2003 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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Common 2003 Acura Cl problems
The 2003 Acura CL has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine, suspension, navigation system, and transmission.
- Broken Front and Rear Stabilizer Link: This problem affects the suspension system, where the front and rear stabilizer link can break. This issue can lead to poor handling and a less stable ride.
- Navigation System Failure: The navigation system in the 2003 Acura CL has been reported to have issues with map matching or getting lost. This problem can be frustrating for drivers who rely on the navigation system for guidance.
- Misaligned Timing Belt Tensioner Pulley: This issue affects certain V6 engines in the 2003 Acura CL, where the timing belt tensioner pulley is misaligned. This can cause the timing belt to contact a bolt on the cylinder head, potentially damaging the belt and leading to failure.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems are a common complaint among 2003 Acura CL owners. Issues such as jerkiness, vibrating steering wheels, and torque converter problems have been reported.
- Warped Brake Rotors: This issue can lead to poor braking performance and increased stopping distances. Some owners have reported repeated warping of the brake rotors.
- Rear Sway Bar End Link Failure: This problem affects the rear sway bar end links, which can break during normal use, particularly when the car is in a parking garage and the weight shifts on ramps. This can lead to poor handling and stability.
- CD Changer Malfunction: Some owners have reported issues with the CD changer, including error messages and the need for manual intervention to get it working again.
These issues can lead to inconvenience, frustration, and potentially expensive repairs. It is essential for owners of the 2003 Acura CL to be aware of these common problems and address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicle.
Are Acura CL reliable?
The Acura CL Coupe is a reliable, solid vehicle. While I have had to fix a few things on the car (the ignition switch was recalled for example), overall, I have had to do very little to maintain this car. My biggest complaint is the mediocre gas mileage, but it is a V6 to be fair.
Do all 2003 Acura TL have transmission problems?
Some 03 & 04 TLs Have Been Recalled For Possible Over-Heating Automatic Transmission 2nd Gears Which Can Chip Or Break And Even Lock-Up The Transmission. The recall included some 2003 TLs (3.2TL) and some 2004 TLs (in a certain VIN range).
Does Acura CL have VTEC?
For the 2000 model year, the Acura CL's sibling, the TL, was redesigned. 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.
How fast is the 2003 Acura CL Type S?
The VTEC V6 is the same used in the TL Type S output Peaks at 260 horsepower. And 6100 RPM. And 232 pound-feet of torque available from 3500 to 5500 RPM.
2003 Acura Cl car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Cl problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Acura Cl vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Acura Cl
The NHTSA has received 78 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Acura Cl. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Acura Cl vehicles.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- 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?
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-15
- 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.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-26
- VIN: 19UYA42483A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. ALSO, WHILE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER, TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND ON, AND IT RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE AND DETERMINED THAT THE SENSOR FOR THE DRIVESHAFT THREE AND FOUR GEAR CABLE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V176000 (POWER TRAIN). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 10011555. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1,054.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-24
- VIN: 19UYA41623A
