Used 1999 Acura TL Consumer Reviews
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Hard to look beyond Acura/Honda
Hondas 4 life, 09/20/2006
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
16 of 16 people found this review helpful
This Acura is a benchmark for value & rigid construction. Excellent feel & bang for the buck. Offers many standard features that are often expensive options on other entry luxury sedans. Decent mileage & get go for its not too powerful 3.2 4 speed auto trans. Even though only 4 speed still a performer. Ride is compliant & quiet, not Lexus quiet but defintely more fun. Engine is top notch, idles silently after +150k miles! Longevity of electronics, mechanics, etc. are phenomenal! Only problem we had was a clogged EGR port that was easily taken care of @ the dealer. Love it so much we went out & got the beautiful '06 TL. Just watch out for the trans. problems from 2000-2003 thats all.
Recall the Transmission
Angela, 10/10/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
19 of 21 people found this review helpful
I feel the transmission should have been recalled. The manufacturer is more than aware that the transmission in this car was poorly made, and I am quite upset that I am having to replace it. I have always driven a Honda or Acura and this is the first time I've had major problems. I am told that the issue has been resolved mechanically, but that does little to help my out of pocket fee.
Change transmissions every 50,000 miles
frances, 07/25/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Overall, I love the car... but it is now on its fourth transmission with 150,000 miles. Since no one I told my situation to wanted to offer any compensation, I doubt I'll purchase another Acura. Obviously the problem is common, so it seems Acura should step up to the plate!
Dangerous Gamble
Marc, 08/04/2008
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
This car was a graduation present to me after finishing high school, and I love it! However, it has let me down so so many times, which is really disappointing because its definitely my favorite car. This car has been nothing but trouble, though. We bought with 97k miles on it, and in less than a year had to performance over $3500 in work. Ignition coils fried and fans quit working, leaving me with an overheated undrivable car until repaired. Then a month later transmission problems became massive. Performed maintenance and fixed the issue for about a week, then while out of town the transmission failed altogether leaving us stranded in another state. I love my car but it has stolen my $$
Transmission the Worst
Marty Fried, 03/21/2002
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
The transmission has always hesitated between first and second gear. I was told by the dealer that this was normal. At 74,000 miles the transmission went. I then found out that the extended insurance on the tranny was covered by AAMCO, not Acura. The California customer service division never followed up never floowed up with their supposed investigation. Honda can keep their 'luxury' line. I'm going to Lexus.
Good while it lasted, now moving on...
Jamnurse, 10/09/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with about 24k miles, currently 164k. Was gonna try to push it til 200k, but, Engine light staying on for a year now. Car has shut off on me twice while at the stop light (have a new battery). Ignition switch was changed out under the recall. EGR changed a few times. Engine going. I put quite a bit of $$ into it already. No sense putting any more. I got my thrill for 9 years. I had visor, wood grain and wing put on. I loved my car. Will always have a place in my heart... I think I'm done with acura though. Don't like the shape of new TL. I like the RL, but, I think I'm getting GS300.
Amost Perfect
okiegem, 04/16/2010
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I checked with Consumer Reports before I began searching for a reliable car that my elderly parents could enter/exit easily. This fit the bill above Toyota and Nissan models. We found it VERY comfortable. I really L-O-V-E its appearance and performance! It now has 90K on it and runs beautifully. When I purchased it at 50K, its brakes were pulsing and the dealership included a full brake job before I closed. Its A/C control was replaced a year later when it went out. Otherwise it's been a great car and I'd buy again. In fact, I'm thinking about replacing it with a later year of the same model and design, because I don't like the design of the newer TLs.
Transmission Replaced 3 times!
Kristina, 10/28/2007
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This vehicle was my favorite, wanted to keep it forever! Until I had to replace the transmission 3 times, so I dumped it at a pawn shop! Didn't have the conscience to sell it outright to a buyer, because of the tranny issue. I spoke with an employee of Honda Research and Development, and he told me there was an inherent transmission problem that wouldn't go away. He said to buy a Honda product newer than 2002. Other than that, I owned the car for over 4 years. Sexy car, but born with a lifetime defect that ended up costing me money, because the new transmissions were only covered under warranty for 10k miles. Don't buy it! It will cost you money!!
