Is the Acura RL reliable?

The ForCar Reliability Score for the Acura RL is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.

How much does a Acura RL weigh?

Curb weight is around 4,109 lb. GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.

How much ground clearance does the Acura RL have?

Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain; AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Check the specific trim or decode the VIN.

Acura RL MPG, VIN Decoder, Recalls & Specs

Quick answer

The Acura RL spans 1987–2012 with 77 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2005, 2000, 2002 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1987, 1988, 1989. It delivers up to 30 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.

Acura RLWindow sticker What it's worth Insurance cost MPG ranking Decode a VIN

1987–2012

Years

Recalls

Top MPG

—★

NHTSA

483

Complaints

FIG.01·Acura RL — ForCar Reliability Score

4.0/5

★★★★★★★★★★

ForCar Reliability Score

Our editorial rating · 26 model years

Acura RL

Safety (NHTSA)3.5

Recall record4.0

Complaint severity4.1

How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.

Overview

The Acura RL is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1987 to 2012 across multiple generations.

How to read a Acura RL VIN — every digit explained

Every Acura RL carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.

FIG.02·How to Read a Acura RL VIN

1–3 · WMI1XX

4–8 · VDSCM826

9 · Check5

10 · YearR

11 · PlantA

12–17 · Serial004352

WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Acura and the country it was built in.
VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
Plant (11) — which factory assembled this RL.
Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.

17 CHARS·SOURCE SAE / ISO 3779 · NHTSA vPIC

Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your RL, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.

How many recalls does the Acura RL have?

The Acura RL has 77 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1987–2012. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.

2012 Acura RL recalls 6

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JY0, JY1, and JY2.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2011 Honda Element vehicles, 2005-2012 Acura RL vehicles, 2006-2012 Honda Ridgeline vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2009 Acura RL and Honda Element vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles and 2006-2009 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2008 Acura RL, Honda Element and Honda Pilot vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2006-2008 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall bagan March 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KD9 and KE0.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V041000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2010-2012 Acura RL, 2010 Honda Element, and 2010-2013 Honda Ridgeline vehicles ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Honda is recalling certain 2010 Acura RL, 2010-2011 Honda Element and Honda Ridgeline vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." If not included in zones A or B above, Honda is recalling certain 2009 Acura RL, Honda Element, and Honda Ridgeline vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 16, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are U0H, and G0I.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013 Acura ILX, 2015 RDX, 2005-2010 and 2012 RL, 2009-2014 TL, 2010 and 2012 ZDX, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2011-2013 and 2015 CR-Z, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013 Fit EV, 2010-2011 and 2013 Insight and 2007-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are S5B and W59.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are E5D and X5C.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V662000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014 Honda Ridgeline vehicles nationwide. Honda is also recalling certain 2011-2012 Acura RL, 2011 Honda Element and 2011-2013 Ridgeline vehicles in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Lastly, if not included above, Honda is recalling certain 2010-2011 Honda Element, 2010-2012 Acura RL and 2010-2013 Ridgeline vehicles in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag air bag inflators assembled as part of the frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are H2H and S2I.

2011 Acura RL recalls 6

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2011 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2011 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2008 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2008 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2008 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling model year 2002-2004 Odyssey and model year 2003-2004 Acura MDX, Honda Element, and Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2016. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KA0, KA1, KA2, and KA3.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V041000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V662000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2010 Acura RL recalls 7

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V041000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V662000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2009 Acura RL recalls 6

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module18V041000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2008 Acura RL recalls 6

Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections07V551000

What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, PROLONGED HIGH UNDER-HOOD TEMPERATURES MAY CAUSE THE POWER STEERING HOSE TO DETERIORATE PREMATURELY CAUSING THE HOSE TO CRACK AND LEAK POWER STEERING FLUID.

