2000 Acura RL Consumer Discussions

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2000 RL - CD Changer problems... [rdharams]

  Written by: b18cmyrr on Feb 20, 2008 9:32:19 PM

  I have a 2000 Acura RL n I had that problem so I went and bought a $2000 Alpine TV n stereo set up and LOVE it accept some electrical issues with my cars ecu I think

• Re: 1996 Acura RL Problems [slynch1980]

  Written by: b18cmyrr on Feb 17, 2008 6:09:37 PM

  I have 2000 Acura RL with a 12' sub and Alpine tv and everything has worked fine for 2 yrs. I was driving home 2 days ago and my tv completely goes out, wont even turn on. Then my check engine light/ warning light and traction control light came on. Now my alarm doesnt work, locks work when car is on and doors are closed, the clock and mileage reset every ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: I'm thinking about getting the 05 RL [houdini1]

  Written by: 10sfan on Dec 2, 2008 8:42:05 AM

  I have a 2000 RL and purchased the Acura extended warranty which carried me thru 75,000 miles / 7 years. Well worth the money. Parts and labor although not as expensive as the German cars, still costly. I have the vehicle with 87,000. Runs great. No market value, but a good winter driving car. Will drive it until the repairs exceed the value..Remember, their cost for the warranty is minimal compared ... Read More

2009 Acura RL

• Re: [nebraskaguy]

  Written by: jjacura on Oct 16, 2008 10:06:05 PM

  Howdy Nebraska Guy! In Oct 2003 the redesigned 2004 TL was unvailed and my wife and I were visiting our daughter in Houston. My son-in-law and I drove to the nearest Acura dealer and stood in the dealer showroom checking out the all new design of the new TL. I owned a 2000 TL and was excited to see what the 2004 had to offer. I don't think I was quite ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 2008 Acura RL - sale price? [jl582]

  Written by: ursamajor1 on Feb 10, 2008 10:14:57 AM

  Actually, looking around, that's not that impressive. $39.560 is exactly $2000 under invoice on a base model; since there's a $2500 dealer cash incentive, that means they're keeping $500 in profit. For a car that's not selling at all and about to be replaced, I'd pay no more than invoice minus $2500 - I think you can do better than that right now.

• $2000 dealer cash available

  Written by: jaybee85 on Nov 12, 2007 11:00:17 AM

  According to Edmunds, there is now $2000 cash available from Acura to dealers on the 2008 RL - effective 11/1 through year-end. Wonder if that amount will rise, considering the very slow sales, the possible total upgrade for 2009, and competition from the new 2008 Accord.

Acura RL Navigation System

• acura nav sys update

  Written by: tinl on Oct 17, 2007 8:49:32 AM

  My navigation system needs updated info. Do I just remove the CD and purchase another or something else? My RL is 2000. Is it expensive? Thanks. TB

Acura RL

• Re: 2000 Acura 3.5 RL tire size questions [10sfan]

  Written by: houdini1 on Oct 15, 2007 2:12:11 PM

  I have heard good things about the Michelin Pilots as well. It is amazing the difference a good set of tires can make. I was almost ready to trade my 2002 RL but the new tires will give it a couple more years of life! My Continentals were also terrible. I did not know just how terrible until I got rid of them!

• Re: 2000 Acura 3.5 RL tire size questions [houdini1]

  Written by: 10sfan on Oct 15, 2007 10:36:09 AM

  On my 2000 RL, currently with 75,600 miles, I stayed with the 215/60VR16 with my third set last October which are the Michelin Pilot Exalto/AS. Very happy with the performance in a upper midwest area. Have had them inspected and rotated twice at the tire dealer as well as inspected for proper wear at the Acura dealer at oil changes. Better than expected wear and tear. I paid $400.00 plus tax ... Read More

• Re: 2000 Acura 3.5 RL tire size questions [mycar8]

  Written by: houdini1 on Oct 11, 2007 8:15:43 PM

  I have a 2002 RL and the OEM tire size is 225/55/16. The car did not change much from 2000 to 2002. I would suggest this size for you although I think the 225/60/16 would also work just fine. I just bought a new set of Yohohama Avid VAS 4's and they are much smoother and quieter than the continentals that were on the car. Not real expensive either at around ... Read More

• 2000 Acura 3.5 RL tire size questions

  Written by: mycar8 on Sep 21, 2007 4:20:09 PM

  Dear all. I just bought this car from a friend this week. The manuafacturer oringial tire size on this card is 215/60/16 with a V speed rating. I would like to replace all 4 tires (it is time to replace tires anyway) with 225/60/16 with an H speed rating. Costco Tire center staff would do it even if they do not recommend,saying it will feel very different with the slightly bigger/wider ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• Re: CR report on RL and M35 [ocim]

  Written by: readerreader on Dec 29, 2006 5:42:46 PM

  For example, in 2000 I purchased a new Acura TL, despite the fact that CR rated the Lexus ES300 considerably better. After a while I wished that I made a different decision. The TL was a good car, but not a great car. Everything that I grew not to like about the Acura (not obvious in my initial test drive), was shown to be a weakness by CR in their evaluation. ... Read More

• CR report on RL and M35

  Written by: ocim on Dec 24, 2006 11:58:18 AM

  Exclusivity is a nice thing? Yes, if you have it! I find it hard to believe that anyone would not buy an M simply because it is similar in appearance to another infinity product. Don't all BMW's and Mercedes' look alike? Isn't it better that all the models within a certain luxury brand look similar, rather than making them look like on of their mainstream products. In my opinion, the reason ... Read More

• Re: Consumer Reports...? RL vs. M [carfan28]

