2003 Acura CL

Introduction:

The 2003 Acura CL is a 2-door sports coupe known for its stylish design, well-appointed interior, and responsive handling. The base engine is a 2.3L VTEC 4-cylinder, while a more powerful 3.2L VTEC V6 is available. Both engines are paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission, and a 6-speed manual transmission is optional.

Engine

2.3L VTEC 4-Cylinder

• VTC Gear Fault: The Variable Timing Control (VTC) gear can fail, causing reduced power and a rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace VTC gear and reprogram engine control module (ECM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: N/A

3.2L VTEC V6

• Valve Spring Failure: Some engines can experience premature valve spring failure, leading to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace valve springs and retainers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder: Under certain conditions, the torque converter can experience shuddering, resulting in vibrations during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear: The lower control arm bushings can wear prematurely, causing clunking noises and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: N/A
• Rear Shock Absorber Mounts: The rear shock absorber mounts can fail, causing a bumpy ride and handling issues.
  • Solution: Replace mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, leading to a loss of charging capacity.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: N/A
• HID Headlight Ballast Failure: The HID headlight ballasts can fail prematurely, resulting in one or both headlights not working.
  • Solution: Replace ballasts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Window Trim Peeling: The window trim can peel and discolor over time.
  • Solution: Replace trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Navigation System Failure: The navigation system can experience various malfunctions, including screen freezing and loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Update or replace navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary:

The 2003 Acura CL has several common issues that can affect its reliability and performance. While the engine and transmission issues can be severe and costly to repair, the other issues are generally less serious and more affordable to fix. However, it’s important to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used CL.