Acura Cl problems
The Acura CL is a midsize grand tourer manufactured by Honda's Acura brand from 1996 until 2003. The CL is often thought to have been a replacement for the Acura Legend coupe. It was not directly related to the first gen TL either, a Japanese-built model which replaced the Vigor and had a longitudinal engine layout. With the advent of the second generation TL in 1999, the transverse engined CL became more precisely a TL coupe. All Acura CLs were built at Honda's plant in East Liberty, Ohio, which is also the plant that builds the Honda Civic. The second generation TL and the Honda Accord upon which the Acura CLs were based, are built at Honda's plant in Marysville, Ohio, a few miles away from East Liberty. The CL was the first Acura to be built in the United States.
Following the end of the 1995 model year, the Acura Legend coupe disappeared from Acura's lineup when the sedan version was renamed the Acura RL. The CL was not a direct replacement for the Legend coupe as it no longer shared the same chassis as its sedan counterpart, and was not made in Japan, unlike the RL. Because Acura no longer had a suitable Legend coupe replacement, they created this vehicle. With the release of the TL and 3.5RL in 1996, Acura transitioned to alphanumeric and/or two-letter names, naming of all of its vehicles (with the exception of the Integra which kept its name until the 2001 model year). Although the CL was considered to be a satisfactory vehicle, it never gained traction or popularity like the other Acura coupes.
First generation (1996–1999)
For the 1997 model year, early models having been licensed as 1996 models, the CL was offered with either a 3.0 L J30 V6 producing 200 hp (149 kW), or a 145 hp (108 kW) 2.2 L (F22B1) I4 engine. The 1998 and 1999 models featured a 2.3 L 4-cylinder (F23A1) engine with 150 hp (112 kW).
Both the 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder CL offered a "Premium" trim level which offered leather upholstery (with heated front seats in the 3.0), and in the 3.0, an Acura/Bose stereo. For the 1999 model year, the "Premium" trim level was eliminated, and leather upholstery became standard on all models, as was a trunk cargo net. The alloy wheel design was different on the 3.0 for each year, moving from a five-spoke design (MY 1997) to a seven-spoke design (MY 1998), to a different multi-spoke alloy design for the 1999 model year. The 2.2/2.3 CL used a six-spoke design for 1997, then moved to a 5-spoke double-prong design for 1998 and 1999. The 4-cylinder model had an option for a 5-speed manual transmission. The CL also featured galvanized body panels which helps to prevent rust.
- 1996–1999 Acura CL 3
- 1996–1997 Acura CL 2
- 1997–1999 Acura CL 2
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Acura Cl model years
Common Acura Cl problems
The Acura CL is a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of common problems. Transmission failure is one of the most common issues affecting the Acura CL, particularly in models from 1997 to 2003.
Electrical problems are another common issue with the Acura CL, affecting models from 1997 to 2003.
The 2003 Acura CL Type S 6-speed manual transmission (MT) is generally reliable, but there are a few things to look out for with higher mileage vehicles. Rust can be a problem, so it's important to check the car's underside and ensure that the timing belt has been replaced.
Beyond transmission and electrical issues, there aren't many other common problems with the Acura CL. However, some owners have reported issues with the rotors warping, the tranny blowing out at low mileage, and the CD changer not working properly.
In conclusion, while the Acura CL is a reliable vehicle, it's important to be aware of common issues such as transmission failure and electrical problems. Regular maintenance and addressing any problems as soon as they arise can help keep your Acura CL running smoothly. If you're considering purchasing an Acura CL, it's important to know which years to avoid and to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure the longevity of your vehicle.
Are Acura CL reliable?
It is indeed #1 in one thing, and one thing only. As for the long-term reliability of the CL (click here), it dovetails very well with the Acura TL because it's basically the same car underneath. There are two generations of the CL. The first generation you see on the left lasted from 1997 thru 1999.
Does Acura CL have VTEC?
The CL, however, was never produced as a 2000 model and instead in March 2000 the completely redesigned Acura CL was released as a 2001 model featuring a 3.2 L SOHC VTEC J-series V6.
What is the recall on the 2003 Acura CL?
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.
What is the Acura CL based on?
It was based on the Acura TL platform and they were built on the same assembly line. The Acura CL was initially launched to replace the Legend Coupe, but it was a completely different vehicle.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Acura Cl years
We have researched Acura problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Acura Cl cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Acura Cl model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Acura Cl model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Acura Cl years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Acura Cl car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Acura Cl , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Acura Cl vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cl model years
A total of 33 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cl model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cl model years
There were a total of 29 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cl model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 617 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Acura Cl . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Acura Cl vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Acura Cl 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 19UYA42511A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: In and around July 2024 my Acura cl started to have erratic shifting and locking up at highways speeds the vehicle is so unsafe to drive I cannot get the air bags fixed it shifts from 5th gear to 2nd gear in 2004 a remedy was applied to the transmission to aid and fix the downshifting issues and overheating issues the vehicle does have these problems and was not repaired correctly in 2004 by Acura I called Honda/acura and they are not willing to replace or fix the transmission
Acura Cl 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: 19UYA42633A
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There is a major issue with the relay under the steering wheel blocking the fuel from the pump going to the engine. This also affects the security system as well as the rack and pinion. The vehicle security turns itself on and off as it pleases, often leaving driver/passengers stranded and sometimes with the alarm not shutting off. This is after having keys re-programmed and most parts replaced for a hefty price tag. Due to this, the vehicle will only start at times. I've seen several similar complaints and taken it to many costly mechanics. I paid $7,000 for this vehicle a couple of years ago but only got to drive it a few times because there is always an issue that can't be fixed.