Love this car but problems are starting to add up
danielle_1989, 02/28/2011
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
I love this car I got it in 2007; It drives so nice and love all the features that this older car has to offer. Problems are starting to add up the driver seat is ripping and it is leaking oil and in order to figure out why they would have to tare the engine apart. Also major problem the catalytic converter is going and was told that cost a lot to fix, also the lights are really stupid to change cost me $400 to change the bulbs and they had to tare my engine apart just for that. Gas miles are okay not too bad. I really do love this car and if nothing was wrong with it I would run it till it died. One more thing Not good in the snow at all!!
Terrible transmission
Sam, 10/06/2008
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Wheel bearings have been replaced 3 times, worst is transmission was replaced at 7K, 50K and 100K miles. Reliability of this vehicle is very poor. Honda should be ashamed of this car.
Great Car
davidbrown1, 12/01/2012
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I am the second generation owner of this vehicle bought new by my parents. I was given ownership of this car at 90K miles, now at 150K, and I still love it. I drove this car very hard, across the country, through the country and into a few things. It has proven very durable, even among the the most adverse conditions. Always faithfully maintained, the car has had no major mechanical issues. The handling is not what it once was, but still above average. Excellent braking, impressive acceleration, and comfortable, quiet, confident at high speed. My only complaint is the Premium fuel requirement which drives the fuel cost up substantially.
1999 Acura TL Sedan
Acura Owner, 03/26/2008
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Acura used with 92K miles. It now has 142K miles and continues to run strong. No issues other than routine maintenance. Great stereo system and ride quality. Gas mileage is so-so, but it runs fine on regular gas.
Could Have Been Much Better
John, 03/07/2008
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this car from an auction at 102,000 miles. The transmission died at 116,000 miles, and I mean it. The car left me on the highway. Figures most 1999 models had some kind of transmission problem. Besides the trans, I had various issues ranging from cat to the sensors and some other stuff costing me around $6000 including the trans. Overall do not buy it as a second owner. And the seats make annoying sounds and so does the dashboard and the sunroof. It is annoying, really. However I am sure that these problems are fixed on the 2004 tls so when i can afford one i will definitely buy it.
Just Getting Broken In
Texasrooster, 03/19/2010
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased my '99 Acura TL in 2005. At the time, had 42k miles, now closing in on 100k. As with a '91 Accord I previously owned, the overall reliability and build quality of this car have been impeccable. Comfort and luxury with just enough of a sporting flavor thrown in. Comfortable for long trips, yet definitely not a marshmallowy Toyota- or Lexus-like ride. Steering feel is excellent. Sight lines are likewise excellent, something that is missing in most newer cars. These have got to be the most comfortable car seats I've ever sat in--nice soft pleated leather, not like the hard-as-a-rock leather seats in most newer luxury cars.
Simply awesome 3.2TL
fabulous TL, 10/11/2006
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After purchasing this high mile car we knew it was an overlooked and underated car. Highway travel is phenomenal great mileage about 27-28 mpg. Noise is minimal and very smooth. City driving yields less mpgs however still decent @ 21mpg. Great handling good passing power and engine is silent even when tested. That engine is bulletproof! The tranny shifted great even through 160k miles of usage, wow! Ergonomics top notch along with a plethora of standard equipment, it blows away the rest of the class. No problems with anything all electronics and mechanics still chugging along!
GREAT
Kyle, 03/25/2010
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have had no problems with the car. Except I have worn a hole where my leg rests.
99 TL
marfay2`, 02/16/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car in 2002 w/32000 miles. Now has 98500 & is still going strong. No tranny issues (those were mostly the later model 5sp AT). Other than normal maint have replaced ignition switch twice and egr once. Other than that great car & runs like new.
i'm very impressed...
