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Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (235 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2003
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the Acura CL broadly praise the car's durability and long-term reliability, with many reporting high mileage examples still running well.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentAutomatic transmission failure
Owners across multiple discussions report that automatic transmissions, especially in V6 models, are prone to failure and should be avoided. Manual transmissions are not affected.
- RecurrentRust and body deterioration
Owners report rust on older examples, particularly in areas with road salt, and note that clean bodies are becoming rare.
- RecurrentTiming belt neglect
Owners emphasize the importance of timely timing belt replacement, with some admitting to delaying it well past the recommended interval.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedWindow motor failure
One owner reported replacing both window motors, with the passenger window failing for years.
- IsolatedSteering rack wear
One owner reported replacing the steering rack at around 200,000 miles.
- IsolatedRadiator failure
One owner reported replacing the radiator at around 100,000 miles.
- IsolatedSeat wear
One owner noted that seats rip easily on these cars.
The version owners recommend
The 2003 Acura CL Type S with the 6-speed manual transmission is the consensus best version, described as "bulletproof" and fun to drive. Owners specifically praise the manual transmission as avoiding the automatic's failure issues. The 3.2L V6 in the Type S is noted for making 260 hp and being enjoyable, though some caution about fuel costs. First-generation models with the 2.2L four-cylinder and manual are also mentioned positively for reliability, but the Type S manual is the most recommended.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Accord, Acura TL, Toyota Camry, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Is the CL right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Owners of the Acura CL broadly praise the car's durability and long-term reliability, with many reporting high mileage examples still running well. The manual transmission models, particularly the Type S, are held in high regard as fun and dependable. However, the automatic transmission, especially in V6 models, is widely criticized as a serious weak point that owners say will eventually fail. Rust and cosmetic deterioration are common complaints on older examples, and some owners note that seats wear poorly. The first-generation CL (1997-1999) and second-generation CL (2001-2003) share much of the same reputation, though the Type S manual is the most celebrated configuration.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the CL as a comfortable and reliable alternative to mainstream economy cars like the Civic and Corolla, noting that the Acura offers better seats, sound, and ride quality. Against the Accord and TL, the CL is seen as sharing platforms and drivetrains, with the TL often recommended as a more refined alternative with fewer transmission issues. Some owners suggest that for pure reliability and low running costs, a Civic or Corolla may be a safer bet, especially for high-mileage commuting. The CL is generally viewed as a good value for those who want a bit more luxury and power, provided they choose the manual transmission.
Recommended configurations
Owners strongly recommend the manual transmission over the automatic in all CL models, especially V6 versions. The 2003 CL Type S with the 6-speed manual is the most frequently cited as a good buy. For first-generation models, the 2.2L manual is suggested as a reliable choice. Owners advise keeping the car stock and performing regular maintenance, including timely timing belt changes. The 3.0L V6 in the 1997 CL is mentioned, but one owner warns that old Honda V6 automatics are a "no" due to transmission troubles.
General recommendations
The CL is recommended for buyers who can perform their own maintenance or have a trusted mechanic, and who prioritize low cost of ownership over modern features. It is not recommended as a daily driver for those who cannot handle potential repairs, especially with an automatic transmission. Buyers should avoid automatic V6 models unless the transmission has been replaced or rebuilt, and should inspect for rust, especially in areas with road salt. A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is strongly advised, along with checking maintenance records and timing belt history. High-mileage examples can still be good if well-maintained, but expect wear items like window motors, steering components, and suspension parts to need attention. For a first car or a high-mileage commuter, some owners suggest a Civic or Corolla instead.
Remarks
Many owners report extremely high mileage, with examples exceeding 200,000 and even 270,000 miles, often on original clutches and engines. The car is described as "bulletproof" and capable of surviving accidents and abuse. Some owners note that the CL is often overlooked compared to the TL, but it shares many components and can be a good value. Parts availability is generally good due to the shared platform with the Accord. The CL was built in the United States, which some owners point out as a point of pride. Analysis based on approximately 42 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2001. Years to avoid: 2001Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Acura CL years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 79 | 5 | power train |
| 2002 | 61 | 2 | power train |
| 2001 | 274 | 3 | power train |
| 2000 | 11 | 0 | power train |
| 1999 | 49 | 3 | power train |
| 1998 | 57 | 5 | electrical system |
| 1997 | 87 | 2 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices20 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2003 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 19V182000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
2003 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 19V499000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2003-2006 MDX, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 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.
2003 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 15V320000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2003-2006 Acura MDX, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion and other factors, including manufacturing variability that, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
2003 · engine and engine cooling:enginecampaign 02V226000
ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, SEDANS, COUPES, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES, A TIMING BELT TENSIONER PULLEY ON THE WATER PUMP IS MISALIGNED AND COULD CAUSE THE TIMING BELT TO CONTACT A BOLT ON THE CYLINDER HEAD. EVENTUALLY THE BELT COULD BE DAMAGED AND FAIL.
2003 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 04V176000
ON SOME MINI VANS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS CAN RESULT IN HEAT BUILD-UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECONDARY SHAFT SECOND GEARS IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO GEAR TOOTH CHIPPING OR GEAR BREAKAGE.
2002 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V027000
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.
2002 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 04V176000
ON SOME MINI VANS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS CAN RESULT IN HEAT BUILD-UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECONDARY SHAFT SECOND GEARS IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO GEAR TOOTH CHIPPING OR GEAR BREAKAGE.
2001 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V027000
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.
2001 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V026000
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.
2001 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 04V176000
ON SOME MINI VANS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS CAN RESULT IN HEAT BUILD-UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECONDARY SHAFT SECOND GEARS IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO GEAR TOOTH CHIPPING OR GEAR BREAKAGE.
1999 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V026000
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.
1999 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 02V120000
ON CERTAIN SEDANS, COUPES, HATCHBACKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN DEGRADE DUE TO THE HIGH ELECTRICAL CURRENT PASSING THROUGH THE SWITCH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED.
1999 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 03V423000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MINI VANS, THE IGNITION SWITCH MAY WEAR EXCESSIVELY AND PREVENT PROPER INTERLOCK OPERATION, MAKING IT POSSIBLE TO TURN THE IGNITION KEY TO THE "OFF" POSITION AND REMOVE THE KEY WITHOUT SHIFTING THE TRANSMISSION TO "PARK."
1998 · air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator modulecampaign 20V026000
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.
1998 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 02V120000
ON CERTAIN SEDANS, COUPES, HATCHBACKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN DEGRADE DUE TO THE HIGH ELECTRICAL CURRENT PASSING THROUGH THE SWITCH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED.
5 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
3.2 i V6 24V Type S
3.2L 6-cylinder · 263 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2000–2003