  Written by: acurat on Dec 22, 2006 10:22:11 AM

  Carfan, Thanks for the thoughtful analysis! Of course I agree with your conclusion. (BTW Stay in the Lane is an Infiniti feature--the Acura has Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision-Mitigation Braking System but no lane-departure warning.) Here's the update: I could resist no longer and pounced on a 2006 RL Tech/CMBS/PAX at $42,475 + TTL here in L.A. a couple of weeks ago. Missed my sweet-but-squeaky 2004 non-navi TL for all of ... Read More

Acura RL 2006

• Re: I just pick up a 2006 RL $39,500 NJ [tamparl]

  Written by: vluu on Oct 29, 2006 6:29:16 AM

  tamprl, Yeah... I haven't own a new car since 2000. My biggest fear is spending 30K+ for a TL and later finding out I am dissapointed I have looked on autotrader.com and looked at local Acura dealers website... and inventory is still decent. I'm open to 3 colors; black, silver, carbon gray. All the dealers around here have them. Now, it's the price game. I have sent emails to about 4 ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• "The Itch. . ."

  Written by: markcincinnati on Sep 28, 2006 8:47:27 AM

  Back in the days when smoking (in a car) was even done, a friend of mine -- a smoker -- would kid me and say "Mark gets a new car every time the ash tray gets full." Since I am not a smoker, I only related to this comment in a symbolic way. My friend, now not a smoker (and I never permitted him to smoke in my cars in any ... Read More

• Re: I still [tayl0rd]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Aug 23, 2006 8:00:51 AM

  As a card carrying geek (or at least a member of older-geeks-USA), the Acura has very little geek appeal from what I can see. My friends, my non-Audi, but often BMW driving/owning friends have, for years, called Audis the "technofile's" car (which is pretty close to geek.) This WAS because the Audi cockpits had full gauges, all wheel drive, knobs and push and pull buttons/levers and the word quattro spelled out ... Read More

• Re: I was [lexusguy]

  Written by: sfcharlie on Aug 20, 2006 9:15:07 AM

  "The RL just doesn't bring enough to the table, and people literally aren't buying it." 2001: For Acura, TL was up, selling 69,484 units. RL was down almost 28% from 2000. 2002: TL was down 12% from 2001,but is Acura's best-selling vehicle (60,764 sold). RL goes down another 12+% to 9,392. 2003: Acura finished 2003 with record December sales of 15,537 cars and light trucks, up 21 percent over last year ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: 2000 Acura RL - Tire [sranger941]

  Written by: 10sfan on Aug 1, 2006 11:53:28 AM

  Thanks for the information. I will definitely check into the Dunlop 400 A/S. Believe I had Dunlops as a replacement tire on a newer Camry year a few years back that I gave to my daughter. They did wear well. Unfortunately, Dunlop was not one of the several manufacturers recommended by any of the Acura dealers or even the Tire rack. One dealer even wanted to put me in Cooper tires ... Read More

• 2000 Acura RL - Tire

  Written by: sranger941 on Jul 31, 2006 7:58:30 PM

  10sfan- The original Michelins lasted about 27k miles. Wear was still good on all four tires, but I hit two potholes during a winter storm and both front tires developed bulges in the sidewall. If not for the potholes, I am sure they would have lasted atleast 40k miles. I replaced all four tires with Dunlop Sport 4000 A/S. They are fantastic. Much, much quiter than the original Micehlins and also ... Read More

• 2000 Acura RL

  Written by: 10sfan on Jul 27, 2006 12:36:13 PM

  Would like any 2000 RL owner to comment on their experience with tire wear and offer replacement recommendations. Original equipment Michelins' went to 38,000 with tire rotations at 6000 mile intervals. Replaced with Continental Extreme Contact 94V. At 15,000 miles of wear and after two rotations, Acura dealer at the time of a service appiontment indicated the tires were down to 4/32. Now at 60,000, they recommended immediate replacement. Vehjcle is ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• 2000 RL - CD Changer problems...

  Written by: rdharams on May 2, 2006 12:28:58 PM

  I have a 2000 RL and it been pretty much flawless so far. Recently while I was trying to change the CD selection to play a different one, I got a "E01" error code on the dash playere, and the CD player stopped working. Furthermore, the CD caddy in the trunk would not eject. It seemed stuck. The dealer looked at and fixed the problem and said that if it happens ... Read More

• 2006 RL dangerous transmission? computer? cat converter? Avoid like plague

  Written by: sad06rlowner1 on Apr 19, 2006 10:35:51 PM

  I purchased an 06 RL in late December 2005. Loved the car for the first 2900 miles. Then it started to drag. Ran sluggish. Sounded "throaty". Check engine light came on, check emissions light, and check sh-awd light. Take it in, am told they cleared the codes, and since they didn't come back on, my car is fine. They determined that the codes were "thrown" because the car thought the engine ... Read More

Acura RL Lease Questions

• Re: NEW RL LEASE [leo11]

  Written by: roberts10 on Mar 30, 2006 6:34:03 AM

  Tell them you want the sales tax included in the $599.00 per month. I got mine negogiated in, because they want to move these cars. Lots of competition in this car sector, M35, Audi A 6, Lexus ES350. Its crowded! PLus don;t forget they get the $2000.00 back from Acura..so they have room to play.