1crazyTLdriver, 05/21/2002
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i had a '92 lexus es300 which i smashed up pretty bad in march of 2002. after the accident i was dead set on another later model es. i was so pro-lexus it was unbelievable. then i took out a 99tl, and i was immediately sold. i got a certified 99tl with 19k... w/5yr100k bumper to bumper warranty. dollar for dollar, the tl can't be touched by any other car in it's class. i went from pro-lexus to acura-infatuated. the performance, styling, featuers, everything is almost perfect. great car for NYC (just watch out for the bastards that steal the headlights-very common in NYC). i've had the car for a month and i can't wait to trade it in for the type S w/navigation
Reliable
bsprings, 06/09/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought my '99 used via eBay for $11,000. Had about 80k miles. I've put nearly 50k miles on it. On highway, I routinely get 25 mpg. Other than routine maintenance (timing belt, oil, brakes, etc.) have had no significant problems. One ignition switch issue was covered under warranty. I am planning to run it til it hits 200k. Only complaints: radio reception is mediocre. Seats could be a bit firmer. I rode in a 2002 TL-S and liked those much better. Great car for the money -- particularly used.
Do not buy
nathalie mcgill, 04/15/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my car at the auto store in Miami and since the first day I got my car I had nothing but problems. I replace my transmission last year in nov of 2008 and my transmission went out again in April of 2009. I think I got played and I still make payments on this car. I can't get out of it.
10 years of ownership
JFD, 06/19/2008
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Best ownership experience imaginable. Very reliable car. Transmission replaced at 19k miles. Replacement 4A still going strong at 220k miles. We had a problem with warped rotors. Build quality is phenomenal. Nearly 10 years of New England and mostly Canadian winters and the car looks incredible inside, outside, and underneath. MPG usually mid-twenties US mpg, about 30 Canadian mpg. Commutes 250 miles at 80+ mph several times per week, plus longer highway trips. Durability of trim pieces is amazing. Engine bulletproof, very smooth, and adequately powerful. Vinyl on edge of driver's seat will tend to crack while leather still looks new. Highly recommended car.
Still Going
lsmac, 06/15/2007
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought the car new. Now has 220,000 miles! No trans or engine issues. Have replaced the power steering pump, otherwise no repairs, only scheduled maintenance. 25-28 mpg all the time.
Quality vehicle
Acura Fan, 12/01/2006
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Own two 99 TLs and enjoy them immensely. Powerful engine, great acceleration. One car has NAV and that's fun. The 99 model NAV unit uses a hard drive and you need 7 cards for the US or you can reprogram the hard drive if you have the CD and a laptop. In 2000, Acura went to a DVD format and it's much better. Only gripe are the seats, good leather but very uncomfortable, too hard and not quite wide enough. Only mechanical problem is one car seems to keep warping the rotors and I think I will upgrade the rotors and pads next brake job. Requires premium fuel but get 23 city, 30 highway. Great entry level luxury car for the money
Amazin99TL
neal, 04/22/2004
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I got my TL in July 1999. It has 103,000 miles and still drives like a dream. I'm thinking about getting a new car but finding it hard to part with my TL. The Bose stereo is amazing! The VTEC engine and TL's performance is amazing! The TL is unbelievably reliable, fast and sharp looking. My only complaint is the wind noise that occurs near the driver's window.
Acura 3.2 TL Excellent Value
mark b, 08/30/2006
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This model was the first year for the redesigned TL - in which Acura enhanced the look and features of the car, while making the price even more attractive. The net result has been a car that is highly reliable, attractive and an excellent value over time. Although this model is a little more plain vanilla than the latest generation TL it is still a pleasure to drive and own.
It Still Thinks It's a New Car
Ken J, 06/12/2008
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I LOVE my '99 TL 3.2 sedan. We bought it new for what we though was a huge amount of money but it has turned out to be a bargain. It still has a luxury ride after 118K miles. Other than brakes (once!) and fluid changes it has only needed a new starter. The secret is regular maintenance by an Acura dealer. I spent major $$ for the 105K tune-up which replaced everything that could be, including timing belt and water pump. What I got back was a car that drove like it was brand new after putting on new Michelins. It was a much better choice than buying a new TL and I highly recommend it. No transmission problems. Almost 60K on the first set of tires. Original plugs!!
