2006 Acura TL

The 2006 Acura TL is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and Acura’s reputation for reliability. It was available with a 3.2L V6 engine (258 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque) paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission (on the TL Type-S introduced later). The TL was praised for its engaging driving experience and upscale features, but some owners have reported certain common issues. Some complaints include electrical problems and premature wear of certain components.

Engine

3.2L V6 (J32A3)

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Steering Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the power steering pump, stiff steering, and potential loss of power steering assist.
  • Solution: Replace the power steering pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, particularly at low speeds; transmission slipping; Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to torque converter performance.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Compliance Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps; vague steering feel; uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front compliance bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, flickers, or displays incorrect information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the navigation screen unit. Sometimes, the issue is with the capacitors on the circuit board, which can be replaced individually.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more door locks fail to lock or unlock properly, either with the remote or the interior switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bluetooth system fails to pair with devices, drops connections frequently, or ceases to function entirely.
  • Solution: Replace the Bluetooth module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the bulbs.
  • Solution: Remove the headlight housings, dry them out, and reseal the seams to prevent moisture intrusion. Replacement may be necessary if damage is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck or fail to open and close smoothly; can also experience water leaks from the sunroof drain tubes.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the sunroof mechanism, clean the sunroof drain tubes to prevent water leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Acura TL is generally a reliable car, but certain issues are more common than others. The most concerning potential problems involve the transmission (specifically the torque converter on the automatic models) and electrical components like the navigation screen. Suspension wear and tear is expected for a vehicle of this age. While the Valve Cover Gasket and compliance bushing issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, the navigation screen and transmission problems can be costly. Carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems before purchasing, and budget accordingly for potential repairs.