Used 2003 Acura CL Coupe Consumer Reviews
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Bad Transmission
BadTransmission, 06/07/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
All 3.2s have bad transmissions. When ours went bad they had the car for 30 days. So many transmissions were bad on the car throughout the country that there were no parts in the states to repair the car. The problem with the transmission has never been resolved. When your transmission goes bad (and it is a matter of when not if) you receive a rebuilt transmission that has already gone bad and been "repaired". Rather than recall the car and remedy the problem, Acura extended the warranty on the transmission to 7 years/70,000 miles. This warranty extensions hide the real problem. THIS CAR HAS A BAD TRANSMISSION AND IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE.
nicest car we've ever owned
coopinde, 02/26/2010
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe w/Navigation (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Our daughters were off to college so we didn't need our 1993 Roadmaster Estate Wagon with 240k mi it earned a rest. Found and purchased a one owner used Acura CL with 68k mi for $9500. Transmission mis shifted 94K mi. Honda replaced with new 5 speed auto - free of charge. Turns out that first owner had transmission serviced but not with Honda Z1 ATF, Car gets almost 26 MPG on regular gas. Excellent power and stable handling predictable steering. GM has miles to go to get close to this car. I will buy Acuras from now on. I most highly recommend this car.
2003 Acura CL for sale near you
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- 3.2 Type-S CoupeMSRP: $6,995397 mi away
- 3.2 CoupeMSRP: $4,995806 mi away
- 3.2 Type-S CoupeMSRP: $8,788979 mi away
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Tranny worse than an American Tranny
never_ever_again, 07/27/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe w/Navigation (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Had this car for a month, after only 1500 miles, the transmission went bad even after babying it. It doesn't shift past 2nd gear. Thought I was a rare case, but when I went to the dealer, they weren't surprised. There is a freaking 3 month waiting list for CL/TL transmissions! When I saw the www.acura-cl.com message board I wasn't the only one. They have a section dedicated to "Transmission Problems"!!! Hundreds of people are having transmission problems for a wannabe luxury car. People, stay away from the CL and TL and get an accord. The CL and TL tranny is a piece of crap.
Evaluation and review of the Acura CL.
dearly155, 04/19/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle surpassed my wildest dreams. It has a very reasonable sticker price, excellent fuel mileage, excellent power and acceleration. The ride and handling qualities are also excellent. This is the best vehicle I have ever owned and without a doubt, the best for the money. It has all the features of a much more expensive Lexus or Infinity. To top it all off, it has not been to the shop for anything!
Poor Build Quality
qrqr199top, 04/28/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having been a long time Toyota owner, I am really disappointed with the build quality of my Acura CL. So far, my fog lights have burned out twice, my sunroof still rattles, my rear quarter panel had to re-welded, interior trim panels were falling off and still the car rattles and squeaks... I've told the Acura dealer that my 96 Corolla with 120,000 miles makes less noise than my 2002 acura.
Acura CL
Zuchinidog, 05/17/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a very good car. I traded in an Audi A4, and although it was a fun car to drive, the repair bills were gettting to be very expensive. I also test drove a BWM 3, a Volvo S60 and Lexus IS300. Each was an excellent car; however, the Acura was the best choice, in my mind, when factoring in the price.
Excellent Vehicle
smoker, 06/18/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only had the car for a week but I love it already. It's fast, fun to drive, and loaded with features. Minor drawbacks: the car has to be on to close the sunroof and windows, and the auto-foldup on the seats to allow people into the back is slow, and also requires the car to be on. Excellent features: driving! the car handles great at fast speeds, which it has no problem accelerating to. The sport-shift feature on the automatic is great - it allows you to manually shift for extra power whenever you want to (i beat a BMW 325ci off the line using it).
AWESOME! buy it!
dreamcast18, 06/19/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe w/Navigation (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent car! I upgraded to wider and bigger tires and now it drives on rails! Get the Type-S! That's my only 'complain'!
Not bad for price
Daniel, 03/15/2010
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Ive owned this car for about 4 months and am enjoying. I use to own a 01 Altima so I consider this a real upgrade. Although I love this car I have had quite a few problems with it in just these 4 months of ownership. I have already had to replace the transmission and starter. I have an exhaust leak so my check engine light is always on. Acura says it will take time to find the leak ($105 an hour just to diagnose and see where the leak is coming from). The 2003 automatic CLs are also known for transmission problems. Luckily mine was 2 months away from the warranty expiring so I did not have to pay a cent. Other then those things I am pleased with this car and would recommend for the price.
i thought i was the only one!!!!!
lesley5272, 07/08/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
oh my god, i am glad to know that i am not the only who constantly complains about the squeeky and rattling noises that come from my dash and sunroof. i have had my sunroof worked on at least 5 times. every time i take it there is a bulletin recall but the problems has yet to be solved so i give up.and now im complaining about the whistling noises that ac makes but of course they say its normal.take my advice the service dept of southern motors acura sucks. ishould have purchased a lexus!
