2002 Acura RL

The 2002 Acura RL is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and understated elegance. It came with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC V6, producing 225 horsepower and 231 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the RL for its smooth and quiet driving experience, spacious interior, and Acura’s reputation for longevity. However, some common complaints revolve around its age, which can lead to issues with parts wearing out and becoming more challenging to find, as well as some quirks with the electrical system and suspension.

Engine

3.5L SOHC VTEC V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots on the driveway, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Thorough cleaning of the affected areas is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail due to age, overheating, or contamination. Symptoms include a check engine light (often with codes P0420 or P0430), decreased fuel efficiency, and a sulfur smell from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ depending on the aftermarket or OEM replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can develop issues with harsh shifting between gears or slipping out of gear, especially as the vehicle ages. These issues can be caused by worn clutch packs, solenoid failure, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and filter change might help in minor cases. However, more severe cases might require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for a flush; $800 - $3000+ for repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shock absorbers can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased braking distances.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts and shocks. It’s often recommended to replace them in pairs (front or rear).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Deteriorated control arm bushings can cause clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps. This can also lead to loose handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ per control arm, depending on whether just the bushings or the whole arm is replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck in either the up or down position.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC blend door actuators failing, resulting in improper temperature control, with air blowing hot or cold regardless of the setting.
  • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on the underbody, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt usage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ depending on the extent of the rust damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof can become stuck, fail to close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Acura RL, while generally reliable, can exhibit issues related to its age, particularly in the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Oil leaks, catalytic converter failures, and transmission problems are among the more costly potential repairs. Rust is also a potential concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. While the RL offers a comfortable and luxurious ride, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential maintenance costs.