2009 Acura TL
2009 Acura TL
Overview
The 2009 Acura TL, a luxury sedan known for its sporty handling and premium features, generally offers a solid ownership experience. While it doesn’t suffer from widespread critical failures, like any vehicle, it has a few areas that owners have reported issues with. The powertrain, particularly the automatic transmission, has seen some attention, and certain electrical components can be a source of concern. However, for its age and segment, the TL remains a relatively reliable choice, with most reported problems being manageable and not indicative of systemic design flaws. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring its continued performance and longevity.
Engine
3.5L V6
Timing Belt Tensioner
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup or at idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing belt tensioner and potentially the timing belt itself.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) System
- Symptoms: Rough idle, engine misfires, check engine light, oil consumption.
- Solution: Deactivation of VCM or replacement of VCM-related components (e.g., oil control jet, VCM oil jet screen).
- Cost: $300 - $800
3.7L V6
Timing Belt Tensioner
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup or at idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing belt tensioner and potentially the timing belt itself.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) System
- Symptoms: Rough idle, engine misfires, check engine light, oil consumption.
- Solution: Deactivation of VCM or replacement of VCM-related components (e.g., oil control jet, VCM oil jet screen).
- Cost: $300 - $800
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic
Torque Converter Shudder
- Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering felt during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and refill with specific Honda/Acura fluid, or torque converter replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Transmission Slipping/Hesitation
- Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or harsh shifting.
- Solution: Transmission fluid service, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Cost: $800 - $3000
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
Power Window Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow operation, or unusual noises.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Bluetooth Module Failure
- Symptoms: Bluetooth connectivity issues, inability to pair devices, or intermittent connection.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the Bluetooth module.
- Cost: $150 - $350
Exterior
Body Panels & 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 2009 Acura TL is a respectable luxury sedan with a generally positive reliability record. The most commonly cited issues revolve around the automatic transmission, specifically torque converter shudder and occasional slipping, and some engine-related concerns like the timing belt tensioner and VCM system. Electrical gremlins, such as power window failures and Bluetooth module issues, can also arise. However, these problems are not universal and often have repair solutions available. For potential buyers, a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is recommended. With diligent maintenance and addressing any emerging issues promptly, the 2009 TL can continue to be a dependable and enjoyable vehicle.