Risk. POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKING ONTO A HOT CATALYTIC CONVERTER WILL GENERATE SMOKE AND POSSIBLY LEAD TO AN UNDER-HOOD FIRE.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW HEAT RESISTANT POWER STEERING HOSE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 800-382-2238.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2007 Acura RL recalls 7

Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections07V551000

Risk. POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKING ONTO A HOT CATALYTIC CONVERTER WILL GENERATE SMOKE AND POSSIBLY LEAD TO AN UNDER-HOOD FIRE.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW HEAT RESISTANT POWER STEERING HOSE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 800-382-2238.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder10V504000

What's wrong. HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2007 ODYSSEY AND ACURA RL VEHICLES. BRAKE FLUID CONTAINING POLYMERS IS USED THAT ACTS AS A LUBRICANT FOR CERTAIN BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS. IF REPLACEMENT BRAKE FLUID IS USED THAT DOES NOT CONTAIN SUCH POLYMERS, OR THAT CONTAINS ONLY SMALL AMOUNTS, A PART OF THE RUBBER SEAL LOCATED AT THE REAR OF THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER MAY BECOME DRY, AND THE SEAL MAY CURL DURING MOVEMENT OF THE PISTON. IF THIS OCCURS, A SMALL AMOUNT OF BRAKE FLUID COULD SLOWLY LEAK FROM THE SEAL INTO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.

Risk. A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID COULD LEAD TO A CHANGE IN BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND OVERTIME A DEGRADATION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER SEAL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2006 Acura RL recalls 8

Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections07V551000

Risk. POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKING ONTO A HOT CATALYTIC CONVERTER WILL GENERATE SMOKE AND POSSIBLY LEAD TO AN UNDER-HOOD FIRE.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW HEAT RESISTANT POWER STEERING HOSE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 800-382-2238.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder10V504000

Risk. A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID COULD LEAD TO A CHANGE IN BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND OVERTIME A DEGRADATION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER SEAL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Equipment:other:owners/service/other Manual06V270000

What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES, THE OWNER'S MANUALS CONTAIN INCORRECT CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S (NHTSA) VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE.

Risk. THE LANGUAGE IN THE OWNER'S MANUALS IS NOT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CURRENT MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS.

Fix. HONDA WILL SEND A POSTCARD TO DEALERS AND OWNERS WITH THE CORRECT NHTSA VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE INFORMATION AND WITH INSTRUCTIONS TO INSERT THE CARD INTO THE "REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS" SECTION OF THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 2, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009, ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238 OR HONDA MOTORCYCLES AT 1-866-784-1870.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2005 Acura RL recalls 11

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump07V097000

What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, A COIL WIRE INSIDE THE FUEL PUMP RELAY MAY BREAK, CAUSING THE FUEL PUMP TO LOSE POWER. IF THE FUEL PUMP BECOMES INOPERATIVE, THE ENGINE MAY NOT START.

Risk. IF THE FUEL PUMP LOSES POWER WHILE DRIVING, THE ENGINE COULD STALL WITHOUT WARNING, AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP RELAY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 2, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections07V551000

Risk. POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKING ONTO A HOT CATALYTIC CONVERTER WILL GENERATE SMOKE AND POSSIBLY LEAD TO AN UNDER-HOOD FIRE.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW HEAT RESISTANT POWER STEERING HOSE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 800-382-2238.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder10V504000

Risk. A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID COULD LEAD TO A CHANGE IN BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND OVERTIME A DEGRADATION IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER SEAL FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module13V092000

What's wrong. Honda is recalling certain model year 2005 Pilot vehicles manufactured July 29, 2004, through August 29, 2005; model year 2005-2006 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 16, 2004, through September 22, 2005; and model year 2005 Acura RL vehicles manufactured March 1, 2004, through June 29, 2005. An electrical capacitor may have been damaged during the manufacturing of the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) control module causing intermittent, automatic, minor brake application. However, if the driver applies the brakes while the VSA is malfunctioning, the vehicle may come to an abrupt stop. Additionally, due to a loose ground connection, certain model year 2005 Pilots have a VSA system that may apply partial brake force, without the illumination of the brake lights, whether or not the driver is using the brakes.

