1996 Acura TL Consumer Discussions

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Audi Drive Select

  Written by: markcincinnati on Oct 1, 2011 1:21:55 PM

  Short answer, no. At this point, an Audi A4 2.0T Prestige + SLine with everything on it except ADS would be a great car. I have ADS, I have, currently both a 2009 A4 Prestige + Sport Pakage (that has ADS) and a 2012 Acura TL Advance. In 2009 but not in 2011 or 2012 Audi A4 2.0T Prestige + Sport or SLine packages, I see less of a need for ... Read More

Acura TL Electrical System Problems

• ABS light

  Written by: newmark on Mar 30, 2010 2:51:19 PM

  Me again..The ABS system on my 1996 Acura 3.2 TL is not working (which is fine as I do not drive in bad conditions) but the light on the dashboard stays on while running....is there any way to turn off this light...I would appreciate your advice. Newmark

• DRL

  Written by: newmark on Mar 30, 2010 2:45:18 PM

  I live in the Bahamas and have a 1996 Acura 3.2 TL - purchased in Canada. The DRL is not working (which is fine by me) but the DRL on the dash board stays on. Can I stop this by removing a fuse?...Thanks...Robert

Acura TL Maintenance and Repair

• Air conditioner didnt work, then randomly did for 20 min yesterday. Why?

  Written by: clubhabel on May 30, 2009 3:17:19 PM

  My 1996 Acura TL Air Conditioner didnt work, freon was full, and I was driving with the fan on when all of a sudden, cold air came out. The clutch on the compressor engaged when I ran a hot wire from the battery to it and the A/C worked perfect. I gotta have some electrical issue, but what? Someone said a relay maybe but what is it and where do I ... Read More

• Re: 1996 Acura TL starting problems [KTambo]

  Written by: jimwashere on May 7, 2009 11:15:52 AM

  Did any have an answer for this problem?

Acura TL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Used Acura TL....

  Written by: toby08 on Apr 24, 2009 6:06:31 AM

  I am looking at a used 2005 TL with 73000 miles and the Dealer is asking $11,000. I used to own a 1996 Honda Accord EX which gave me zero head aches and ran very well up until I deployed overseas last year. 260,000 miles was the last reading before we parted. After a year of driving around in a 53,000 pound truck in the blistering heat, I would like to ... Read More

Acura TL Maintenance and Repair

• 1996 ACURA TL 2.5 Sedan repair costs

  Written by: lhy on Feb 27, 2009 1:17:17 AM

  I am thinking about buying a 1996 ACURA TL 2.5 Sedan and am wondering about general repair costs for the car. Is this model more expensive to repair than comparable Hondas (Accord, Civic), Toyotas (Corollas, Camrys), or even other Acuras like Legend and Integra sedans from the 1990s. Since this model has a 5-cylinder engine, would that make it more expensive or difficult to repair? And can most non-dealership mechanics handle ... Read More

• 1996 Acura TL starting problems

  Written by: KTambo on Jan 3, 2009 8:37:35 AM

  I've had a 96 Acura 2.5TL for 2 1/2 yrs. Every now and then when we have a lot of precipitation, car won't start. Then starts right up the next day. So far have had: new main control relay for computer, new computer temp sensor, new up stream oxygen sensor and throttle air boot, mass air flow meter. Still an issue. Anyone else have this problem? Ideas?

Acura TL Navigation System Hints and Experiences

• Re: 09 TL navigation [rv65]

  Written by: rv65 on Aug 16, 2008 5:11:17 PM

  As for 09 TL map updates those might have to be done at the dealer. It's probably due to them having a specialized data machine. Just like in 1996-1999 :). Or Acura could release a DIY DVD updates. I'm sure the update could erase music and photo data. The FCX clarity also uses this system and maps have to be done at a Honda dealer.

Acura TL Buying Pre-owned

• Re: 1996 Acura TL 2.5 [carbuyer29]

  Written by: ducatiguy on May 10, 2007 8:44:11 AM

  I purchased a '97 TL2.5 (premium) for my daughter in December 2005 - from an Acura dealer. It was a 2 owner car, w/ maintenance history, and had 82K miles. Paid 8,000. Only service has been tires, oil changes and the 105K service (paid $800 at a private shop). I liked the size of the car (vs an Integra), plus it can't go too fast! The '98/99 Accords were my pfd ... Read More

• Re: 1996 Acura TL 2.5 [habitat1]

  Written by: carbuyer29 on May 8, 2007 6:50:19 PM

  Thanks for the advice. I thought it might be a good deal based on the mileage and the maintenance history, but its still a '96. I'd like a later model, but they are pricey.

