Used 1997 Acura CL 2.2 Premium 2dr Coupe Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Faulty Hub/Wheel Bearing Assembly
Purchased my Acura CL (2.2 Premium) with 44K Miles on it. I had regular maintenance done and vehicle was performing fine - till I hit 70K mi. I started hearing humming noice from up front. It gradually grew in intensity to the point where it is unbearble. I am at 72K mi. Dealer investigated issue and says hub/wheel bearings are worn out and I have to replace front wheel and bearing assembly for $900!!! I was shocked. This is my second Honda vehicle and I did not expect this from Acura. You pay a lot for Acuras because of the reliability factor - if you are not getting this, what is the point? Spoke to Acura, got a cold reply: Your vehicle is not in warranty.
I love this car.
This car is very reliable. It's also very fun to drive, good on gas, low maintenance, even better when you the change the oil on schedule and keep it clean.
Jewel of a Ride
Bought my stick 2.2 a year old with only about 8k miles. Only 65k NOW, due to driving 3 other cars, incl. a CRX and Prelude. (Certified Honda nut!). No significant maintenance or driveability problems, even after getting run off a mountain road into a big (life-saving) snowbank in December.
My love / hate relationship
Bought the car new when it came out in '96 as a '97 model. Since day 1, it has been plagued by squeeks and rattles. Dealership still couldn't fix these after 6 attempts. I enjoy driving the car (when it runs properly), but has been the most aggravating car (and least reliable) I have ever owned. Aside from a ridiculous amount of rattles in the dash, the driver side window motor was replaced, radiator fan, oxygen sensor, transmission.... Will probably never buy another Acura.... and I previously owned 3 other Honda products which NEVER gave me such grief.
Falling out of love with my Acura
There were so many things to love about my 97CL: handling, performance, good looks. But alas, during the past 6 months, I've had to replace the starter, AC condenser & evaporator and routine maintenance are costing almost $3,500. I only have 82,000 miles and I really pampered my CL. Sad to say, I don't love this car anymore. Other people will rave about its reliability, but that has not been my experience, and the cost to repair is hideous. My last 2 cars (1989 Camry 146,000 miles and 1994 Nissan Quest 163,000 miles) were not nearly as expensive to maintain. Maybe I expected too much, but I thought this car would last longer without so many repairs!