Used 2004 Acura RL Consumer Reviews
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Perfect sedan for the Money
Perfect Used sedan for the money. Why spend 40-70k for luxury sedans when you can get a 2004 Acura for 10-13K??? They changed the styling in 2005 and its completely different. The newer ones are sporty and pre-2005 they are luxury. I have owned 2 so far they are that great. my 1998 RL I ran to 265,000 before giving to my sister inlaw who is still running it today. And my 2004 I picked up with 88K and know it will go easily to 300K miles. thats over 200,000 of luxury car for only $14K (thats on the high side for buying it in 2012 but it was a cherry! and worth every penny).
Just Love the RL
I just bought my 4th RL. This was a 1 owner with 60,000 miles and it is just like new. The Navigation works great, the power lumbar support is phenomenal, moving the CD's to a more accessible location helps...
A must have
I love this car, XM radio, Voice activated navigational system. Better sounds system. I didn't think they could improve on the RL, I was wrong.
Fun car to drive packed with luxury (04 RL)
I bought this car more than two years ago with 78000 miles on it. I've put more than 13000 miles on my 04 RL and there's absolutely zero issue! So you can see the reliability of this car. I only changed the air filter myself, one of the headlight hit its lifetime I did it myself too. It is easy to DIY with these common consumables. This generation of RL is the last of the honda legend. It kinds of combines the luxury and sporty driving experience. The horsepower of the engine is not really impressive giving the weight of the car is like an mid size SUV. But the acceleration is pretty good. I live in midwest and the front wheel drive has good traction in the winter too. mpg is crappy..
Very Impressed
I recently purchased the Acura RL about a month ago, with 75,500 miles and one owner. I have to say it has a very smooth ride, I knew I wanted to buy it when I first sat in the drivers seat. I knew about the quality and reliability of Acuras and that #1 reason for purchasing a car that was 6 years old. I hope to get 200,000 miles out of this one. Everything that I have read about leaves me feeling confident about my choice. The navigation system works well and the XM satellite radio with the Bose Speaker system sounds incredible. The only complaints that I have is the acceleration is a little lazy, and the fuel economy isn't great. However my last vehicle was a 4 cylinder accord.
Zero Problems
This is my 5th Acura: Integra, Legend, RL, TL, & RL. All of them have been problem-free. Nothing seriously has ever gone wrong: One driving light and one horn in all these years. The ride and comfort of the RL is outstanding. I get much better mileage than reported here, circa 24/27. Yeah, parts are expensive, but if nothing ever goes wrong, who cares? They're not much to look at, but I spend my time driving it, not looking at it. If you can get one of these used, go for it. You won't be disappointed. Mine has 80K miles and it is like new.
Classy, conservative, luxury Acura 3.5 RL
I recently purchased the 2004 Acura 3.5 RL and I love it! It has a very smooth ride and all the luxury features you could want including an awesome sounding 10 speaker Bose system, Alpine/Acura navigation system, and real burled camphor wood interior. I bought the car with 80,000 miles on it and didn't think twice. I am a Honda man and know this car will be very reliable. I have already put 4,000 miles on it and it runs like a car with 10,000 miles on it. Previously, I have owned 3 Accords. I wanted something more luxurious and bigger... this car is perfect! I love the Acura's classy, conservative stance that remains tasteful and luxurious looking. The RL has more than adequate power.
Solid as Steel
This is my second RL in 3 years. It continues to reflect great quality and workmanship. The new 05 will provide the extra ponies needed. A very reliable car and the service is excellent. Continue to think Acura just makes a good product. Only negative is HP and placement of Nav screen which has a problem with sun relfection.
Great Luxury Vehicle
The Japanese have it together. They know how to take the best ideas, perfect them and the processes to build them, and make an unbeatable path to market. Unless US manufacturers can make a significant paradigm shift and radically change production methods and processes, we have given away one more card in the poker game of World Powers.
Excellent Value
The Acura RL possesses an excellent trim and an almost perfect exterior finish. The car has been extremly reliable.
Excellent car
I've had my Acura for over a year now and enjoy it very much. I've had no problems with it and love the navigational system, Onstar, and XM radio, all standard features. The Acura won't win a lot of races, but the power is adaquate for my driving, and the ride is smooth, quiet and enjoyable. Lots of people comment positively about the looks of the car when it's parked.
Pick up a used one now! 02-04 model
This car is just so dependable, quiet, good looking, well equipped. Every 100,000 miles, will need a timing belt, water pump replacement, Regular fluid changes and that is it! The RL comes equipped with heated seats, sunroof, 6 disc cd, among other things. Power is good enough to keep you out of trouble. I highly recommend this car to anyone needing the best, most reliable used 4 door sedan.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
classic car
The car looks great, a classic look. Very comfortable and quiet. Handles very well. The acura dealers make the car buying fun.
