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2004 Acura TL

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By Research the Car 2 min read

2004 Acura TL

The 2004 Acura TL is a well-respected midsize sedan that offers a combination of luxury, performance, and reliability. Powering the TL is a 3.2-liter V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual. The TL has been praised for its handling, acceleration, and comfortable interior. However, like all vehicles, the TL has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

  • 3.2L V6
    • Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption in the 3.2L V6 engine. Symptoms include low oil levels on the dipstick and blue smoke from the exhaust. The issue can be caused by worn piston rings or valve seals. Replacing the piston rings or valve seals can cost $2,500 - $4,000+.
    • Timing Belt Failure: The timing belt in the 3.2L V6 engine should be replaced every 105,000 miles. Failure to do so can result in catastrophic engine damage. Replacing the timing belt typically costs $800 - $1,200.
  • Power Steering Pump Failure: The power steering pump in the TL can fail, resulting in heavy steering. Replacing the power steering pump costs $400 - $600+.

Transmission

  • 5-Speed Automatic
    • Slipping Gears: Some owners have reported that the 5-speed automatic transmission can slip gears, especially when shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear. Rebuilding or replacing the transmission can cost $2,500 - $4,000+.
  • 6-Speed Manual
    • Grinding Gears: Some owners have reported grinding gears when shifting the 6-speed manual transmission. The issue can be caused by worn synchros or a faulty clutch. Replacing the synchros or clutch typically costs $1,000 - $2,000+.

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Bushing Failure: The rear suspension bushings in the TL can wear out over time, leading to clunking noises and poor handling. Replacing the rear suspension bushings costs $400 - $800+.

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: The alternator in the TL can fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall. Replacing the alternator costs $500 - $800+.
  • Starter Failure: The starter in the TL can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Replacing the starter costs $300 - $500+.
  • Battery Failure: The battery in the TL can fail, especially in cold weather. Replacing the battery costs $150 - $300+.

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation: The headlights in the TL can develop condensation, which can impair visibility. There is no permanent fix for this issue, but replacing the headlights costs $800 - $1,200+.
  • Tail Light Bulbs Burning Out: The tail light bulbs in the TL can burn out prematurely. Replacing the tail light bulbs costs $50 - $100+.

Interior

  • Sunroof Leaks: The sunroof in the TL can leak, causing water damage to the interior. Replacing the sunroof seal typically costs $500 - $800+.
  • Broken Climate Control Knobs: The climate control knobs in the TL can break, making it difficult to adjust the temperature. Replacing the climate control knobs costs $150 - $300+.

Summary

Overall, the 2004 Acura TL is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe and expensive issues are the engine oil consumption and transmission slipping. However, these issues are relatively rare, and most TLs will provide years of trouble-free ownership.

Acura, TL
Acura TL 2004
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