Risk. Sudden inadvertent braking, especially without illumination of the brake lights, may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

Fix. Owners will be notified and instructed to take their vehicles to a dealer of their respective brand. The dealer will install a partial wiring harness containing a capacitor for the VSA modulator, free of charge. The affected model year 2005 Pilots will have their ground connection tightened. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Honda owners may contact Honda Automobile Customer Service at 1-800-999-1009, and select option 4 or go to www.recalls.honda.com; Acura owners may contact 1-800-382-2238, and select option 4, or go to www.recalls.acura.com.

Air Bags14V353000

What's wrong. American Honda Motor Company, Inc.'s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and Element, and model year 2005 Acura RL, and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in California, and equipped with Takata-brand air bag inflators. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflators in all affected vehicles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during August 2014. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module16V061000

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module16V344000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags14V700000

What's wrong. American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module17V029000

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module19V501000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module19V500000

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

2003 Acura RL recalls 1

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V027000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2001-2002 Acura 3.2CL, 2000-2003 Acura 3.5RL, 2000-2001 Acura 3.2TL, Honda CR-V and Honda Odyssey, 2001-2002 Acura MDX and 2000 Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Coupe, and Civic Sedan vehicles. These vehicles may have received a replacement driver frontal air bag module as part of a vehicle repair. Due to a manufacturing issue, the replacement NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag cushion may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the air bags in the vehicles, replacing the driver frontal air bag inflator with an inflator of a different design, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138.

2002 Acura RL recalls 2

Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch02V119000

What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS, OIL WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY TO PREVENT RUST. THIS OIL CAN LEAK INTO THE BRAKE STOP SWITCH AND CONTAMINATE THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS.

Risk. EVENTUALLY, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, WHICH INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Fix. DEALERS WILL CLEAN ANY EXCESS OIL FROM THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY AND REPLACE THE STOP SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 16, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V027000

2001 Acura RL recalls 2

Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch02V119000

Risk. EVENTUALLY, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, WHICH INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V027000

2000 Acura RL recalls 4

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder03V239000

What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SOME BRAKE MASTER CYLINDERS MAY HAVE INTERNAL CORROSION, RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKING PERFORMANCE AND INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES.

Risk. THE CORROSION COULD EVENTUALLY CAUSE A COMPLETE BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MASTER CYLINDER ASSEMBLY, RESERVOIR, AND BRAKE FLUID. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 28, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.

Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch02V119000

Risk. EVENTUALLY, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, WHICH INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V027000

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V026000

What's wrong. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1998-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL and Acura MDX, 1998-2000 Honda Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Sedan, Odyssey and Acura 3.5RL, 1999-2000 Acura 3.2TL, 1996-2000 Civic Coupe, 1997-2000 CR-V, 1997-1998 EV Plus, and 1998-1999 Isuzu Oasis vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.

Fix. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the driver frontal air bag inflator, and replace it if necessary, with an inflator of a different design, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138 or Isuzu customer service at 1-800-255-6727.

1999 Acura RL recalls 2

Power Train:automatic Transmission99V227000

What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.

Risk. THE VEHICLE COULD LOSE POWER TO THE DRIVE WHEELS WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, SHIFTING THE TRANSMISSION INTO THE PARK POSITION WOULD NOT LOCK THE WHEELS, AND A PARKED VEHICLE COULD MOVE UNEXPECTEDLY IF THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT SET.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED BOLT.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V026000

1998 Acura RL recalls 3

Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint99V069000

What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH BALL JOINTS THAT CAN PREMATURELY WEAR OUT AND, IN THE WORSE CASE, THE BALL JOINT WOULD SEPARATE CAUSING THE FRONT SUSPENSION TO COLLAPSE.

Risk. THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.

Power Train:automatic Transmission99V227000

What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED BOLT.

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module20V026000

1997 Acura RL recalls 2

Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint99V069000

Risk. THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.

Power Train:automatic Transmission99V227000

What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED BOLT.

1996 Acura RL recalls 3

Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint99V069000

Risk. THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.

Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.

Power Train:automatic Transmission99V227000

What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.

Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED BOLT.

Exterior Lighting06E049000

What's wrong. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Fix. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

Best and worst years for the Acura RL

Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 26 tracked years, the worst years are 2005, 2000, 2002 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1987, 1988, 1989.

ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.

FIG.03·Best & Worst Years — Acura RL
Year	Owner complaints	Top issue	Verdict
1987 RL	0	—	Best
1988 RL	0	—	Best
1989 RL	0	—	Best
1990 RL	0	—	Average
1991 RL	0	—	Average
1992 RL	0	—	Average
1993 RL	0	—	Average
1994 RL	0	—	Average
1995 RL	0	—	Average
1996 RL	24	Service Brakes	Average
1997 RL	20	Electrical System	Average
1998 RL	11	Air Bags	Average
1999 RL	38	Air Bags	Average
2000 RL	70	Air Bags	Avoid
2001 RL	25	Power Train	Average
2002 RL	59	Power Train	Avoid
2003 RL	14	Air Bags	Average
2004 RL	11	Electrical System	Average
2005 RL	125	Exterior Lighting	Avoid
2006 RL	32	Air Bags	Average
2007 RL	20	Air Bags	Average
2008 RL	13	Air Bags	Average
2009 RL	8	Air Bags	Average
2010 RL	9	Air Bags	Average
2011 RL	3	Engine	Average
2012 RL	1	Exterior Lighting	Average

ROWS 26·SOURCE NHTSA + ForCar

What are the most common Acura RL problems?

The most-reported Acura RL problems are Air (2 reports), Other (4 reports) and Seats (2 reports) — out of 483 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:

involved a crash

involved a fire

injuries reported

deaths reported

Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:

Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.

Acura RL specifications & dimensions

The 2009–2012 Acura RL measures 196″ long on a 110″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 4,109 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Acura RL window sticker.

FIG.04·Acura RL Dimensions by Generation
Years	Length	Width	Height	Wheelbase	Curb weight
2009–2012	196″	73″	57″	110″	4,109 lb
2006	194″	73″	57″	110″	4,001 lb
2000–2003	197″	72″	57″	115″	3,649 lb
1997	195″	71″	57″	115″	3,455 lb

ROWS 4·SOURCE NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada

Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.

Acura RL cargo space, seating & interior room

How much the RL holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 99 cu ft of passenger volume and 16 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.

Passenger ft³

Cargo ft³

115

Total interior ft³

Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.

Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.

Acura RL tire size, oil type & owner specs

The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.

Wheels & tires

Wheel sizeby VIN

Tire sizeby VIN

Bolt patternby trim

Tire pressure32–36 PSI

Engine oil

Oil typeFull synthetic

Gradeon oil cap

Capacityby engine

Battery

Main battery12V · group by trim

Key-fob cellCR2032

Wiper blades

Front bladesby generation

Rear bladeif equipped

Fuses

Fuse boxeshood + dash

Diagramon box lid

Light bulbs

Headlightby trim

Tail / brakeby trim

Fogif equipped

Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.

What MPG does the Acura RL get?

The Acura RL returns up to 30 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,550/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:

The 2020 Acura RL (3.5L 6-cyl) gets 23 mpg combined and costs about $3,350/yr to fuel, emitting 383 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 5/10, smog 3/10) — about $5,750 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.

FIG.05a·Acura RL MPG, CO₂ & smog — V6
Year	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel/yr	CO₂ g/mi	Smog	Engine
2020 RL	20	29	23	$3,350	383	3/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2019 RL	20	29	23	$3,350	383	3/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2018 RL	20	29	23	$3,350	383	3/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2017 RL	20	30	23	$3,350	380	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2016 RL	20	30	23	$3,350	380	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2015 RL	20	30	23	$3,350	381	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2014 RL	20	30	23	$3,350	380	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2012 RL	17	24	20	$3,850	444	—	3.7L 6-cyl
2011 RL	17	24	20	$3,850	444	6/10	3.7L 6-cyl
2010 RL	16	22	18	$4,300	494	6/10	3.7L 6-cyl
2009 RL	16	22	18	$4,300	494	6/10	3.7L 6-cyl
2008 RL	16	24	19	$4,050	468	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2007 RL	16	24	19	$4,050	468	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2006 RL	16	24	19	$4,050	468	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl
2005 RL	16	24	19	$4,050	468	6/10	3.5L 6-cyl

ROWS 15·SOURCE EPA (ForCar database)

The 2020 Acura RL (3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid) gets 28 mpg combined and costs about $2,750/yr to fuel, emitting 316 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 6/10, smog 7/10) — about $2,750 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.

