Used 2004 Acura TL Sedan Consumer Reviews
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rmc review
excellent car, good handling. expect that reliability will be good. very good stero, and easy to use navigation system
best car ever
accelerates very well. great to drive long distances. xm radio excellent. sound system can't be beat. very safe car. have acuras for many years and all are very reliable. wonderful car.
Great Car...but too many rattles
I've owned the TL for about 6 months now and the car comes as advertised. Great performance, very comfortable and stylish cabin and tons of features. However, I've had numerous rattling issues from the second I drove my car off the lot.
The new TL rocks!
Acura has done a great job of improving on an excellent value. This car rocks. Great audio system. Navi is a bit more complicated than a few years ago and the voice command system leaves something to be desired (understanding commands). But the car handles great and is faster than ever. Feels much sportier than previous models. The lines are classy and the price isn't much more than before.
First Acura
This car is fun to drive. I didn't give it a 10 only because I've driven my friends BMW M3. However, great pick up and snappy accelerator response, little loose on the tight turns (which VSA helps fix) but then it is FWD, agile, and a very comfortable ride. The interior is damn near impeccable. All the standard features a huge plus (heated seats, auto everything, XM satellite radio) and the add-ons (navigation system) are reasonable. This is my first Acura and it's too new to give it a 10 for reliability, but I've heard very good things, the warranty is good and comes with conveniences, and I'm just impressed with the car.
Outstanding
This is a great car with a good blend of fun and practical. I just can't believe that the TSX beats it in these Consumer ratings! My 2004 TL beats every TSX I've been in (including 2008) in every way except one: the exterior styling on the TSX is way better. The TL needs cosmetic surgery, but it's a fantastic ride.
Great car
I have german cars-Two (BMW 330 and Audi TT). Alot of german car lovers have an emtional attachment to their cars but if you take the emotion out of it you will soon realize that you are driving one the best cars for the money and that includes performance, style, luxury and driving excitment.
Beats my 1999 BMW 528i
My new 2004 tl with nav gives a better ride, fuel miliage, and looks better than the new 2004 BMW 5. With 270 hp, getting up and going is effortless. The fit and finish is superb. The nav system is very user friendly and with 8 speakers in the cabin, the DVD audio and xm stereo makes you like to take the long way home or even getting stuck in traffic is no big deal! I highly recommend the new 2004 Acura tl
First Time Acura Owner - Best Car Ever
After owner several other vehicles and test driving Audi, BMW, Lexus, Infiniti, I fell in love with many of the practical features that the TL has to offer. The car is perfect for short and long-haul commutes. Gas mileage could be a little better, I get 21-22 MPG city and 30-31 on the hwy @ 78 MPH. The handling is excellent. The beverage holders could be a little deeper with an optional spacer if you wanted it. A can of soda will fit, but you cannot use the over in the center column. The trunk space is plenty for a long trip with luggage and the rear seats have enough leg room for any discerning passenger.
Transmission Issues
I have had my car since 2006 and have kept it under maintenance. It has treated me well for this period of time with occasional issues here and there. With 168,000 miles my transmission went and Motor mounts had to be replaced. Transmission was $5200 at the dealer. I opted to have it rebuilt elsewhere for $3300. I have also replaced the Motor Mounts. I guess certain things are to be expected but there were obvious issues with 2002-2003 and 2004's that were built earlier. I still believe these cars are reliable but some of these issues may be things that can be eventual problems with this model year. I also seem to be having some issues with the hands free freezing and dropping off.
Excellent performance and reliability
I have about 10000 miles on my TL already and it has been one of the most exciting experiences that I ever had. Great performance and reliability - I never experienced any problems with the car. Front-wheel drive is still a disadvantage for the car - needs to change in future releases. I have the 6 speed MT and this car is very fast - no matter what they're going to tell you how great other German rivals are, I have tested the speed of the TL against some of them already and I left the test with a smile.