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Good Price in Sarasota bad in Tampa

  Written by: pappy164 on Dec 17, 2005 7:23:35 AM

  I was recently in search of an 06 RL w/ specific color combinations. I got internet quotes (which are not as easy as edmunds makes them out to be, usually the dealer will want to call or have you call them instead of giving you an online quote), and started to send the lowest (via email)to different dealers. I finally got a quote for an 06 in Orlando for $44,500 and ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Any idea if lights on ding will be resolved? [nebraskaguy]

  Written by: kgd_007 on Oct 6, 2005 11:35:36 AM

  I agree it is more than an annoyance. My wife went into the City the other night. All of our cars have automatic headlights as did my previous 2000 RL. When she parked in the parking garage the chime was dinging so she turned off the lights to make sure they would not stay on. When she returned to the car she proceeded to drive home and after about 10 minutes ... Read More

• Re: looking to purchase a 2000-04 rl [birdbird]

  Written by: nebraskaguy on Aug 18, 2005 11:21:38 AM

  Anybody had any experience with the optional back up sensor accessory that Acura offers for the RL? I had the backup sensor installed on my RL about a month after I purchased it. It is really great. It makes parallel parking a snap - which isn't easy for the RL without the sensor since you can't see where the car ends. I also like it for parking in my garage at ... Read More

• Re: looking to purchase a 2000-04 rl [honda_salesman]

  Written by: birdbird on Aug 18, 2005 8:07:38 AM

  Anybody had any experience with the optional back up sensor accessory that Acura offers for the RL? Also, anyone added the spoiler or wood sterring wheel and any problems reported? The spoiler seem to improve the looks of the car a lot! Also, what are your thoughts on favorite color, inside and exterior?

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: JJAcura [warthog]

  Written by: jjacura on Aug 15, 2005 10:18:54 PM

  Yes, the 2004 TL was a serious change from the 2000-2003 model and I thought they took the car in the wrong direction at the time and backed away from it. Acura in my opinion at that time was going after a new demographic and I personally did not like the new design. Today I feel differently about the TL because we have driven it a number of times and it ... Read More

• Re: JJAcura [docnukem]

  Written by: jjacura on Aug 15, 2005 2:32:58 PM

  I loved the Vigor. Owned a '93. When I see them on the road I still check them out and look at the overall condition. As I headed toward retirement I Thought the 2000 TL was Acura's best car at the time, drove it for 4 years and in 2004 when the newly designed TL was first introduced, I had my money ready but backed away from it because I thought ... Read More

• New meat

  Written by: larryoflebanon on Aug 7, 2005 2:23:14 PM

  I did not expect to be in the market for a new LPS. I was driving to meet someone for dinner in my 2001 BMW 540i, a great car, when I had to lock up the brakes to avoid hitting a car that pulled out in front of me. The guy behind me in a 1990 Caravan did not have the same stopping power and totaled my car. I live in ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 36mos & 15k mi/year lease in NorCal [jsmaz1]

  Written by: taitando on Aug 5, 2005 9:46:52 AM

  I also used leaseguide.com's calculator. It was a great help in figuring out the figures. And yes, the only item that I rolled into the cap cost was the acquisition fee. Which I think is standard everywhere, bringing my total cap cost to $42,095 ($41,500 + $595). My sales tax is 7.25%. I live in the Sacramento area, but I have an address in zip 95340 :P . Otherwise my tax ... Read More

• Re: RL purchase details [rlsteve]

  Written by: bobby423 on Jul 6, 2005 6:04:07 AM

  What is the significance of a vin that is > than 2000? See message below which is why I'm wondering. R. Koch #346 of 366 RL purchase details by rlsteve Jun 23, 2005 (4:56 pm) Just wanted to say thank you to everyone on this forum. The information saved me a ton of money by letting me know what "real" deals were being done. I bought my new Opulent Blue Pearl ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: RL vs. Accord.. [tayl0rd]

  Written by: arthurmnev on Jun 20, 2005 1:07:17 PM

  >> Take Nissan/Infiniti, for example. Infiniti is far beyond Nissan when it comes to >> its luxury models versus, parent company, Nissan's mainstream models. I always disliked silver painted plastic, which is exactly what comes in G35, and I cant guarantee 05'RL will outperform and outmaneuver G35 AWD on any given day. >> Luxury car drivers don't normally want to see the RPM guage screaming past >> 5,000RPM just to pass ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• RL

  Written by: irnmdn on May 18, 2005 5:17:50 AM

  RL is a mid-side FWD sedan(Accord) masquerading as a AWD sports sedan. M is based on a FM RWD platform designed with sport in mind (Z,G35). If you like bland and boring go with the RL- I doesn't look too different from 2000 Accord. On the plus side bland designs age well unlike flavor of the month. RL interior is slightly better. Historically Acuras had better re-sale value than Infiniti, but ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: Just bought 2005 RL [pvs]

  Written by: jjacura on Apr 25, 2005 4:03:27 PM

  PVS....Congratulations! You did exactly what I did last November. I sold my 2000 TL and bought a new RL. Couple of comments. I think you made a wise decision moving beyond the TL...actually the new 2004 TL was in our plans but after seeing the new design both my wife and I were disappointed. We felt Acura went too far with the sport design although the car performed extremely well. AND...what ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• 2005 RL Experience

  Written by: dano4 on Apr 29, 2005 3:43:19 AM

  Bought my RL December 2005. Now have 6000 miles. Only two problems to date. The first 2000 miles, I had a nasty brake squeal in right front brake first thing in the day. This went away on its own and did not return. Also had a noise in front suspension over series of bumps at 20-30 mph. This was diagnosed as a problem in the right front caliper (may also relate ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: Acura RL 2005--choppy ride [cstiles]

  Written by: jjacura on Apr 28, 2005 9:27:35 PM

  Dennis721...Thank you for the information. As a retired engineer who better to really explain it. I respect your opinion. Cstiles I believe here was the sequence..in Post 6211(rajabhat): "I've had my Acura 2005 RL AWD for 2000 miles now. It is a superb car overall, there is nothing quite like it, but...the ride is somewhat harsh and choppy, disappointing for a flagship RL car. Maybe when you combine AWD and tight ... Read More

