2008 Acura RL

The 2008 Acura RL is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, advanced technology features for its time, and Acura’s reputation for reliability. It came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 256 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. Owners generally appreciate the RL’s smooth and quiet ride, strong performance, and comprehensive standard features. Some common dislikes include the somewhat dated styling compared to competitors, the complex SH-AWD system potentially leading to expensive repairs, and the limited rear seat space for a car of its size. Engine

3.5L V6 (J35A8)

• VTEC Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light illuminates (usually accompanied by code P2646 or P2647), rough idling, reduced power, and/or VTEC not engaging.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VTEC solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and the front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gaskets $150-$300, oil pan gasket $200-$500, crankshaft seal $300-$700.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration felt during light acceleration or when maintaining a steady speed, particularly between 30-45 mph. Often noticeable when the torque converter locks up.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter or flush the transmission fluid multiple times, following Acura’s recommended procedure. In some cases, a software update might help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Transmission fluid flush $150-$300, torque converter replacement $800 - $2000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, inspection of valve body for wear or damage, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Transmission fluid flush $150-$300, valve body repair $500-$1000+, transmission replacement $3000-$5000+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• SH-AWD System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noises from the rear differential, failure of the SH-AWD system, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the SH-AWD unit, which may involve replacing the rear differential or individual components within it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000-$4000+ depending on the specific part required.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, poor handling. Common wear items include struts, shocks, control arm bushings, and ball joints.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Struts/shocks $300-$1000 per axle, control arm bushings $200-$600 per arm, ball joints $100-$400 per joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System/Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, freezes, or experiences other malfunctions. This can affect the ability to control climate and audio functions.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to pair phones, dropped calls, poor audio quality.
  • Solution: Check for software updates, replace the Bluetooth module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $50-$150, Bluetooth module replacement $200-$500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove and reseal the headlight housings, replace the headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Resealing $100 - $300, headlight replacement $300-$800+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, makes grinding noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks, replace the sunroof motor, or replace the entire sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Cleaning and lubrication $50-$150, motor replacement $200-$500, assembly replacement $500-$1500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Acura RL, while generally reliable, can suffer from issues related to its complex SH-AWD system, VTEC system, and electronics. The torque converter shudder and other transmission issues are also common complaints. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences like Bluetooth problems to more serious and costly repairs involving the SH-AWD system or transmission. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.