04 TL
What a tremendous vehicle, and the most impressive part of it is the value. A luxury interior, with great power and performance. Sound system is groundbreaking for cars. Definitely comparible to a 6cyl 5 Series (maybe slightly smaller?), but almost 20Gs less. Highest recommendations . . . although there is one thing i cannot figure out . . . no compass?
04 ACURA TL
I THINK THE ACURA TL IS GREAT FOR THE MONEY. IT HAS AWESOME POWER , AND GREAT HANDLING.
Acura TL - Auto with Nav - Wow!!
I have owned the new TL for one day so far and I just can't wait to have to go somewhere so I can drive it. It has to be the most technically advanced car that I have ever owned. The performance is awesome and the refinement is incrediable.
First Class Sports Sedan
Outstanding smooth engine with no torque steer what so ever. Numerous full throttle accelerations(After 750 break-in miles)with no pull at all to the right. Very fast and smooth straight acceleration.
Best Mid-size Luxary Sedan 2004
I bought this car a month ago. Two words, "The Best" Amazing performance, luxary, style, class. It has everything. Very Eye catching to someone driving next to you... Only thing Ive noticed is when accelerating from 0 (flooring it) the steering wheel goes a little from left to right. But thats normal for front wheel cars; well thats what the experts say. If you have $30000 to spend on a car, I'd say the Acura TL is the way to go.
excellent
Love the car!
I've only had the car for a week, but it's been a blast to drive. Great acceleration and handling, totally kickin' sound system, and beautiful interior.
only a week ..... but
i've only had it a week, but so far i just enjoy being in it. i had a 2000 tl which was the best car ive ever owned (pevious cars bmw 528, volvo 960)never had a single problem with 2000 tl in 45000 miles.the 2004 has a stiffer body more solid,vault like feel,better handling, and much quicker.sound system is scary good.the total package is just subperb.if i get the same reliability as my 2000 t.l. i could be an acura poster boy.
Beware of the name
First week was a blast. I drove it everywhere I could. After that, things started to happen. Rattles from the glovebox, rattles from the headliner, vibrations from the sunroof. the dealer, of course did not hear the problem. My TL was in the shop more than in my garage. I must say I will be trading it in for a BMW. You might pay a bit more but it is well worth the price!
Poor Quality
I've had a terrible experience with this car and quality of build. The car has paint shrinkage in the base coat causing sand marks to appear in the finish. The car bumper cover is also peeling on the sides were mounted to the fender because of excess stress. In addition, the car has many rattles and idles rough. This car cannot compare to a 3 series BMW or Lexus ES330. Don't make the mistake and purchase this bug infested car. Their reps even admit to the rattles and the dealer admitted the paint peeling issue on the bumper covers. What a car!!!!!
The TL
Acura has done a fine job with its redesign of the TL. This sport sedan has to be a winner for Acura. Smooth handling, excellent acceleration, nice appointments add to the joy of driving this vehicle. I have owned my TL for a month and can't say that there is a day when I wish I had looked further. Overall, I expect miles and miles of pure driving pleasure with the new TL.
Much Better than the G35
I really enjoy the actual AL trim inside the vehicle. The manual trans. is one of the best I have ever driven. The Brembo brakes provide great performance but I have experianced some brake "glazing" causing brake squeaking... You usually find this with high performance brake pads... The seats and cabin is neatly appointed with a fit in finish that is beyond what I expected...
FLAWLESS
This car is Flawless.
The new TL
The new Acura TL really out did itself this time, beating all other componenets in its class. Its new vsleek body and refined 3.2 liter v6 engine gives it a smooth ride
Could it be
I was expecting an excellent car from Acura. I spent first day detailing for 10 hours. I have yet to find a flaw or defect in anything, anywhere. It is a dream to drive, loaded with high- tech goodies. The 6 channel surround sound is superb. It is a true luxury/sport sedan with gobs of power and nimble handling. Forget what you thought you knew about FWD.