• Re: 2005 RL [shotgun]

  Written by: jjacura on Apr 19, 2005 8:19:15 PM

  The RL will serve us well and I plan to keep it for several years like I did the 2000 TL. The resale value will be there when I'm ready to buy Acura's flagship in 2008. There has been interesting reading in Luxury Performance Sedans if you have not been following it in the last 2 days. I still honestly believe we have the BEST car out there for the money ... Read More

• Acura RL 2005--choppy ride

  Written by: rajabhat on Apr 9, 2005 8:19:12 PM

  I've had my Acura 2005 RL AWD for 2000 miles now. It is a superb car overall, there is nothing quite like it, but...the ride is somewhat harsh and choppy, disappointing for a flagship RL car. Maybe when you combine AWD and tight precise handling, that's what happens? The car has a strange rattle in ruts that is disconcerting. On the positive side, the fantastic Bose sound system with fully integrated ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: just bought an RL [spenglo]

  Written by: dib on Apr 23, 2005 1:10:49 PM

  Spenglo: Great to hear about your success with the email form of negotiation. You got a great price. Some notes to your notes: * A particular dealer's inventory has absolutely no bearing on its pricing. They simply get on the phone and call other dealer's until they find your color RL and can have it within 24 hours - they simply have an employee drive an RL they have on their ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Dead Battery [andrews4]

  Written by: sarahbeth0404 on Apr 20, 2005 4:36:15 PM

  Ditto, same situation here, same fixes from dealer. My dealer actually had a rep from ACURA to come to NC. First he tells me that I will get a new car. The next day he says that they will try one more fix and if that doesn't stop the problem I will get a new car. He also said that this was the first time he has heard about this problem. ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Acura RL - Is this good lease price? [fmp]

  Written by: cstiles on Apr 18, 2005 1:37:35 PM

  The RL is currently selling for about $1500 to $2000 above dealer cost, which puts it at around $45K to $46K. Your lease calculations need to start from that price point, rather than from MSRP. We just bought ours recently for $46K, with several extra options thrown in at this price (trunk tray, wheel locks, wood shift knob, all weather mats, trunk cargo net). Good luck!

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: mikestevens [lexusguy]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Apr 18, 2005 12:58:31 PM

  For several years -- especially early on, not so much since 2000 -- the Acura RL was said to have targeted the Audi A6 (nee 100) -- the logic was that the FWD Audi (even though quattro was available) was an upscale VW (Quantum, or something) and that the FWD Acura was an upscale Honda (Accord, etc). For whatever reason, Audi kept pushing its AWD competence (especially in the US) and ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• completed my purchase yesterday

  Written by: snoopy on Apr 10, 2005 8:04:42 PM

  For my 2005 RL, Celestial Silver Metallic with Ebony interior. Final price was $45,443 including destination, plus tax, title, license, doc fees. I live in the Chicago area. Several weeks ago, I emailed 7 or 8 different Acura dealers in the Chicago region and received 5 or 6 replies with quotes ranging from a low of $45,700 + destination ($570) to $47,940 including destination. I told each dealer the color combination ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• clicking noise

  Written by: jayskis on Mar 10, 2005 7:32:41 AM

  I've got a 2000 RL with 56k miles on it that has developed a constant clicking sound when the accelerator pedal is depressed. Acura said to change the belts which was done, but it didn't stop the noise. If I take my foot off the gas it stops. Anyone else have any ideas? I was thinking a heat shield might be rubbing against the accelerator belt.

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Leuxs GS300 [liy]

  Written by: ckelly14 on Feb 17, 2005 1:55:38 AM

  Good point! The AWD is only a $2000 option on the GS so I may have to look again. However, with the "base" AWD version starting at about 49K (does not include ML or Nav), I just feel you're not getting the driving dynamics of other cars in it's price class. I wasn't 100% serious about the Avalon, as it is a FWD car, but if a comfortable, luxurious highway cruiser ... Read More

• Re: Impressions Infiniti M-35x v. Acura RL v. Audi A6 3.2 [liy]

  Written by: ckelly14 on Feb 15, 2005 8:59:57 AM

  Liy: Great post. I also love the Audi's new design and interior, but as there will be no Audi dealership where I'm moving (Savannah, Georgia)I'm looking for alternatives. I will not buy an Audi without a dealership nearby (even though I love my current 2000 A4 1.8T now, but too many initial quality problems.) I will be driving the Lexus GS 300 and Infiniti M35 at special promotion parties Thursday so ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: styling [jjacura] - reliability

  Written by: spiritinthesky on Jan 23, 2005 5:20:53 AM

  Unfortunately, no one person can "come forward with 'the goods' on these cars regarding reliability issues.   I can tell you that my current 2002 BMW M5 with just under 45,000 miles has had 0 unscheduled maintenance or repair trips to the dealer. It is as tight and quiet as the day I drove it home from the dealership. The E39 model 5-series still holds the record for the highest rated ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• no title

  Written by: jrock65 on Jan 27, 2005 7:13:29 AM

  1) Hm... for some reason I thought you only owned Bimmers. Sorry about that.   2) Agreed. It is a tough segment to crack. No one is saying that the M will be sales leader. I'm thinking, if the RL with one $50k variant can sell 2000 per month, the M with 3 variants ranging from $40k to $55k can sell 2000 per month. Acura never had success in this segment ... Read More