Good basic reliable luxury car
recently bought a 2004 acura rl sedan. paid 9990.00 before tax and lic. Blue book on this car is about 7500.00. So i paid more than i should have at the dealership. But 2004 acura rl are scarce in southern california at this time. So i sense that many people that have accords and older RLs are grabbing these 2004 one owner acura rl up. this RL is a one owner 18 service record car. Had all major service done on it. Including timing and water pump. if you are familar with hondas and acuras you will be right at home with this car. California car with no accidents on the carfax. very nice driving car very smooth. Not a lot of power but can hold its own. grab one if you can find one.
Great car
This automobile is exactly what you would expect when you talk luxury and comfort. Since I bought this car, I hate to fly--even first class.
The True Flagship
Its the best built and reliable car!! Less maintenance then a bmw or benz!!
My RL 3.5 (V6) Great Value for Price
I paid $36,000 for my RL 3.5 (V6) and it is well worth it. Really great ride, with no issues at all. In fact I actually enjoy driving it; and I am someone who really doesn't like to drive a car. My previous cars have been a 2002 4 door, Honda Accord (V6) and 1993 4 door, Honda Accord. Great cars in the Honda family. The Acura RL 3.5 is a big step up in terms of comfort when compared to the Honda Accord V6. I can't wait for the 2005 RL.
A "great" Deal
I was fed up with high maintenance $$$ of my BMW. Refused to pay high price $$$ for Lexus. A friend, car salesman, suggested Acura RL which has everything but is not flashy! Got it for a steal "brand new" on ebay! I admit it doesn't handle like the BMW, BUT its a better value for the cost. I actually like the more classy, conservative look of the 04 vs the "all- look-the-same" look of the 05!
Lovely Car for the money
Refined, responsive, and nicely appointed. Intelligently designed and well executed. On Consumer Reports Most Reliable list.
It's an Acura
Since I have been driving Acuras since 1996, all I can say is that they are very reliable cars. All the bells and whistles one could wish for come standard with the exception of a navigation system. Your mother would love it as well as your child.
Well Built Luxury Car at a Great Price
Built in Japan, the RL has great build quality and is extremely reliable. Standard Onstar, XM satellite radio, navigation, heated seats, Bose, and all the stuff that other manufacturers cream you for as add-ons. A very reasonable price for all that you get.
Navigation System
Navigation system maps not current. Has business on opposite of street and list stores that have been closed for ten years. Dealer response excellent manufacturer remains unresponsive and ignores the problem.
Still great after all these years
Since 2004 this has been "steady eddie" for me. I am going to buy it off of lease because it has served me well for four years and I expect it to for many more.
I Always Loved Acura's
This is my 5th Acura (I had 3 Legend and a 2000 RL). The Acura RL 2004 is an awesome car, the interior finish is beautiful. I enjoy using the voice activated Nav, OnStar, etc. The gas mileage is a little poor (compared to my 94 Acura legend GS model) but I can live with it. The smooth ride and reliability is a comfort. I think it has enough power for me 0 to 60 in 6.5 sec. The sound system is great. 6-disc in-dash CD player. Not a fashionable car but I am satisfied.
Great used value
Love the car. I have a fairly long commute and am quite pleased with the low-mileage 04 RL that I bought this fall. Some say the Acura has "no soul." Nonsense. If "no soul" means "car stays out of the shop" then I'll take it. Steady 21 MPG in mixed driving. Reliable as the day is long. Not the most exciting car I've owned but quiet, comfortable and a great value. Build quality is exceptional - tight, and all seams and panel gaps are very well done. Car mags hated this car new, suppose it wasn't such a great value at $40K+ brand new, but in the used market its a great value.
edmunds does not drive with a family
Consider buying a lease turnin, less than 36,000 miles and mid to high 20's and it will outlast many other makes with 0 miles. Comfortable for male & female drivers. Not as fun to drive as BMW, but far more comfortable. And it continues to rate in the top five in reliability. It depends on what you are looking for. It is time for a redesign however and the repeat buyers will be a the dealerships waiting.
Excellent Value!!!
This is my 3rd Acura & No Problems at all. Everything is Standard except the GPS system. Better Value than Autos priced $10,000 more.
VERY classy luxury vehicle!
Extremely pleased with this car!
RL
its a great car good gas milage and very nice styleing. normal honda quality.low maintence and never had one problem with this vehicle.
Acura 3.5 Review
I am very pleased with the performance and style of this vehicle. Edmunds keeps stating that it is outdated as far as style, but not everyone wants that cut off back European look. I think Honda did an excellent job with this automobile and as always they will always continue to build a quality vehicle.