• Re: 1996 Acura TL 2.5 [carbuyer29]

  Written by: habitat1 on May 8, 2007 5:49:58 PM

  1) Ridiculous price. The private party value is between $4,500+/-, dealer retail $5,300+/- according to Edmunds. 2) Not that great of a car, IMO. Underpowered (funky 5 cylinder, 176 hp/170 ft lbs.). Boxy design. Doesn't handle particularly well. Think a similar vintage Accord EX for half the price is a much better value. 3) I have a 1995 Nissan Maxima SE 5-speed w/ 190hp/205 ft.lbs, a Ward's 10 best 6-cylinder engine. ... Read More

• 1996 Acura TL 2.5

  Written by: carbuyer29 on May 8, 2007 3:44:22 PM

  I'm considering buying a pre-owned TL that only has 55,000 miles on it. I'm wondering if its worth it and what the Acura owners think and buying a 96. They are asking $8-9K for it. It seems to be in pristine condition. Perfect on the inside, with all the scheduled maintenance done. Thanks for the input. Carbuyer29

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: ELLPS Perceived Quality Rating - Poll [circlew]

  Written by: habitat1 on May 1, 2007 5:59:27 AM

  I can't believe you asked a card carrying UAW member that question?? In any event, how about rather than rating perceptions (or in the case of Rocky, dilusions ;) ), we all rate the cars we have actually personally owned. My list would look like this: 1. Nissan (1995 Maxima SE) 2. Honda (2002 S2000) / Porsche (2005 911S) (tie) 4. Toyota (1983 Supra) 5. Acura (2004 TL 6-speed) 6. Acura ... Read More

Acura TL Electrical System Problems

• Re: My car electrical system is possessed!!!!! [thku4grace]

  Written by: fesquivias76 on Mar 15, 2007 4:33:48 PM

  I also have a 1996 Acura 2.5 TL and my car is doing something very similar. I've had the starter replaced twice now and the car works fine for about 2 months and then the symptoms return. I never have a problem with a cold start, but when I've driven my car for a while and it has warmed up (especially on hot days), I turn the key and nothing. If ... Read More

Acura TSX vs Acura TL

• Why I decided on a TSX . . .

  Written by: rsobin on Mar 11, 2007 6:51:23 AM

  I just traded my 2001 PT Cruiser, 6 years old, for a 2007 new TSX. Why? I was considering a new hardtop retractable Mazda Miata XM-5. But my wife had problems getting in and out of it for health reasons. Only could take one other person of course. I have wanted a Miata for years. Deam gone . . . So I began to look and look. Note: we also have ... Read More

Acura TL Electrical System Problems

• My car electrical system is possessed!!!!!

  Written by: thku4grace on Mar 4, 2007 5:55:43 PM

  I have an 1996 Acura TL 3.2. I have electrical system problem. When I first start my car in the morning it usually starts up normally. However, after I have run the car for 30 minutes or so if I stop and restart my car, I often have problems. It doesn't start slowly like a run down battery might do but instead I get nothing. No turnover at all. I can ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: And.. it is.. [rockylee]

  Written by: habitat1 on Dec 29, 2006 5:59:44 AM

  "Saabs have as much performance if not more performance than a Acura TL" Are you drunk? Back in 2004, I test drove everything remotely in the ELLPS category including Volvo and Saab. When I was back in the market for a convertible last year, I also retried the Saab 9-3 Convertivble. A friend of mine is the general counsel of Saab Aerospace NA and would have been able to get me ... Read More

• Re: Can I bring up the future "1" last time for a momment [habitat1]

  Written by: rockylee on Oct 5, 2006 8:05:04 AM

  A lot less nimble than their RWD counterparts. True, but they still sell quite a few for it being a BMW That's your perogative. Pay for the extra gas, ALL THE TIME. Pay for the extra maintenance and, potentially, expensive repairs down the road. And then call me up when it's pouring rain or a freak snowstorm in Texas and ask me if I want to race? No thanks. Further, I ... Read More

• Re: Can I bring up the future "1" last time for a momment [rockylee]

  Written by: habitat1 on Oct 5, 2006 7:45:11 AM

  "BMW, sells alot of AWD units. Are they not nimble ?" A lot less nimble than their RWD counterparts. "I'm a big AWD fan and feel quite the opposite as you. 4 wheels powering my car is always better than 2 IMHO. More grip. Audi proved it and were thus banned for using Quattro." That's your perogative. Pay for the extra gas, ALL THE TIME. Pay for the extra maintenance and, ... Read More

Acura TL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Best Prices in Dallas/ Ft. Worth? [musicman220]

  Written by: mwaldman on Jul 23, 2006 2:08:44 PM

  The best deal I was offered for the 1996 tl was at Santa Monica Acura for $29,900. When I requested bids through the internet (via kelly blue book), I got two. The other was for 30,500. Prices will continue to drop as summer moves on.