FIG.05b·Acura RL MPG, CO₂ & smog — Hybrid
Year	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel/yr	CO₂ g/mi	Smog	Engine
2020 RL	28	29	28	$2,750	316	7/10	3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid
2019 RL	28	29	28	$2,750	316	7/10	3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid
2018 RL	28	29	28	$2,750	316	7/10	3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid
2017 RL	29	30	29	$2,650	306	8/10	3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid
2016 RL	28	31	30	$2,550	302	8/10	3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid
2014 RL	28	31	30	$2,550	302	8/10	3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid

ROWS 6·SOURCE EPA (ForCar database)

Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.

See how the RL stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this RL's real yearly fuel cost.

What engines does the Acura RL have? Power & range

The Acura RL is offered with 2 powertrains — 3.5L 6-cyl, 3.5L 6-cyl Hybrid. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.

FIG.06·Acura RL Powertrains
Engine	Displacement	Transmission	Drive	Fuel
V6	3.5L · 6-cyl	Automatic (S10)	FWD	Premium
Hybrid	3.5L · 6-cyl	Automatic (AM-S7)	AWD	Premium

ROWS 2·SOURCE EPA + NHTSA vPIC

Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.

How much does a Acura RL cost to own?

A used Acura RL sells for a median of about $11,866 for a 2011 — most listed between $11,866 and $12,498, from 51 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:

FIG.07·Acura RL Used Prices by Year
Year	Typical price	Market range	Listings
2011 RL	$11,866	$11,866–$12,498	6
2008 RL	$4,995	$4,995–$4,995	4
2006 RL	$2,500	$1,500–$4,995	10
2005 RL	$4,500	$2,500–$6,999	27
2004 RL	$2,450	$1,800–$5,300	4

ROWS 5·SOURCE ForCar market · real US listings

For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a RL is worth today, or browse used-market prices for sedans.

A Acura RL holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.

84%

Value @ 1 yr

68%

Value @ 3 yrs

56%

Value @ 5 yrs

$12,750

Est. 5-yr fuel

FIG.08·Acura RL Depreciation & Resale

Estimate resale value — enter what you paid (or the MSRP):

Age	Value retained	Est. resale value	Lost to depreciation
Year 1	84%	$25,200	−$4,800
Year 2	76%	$22,800	−$7,200
Year 3	68%	$20,400	−$9,600
Year 4	61%	$18,300	−$11,700
Year 5	56%	$16,800	−$13,200

ROWS 5·SOURCE ForCar estimate

What goes into the five-year cost to own:

Depreciation — the biggest cost: this RL loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
Fuel — ≈ $12,750 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the RL ages.
Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.

Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.

How much is a Acura RL to insure?

A Acura RL costs about $1,865 a year to insure for a typical driver on full coverage — roughly 30% above the average car. That's from its real HLDI insurance-loss index (130, where 100 = average car); your own rate moves with state, age, record and coverage.

FIG.09·Acura RL Insurance Cost

$1,865/yr

estimate · typical driver · full coverage · US average

$1,865

Est. / year

+30%

vs average car

$1,585–2,145

Typical range

130

HLDI loss index

CheaperAveragePricier

Where the money goes · full coverage

Liability (BI + PD)$895

Collision$522

Comprehensive$224

Other (UM / PIP)$224

LOSS INDEX 130·UNIT est. $/yr·SOURCE HLDI × NAIC

★ This is a typical-driver estimate. Go Pro to dial in your coverage, age & deductible — and see this car inside the full 5-year cost-to-own.Upgrade to Pro →

Estimate = US-average premium × the RL's HLDI loss index. See Acura insurance cost by model, cost by state, or compare any car.

