2005 Acura TL

The 2005 Acura TL is a popular mid-size luxury sedan known for its reliability, sporty handling, and upscale features. This model year came standard with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic and, on the TL, a 6-speed manual. What people like about the car includes its balance of performance, luxury, and reliability. Some dislikes include torque steer (especially noticeable with the manual transmission), and some common issues as the car ages.

Engine

3.2L V6 (J32A3)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust can also be a symptom.
  • Solution: While some have had success with switching to a thicker oil, more severe cases may require replacing valve stem seals or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the severity and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• VTEC Solenoid Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the VTEC solenoid gasket, often visible on the engine block.
  • Solution: Replacing the VTEC solenoid gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Available on all models)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly during light acceleration. Transmission codes for torque converter clutch slippage may be present.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter or potentially rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the transmission
  • Solution: Replacing the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000-$5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (Available on select models)

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, or a spongy clutch pedal feel.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. It’s often recommended to resurface the flywheel as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ (depending on brand and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits unevenly, clunking noises from the suspension, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken spring(s). It’s generally recommended to replace springs in pairs (both front or both rear).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen either goes blank, flickers, or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails to lock or unlock the door properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver’s side Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: the driver’s side window fails to go up and down
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture builds up inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Replacing or resealing the headlight housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close properly, excessive noise, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the dashboard. Many owners use dashboard covers as a preventative measure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Hinge Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: The hinge of the center console breaks and will not stay closed
  • Solution: Replacing the center console, hinge or latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Acura TL is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car of its age, it’s susceptible to certain issues. The most common problems revolve around the transmission (especially with the automatic), excessive oil consumption in the engine, and electrical issues. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, with some issues being relatively inexpensive to fix, while others, like transmission rebuilds, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect any used 2005 Acura TL before purchasing.