2004 Acura TL

The 2004 Acura TL is a front-wheel-drive mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. It came with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or, for the 6-speed manual models, a close-ratio manual transmission. People generally liked the TL for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and reliability (relative to other luxury cars). Common complaints revolve around specific issues like transmission failures (primarily in early models), electrical glitches, and suspension wear.

Engine

3.2L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gaskets and rear main seal, leading to oil consumption and potential engine damage. Visible oil spots under the car.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets and/or rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on which seal needs to be replaced
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure. Often occurs at higher mileage.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch pedal is spongy, difficulty shifting gears, or the clutch pedal sticks.
  • Solution: Clutch Replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200-$2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise when going over bumps, clunking sound, or poor handling. Visual inspection may reveal cracked or damaged strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushings Worn * Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when turning or going over bumps. Poor handling. Uneven tire wear * Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings, or the entire lower control arm. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen goes blank, flickers, or displays distorted images.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen unit or repair of the existing unit if possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on if you repair or replace the navigation unit.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Certain segments of the climate control display do not illuminate, making it difficult to read.
  • Solution: Replacement of the display or the entire climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400+ depending on if you repair or replace the climate control unit.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove the headlights and dry them out. Resealing the headlight housing may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per headlight, or replacement of the headlight unit.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failing, sunroof not opening or closing properly, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Acura TL is generally a reliable car, but it’s important to be aware of the common issues, especially with the automatic transmission. Transmission issues can be quite expensive to fix, so a thorough inspection is crucial before purchasing. Electrical glitches and suspension wear are also common, but are typically less costly to address. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.