Acura RL
I was waiting to make a left turn in a turn signal lane, when another car to the right of me decided to jump into my lane to also make the left turn. With my Acura, I was able to manuever my car out of his way with just a flick of my steering wheel. The other driver couldn't believe I got out of his way so Quickly. Thank God for my Acura.
Why this car
I had a 1994 Legend and for 160,000 miles only one unscheduled maintenance for a stuck brake caliper at 140,000. I chose the car for the comfort of the seats, the firm ride (no wallowing and surfing) and the quality and durability. There is more than enough power for everyday driving
A SATISFIED CUSTOMER
Hi everyone - I leased my latest Acura on Feb. 29, 2004. After searching and driving many cars, and considering the fantastic deal Acura was offering, I made the decision to go with the 2004 RL. I drove the Lexus ES300, the BMW 5 series, and looked at Audi. The RL has a wonderful feel, the instruments are well placed, and with the optional chrome wheels, it's quite a handsome vehicle. I do wish it was abit more thrifty with the gas, but it's getting a solid 18-22 and still has less than 2000 miles. Hopefully, it will get better.
Great Value
I think the RL is a really well built vehicle. It is very smooth and the interior quality is incredible. The engine is a little weak, and I would have enjoyed it a bit more in all wheel drive, but overall this car is comfortable and fun to drive.
RL
Love to drive this car. I would not change a thing.
nice car
Great car
Dan's Review
Wonderful driving experience...I look forward to getting in this car and taking off....Solid, reliable, and comfortable.....
a great car for thr price
1 year after leasing a rl 3.5,i have all praise for this luxary car.i have leased lincoln.caddys,lexas'.they don't compair to the acura.the 3.5 is comfortable,.easy to drive,super turning ratio.the on-star-xm radio-map guidance are all a joy to have.1 radio station from nj to florida....
Yet another Acura...
I come from a '91 Legend with 367,000 miles on it. Priced and drove slightly used Lexus, Mercedes, and Infintiy, I bought another Acura, new, and for THOUSANDS less. I LOVE this car. It's sexy, fast, and it handles great. It really turns heads too. I enjoy that there aren't that many on the road. The V8's from the competitors are over rated. Hey, at 40, I don't put my foot to the floor often, but when I do, the V6 really moves me. The engine has LOTS of torque in the lower RPM range so merging into traffic is a breeze. Compared to the others, this is a driver's car, not a luxo- boat. My last car was never in the shop. I doubt this one will be either.
Satisfied owner of Acura
4th Acura that I have owned. I have been a satisfied Acura owner for over 15 years.
Nelson's Point of View
I visited a dear friend in southern CA that has a 2002 RL. I was truly impressed with the ride, handling and comfort. When the lease on my Seville expired, I test drove the RL and had to have one. Although it is much different than the Seville, it's effortless response, comfort and overall good looks have not disappointed.
Acura has All
The one thing that I like about the Acura RL is that it has no options. You get everything. That makes it less likely that you get ripped on price. It has the navigational system ,disk player, satellite radio and on-star system. The upside everything comes included. The downside is less performance than I would like. The car is great.
MY SECOND R L
FUN TO DRIVE. VERY FAVORABLE COMMENTS FROM PEOPLE WHO SEE AND RIDE IN IT. ADAQUATE TRUNK ROOM. THE SATALITE RADIO IS A PLUS. I HAVE USED THE MAP FEATURE AND LIKE IT
Acura Customer Support Is A Myth
The automobile, itself, is average in ride and comfort. Fit and finish are good but noise level, for this niche, and its gas mileage are poor. It can be jittery in ride and will sidestep at certain speeds and improved road conditions that it should handle well. It's distinctive attraction lies in its integrated cabin systems. The navigation system and XM radio work well but OnStar was delivered inoperative and continues to be partially so over a month later. GM and now Acura tell me that there is nothing to be done. There will be no operating telephone in this car. It's absurd.
My favorite Car
Although the styling is subdued, it still is a bit wolf in sheeps clothing. I am interested in what Acura chose to improve on in 2005. This version is a great car after 100,000 miles. I still enjoy it every day. I put spoty TL wheel on the car and it looks great.
RL style and comfort
car rides and hanldes very well, fun to drive, nav system is great voice makes very easy when driving
Rl 2004
Excellent quality sedan with outstanding features. Smoth ride with the Acura reliability. Overall top value compared to the Mercedes E 300 and BMW 5 series.
The Acura 3.5RL is an excellent car
The RL is an excellent car so many ways, number 1 it's riliable, problem free, excellent ride.
Best car for the money
Excellent car, luxo cruiser, built like a tank, excellent dealer service...I love this car..Great leather intirior, I beet the hell out of my cars...this think is tough...
Acura 3.5 RL Assessment
Lexus 430-like without the expense. High residual makes this car affordable.