• New Sedans

  Written by: jtt1 on Jan 24, 2005 7:13:00 PM

  As the owner of a 2000 Acura RL, I thought I was just waiting until the new RL was out to upgrade. A Fed-Ex truck ended the wait so I had to buy something several months ago. Decided to buy a V6 Accord and wait to see how the segment shakes out. Having now seen and sat in all the contenders I am leaning toward the M35/M45. I may be the ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: [steven9179]

  Written by: mungoac on Jan 8, 2005 3:57:37 AM

  OK, Steven, I'll tell you something about the car. I can tell you that the much discussed SH-AWD concept works and amazingly so -- I think.    My shakeout cruise with this car was in Quebec a few days before Xmas, when I had a few days off. (Having lived most of my life in NYC, I have learned that getting the hell out of Dodge with some regularity is a must ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: [kyfdx]

  Written by: alan7 on Jan 4, 2005 1:35:36 PM

  Hi kyfdx,   I just received an email from a manager of Acura of Ocean. They had a bad accident causing the phones completely off until tomorrow. However, she asked me to give her a competitive price instead of offering me a FREE QUOTE. She also stated they have been selling the RL at sticker price. So I stopped. I am looking elsewhere now.   I consider the 05 RL because ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [luvinmylex]

  Written by: jmatthe on Dec 28, 2004 2:40:15 PM

  Those that comment about torque are really comparing against other V8 competition usually costing more for the most part. Drive the RL back to back vs. a 530 or a E 320 and find that against six cylinder comps there is more torque and HP. I love the car, and have owned mostly BMWs with a Porsche or two thrown in. So far, 2000 miles, the car has been flawless except ... Read More

• Re: SH-AWD & VSA problem [jjacura]

  Written by: lvdh on Dec 22, 2004 6:12:52 PM

  The problems w/ my Acura - the SH-AWD and the VSA - are far worse than Acura intially thought. Acura diagnosed multiple defective parts, including a defective VSA module (located under the dash), that require replacement and the vehicle cannot be driven until those parts are replaced. Acura's computer diagnosis procedure occurs in steps and stops when the first series of defects are identified. Acura told me that it does not ... Read More

• Re: HP vs. Torque vs. Performance [habitat1]

  Written by: robertsmx on Nov 29, 2004 9:32:45 AM

  The inflation in horsepower ratings does not appear to have produced significant gains in performance C&D has tested Acura TL at 5.8s with manual transmission (of course, and I would expect a similar number for RL had Acura equipped it with one). That’s pretty good for a 3500 lb. sedan and considerably faster than a 190 HP 3100 lb. car with manual transmission doing the run in 6.8s (the old Maxima). ... Read More

• Re: RL vs. TL value [kennyg5] / Tire size [habitat1]

  Written by: talon95 on Nov 21, 2004 5:17:52 PM

  "However, it should be noted that ALL Honda/Acura speedometers read 4-5%+/- too fast to begin with. If the speedometer says you are doing 70, you are actually doing 67+/-. This was confirmed by my service manager in a call with the regional representative. It can also be easily checked by setting your cruise control and using a stopwatch to time miles on a marked highway. The only exception to this "programmed ... Read More

• Announcement:

  Written by: jjacura on Nov 15, 2004 6:34:56 PM

  My new RL is due for delivery in a couple weeks. I am elated. I am not allowed to advertise my 2000 Acura 3.2 TL on this forum so I won't!

• Acura vs. Audi

  Written by: reb124 on Oct 20, 2004 4:57:05 PM

  I currently have a 2000 Audi A6, 2.7 T and have placed a deposit on the new RL. I test drove it tonight. The RL pick up is good, although still slightly behind my 4 year old 2.7T. However, many more toys in the RL. The navigation system, integrated phone, 6 CD changer, bose speaker system and all. The Audi has more of the sports car feel / look. I found ... Read More

• Re: My Review [stevenr27]

  Written by: monet5 on Oct 18, 2004 1:37:27 PM

  Steven27. The Audi and RL while looking similar in the stats (HP/lbs), AWD, Tech, etc... are really very different. The RL is the car that you get in and simply drive. If you want to play with all the technology you can, but its perfectly happy being as simple as an Accord (that's a compliment). The ride was firmer than I would have thought, but controlled nevertheless. In typical Lexus fashion ... Read More

• 2005 RL

  Written by: lynnminny on Oct 17, 2004 5:44:36 PM

  An Introduction: I presently own a 2000 Mercedes E320 AWD. This is my second E320. The first was a 1997/rear wheel drive. My present Mercedes has 52,000 miles on it and the repairs have already started. Axle- $2,000. Numerous sensors - another $1,000. We got Mercedes to pay for the axle and the parts on the sensors. Now the car is literally sucking oil and that is a repair that Mercedes ... Read More

• Pricing.....

  Written by: gold233790 on Oct 15, 2004 11:41:51 AM

  I am in a quandery as well. Currently motoring along in a 2000 Audi A8- hit 80k miles the other day and feel as if my deal with the devil is about to expire and I'll be sinking $ into this baby before you can say "German engineering only lasts the factory warranty". Anyway.....I LOVE the tech stuff, and have owned Acura's in the past. My thoughts on Acura are as ... Read More

• Re: Would I deserve one? [prophet2]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Sep 22, 2004 7:12:07 PM

  Our first Audi, in 1978, was followed by over two dozen more -- in November, 2000 I found a FedEx envelope on my front porch. In this FedEx Letter package was a letter and two round trip tickets to San Moritz Switzerland. The letter invited my wife and me to fly to Zurich, be picked up in an Audi A8 and escorted to St. Moritz. Fast forward, we took Mr. Hunt ... Read More

• Would I deserve one?

