2008 Acura RL
2008 Acura RL
Overview
The 2008 Acura RL, a luxury sedan, was known for its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive - SH-AWD) and comfortable interior. It aimed to blend performance with refinement. While generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers of this model year.
Engine
3.5L V6
Timing Belt Replacement
- Symptoms: Stretching or fraying of the timing belt, leading to potential engine damage if it breaks. Noise from the front of the engine.
- Solution: Scheduled replacement at recommended intervals (typically around 100,000 miles).
- Cost: $600 - $1000
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Issues
- Symptoms: Rough idling, engine hesitation, check engine light, oil consumption, premature failure of VCM-related components.
- Solution: Software updates, cleaning of intake valves, potential replacement of oil control jet, VCM deactivator installation.
- Cost: $300 - $1500
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Navigation system freezing, audio system malfunctions, backup camera issues.
- Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, potential replacement of head unit.
- Cost: $100 - $1200
Keyless Access System (Smart Entry) Issues
- Symptoms: Doors not unlocking/locking, push-button start not engaging.
- Solution: Battery replacement in key fob, reprogramming of fobs, potential issues with door handle sensors.
- Cost: $50 - $300
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2008 Acura RL is generally a reliable luxury sedan. The most notable potential issues revolve around the 3.5L V6 engine, specifically the timing belt maintenance and the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which can sometimes lead to oil consumption or rough running. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment and keyless entry systems, are also reported but are not typically catastrophic. The transmission, suspension, exterior, and interior components are largely free from widespread, significant problems. Regular maintenance, especially adherence to the timing belt replacement schedule and monitoring for VCM symptoms, is key to ensuring long-term reliability for this model.