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2003 Acura TL consumer reviews

$28,980–$31,130 MSRP range
side view of 2003 TL Acura
(64 reviews)
87% of drivers recommend this car
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.6
  • Interior 4.5
  • Performance 4.5
  • Value 4.4
  • Exterior 4.4
  • Reliability 4.3
Explore the 2003 Acura TL

Very impressed as my first car

This is my first car and I mist say that I am very happy with the car. I get great response and good control. Engine is very quiet and rides smoothly. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone. Overall, its a great car.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 4.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
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transmission failures

The 2nd gen, as I believe they're called, TLs, have transmission failures. It's a long, complicated story: only certain VINs, extended warranties which seem irregularly applied, variable dealer cooperation, incomplete back-up and/or information from Honda. Many owners are on their 4th transmission, although how many have no trouble remains unknown (to me). The base model's 205 tires are a bit skinny. But this is the nicest-driving car I have ever owned. Having had a new transmission (no cost) and then a sensor failure a year later which Honda failed to cover, I think I will switch brands next time. The 3rd generation TLs apparently do not have this problem, but Honda has not dealt with this as aggressively or as proactively as I think they should.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 4.0
  • Exterior 3.0
  • Reliability 2.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does not recommend this car
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Best performance sedan

This is my main car and has gone 122,000 miles without a single issue or complaint. I have the type-s which is fast but fuel efficient. I love my car. The interior design is also very nice and well laid out, with the center console slightly angled to face the driver. The navigation system isn't as useful as you would think, it tends to be wrong frequently so if you are looking to purchased a used TL, I wouldn't bother with the navigation if you can get one without.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Does recommend this car
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3rd Acura

More power than I need. Every thing works the way it's supposr to , but I do need to replace the wiper blades. I have not had any transmission problems yet. I quess that's why they extened the warranties..

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
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