not go up or down at all.
  • Solution: Window motor and regulator assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The display for the climate control system becomes dim, or segments of the display disappear. This can make it difficult to see the temperature setting or fan speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300 for a used unit, professional repair can vary
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops along the lower rear quarter panels, particularly around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which can involve cutting out the rusted sections and welding in new metal, followed by body filler, sanding, and painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof either does not open, or it goes off track when trying to open or close.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sunroof motor and realignment of the sunroof track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Storage Lid Broken Hinge
  • Description/Symptoms: The hinge breaks, and the center console lid is no longer able to close properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console lid, or entire center console assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Acura CL has some common issues to be aware of, particularly with the automatic transmissions and some of the suspension components. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances like strut noise to more significant repairs like transmission rebuilds. The estimated cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and whether you opt for OEM parts or aftermarket alternatives. It’s important to thoroughly inspect any potential 2002 Acura CL purchase, paying close attention to the transmission’s performance, suspension noises, and overall condition of the vehicle.