2002 Acura RL

Introduction

The 2002 Acura RL is a luxury sedan that was praised for its impressive performance, spacious interior, and advanced technology. It was available with a 3.5L V6 engine paired with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6 (Automatic Transmission)

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, reduced power, potential catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign 05V238000

3.5L V6 (Manual Transmission)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed acceleration, rough gear changes.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Faulty Front Upper Control Arms:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive tire wear, poor handling, knocking or clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace upper control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Ignition Coil Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Fogging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Accumulation of condensation inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Replace headlight assemblies or modify ventilation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign 10V028000

Interior

• Cruise Control Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control malfunction, inability to engage or adjust speed.
  • Solution: Replace cruise control switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Acura RL is a reliable and well-regarded vehicle. However, some common issues can become expensive to repair, such as timing chain tensioner failure and transmission slipping. Potential buyers should carefully consider these issues and factor the potential costs into their purchase decision.