  Written by: prophet2 on Sep 22, 2004 12:30:55 PM

  Saw the Oprah show and those 276 motorists with their new Pontiacs. How about ACURA rewarding me for continuously having an ACURA vehicle in my garage since their introduction in April 1986? 1986 Legend (1986-87) 1987 Legend L coupe (1987-88) 1987 Integra LS (1987-1991) 1988 Integra LS (1988-92) 1991 Legend LS (1991-94) 1993 Integra LS Special Edition (1992-2002) 1987 Legend L coupe (1997-2000) 1996 RL (2000-present) 2003 RSX (2003-present) Also in ... Read More

• Re: Taupe interior... RL Interior Colors? [legendman]

  Written by: jjacura on Sep 20, 2004 6:45:45 PM

  Those made me think of Parchment leather seats with Taupe dash and door trim. Wouldn't it be great if Acura would have their web site finished on the 2005 RL download, they somehow keep us salivating "til the last dog is hung" to use an old quote from my grandfather. I have taupe in my 2000 TL and it is perfect. The new TL 2004 messed it up and I am ... Read More

• Re: Allotment and In-Stock Due Date [legendman]

  Written by: ceric on Sep 10, 2004 11:48:14 PM

  Sounds like Acura is going to keep close tabs on inventory movement which translates to me as not wanting to produce more than demand dictates (stale inventory killed profts on 2003 and 2004 RL models) and perhaps also to keep availability artificially low in order to create the impression of a "hard to get" car. Considering Acura has about 250 dealerships in USA, allotment of, on average, 15 for one dealership ... Read More

• Re: [nebraskaguy] Canadian pricing vs. US [gnarly] [canadacraig]

  Written by: micartie on Sep 8, 2004 2:05:59 PM

  I posted here a while ago when I first saw the RL Canadian pricing on the Canadiandriver wedsite. At C$69,500 (which works out to about US$53,500), the RL is approaching the likes of Lexus GS430 and Infiniti M45, both of which have V8 engines. I currently own a 2001 3.2CL Type S and was looking to move up to the new RL. However, at C$69,500, I am very tempted to consider ... Read More

• Re: did i miss the torque curve? [ksoman]

  Written by: robertsmx on Sep 1, 2004 2:24:45 PM

  I’ve become quite good at predicting things for Honda/Acura, so bear with my crystal ball, again. A typical Honda engine is tuned to deliver at least 90% of its peak torque from 2500 rpm, and attains 95% of its peak torque by 3000 rpm. The 3.5/V6 in MDX was originally designed to deliver at least 95% of its peak torque (back then, 245 lb.-ft @ 3000 to 5000 rpm) between 2000 ... Read More

• plood good

  Written by: jeff88 on Aug 23, 2004 12:06:22 PM

  Count me in as one who loves the look of the genuine walnut used in the rl but would be glad for a very nice facsimile of the same in pure plastique for environmental concerns. Plastique sounds better...genuine solid burled walnetted plastique with finely brushed aluminium. :) '05 rl mpg (my guess) will be more like 19 city, 28 highway based on what I've seen acura deliver with their 5 sp ... Read More

• Re: low target [jrock65]

  Written by: ceric on Aug 18, 2004 11:25:56 PM

  quote: "That seems quite a low target. I guess it makes sense, since then they could say, "Look! We exceeded our expectations!" I don't think they'll have any trouble reaching 1000 per month." For the past July, here is the rough sales numbers - M45: 300+ - RL 3.5: 300+ - GS 300/430: 2716 (~2000 for GS300) Totally, 3300 among three Japanese brands. 1100 per brand on average. Now, since all ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: varmint on Aug 18, 2004 10:51:43 AM

  "Acura had it's chance to dominate the market, but they dropped the Legend, and introduced a ton of bland cars. After the Legend was discontinued I lost all interest in Acura. Nothing has come out of that car company that makes me even think about their name." Yeah, I know what you mean. The Vigor was an "okay" car, but not a real market leader. The TL that replaced it was ... Read More

• legendman

  Written by: jrock65 on Aug 13, 2004 3:39:48 PM

  1. How much will the M45 cost? No one knows for sure, but I expect a similarly equipped M35 AWD to MSRP for about the same as the RL. The M45 will probably be about $2000 more expensive, similarly equipped (without AWD). 2. When will it hit the showrooms for sale? Expected March 2005. 3. How's the horsepower and handling? 340hp for the M45, 280+ for the M35 (probably more). Not ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: robertsmx on Jul 28, 2004 8:44:57 AM

  Headlights have been a very defining things in Acura/Honda lineup since the early 90s. Was there another mainstream car in 1990 or so with single lens headlamp like Accord did? Many automakers continued on with two piece headlamps thru late 90s. In the mid-90s, the 1995 Acura CL-X concept started another era of Acura/Honda headlight styling where headlamps took a shape other than a rectangle, a square or a circle. The ... Read More

• Re: Off lease RL [l943973]

  Written by: ajovialone on Jul 27, 2004 9:47:07 AM

  Hi I943973 I recently purchased an off lease 2000 RL and call the 800 Acura number for the service maintenance records and they informed me that they did not keep those records even if they were done at a dealership. On another note... has anyone had their SRS light come on for the passenger side? If so is there a fix to it or does it matter how the person is ... Read More

• Re: to robertsmx, [importfan14]

  Written by: robertsmx on Jul 23, 2004 10:16:27 AM

  has Camry headlight influence in terms of shape looks sort of like an I35 in the way the headlights curve downward I never heard anybody say that about Phaeton (which I believe the RL’s headlamps resemble with). And, I don’t agree with you. May be I can distinguish styling a tad better. ;-) As for I35… Nope. The resemblance is to be found here... has a grille of the previous gen. ... Read More