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I AM UNABLE TO OPEN DRIVERS SIDE DOOR FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE. CAR STILL LOCKS AND UNLOCKS LIKE NORMAL, SO I DON'T BELIEVE THAT THE ACTUATOR IS AT FAULT. THE CONTROL ARMS FOR BOTH HANDLES ARE INTACT & SEEM TO FUNCTION AS NORMAL. I AM ASSUMING THAT EITHER THE LATCH MECHANISM IS STUCK, JAMMED, OR OTHERWISE DYSFUNCTIONAL. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY WHEN IT HAPPENED, AND THE DOOR ITSELF ISN'T DAMAGED/IMPACTED. I LIVE IN ATLANTA, GA, SO THE LATCH ISN'T FROZEN. I AM AWARE THAT THIS IS AN OLDER MODEL (2003), HOWEVER IN THE PAST I HAVE CLEANED & LUBRICATED THE LATCH/LOCK MECHANISM. IT IS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO FIX THIS PROBLEM WHEN THE DOOR IS UNABLE TO BE OPENED, AND IN THIS MODEL, IT ISN'T POSSIBLE TO COMPLETELY REMOVE DOOR PANEL WITHOUT DAMAGE. IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD TO BE UNABLE TO OPEN 1 OF 2 DOORS, ESPECIALLY BEING THAT IT'S THE DRIVERS SIDE. I HAVE YET TO BE ABLE TO FIND ANYONE KNOWLEDGEABLE OF THIS SITUATION, AND HAVEN'T COME ACROSS ANY SOLUTION ONLINE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-03
- VIN: 19UYA41663A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: ACURA SAYS THEY GUARANTEE ALL PARTS OF THE SAFETY BELT FOR THE USE OF A LIFETIME OF THE CAR. CAR HAS 120000 MILES ON IT. I HAVE INTERMITTENT BUCKLING ISSUES AND SRS AIRBAG SWITCH IS BAD INSIDE A SEALED SAFETY BELT. COULD EASILY BE REMEDIED IF IT WASN'T A SEALED UNIT. THEY SAY THEY WON'T FIX IT BECAUSE IT'S A CANADIAN CAR EVEN THOUGH IT'S SPENT 100% OF ITS OWNED LIFE IN THE UNITED STATES. THEY WANT AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF MONEY, OVER $400 TO FIX IT. I FEEL MY SAFETY IS BEING HELD HOSTAGE BY THIS EXCESSIVE AMOUNT AND I CAN'T EVEN DO IT MYSELF BECAUSE MY ELECTRIC SEATS WON'T WORK IF I TRY, ONLY FACTORY SOFTWARE CAN RESET THEM SO THEY WORK. I KNOW THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM BUT I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY I'M BEING DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE I HAVE A CANADIAN MADE CAR. I KNOW THEY HAVE TO PASS ALL THE SAME PRODUCTION REGULATIONS FOR SAFETY TO ENTER THE UNITED STATES WHETHER THEY'RE MADE IN CANADA OR HERE. WHAT I'M REALLY HOPING FOR IS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD TRY TO PUT A STOP TO THIS CORPORATE GREED OF ENGINEERING PRODUCTS POORLY AND NOT FOLLOWING THROUGH WITH A FIX AND TRYING TO PROFIT OFF OF PEOPLE THAT DON'T HAVE THAT MUCH MONEY. I WOULD BE WILLING TO PAY FOR THIS FIX IF THEY WOULD PROVIDE IT AT A FAIR PRICE. THE SAFETY BELT PROBABLY COST THEM NO MORE THAN $20 BUT BY THE TIME EVERYONE MAKES THEIR PROFIT AND IT COMES TO ME AND THEN ADD THE LABOR TOGETHER WE'RE OVER $400 TO HAVE MY SAFETY BACK WHEN THEY SAY THAT THEY GUARANTEE THEIR SAFETY BELTS FOR LIFE IN THE UNITED STATES. IT IS IN MY OWNER'S MANUAL, AND YOU CAN FIND THIS INFORMATION ONLINE. I WAS HOPING THAT THEY WOULD BE ISSUED A MAJOR FINE TO MAKE IT SO THEY DON'T TREAT OTHER CUSTOMERS THIS WAY AS WELL. I KNOW THERE ARE PROBABLY REASONS TO SEAL A SAFETY BELT SO THAT IT IS NOT TAMPERED WITH BUT THEY USED TO MAKE SPECIALTY TOOLS SO WE COULD BE ACCESSED EASILY FOR CLEANING AND CHANGING OF THESE INEXPENSIVE SWITCHES.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-23
- VIN: 19UYA41763A
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: UPON REMOVING MY FRONT RIGHT (PASSENGER SIDE) WHEEL TO CHECK MY BRAKE PADS, I NOTICED THE REAR PORTION OF THE SUB-FRAME (WHICH HOLDS UP THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION AS WELL AS THE STEERING RACK AND SWAY BAR) HAD RUSTED AWAY ALLOWING THE SWAY BAR TO COME COMPLETELY LOOSE ON THE RIGHT SIDE. I RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND FOUND THAT MANY LATE 1990S AND EARLY 2000 HONDA/ACURA MODELS (PRIMARILY HONDA ACCORDS, ACURA TL AND CL MODELS) HAD THIS ISSUE DUE TO THE POORLY DESIGNED AIR-CONDITIONING CONDENSER DRAIN THAT DRAINED RIGHT ON TOP OF THIS PART, CAUSING AN EXTREME RUST CONDITION. (THE LEFT (DRIVER'S) SIDE OF THIS PART STILL LOOKS LIKE NEW AND IS SOUND) IF I HAD NOT FOUND THIS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION, IT MAY HAVE CAUSED A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL RESULTING IN A POTENTIALLY SERIOUS ACCIDENT. I FEEL THAT THESE CARS SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO A RECALL. I AM IN THE PROCESS OF HAVING THIS PART REPLACED (A REPAIR OF THIS PART IS NOT POSSIBLE, IT MUST BE A FULL REPLACEMENT), I WILL RETAIN THE REMOVED PART FOR INSPECTION AFTER REMOVAL SHOULD YOU DESIRE TO SEE IT. I HAVE ATTACHED SOME PHOTOS SHOWING THE DETERIORATION AS BEST I COULD. (I'M SORRY THE PHOTOS ARE NOT BETTER, IT'S A DIFFICULT AREA TO REACH WITH A CAMERA)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-11