Wonderful car!
JW'SCL, 07/17/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a well built, dependable car that is stylish both inside and out! Plus, it's a blast to drive! All of the features that usually cost extra on other cars, come standard on the Acura CL. The only negative is the design of the cupholders. They are too close together and do not hold different sized drinks well. However, if this is the only complaint about the car...I'll definitely take it!!!
Acura 3.2 CL
L124RD, 08/27/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun and good to drive!
sunroof rattle fix
tliang, 09/03/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe w/Navigation (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
for those of u who has the same sunroof rattle/noise problem. put some armor all on the sunroof weather strip. it works really well. I don't hear a thing for a long time since.
A good surprise
Nagy, 11/19/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great Car, Great performance. I love It
Great Car!
bradleybradley, 02/23/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a 2003 when they came out. Great car, bulletproof so far. Gotta love a Honda. We went with the Acura as you basically get one upgrade in chassis at the same price, namely the Corolla chassis (IS300) at Lexus costs more than the larger Accord based car (CL or TL) at Acura. Lexus was just comparatively over-priced.
The best for under $35,000.00
JohnSandoval, 07/29/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car rocks! It really deserves a 9.5 rating. I have never driven a better car, but then again, I have never driven a Ferrari.
Great Car
Longhorn, 08/06/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun stuff. Luxury and sporty at the same time.
A Dream Come True
Flong, 08/14/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My second CL. First was a 99. A great car. My new 03 is a dream come true. I love the styling and comfort. Many standard features make this baby a real "bang for the buck". Looked at other comparable cars and none could match the features and comfort when compared to the purchase price of this gem.
Nirvana for former Olds owner!
k6tmk6, 08/17/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have been thrilled with the look and handling so far (2 months). Was exactly what I was looking to buy for less than I'd expected to pay (especially with end of year discounts). Great deal and nice ride.
hot cars
JESUS, 08/28/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe w/Navigation (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
rides good roomy and fast GOOD ON GAS I HAVE HAD A VERY WONDERFUL EXSPERIENCE.
love it
stuckoncl, 09/11/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My CL has been a perfect blend of performance and comfort. I have had absolutely no problems whatsoever.
deluxe honda
Nhoj, 08/09/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The CL has been trouble free and very reliable. Excellent for long trips except for mileage, which should be a bit higher. The handling is very good with good comfort on long trips. The roof is a bit too low for me, so I usually drive with the sunroof open, weather permitting. Fit and finish are near perfect, no rattles, but some body flex is evident with a squeek of the sunroof weatherstrip.
Best Value
George C, 09/03/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 3rd Cl coupe, does get better each time
Acura gives great service!
Metalmaiden, 09/04/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
They have a great service department. My vehicle was damaged by hail at 125 miles. They have completely restored the vehicle to its "new" condition. They also provided a courtesy car while mine was in the shop. This car is fun to drive and the sound system is fantastic. I have also found the TCS system to operate well and also provide a safety factor as well. If back issues are a problem as they are for me this has the best drivers seat I sat in BAR none. Also I compared this vehicle to Infinity, BMW,Mustang Cobra, and Monte Carlo.
I Love My Acura
fun, 10/22/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. It was one of many that i test drove, and i just fell in love with it... It is worth every penny!!!!
Opus1's review
Opus1sk, 12/07/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fantstic car and a great price to boot. Super looks and performance that matches. Bose stereo is second to none. Automatic transmission that turns into a manual one with no clutch is awesome. So much fun to drive and if you get sick of shifting you can go back to the normal automatic. Steering wheel feels great along with the leather seats that are heated. Acura should be commended on their effort here.
I'm very happy
Corehhi, 03/04/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I actually have a 2001 CL and I have only had one problem with it. The sunroof rattled a little, about an hour to have it fixed. Fun car to drive and for the price I really don't see how you could go wrong. My one thought is something has changed since I bought mine. I have a Blue CL w/tan leather which seems to have only been offered the first year the model changed. I have no build quality issues at all. Also I bought my CL from Southern motors and so have a few poeple who live near me and I haven't heard anyone one having a problem with their service dept. But on the other hand I haven't used it much. Just my 2 cents.
