2005 Acura RL

The 2005 Acura RL is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, advanced technology for its time (like Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive - SH-AWD), and relatively understated styling. It came standard with a 3.5L SOHC VTEC V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate its reliability, comfortable interior, and SH-AWD system for enhanced handling. Common dislikes include the dated infotainment system and some potential maintenance costs associated with the advanced technology.

Engine

3.5L SOHC VTEC V6

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gaskets, often noticeable as oil drips on the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell. Can also lead to low oil levels if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Steering Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the power steering pump, difficulty turning the steering wheel, and eventual loss of power steering assist.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power steering pump and flushing the power steering system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, complete failure to shift, and error codes.
  • Solution: Replacing the automatic transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• SH-AWD Differential Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, particularly during turns. Can indicate failure of the SH-AWD differential.
  • Solution: Replacement of the SH-AWD differential.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Suspension Dampening Issues (ADS)
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2005 Acura RL features ADS (Adaptive Damping System). Common issues involve the system malfunctioning which can cause a jarring, bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ADS struts/shocks, or conversion to standard suspension.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (ADS repair) or $800 - $1,500+ (standard suspension conversion)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, freezes, or malfunctions. This is common due to the age of the system and potential software/hardware issues.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation system unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on repair vs. replacement; aftermarket options may be available)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped calls, or complete failure of the Bluetooth system.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available), replacement of the Bluetooth module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat heater failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters do not turn on or get very warm.
  • Solution: Seat heater element replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, causing reduced visibility and potential damage to the headlight components.
  • Solution: Cleaning and resealing the headlight housing, or replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 per headlight if resealing, $300-$600+ per headlight for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes excessive noise, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Acura RL, while a generally reliable luxury sedan, can present owners with certain issues, mainly related to its age and advanced technology for its time. The most significant concerns revolve around potential SH-AWD differential failures, ADS suspension problems, and transmission issues which can be costly to repair, with SH-AWD and transmissions sometimes running up to $4000+ to repair. Electrical issues such as the navigation system malfunctions and seat heater failure are also common, adding to the overall maintenance burden. Oil leaks are common as well. Before purchasing a 2005 Acura RL, a thorough inspection is recommended, especially focusing on the SH-AWD system, transmission, and ADS suspension.