2003 Acura CL

The 2003 Acura CL is a mid-size coupe that was available in two trims: the CL and the CL Type-S. The base CL came with a 3.0L V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Type-S was equipped with a 3.2L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. Owners appreciate the CL for its comfortable ride, sporty handling (especially the Type-S), and Acura reliability. Common complaints include some electrical gremlins, premature transmission wear in the automatics, and age-related issues with the suspension.

Engine

3.0L V6 (Base CL)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from the valve cover gaskets and the oil pan gasket. Burning oil smell and visible oil on the engine are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6 (Type-S)

• Burning Oil
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning oil due to worn piston rings. Symptoms include blue exhaust smoke, low oil levels, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Adjustment Required
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud “ticking” from valve train, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Perform a valve adjustment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Base CL)

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (Type-S)

• Premature Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, rough shifting, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (Type-S)

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty engaging gears, high pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Clutch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Can also affect handling.
  • Solution: Replace worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the bushings replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, leaking struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ for all four corners.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen will not turn on or freezes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit, which can be expensive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating intermittently. Often caused by a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dimming Instrument Panel Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Instrument panel lights dimming or flickering intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dimmer switch or bulb replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks and fails to open the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close, or makes grinding noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Audio System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the radio, CD player, or speakers.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Acura CL, while generally reliable, has some common issues to watch out for, especially given its age. The most concerning are the potential for premature automatic transmission wear on the Type-S and engine issues like burning oil. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are also common. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, but addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the car’s performance and longevity.