2012 Acura RL

2012 Acura RL

Overview

The 2012 Acura RL, a luxury sedan, aimed to blend performance with refinement. It was equipped with a potent V6 engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, offering a comfortable and capable driving experience. Reliability for the 2012 model year is generally strong, reflecting Acura’s reputation for building durable vehicles. Owners typically report satisfaction with the powertrain and overall build quality. However, like any vehicle, some specific areas may experience issues over time, though widespread problems are uncommon for this model. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance.

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Engine

3.7L V6

No widespread issues reported.

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

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

No widespread issues reported.

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

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

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

Electrical

Infotainment System

Navigation System Glitches

• Symptoms: Occasional freezing, unresponsiveness, or incorrect map data.
• Solution: Software update or system reset. In some cases, replacement of the head unit may be required.
• Cost: $100 - $1500

Power Accessories

Sunroof Malfunction

• Symptoms: Sunroof may not open, close, or seal properly.
• Solution: Lubrication of tracks, adjustment of motor, or replacement of sunroof motor/regulator.
• Cost: $200 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels

No widespread issues reported.

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

Lighting

No widespread issues reported.

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

Interior

Upholstery

No widespread issues reported.

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

Climate Control

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: Lack of airflow from vents, or intermittent operation.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $400

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Summary Verdict

The 2012 Acura RL is a reliable luxury sedan with a strong overall track record. The powertrain, including the 3.7L V6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, is generally trouble-free. Suspension components also tend to hold up well. The most commonly reported issues, though not widespread, are related to the infotainment system’s navigation and occasional glitches with power accessories like the sunroof. The HVAC system’s blower motor can also be a point of failure. Despite these minor concerns, the RL offers a dependable ownership experience, with most owners praising its build quality and longevity.