Will buy another Acura
Roger, 08/04/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
3 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought my Acura with 44k miles and I have 238k now. I've only had to replace a burnt ignition coil. Had to change the motor mount...going too fast over a RR track..my bad!!! I changed all belts at 144k and do my own maintenance. No tranny problems. This is a great car and my girlfriend wants one now.
Solid performer
Mackster211, 02/27/2002
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Acura TL was simply the best value in its class. Solid performance, comfort and reliability across the board for much, much less than comparable luxury cars.
Amazing Car
Lucky13, 08/05/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car, I bought it from a friend for 2500 dollars dirt cheap with all the gizmos i took out the GPS because i never really used it and added a pioneer stereo system.Nice smooth ride very fast. the stereo system rocked when i got it i have made a g=few changes now like a 12" Mtx sub and its even better. Love driving the car. I buying a Wings West body about $800 total but makes the car have a little more presence on the street. If you are looking for a tuner car this car is great the V-Tec engine is great engine to start with.
Acura is an awesome car to drive and own
D Wiecz, 12/04/2002
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Acura when my company decided to not provide us with company cars any longer. I have loved driving my Acura for almost 3 years now and am currently looking at buying another one to replace mine. I have put over 60,000 miles on the one I have now and have only had to change the oil, replace the brakes and tires during that time.
Engine stop while I'm driving
khiet, 08/17/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my car almost 5 years ago and never had any problem until now. My car currently had only 65,350 miles on it. The problem with my car is while I am driving on the road it shuts down the engine (on the busy road). The battery is almost brand new. I think ignition switch is bad. Hopefully, they recall ignition switch so I don't have to pay money out of my pocket.
I'm in love with my car
i'm a believer, 02/07/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I totally love this car! It has been a fantastic value. It looks great and I look great in it. After 14 years of driving "mom" cars, I feel like I've reclaimed my youth. The engine is powerful, the handling is great, the interior is sleek and comfortable.
Used Acuras are the best!
Student, 02/25/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Found a great deal on a used 99 acura TL. Looked at Camrys and Accords but the TL offered the most car for the money, and in some cases was even cheaper than lower model vechiles.
Road Warrior
lsmac, 08/06/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased new 2/1999. Best car I have ever purchased. 138,000 miles and car just keeps on going. Getting 27-29 mpg on 91 octane gas. Replaced Michelin Tires with Toyo Proxes - much better in the rain. Ride, mileage, dB the same for $300 less. Only a few problems: replaced battery, HID bulb ($110 from Osram-Slyvania, $200 at dealers)and EGR valve. Rearview mirror popped due to heat in Central Florida.
Acura TL Test Drive 99
Anton911, 09/21/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Decided to drive around in different cars. Took 3.2 TL '99 for about 15 of fun driving. Silver/black leather. Wheel and pedals are honda touch (pretty hard for Japan made). Good exeleration though, tip-tronic is fun. Suspension needs work though, honda like (does not pass as luxury suspension) Went 100 mph, very stable, doesn't really feel that fast. Good Car over all, any way it was 1999, they may have improved it a little/a lot. The Acura Dealer at Stevens Creek (SJ,CA) is very pushy.
Never Got Lost; Drove Like a Dream
JJC, 02/15/2005
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best car for the money, bar none. GPS navigation system works like a charm .... you can't get lost. Speed shift gives the control and acceleration of manual shifting, without a clutch. 225 hp engine packs enough punch, and still gets 25-27 mpg highway, and 20+ mpg city. Leather heated power seats are cozy. Only drawback is it's modest exterior .... but even that is a blessing in disguise, as I never really worry about it getting stolen or vandalized.
Worth the resale value
jgenitile, 04/20/2005
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought our TL through eBay and have not had one problem with it. That is once we put cross drilled disc breaks on it. I am looking forward to purchasing another.
EGR
Lynnerksu, 10/30/2009
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the car in 2005 with 32,000 miles on it. I love the car but now it has about 72,000 miles and has been in the shop for the EGR. Other than that it's been a perfect inexpensive car.