No Brainer
It's a no brainer! This car has more to offer with standard equipment that "others" try to charge you for. It is powerful, stylish, COMFORTABLE, and handles better than the others. Trust me, it's a no brainer, PAY LESS GET MORE!!! I'm so happy.......
2004 Acura TL w/ Navigation
Though I have not had the car long, I shopped several other cars in the same price range and I feel that the 2004 Acura TL was a superior when considering everything; price, styling, performance, reliability... the interior fit, finish, styling and ergonomics is well above the competition... a fine automobile! They really thought this one out!
BMW Convert
So far, its a great car and fun to drive. I had an '01 BMW 530i and the Acura TL is every bit as nice, fun to drive and $20,000 cheaper.
The Best in the Entry Class
2004 TL is indeed a fun car to drive and own. Better value than BMW and much better interior compared to Infinity G35. One ride and I was hooked to it. Sound system and the navigation are added perks.
6th Acura...best one yet
I traded in my 01 Mercedes E430 which I absolutely loved...had one day of withdrawal and have never looked back. Let's see...old Mercedes worth half the $60K I paid for it after three years & a new one at close to $70K vs a new TL at half the price which, in three years will still be worth $20 to 25K. I'll take the TL and put the money I'll save to much better use. Besides it's the smartest car on the planet. It still doesn't quite drive & handle like a Benz...but who cares, it's way more fun to drive and the electronics package blows everything else away. Test drive one...you won't be dissapointed.
I LOVE it!!!
I am a 3 time owner of Acura's and this is my 4th Honda product. Each car is better than the last! I am telling you, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my TL. Redondo Red, Quartz int. This car is fast, fun and looks HOT! The Bluetooth is an excellent feature, not to mention everything else in the vehicle. Forget those German cars, you can't get a loaded car like the TL anywhere for the price!!! BUY IT!
'04 Acura TL
'04 Acura TL is third TL owned and thus far, the best. Performance is smoother, quieter and more refined than 2002 TL- S, which was great car. It is hard to imagine a better car--performance, value and dependability--in this class.
Everything they say is true!
This is my third acura (2 previous CLs) and I jumped from a coupe to a sedan because it was just as exciting to see and drive. There is nothing wrong and everything right with this car/acura really got it right!
bmw-audi competitor
i test drove the audi a4,bmw 330 and then the acura tl.audi a4 quatrro is very sluggishwith loose steering. bmw had slightly better cornering ablilty than acura tl with less body lean.bmw engine and acura's were both impressive but bmw is 10k more.overall acura interior much better than bmw,audi. and a much better value this car will scare the hell out of the germans, i highly recommend it
WOW
Fantastic...This car has it all. Horsepower, comfort, accessibility are just a few of the luxuries of this well built automobile. Front wheel drive has its draw backs with this amount of power, but come snow season I'll be passing all the rear wheel drive cars.
Having Fun
I am so excited to be one of the first to own this vehicle. Everything from the power to the standard features Rock.
Best car for the money!
For all those considering a BMW 325 or the like look again. Don't be a yuppy wannabe going for the name brand recognition- you are not fooling anyone. This car is more reliable, faster off of the line, has better fuel economy, and has a superior interior. The only drawback is that Beamers possess better handling. That's it though.
Top Quality and Performance for the $$
I test drove the '04 Altima, Maxima, G- 35 , and the TL .. and fell in love with the latter. The G-35 is a spirited performer, but the interior feels a tad too snug, and the controls are a little balky compared to the Acura. The shift action is not as smooth, the clutch pedal is stiffer, and it has noticeably more vibration than the TL. The Acura is whisper quiet and butter smooth in everything it does. It has a level of quality and refinement I didn't find in the other three cars. The surround sound system is fabulous; all other factory systems I've heard pale in comparison ... or should I say muffle in comparison. :o)
Great Experience
Bought this car used two years ago, so was a little concerned with hidden problems. No problems whatsoever. Still a head turner, even for a four+ year old car. Styling is excellent, inside and out. Interior layout is great. Not too bad on gas -- 21 in town and 26 on highway. Decided to take the plunge and switched to regular unleaded a few months ago and haven't noticed any negative effects. Lots of features and styling for the money; would buy one again. Acura seems to have hit a wide market here. Teenagers to grannies love this car.