Is the Acura RL safe?

NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the RL yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.

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How many miles does a Acura RL last?

A well-maintained Acura RL typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.

Check your Acura RL’s VIN — history, recalls & specs

Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.

Check this RL’s VIN free →

All Acura RL model years

A year-by-year snapshot of the Acura RL — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.

FIG.11·All Acura RL Model Years
Year	Recalls	Best MPG	Safety
2012 RL	6 recalls	20 mpg	—
2011 RL	6 recalls	20 mpg	—
2010 RL	7 recalls	18 mpg	—
2009 RL	6 recalls	18 mpg	—
2008 RL	6 recalls	19 mpg	—
2007 RL	7 recalls	19 mpg	—
2006 RL	8 recalls	19 mpg	—
2005 RL	11 recalls	19 mpg	—
2004 RL	1 recall	—	—
2003 RL	1 recall	—	—
2002 RL	2 recalls	—	—
2001 RL	2 recalls	—	—
2000 RL	4 recalls	—	—
1999 RL	2 recalls	—	—
1998 RL	3 recalls	—	—
1997 RL	2 recalls	—	—
1996 RL	3 recalls	—	—
1995 RL	0	—	—
1994 RL	0	—	—
1993 RL	0	—	—
1992 RL	0	—	—
1991 RL	0	—	—
1990 RL	0	—	—
1989 RL	0	—	—
1988 RL	0	—	—
1987 RL	0	—	—

ROWS 26·SOURCE NHTSA + EPA

Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).

Frequently asked questions

What are the worst years for the RL?

By owner-complaint volume, 2005, 2000, 2002 drew the most reports. 1987, 1988, 1989 have the cleanest records.

How many recalls does the RL have?

77 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1987–2012. Always check open recalls by your VIN. See all Acura recalls and reliability across every model.

What MPG does the RL get?

Up to 30 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.

How many miles does a RL last?

A well-maintained RL typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.

Is the RL reliable?

Our ForCar Reliability Score for the RL is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.

What's the Acura RL warranty?

New Acura models carry a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 6 years / 70,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Acura dealer.

Where is the Acura RL made?

The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your RL's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Acura may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.

How much does a RL weigh?

The RL's curb weight is around 4,109 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.

How much ground clearance does the RL have?

Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.

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Data sourced from NHTSA (recalls, complaints, safety ratings) and EPA fueleconomy.gov (MPG). Best/worst-year analysis is ForCar's own aggregation of complaint volume. Last updated Jul 2026. — ForCar Editorial Reviewed by Denis Kataev, founder of ForCar.

Acura RL — MPG, VIN Decoder, Recalls, Reliability & Specs

Overview

How to read a Acura RL VIN — every digit explained

How many recalls does the Acura RL have?

2012 Acura RL recalls 6

2011 Acura RL recalls 6

2010 Acura RL recalls 7

2009 Acura RL recalls 6

2008 Acura RL recalls 6

2007 Acura RL recalls 7

2006 Acura RL recalls 8

2005 Acura RL recalls 11

2003 Acura RL recalls 1

2002 Acura RL recalls 2

2001 Acura RL recalls 2

2000 Acura RL recalls 4

1999 Acura RL recalls 2

1998 Acura RL recalls 3

1997 Acura RL recalls 2

1996 Acura RL recalls 3

Best and worst years for the Acura RL

What are the most common Acura RL problems?

Acura RL specifications & dimensions

Acura RL cargo space, seating & interior room

Acura RL tire size, oil type & owner specs

What MPG does the Acura RL get?

What engines does the Acura RL have? Power & range

How much does a Acura RL cost to own?

How much is a Acura RL to insure?

Is the Acura RL safe?

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How many miles does a Acura RL last?

Check your Acura RL’s VIN — history, recalls & specs

All Acura RL model years

Frequently asked questions

More in Acura