A very nice ride!
Craigo, 11/14/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a very nice vehicle. I rate the car very high in all categories and feel it is an outstanding value. Would like better back-up lights, and more power and performance features, but, who wouldn't. Besides, these desires appear to have been satisfied in the newer TL Type-S.
Best car ever owned
lmamo, 11/29/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is fun to drive, quiet with excellent performance.
Nicest driving car for just $30,000!!
Ryan Goldfarb, 05/07/2002
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice driving, not noisy, very dependable car!
Great car for the money
Mike Gardner, 12/11/2003
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car provided all the luxury features as standard equipment and came in at $3000 to $5000 cheaper than the BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. It's been a solid performer for almost 5 years. No mechanical problems.
Love my TL
Slip, 03/05/2004
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was looking for an upscale car, and ACURA made one affordable to me. Only the navi system was extra (I passed on that. Could not have asked for anything more. Fun to drive, nothing goes wrong with it. Pluses, handling, power, radio, trunk size. Negatives, gas mileage
1999 Acura 3.2TL
Augusta Richards, 04/10/2006
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new. This car has been wonderfully reliable. I have never had it in service for a mechanical problem. As a female driver, this is very important to me. I use premium gas as recommended but with todays prices, I am going to try mid- grade again although I tried that once and noticed a negative difference. My mileage in the city is about 20 and on the highway 27-28. I feel very safe in this car and have learned to appreciate the styling although after having an Infiniti J30, I thought this car could use more pizazz in the exterior styling. What can I say - I love this car.
Love my new (used but new to me) car
Acura Enthusiast, 01/10/2004
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was especially impressed with Acura of Boston - their professionalism & courtesy and helpfulness. I would recommend them to anyone - Steve S. was our salesperson, and he was outstanding. The car we purchased is a 99 TL and it rides beautifully, handles turns exceptionally; is comfortable, roomy - we love it! The stereo system & CD player sound great also.
Just Keeps Going
lsmac, 10/25/2005
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this car new. It now has 197,000 miles. 28mpg all the time. Have stuck to the manual for maintenance. Some dash lights don't work and door lock relay needs replacing. Only non-maintenance item was to clean the EGR valve at 80k. I do this myself now. Takes two hours. Engine has never been opened. Ditch the Michelin Tires. Get Toyo Proxes TPT for less than $500 and last 50k.
Not what I expected
Ric, 10/24/2005
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first Acura and possibly my last. Performance with the four speed is reasonable but nothing great. Gas milage only so-so. Interior design is certainly above average. Nice car to sit in for the most part. Seats showing wear earlier than suspected. Tranny had to be replaced at about 50000mi. Left me stranded on a hwy. Now having trouble starting the car when it has been raining for afew days. Dealer can't seem to find the reason. Overall I am disappointed. Have had better experiences with a Maxima in the past. Not much better than my old Taurus SHO and that is not saying much!
1999 Acura TL
captain, 01/09/2006
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Maintenance and repair expence during 7 years and 143000 miles has been very low. A new transmision at 93,000 mi. was replaced by Acura at no cost. They even provided a new TL to drive while mine was in the shop. My total expense for maintenance(incl oil changes), tires, batteries and repairs is less than $1600, including a new starter at 142000 mi. It still runs and handles like new. (I dont follow scheduled maintenance). Never tuned up, but do change oil and filter every 7500 mi. I still have the original plugs. Gets 26- 31 mi/ga; I use only regular. I think it runs better on regular. I've recently towed this car with 4 wheels on ground behind my motorhome over 6000 mi without any problems.
Great vehicle
bus, 08/16/2002
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle has been great overall. Small issues that have appeared are rear view mirror when turned on auto shade has shade gradient, middle console makes squeaking noise even after being replaced once. No mechanical problems have appeared. Keeping tire pressure at maximum increases performance significantly.
Great Car!!!! I love it!!!! Buy One!!!
john32, 02/20/2004
1999 Acura TL 3.2 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. I have one with 109,000 miles on it and it has never had any problems. You should buy one if you want a reliable, fun to drive, best exprerience of you life kind of car.