Tech's Dream Car
The sound system, navigation, and interior are superb, but best of all it's has all the quality you would expect from an Acura/Honda. Almost bought the BMW 530, for 15k more with options that come standard on the TL and a mere 225 hp.
Bought one, done that!
As advertised. HOT, HOT, HOT! Do not particularly like the low profile tires because of the bumpy ride. Will change to normal tires and wheels when the low profiles wear out. Around town it is acceptable, but on an extended road trip the ride may get tiresome. Second and third gears are phenomenal. Glad it is a front wheel drive, because at 270 horsepower, rear wheel traction would be a problem. Interior appointments look great-great visuals and all buttons are withing easy reach. With all the technological upgrades, would recommend the extended warranty.
what a buy
TRADED IN A 2001BMW 525.THE TL IS MORE RELIABLE BETTER EQUIPED AND A MUCH BETTER VALUE.I NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE 525 EXCEPT THE USUAL BULB FAILURE.FIT AND FINISH OF THE TL IS SECOND TO NONE.I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY IT IS NOT SELLING SO WELL.EVERY DEALER I HAD GONE TO HAD LARGE INVENTORY.IS IT THE COLD WEATHER IN N.Y.?
top dog
fun to drive and look at, should really look at this car if comparing G35, 3series, ES330, or A4
This Car is Awesome
Before purchasing my new Acura TL i drove the audi A4 and the Infiniti G35. Both the Audi and Infinity were great cars, but if you want the most for your money the TL is the way to go. The TL performs as well if not better than both the Audi and the Infiniti, and there are few things that you can upgrade because everything comes stock on the TL. If you purchase a new TL, I promise you won't regret it!
Lovin' this ride!
I deliberately made the TL the last of the 6 cars I tested out (G35, ES330, Passat, Accord, Camry), and I was sold after a half mile. I'm a big guy, and I was worried about room - no problem. I found the seats very comfortable (haven't checked out the rear seats, but unless the people back there are helping with the payments, I'm not concerned!) Love the stereo, and never thought I'd care for XM...it's great for those with diverse musical tastes. So far, a great ride!
just bought it
Spent the summer assessing the Audi A4, Lexus ES300, Infiniti G35 and Volvo S60. Decided to wait for the Acura TL, to be sure I would end up with a car that excited me(sportiness), and gave me a luxury feel. After driving the Acura, the decision was made. Cars I looked are all great vehicles; A4 is easily the most fun to drive, the Lexus is the most luxurious and possibly best built, G35 covered ground in both my critical criteria, but had a few too many quirky things, S60 fell short both on the sport and the luxury sides. Time will tell whether this was the correct decision.
Awesome Fun
Before buying this car, I test drove the BMW 330, Infiniti G35, Mazda RX8, Lexus IS300. I heard about it last minute from friends and the Internet. After driving the car, I knew this was the car for me. The base equipment is hard to beat for the price and the performance is outstanding
Just Sweet!
Great car, was looking at accord, found 6 sp, but only avail in coupe, then, went to Acura and test from 6 sp TL sedan, and never looked back.... Dream Ride!
Excellent ride, excellent value
Acura continues to make fun, performance-based cars at great value. All of the amazing features are standard (the only options are the navi system and summer tires) including DVD- Audio, surround sound, XM Radio, Bluetooth, etc. No detail is overlooked making the car a true joy. The ride is phenomenal--it is a smooth, fast car. All in all, dollar for dollar a truly amazing vehicle. I highly recommend it.