Acura Cl 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 19UYA42471A
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2001 Acura CL. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 MPH, there was a vehicle driving toward the contact's driver's side that ran the red light and crashed into the front of the vehicle. The entire front of the vehicle was damaged. The air bags did not deploy and the seat belt restraint system did not operate. The contact was treated for a back muscle injury and it was unknown if the other driver sustained injuries. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence where the contact was informed the vehicle was a total loss. The vehicle was towed to the junkyard. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 262,515.
Acura Cl 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-01
- VIN: 19UYA41613A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My 2003 3.2cls Acura had an airbag recall in in 2016. My vehicle was supposedly repaired at this time. However, recently my SRS light has been on requiring me to take my car to an Acura dealer. The dealer believes my steering wheel air bag has a faulty air inflator, which they claim is out of warranty and may require me to pay $3000 to repair. I do not understand how the manufacturer of the airbag/inflator can avoid repairing this. Shouldn't an airbag last longer than 8 years? What if everyone had to replace their airbags every eight years?
Acura Cl 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 19UYA42731A
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was stopped in heavy traffic. The traffic light turned green and the cars in front of me started to move. I tapped my accelerator with my right foot and the gasoline was delivered to my engine with maximum force. I could not stop the car with my foot on the brake. I steered the car to the right so that I would not rearend the car in front of me. The car sideswiped the car I front of me and I went into an embankment and stopped. A police officer thought I may have hit both the brake and the accelerator pedal with my right foot, but he did not understand that I was only going about 5 mph when the accelerator exploded, so that this was impossible. The Acura agency in Latham says that I could have switched off the ignition, but with both hands gripping the steering wheel and my right foot pressing the brake pedal with maximum force, I could not have turned off the ignition at the same time. Therefore the advice was not practical.
Acura Cl 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-15
- VIN: 19UYA42663A
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I have an SRS light illuminated on my dashboard. Upon researching this, it is apparently a sensor issue which, when the light is on, indicates that the sensor in the seat - belt is malfunctioning, and this will keep the air bags from deploying. This of course is a serious safety issue. Also, in reviewing the warranty information, it states that all seat-belt issues are under a lifetime warranty. I'm wondering if you could provide confirmation of this. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) Randal Steadman
Acura Cl 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-28
- VIN: 19UYA42692A
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: UNKNOWN
Acura Cl 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-04
- VIN: 19UYA42653A
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Subframe rusted through on the passenger side where the cause is a manufacturer defect of condensation from the air conditioning dripping directly above onto the subframe on the passenger side, which created a perforation of the passenger side subframe. Subframe holds the suspension and steering components together and if the passenger side frame from the manufacter defect were to break traveling at highway speed, the car would loose control and cause accidents. The vehicle was inspected at an independent facility and is ready to be inspected again upon request.
Acura Cl 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-02
- VIN: 19uya42671a
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Frank let us Acura would not preform my transmission recall after it locked up “stating the recall has already been done” but they “don’t have any record of it” they claim someone didn’t file the paper work on it but my trans locked up going 70 miles and hour and threw me off of the road
Acura Cl 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-14
- VIN: 19UYA2251XL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR WERE REPLACED TWICE. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MCGRATH ACURA OF DOWNTOWN CHICAGO (1301 N. ELSTON AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60642) FOR A RECALL REPAIR ON THE AIR BAGS HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO MENTION OF THE FAILURE OF THE VEHICLE TO START OR FOR THE VEHICLE STALLING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BATTERY WAS BEING DRAINED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON ANOTHER OCCASION WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY. THE CONTACT CALLED AAA AND THE VEHICLE WAS JUMPSTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND DRIVEN HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 248,000.
Acura Cl 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-23
- VIN: 19UYA3257WL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V026000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CALLED NAPLETON'S PALM BEACH ACURA (6870 OKEECHOBEE BLVD, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33411; (888) 980-7593) AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Acura Cl 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-05
- VIN: 19UYA2251XL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: UNABLE TO GET THE AIRBAG REPLACED AFTER MORE THAN 6 MONTHS OF THE RECALL NOTICE. I CONTACTED ACURA AND THEIR LOCAL DEALERS BUT WAS BEING BOUNCED AROUND WITHOUT ANY UPDATE IN TERMS OF PARTS AVAILABILITY OR TIMING FOR FIXING THE PROBLEM. THERE WAS ANOTHER HONDA AIRBAG RELATED FATALITY REPORTED TODAY. ACURA NEEDS TO TAKE THE AIRBAG RECALL SERIOUSLY AFTER 6 MONTHS HAS ELAPSED.