• '06 TL 5 Spd - no navi

  Written by: cyclonemike on May 30, 2006 6:00:18 AM

  I was able to get $31,072 for the basic car, including destination (Edmunds TMV - $32,789). Royal Blue Pearl with Quartz Interior. I added All season mats, mud flaps, wheel locks, cargo tray, touch-up paint. With doc fees and first year "free" maintenance the cost came to exactly $32,000. Plus, they gave me $3,800 for my 1996 Accord with 128K miles in what I would call average overall condition (TMV for ... Read More

Acura TL 2006+

• Quality Issues in TL??

  Written by: bobob20032000 on Aug 10, 2005 7:43:07 AM

  My 2003 Acura TL has the same problem. It gives cold air but when you put it on high, it is not as strong. frisconick, did you put the a/c setting on? You should press mode so the a/c would be on. One time the A/C setting was turned off accidentally on my 1996 Toyota Avalon XL and it blew out hot air until i realized i turned it off. But ... Read More

Acura TL vs. Toyota Avalon

• Avalon... No Thanks

  Written by: bobob20032000 on Aug 7, 2005 7:10:25 PM

  The Avalon seems like a nice car for someone like my grandfather but not for me. Its big, ugly, boring and expensive. The TL is a better value and its not a toyota. My parents have problems with their 1996 Toyota Avalon, power steering fluid leaks in 2002 (replaces the whole thing), 2 flat tires, battery dies when it is only 8 years old and recently got hit by a Jeep ... Read More

Acura TL Maintenance and Repair

• 1996 Acura cooling fan query

  Written by: lorilee on Aug 11, 2004 7:29:14 AM

  We purchased a 1996 Acura TL for a few thousand dollars from a Chevy dealer for our daughter to use going to school. It has 144,000 miles and we have the vin history. It was made in Japan and used as a dealer or show car until it was at 44,000 miles. It was then purchased and owned by one man until he traded it in May. We had to have ... Read More

Infiniti G35 vs. Acura TL

• Nissan vs Honda vs Mazda vs Toyota:

  Written by: car3 on Feb 28, 2004 1:35:40 PM

  Toyota: Maybe the Celica, and RAV 4 are cool looking. Thats about it from them. Honda/Acura: last generation Integra was cool looking. The last generation Accord Coupe was cool looking. The new TL and TSX are pretty good looking vehicles. I thought maybe the 1992-1996 Prelude was Honda's best styling work. I liked the 01-03 MDX. I don't like the refresh for 04 though. Can't wait for the new NSX. I ... Read More

Acura TL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• mobofe .......

  Written by: prophet2 on Dec 18, 2003 6:19:02 PM

  Can't blame you for putting in only five seconds with the '04 RL. It's had only minor revisions since it replaced the Legend in 1996: a modest increase in HP (210 to 225), traction control (my '96 RL doesn't have it, my '01 Honda Odyssey does), CD changer moved from trunk to dash (long overdue), change in alloy wheels. The exterior is outdated and basically unchanged for the past nine model ... Read More

Infiniti G35 vs. Acura TL

• 03accordman

  Written by: klayfish on Oct 30, 2003 10:21:18 AM

  I couldn't have put it better myself. We've had: 1996 Integra GS-R; 1997 Accord EX; 2001 Acura 3.2TL. All had awesome engines, probably the smoothest engines I'd ever driven. But I sold my GS-R because you had to rev the snot out of it to go anywhere. Above 5500 rpm, it went like a scalded cat, but was flat below that. Our TL is the same way. Like you said, lack ... Read More

Older Acura TLs

• no title

  Written by: merc1 on Jul 14, 2003 12:20:31 AM

  I suspect the RL replacement was one of the few cars Honda actually had to muddle over as far as it's market position and specification. I'm sure they probably pondered whether doing another RL at all considering the current car's performance on the market compared to the E-Class, 5-Series, GS and A6. Honda's corporate culture won't let them justify the money, or lavish engineering needed to compete with cars like the ... Read More

• Acura 2003 TL Type S

  Written by: josephacura on Jul 10, 2003 1:45:40 PM

  Hello, I posted a few messages about the 2004 Acura TL due out this fall and it looks sweet......there are pics online as well as in the monthly acura magazine. It does look nice, different. I have a 1996 Acura 2.5 TL with 117,000 and I love it. I just purchased a new, 2003 Acura 3.2 TL Type S and all I can say is it is by far the best ... Read More

• Suggestion

  Written by: wayde on Dec 12, 2002 4:07:53 PM

  As a previous Acura Integra (1998) and Honda Civic (1996) and VW GTI (2000) and now a Protege5 (2002) I can give you my .02$. I had ALOT of reliability issues with my GTI - dumped it after 15 months - so, wouldn't recommend the VW. I know many people have had good "luck" with theirs but I don't like to take a CHANCE that I'll get a "good" car or ... Read More