Acura 2003 3.2 CL
AnD, 02/05/2006
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car to own. great to drive. Comfortable interior and good looking outside. Fuel efficient and easy to maintain so far after 36000 miles.
2003 3.2 CL Issues
Byana, 07/01/2006
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Several recalls in short time frame (transmission, camshaft, fuel tank). Continually losing power steering fluid for 2 years before dealer figured out the rack & pinion unit was the source. CD player/changer operates sporadically - 90% of the time you get an error code on the display, but never when you take to the shop! Enigine has good power, but the curve flattens out to quickly (peaks around 4600rpm). Torque steer is more pronounced than in other cars in it's class.
Follow-up Review (7/8/03)
Dr. Citrus, 08/07/2006
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This 2003 CL was purchased in August 2002. The front brakes were replaced at 60K. It's been maintained by the dealership. It continues to be a fun car to drive.
A Sleeper
Old Duffer, 05/14/2004
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car was delivered in perfect condition. Finish and mechanicals all done well! Comfortable to drive, quiet, excellent sound system, handles well. Big trunk. 3.2 (not Type S) is a little shy on mid-range torque for spirited highway driving but is fine for touring and accepts 89 octaine witrh no complaints.
Follow-Up Review (See 7/8/03)
Dr.Citrus, 03/24/2005
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I can only echo my previous review. What I will add is that my transmission failed at 45300 miles. The car has been maintained at the dealership, and only the tires have been replaced (at 45K). Still an outstanding car. The transmissions on the 2001-2002 CLs were extended to 7 years/100K miles, but not all 2003 CLs--including this one--have been extended.
Great car
btaggart, 09/19/2006
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the greatest car i have ever owned. It has a great ride quality and plenty of zip. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quality performance coupe.
I Could Not Be Happier!
Robert Clarke, 11/19/2006
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I found a very low mileage '03 (12,135) with the tranny warranty until 100K! It has a very comfortable ride and it is extremely quiet also. 25 to 27 MPG highway with mid-grade. It does not need premium. Plenty of power, she can get away from you. I have to keep my eyes on the speedometer. All the bells and whistles and I don't see any other ones around. This one's a keeper!
The Pimp Mobile!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Phil, 01/16/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is one of the fastest cars I have ever driven in. Everthing from the Bose speakers to the heated seats makes this car the best quality car on the market. Personally, the 2002 version is nicer than the 2003 with the fog lights and without the tints on the front headlights. There are not many cars with this speed and performance. I have no real problems with this car so far. All I have to say is that the girls dig it! So get 1!
Great Value!
van1, 06/13/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just bought the car... so far so good... no complaints yet. the only thing that I havn't gotten used to yet is the driver seat... it feels like it's too high.. i have it on the lowest possible level and it still seems high.
No SUV for Me!
Dr.Citrus, 07/08/2003
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Time for a new car. I thought briefly of adding still another SUV to the roads. Then I remembered that I really did love to drive once upon a time. The Acura CL is a fast, fine handling car with excellent fit and finish. The styling is not exceptional, but the engineering definitely is. Convenience items like mirror defroster, seat heaters and plenty of concealed storage are welcome. My hockey sticks fit through the (unfortunately small opening from the trunk to the rear seats. Controls are logical and well placed. The AC is effective (though whiney at times).
Not bad so far
Daily Driver, 05/12/2008
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car used with 72k mi on it. Over 12k later in a few months I really like the car. It gets average mileage for a v6 if I could just keep my foot off the pedal my personal mileage would be better but I've gotten 26 - 27 mpg average from a few tanks. Its very comfortable and has a ton of leg room but limited head room at 6'1" as long as I keep the seat all the way down and slightly back its not a problem though. Great stock sound, trunk is huge, looks nice, similar to the accord but much much better. I worry a bit about the potential trans problem to surface but don't plan on keeping the car after the 107k mi extension of coverage. Would have gotten the manual type-s if I did it over.
just hatched
Paleo 1, 04/16/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The CL is new and I have only 2500 miles. The interior is very Accord like. Handles well and is very quick with the standard engine. The headroom with the sunroof just clears my head. I am 6' tall. Gas mileage is poor so far.
Poorest Quality Honda I've ever ownerd
2002cldisappointment, 05/11/2002
2003 Acura CL 3.2 2dr Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The driver's side armrest squeeks. A bundle of wires dropped from under the dash. The climate control sounds like it is full of leaves. I'm 5'11'' and keep hitting my head on the roof. The moonroof flutters like crazy at > 70 mph. You call this quality?