2007 Acura RL

2007 Acura RL

Overview

The 2007 Acura RL, a luxury sedan, was known for its sophisticated Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system and comfortable interior. While generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding potential issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into common problems, their symptoms, solutions, and estimated repair costs for various components. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help owners proactively address issues and maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity.

---

Engine

3.5L V6

Timing Belt Replacement

• Symptoms: Stretched or worn timing belt can lead to poor engine performance, misfires, or complete engine failure if it breaks.
• Solution: Scheduled replacement of the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys.
• Cost: $600 - $1000

Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) System

• Symptoms: Rough idling, engine hesitation, check engine light, oil consumption.
• Solution: Can involve cleaning intake valves, replacing oil control jet/pressure switches, or in severe cases, VCM disablement or engine replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1500+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking fluid, slipping gears, harsh shifting, overheating.
• Solution: Inspection and replacement of seals, gaskets, or transmission cooler lines.
• Cost: $200 - $600

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Front Suspension Components (Ball Joints, Bushings)

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints, control arm bushings, or sway bar links.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Electrical

Power Steering Pump

Power Steering Pump Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power steering assist, whining noise when turning.
• Solution: Replacement of the power steering pump and flushing the system.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Alternator

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Standard Body

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Infotainment System

Navigation System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, inaccurate GPS.
• Solution: Software updates or replacement of the navigation unit.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Climate Control System

HVAC Blower Motor Resistor

• Symptoms: Fan only works on highest setting or not at all.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $100 - $250

---

Summary Verdict

The 2007 Acura RL generally offers good reliability, particularly with its robust SH-AWD system. However, owners should be aware of potential issues related to the VCM system and timing belt maintenance for the 3.5L V6 engine. Transmission issues, while not rampant, can occur and typically involve leaks or torque converter problems. Electrical components like the alternator and power steering pump are also noted areas for potential repair. Interior electronics, especially the navigation system, can sometimes exhibit glitches. Proactive maintenance and addressing early symptoms can significantly mitigate these potential reliability concerns.