Acura Cl 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2020-09-14
- VIN: 19UYA2250WL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V026000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. A DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Acura Cl 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-09-09
- VIN: 19UYA42451A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE LOCAL DEALER ACURA OF TROY (1828 MAPLELAWN DR, TROY, MI 48084, (877) 820-3015) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Acura Cl 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-09-04
- VIN: 19UYA42601A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE DEFECT WAS UNAVAILABLE. AN UNKNOWN DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF*JB
Latest 5 recalls Acura Cl
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 20 recalls for different components of the Acura Cl.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Acura Cl 1998
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-17
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Model: Acura Cl 2001
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-17
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Model: Acura Cl 2001
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-17
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Model: Acura Cl 2002
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-17
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Model: Acura Cl 1999
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-17
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
Latest negative Acura Cl car reviews
Latest positive Acura Cl car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1998
I'm so glad I bought this car right out of college, it was my first new car and it has been an absolute pleasure to own! I really can't complain about anything too much. I think I may even drive this one into the ground - it will make a great second car when I finally decide to get something new.
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Vehicle year: 1997
This is the best car I've ever owned. Extremely reliable, looks great even after 6 years and 120000 miles, sporty yet roomy.
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Vehicle year: 1999
So far, I've only added gas and done regular maintenance. It still has the original Michelin tires with 100k miles on them! This car is a beast and helps me take the lead on the freeway in no time. It's like driving a cheetah on the roads!
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Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I just wanted to share that I recently traded in my 2002 Acura CLS for the six speed. I know it might not have been the smartest financial move, but I've been waiting for two years to find something comparable to my previous Prelude and I just couldn't resist. It's been a bit of a challenge finding a replacement for my beloved Preludes, but I'm really happy with my new ride!
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Vehicle year: 1997
Owning this car has been such a treat! It has been the most reliable car I have ever had, and it still looks brand new after all these years! The only thing I have ever needed to replace were the tires. Even after 7 years, it still turns heads and makes finding a replacement very difficult.
Are you having problems with your Acura Cl?
Sean Considine 2025-04-11
Vehicle year: 2001
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my Acura vehicle. I purchased it in 2005 as a certified pre-owned car from a dealership in NJ with less than 40K miles. It has been a great ride and has lasted me a long time, up until a couple of days ago when it reached 222k miles. Unfortunately, I did have some issues with the transmission. I had to replace the original transmission in 2008, which was quite a challenge. Recently, my maintenance required light came on and I took it to the shop, only to find out that the transmission is on its way out. This is actually my second Acura vehicle, but I have decided to switch to Lexus. Thank you for taking the time to read my story!
Haleigh Jaskolski 2025-04-03
Vehicle year: 1998
I've had my car for 5 years and it's been great, but I did experience some issues with the transmission. After a minor collision, the transmission started shifting very hard. I later found out that this was a known issue with Acura/Honda's 1997-1998 models, and it had also happened to two of my friends who own a 1997 prelude and 1998 Accord. It's important to be aware of this problem and take necessary precautions. However, I'm happy to report that the transmission was fixed free of charge.
Travis Wilkinson 2025-04-02
Vehicle year: 2001
I purchased my CL Type-S four years ago with just over 100k miles on it. Overall, it has exceeded my expectations, but unfortunately, I have experienced a serious transmission issue. I have had to replace the transmission twice, with the first costing well over $2k. The second replacement was covered under warranty, but now, at 215,000 miles, I am facing the possibility of a third replacement. If you are considering purchasing a used CL Type-S, please be aware that you may encounter transmission issues at some point. Despite this issue, the car has been a joy to drive, with comfortable seats that make long trips a breeze. Ultimately, I have decided to sell my CL and upgrade to a 2007 TL. You just can't beat the value of a Honda or Acura! In summary,
Rodolfo Heller 2025-03-01
Vehicle year: 2003
After only 1500 miles, the transmission on my car went bad, even though I took great care of it. Unfortunately, this seems to be a common issue, as the dealer was not surprised when I reported the problem. It's frustrating to learn that there is a 3-month waiting list for CL/TL transmissions. I discovered on the www.acura-cl.com message board that many others are experiencing similar transmission problems. It's disappointing to have these issues with a luxury car. I would recommend considering an Accord instead of the CL or TL. It's clear that the CL and TL transmissions are not reliable.
Ulises Carroll 2025-02-19
Vehicle year: 1997
My CL 3.0 has 77K miles on it, and has had numerous repairs since the warranty expired including bad alternator ($300+), bad transmission (remanufactured $2500+), check engine emissions($250). Parts are expensive for this car. What has happenned to Acura reliability? This will be my last Acura. I will purchase a long extended warranty if I ever were to get a Honda/Acura product again. Also this car has developed a LOT of noisiness and squeaks in the last few years.The CL is great for highway drives, comfortable and fast on the highway. Has a nice set of standard options and great V6 engine.