2003 Acura RL

The 2003 Acura RL is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and understated elegance. This model year came with a single engine option: a 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC V6 engine producing 225 horsepower and 231 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the RL’s smooth power delivery, quiet cabin, and Acura’s reputation for longevity. Common dislikes include the somewhat dated styling compared to competitors, and the lack of some advanced features available in other luxury cars of the time.

Engine

3.5L SOHC VTEC V6

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gaskets onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Also, visible oil residue on the engine block around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loose or Faulty Gas Cap
  • Description/Symptoms: The gas cap may become loose or faulty over time, leading to the illumination of the check engine light due to evap system leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the gas cap.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can exhibit harsh shifting between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush with genuine Acura/Honda ATF-Z1 fluid. If the issue persists, further diagnosis may be needed, potentially involving valve body inspection or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200 (fluid flush), $500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking or popping noises from the front suspension when turning or going over bumps. This is often caused by worn strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Climate Control Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control display can become dim, flicker, or completely fail. This is often due to failing capacitors in the display unit.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the climate control display unit. Repairing involves replacing the faulty capacitors and can be done by electronics repair specialists. Replacing the unit requires sourcing a new or used part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (repair), $300 - $800 (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Seat Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats may stop functioning properly due to a faulty seat motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Antenna Mast Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power antenna mast can fail to retract or extend fully.
  • Solution: Replace the antenna mast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, operate slowly, or make excessive noise when opening or closing. This can be due to a lack of lubrication or a worn motor.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. If the problem persists, replace the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 (lubrication), $200 - $400 (motor replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Acura RL is generally a reliable vehicle. The most common issues involve minor engine oil leaks, transmission harsh shifting, and electrical problems with the climate control display and power seats. Suspension noise and sunroof issues are also reported. While the engine and transmission issues can be addressed with relatively simple repairs, electrical problems can be more costly to fix. Overall, the severity of the issues is moderate, and the repair costs are generally reasonable, especially if preventative maintenance is performed.