• Re: Aluminum diesels [rsholland]

  Written by: robertsmx on Jul 16, 2004 9:32:33 AM

  Honda has started its diesel “run” with the 2.2-liter DOHC I-CTDi using aluminum and it is supposedly the lightest engine in its class (by at least 10 kg as “The Telegraph” below mentions it). But at 375 lb. (a number I obtained from another website, it is about 80 lb. heavier than the 2.2-liter DOHC VTEC engine that powered Prelude for a long time. Another website (also European source) mentions it ... Read More

• Navigation DVD

  Written by: ajovialone on Jul 14, 2004 7:43:56 PM

  We purchased a 2000 RL from the auction and it does not have a Navi DVD. Even if it did, it would be outdated. Are there websites that sell discounted replacement DVDs or are we stuck with having to purchase it from the Acura dealer?

• What?

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 30, 2004 7:11:01 AM

  I do not dispute that Lexus (or most of them anyway) has joined the premium class of automobiles. However, any notion that Audi has somehow slipped backwards out of the premium class is, according to "independent" surveys just the opposite of what has been happening. Audi, through 1997, was a notch below premium, somehow always bubbling under the premium class (at that time basically BMW and Mercedes and perhaps another Euro ... Read More

• Re: robertsmx [saugatak #1444]

  Written by: robertsmx on Jun 23, 2004 7:29:21 AM

  Honda's engines are impressive, but not in regards to developing low end torque. Well, I don’t expect a 2.0-liter engine to match the torque output from a 6.0-liter engine. Do you? In RL, the rated peak can be expected to be about 260-265 lb.-ft. Is that lack of torque compared to other engines with similar displacement? And it is not just the peak torque either, we have been talking “range”. If ... Read More

• robertsmx #1473

  Written by: saugatak on Jun 23, 2004 3:21:59 PM

  Well, I’m going by the official plot (232 Nm or 23.7 kg-m or 171 lb.-ft, pick your unit of measurement). OK. Shoot Acura an email then and let them know that the specs listed on the TSX on their OFFICIAL website are wrong. How the heck is availability of 90% of peak torque from about 2000 rpm to 6800 rpm “misleading”? It's misleading b/c most people rarely, if ever, rev their ... Read More

• Re: A different thought [markcincinnati #1397]

  Written by: robertsmx on Jun 21, 2004 8:08:09 AM

  To improve its acceleration, assuming my guess that the torque ratings will be "OK" or "good" but not "oh wow, impressive," Acura may have elected to lower the final drive ratio and made 5th gear a bit taller "overdrive" (in an effort to raise its combined MPG). A six speed transmission with both 5th and 6th being overdriven, but 5th only mildly so, would somewhat counter and "mask" the hunting that ... Read More

• Re: robertsmx [saugatak #1387]

  Written by: robertsmx on Jun 21, 2004 7:34:23 AM

  Having seen the numbers from you that match my guesstimate, I assume your concern regarding RL’s torque numbers being a pie in the sky (or not) has been addressed. My guesstimate is based on assumption that RL will use 3.5-liter version of the V6 used in TL. Going beyond the peak numbers, let us analyze the 3.5/V6 used in MDX using the official dynograph. In Japan, the engine is rated at ... Read More

• Re: High mileage 99 RL

  Written by: 4bearhug on Jun 15, 2004 9:25:17 AM

  I have a 96RL with 122K miles that I bought used in 2000 w/ 64K miles. I've had zero problems with the car and have done no maintenance other than oil changes and timing belt at 100K. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another Acura with high mileage if the price was right. I would check on timing belt replacement because this is a $400-500 bill and needs to be done asap ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: pg48477 on Apr 21, 2004 8:14:50 PM

  Navi is usually cost from $1800 to $2000. Acura price their vehicles below Infiniti, RL might be an exception, but I don't think so. If you take TL and G35 for example, TL with navigation will cost about that same as G35 without navigation. Let say you also right about cost of FWD(AWD) platform vs. RWD(AWD) platform. So I would take vehicle one with navigation and AWD for 45K over vehicle ... Read More

• Extended warranties

  Written by: rdharams on Apr 16, 2004 3:47:11 PM

  Warranty on my 2000 RL will soon expire. I inquired with the local Acura dealer and they are quoting $1589 for a 7/75k warranty. 1. Has anyone gotten a better deal? 2. Somebody mentioned a AAA warranty. anyone has had positive/negative experiences with it? 3. Is it possible to buy acura warranty from any dealer nation wide? Feedback is highly appreciated.

Luxury Performance Sedans

• no title

  Written by: merc1 on Apr 7, 2004 11:28:55 PM

  Just like the upper segment, the middle segment is indeed poised to heat up. Upcoming info and my opinion of each player in the segment. Audi A6 - Not the styling knockout I had hoped for. Interior seems to be cluttered and not on the same level with the A8 design wise. New direct injection 3.2L V6 is nice, but the 4.2L V8 version seems to have lost the fender flares ... Read More

Acura RL

• 2000 RL--Just purchased

  Written by: viggiaro on Apr 5, 2004 8:23:21 AM

  I just purchased a 2000 RL with Nav and paid $21999. It has 41K miles, and per KBB is worth around $25K. Car is fantastic.. White with Quartz, CLEAN!!!! and gets looks from people at traffic lights! I need to get the PIN number changed on the Nav so I can put my home addr in the system, but both users (1 & 2) are taken. Dealer sent me to Acura ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: kirstie_h on Jan 14, 2004 5:52:40 AM

  Hi pjamu. This discussion is about the 2005 RL, so I've moved your message to our active Acura 3.5RL discussion. That's where you're most likely to get feedback on the 2000.

• Odor in cabin

  Written by: sranger941 on Sep 8, 2003 8:46:31 PM

  Have a 2000 RL and started to get a musty odor with AC on with vent set at fresh air. Changed the cabin air filters and that took care of it. I replaced them after about 3 years and 30k miles. Will probably cut that in half next time. Bought Fram filters ($35 for the pair compared to $85 from Acura). The Frams look a little different, but have worked very ... Read More

• Transmission problems?

  Written by: dave241 on Aug 15, 2003 8:54:37 PM

  I am looking to buy a used RL. I've been talking to a local Honda dealer regarding a 2000 RL w/ 50,000 miles. As I went to test drive the car today, the salesman mentioned that in addition to replacing certain of the tires the transmission was also to be "overhauled" by an Acura mechanic on Monday. Turns out, they are putting in a new transmission. Another salesman mentioned that he ... Read More

• 2000 RL Recall Master Brake Cylinder

  Written by: blerner1 on Jul 19, 2003 6:40:05 PM

  Check the NHTSA site. June 30,2003 818 Acura 3.5RL Master Cylinder Recall Although the VIN numbers are not given I know the VIN numbers are those numbers ending in 00013 thru 1000. The dealers got the recall as of July 18,2003 http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/

• Gcomstock1: 2000 RL Lease End

  Written by: mrrogers on Jul 3, 2003 4:12:17 AM

  Thomas Stanley wrote a book called "The Millionaire Next Door." He discovered that most millionaires drive Fords. They also do not lease. In another of his books, he mentioned that personally he always owns a two to three year old premium Lexus, Infiniti, or Acura that he purchased used at a good price. Based on his two books, I recommend that you buy this 28K mile creampuff, and start planning what ... Read More

• Oh, well .......

  Written by: prophet2 on Feb 13, 2003 11:30:22 PM

  I'll just live with my '96 RL (76K miles) until the 2005 model shows up. The trunk-loaded CD changer isn't THAT BAD. No car payments, and I can handle the cost of two services per year every 7500 miles. When that '05 makes its appearance, if it has 270 to 325 hp and doesn't exceed $50K MSRP, I'll talk turkey with Acura. Till then, I expect to continue the trouble-free miles ... Read More

• Thanks for comments

  Written by: retnav on Feb 13, 2003 5:37:54 AM

  At post 1133 on 26 Jan I asked for comments from MB owners as I was considering trading my 2000 RL for a new MB E-320. mfaraino1 replied with a very thoughtful and helpful answer. On 28 Jan I traded for the MB. So far I really like the car and after 24 years of Honda/Acura ownership try something new. Nevertheless, I will continue to monitor the RL board. Thanks for ... Read More

• 2003 RL $3500 below invoice

  Written by: bobbycar on Feb 6, 2003 6:16:43 PM

  2003 RLs have $3,500 marketing support. The first dealer (Tustin Acura) that contacted me offered to sell me, over the phone, a RL for $35,421. The invoice is $38,921 (including $500 shipping) and the marketing support (to the dealer?) is $3,500. I used the Edmunds dealer feature - it worked well. It may be cheaper to buy a 2003 than lease. The residuals on the 2003 is ~47-48% (~$21.9k), down from ... Read More

• Is Increasing Tire Size a Problem?

  Written by: tjones on Feb 3, 2003 8:08:45 AM

  I have a 2000 RL which came with 215/60/16 tires. I know that in 2001 or 2002 Acura increased the tire size to 225/55/16. Has anyone with a 2000 or older RL increased to the 225/55/16 size when they replaced their tires? If so, have you noticed any problems (e.g. rubbing, spedo incorrect, etc.)? If no one has switched, does anyone know if there would be any problems switching? Thank you. ... Read More

• Mercedes E320 vs. Acura RL

  Written by: mfaraino1 on Jan 26, 2003 1:00:47 PM

  Retnav, You're really talking about 2 entirely different cars and the way they are designed. I have a 2000 Acura RL and a 1998 MB E320. You are absolutely right about resale value. There is no way that the MB will depreciate as quickly as the Acura. You're going to pay about 15-20K more for the MB though (for the E320 not the E500). The Acura is more of a cruising ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: hunter001 on Jan 1, 2003 11:08:15 AM

  l943973 Incidentally, the 99TL with the 4-speed has gear ratios that were higher (numerically lower) than the 2000 onward TL, except in the 5th gear ratio of the 2000 onward TL/TL-s (which was non-existent in the 99TL), which essentially means that the 00+ TL would accelerate much better than the 99 TL (0.8 secs improvement in 0-60) while getting better mileage (improved from 27mpg to 29mpg hwy mileage) in the higher ... Read More

• RL extended warranty

  Written by: jmw4 on Nov 22, 2002 6:06:56 PM

  I have a 2000 RL and paid $925 for 0 deductible 7/100 Acura warranty in the summer. The car has been great as expected and even if I don't need it mechanically, it keeps me in the loaner program for service and roadside assistance if ever needed. I have had no problems thus far but am about to replace the original Michelins with 27,500 on them as they seemed to have ... Read More

• Questions About '99 RL

  Written by: baseballmom94 on Oct 10, 2002 5:36:08 PM

  My husband and I are looking at '99 RLs at a local dealer. They had about 5 on the lot. The salesman said we could get one for about $24,000 (sticker $26,900) with 34,000 miles on it. How much lower can we get this car for? I think that $22-$23,000 is possible....what do you all think? Also, we are wondering if we should wait until some 2000 models come off lease? ... Read More