- VIN: 19UYA41673A
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE INTERMITTENTLY SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT HAD TO ADD STARTER FLUID TO THE VEHICLE IN ORDER TO GET IT TO DRIVE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V120000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 278,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-02
- VIN: 19UYA42463A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I BOUGHT A USED ACURA AND ON THE WAY HOME ON THE HIGHWAY THE CAR SUDDENLY DOWN SHIFTED VIOLENTLY SEVERAL TIMES CAUSING THE CAR TO SKID SIDEWAYS .I PULLED OVER AND THE CAR WOULD NOT SHIFT OUT OF 3RD GEAR.EVENTULLY I GOT IT TO RESET AND IT DROVE FINE FOR 35 MINUTES UNTIL ONCE AGAIN IT LOCKED UP DOING 65MPH.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-04
- VIN: 19UYA424X3A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE CRADLE IS TOTALLY BROKEN IN HALF. THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE & IT IS ALL I HAVE. ONLY 120,000 MILES ON IT, WAS THIS A DEFECT ON YOUR PART? I NEED HELP. THIS REPAIR INCLUDES REMOVING ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, FROM CAR TO ACCESS ENGINE CRADLE. THE COST IS OVER $1500.00 DOLLARS. I TRULY THOUGHT I WAS BUYING A QUALITY CAR! I HAVE NO IDEA HOW LONG I HAVE BEEN DRIVING THIS HIGHLY UNSAFE VEHICLE OF YOURS!! IT ALSO LURCHES FORWARD AT TIMES WHEN I PRESS ON THE BRAKE. I'M MAKING PAYMENTS ON IT & NOW MUST BORROW AGAIN TO REPAIR THIS CAR. PLEASE GET BACK TO ME ON THIS ASAP.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-25
- VIN: 19UYA42433A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE HID LIGHT WENT OUT. I PAID TO GET THE BALLAST AND INVERTER REPLACED. LESS THAN 3 WEEKS LATER, THE PASSENGER SIDE WENT OUT; SAME ISSUE. SINCE THEN, I HAVE PERSONALLY TALKED TO 4 PEOPLE WITH THE EXACT SAME STORY. THEY ALSO FIXED THE DRIVER'S LIGHT BUT NOT THE PASSENGER DUE TO THE COST. A SERVICE MAN AT THE ACURA STORE TOLD ME HE HAS A FRIEND WITH THE SAME CAR AS MINE, SAME ISSUE. ALSO, HE HAS HAD "QUITE A FEW CUSTOMERS" GO THRU THE SAME THING. IN, ADDITION, I HAVE SEEN 3 CARS WITH THE PASSENGER HEADLIGHT OUT IN MY AREA. IT SEEMS TO ME THAT IF I HAVE COME ACROSS 12-17 PEOPLE WITH THE SAME HID HEADLIGHT ISSUES WITHIN A 15 MILE RADIUS, AND THIS WAS THE FIRST YEAR THESE LIGHTS WERE INSTALLED, THERE IS OBVIOUSLY A PROBLEM WITH THEM AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL. A
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-16
- VIN: 19UYA42633A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS RIDING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE ENGINE WENT INTO HIGH RPM'S AND THE CAR WAS SLOWING DOWN. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WENT OUT. I BARELY GOT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT POWER. THE CAR ONLY HAS 77,248 MILES ON IT. THERE WAS ACURA SERVICE BULLETIN 02-027 FEB 5, 2008, ABOUT TRANMISSION PROBLEMS. VERY SCAREY!
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-15
- VIN: 19UYA42493A
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE, THE CONTACT FELT A VIBRATION IN THE STEERING WHEEL AND BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FOUR DEALERS. ONE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT NOTHING FAILED AND SHE DID NOT KNOW WHAT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. ANOTHER DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR ROTORS COULD BE WARPED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE OTHER TWO DEALERS ALSO DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE WITH THE BRAKES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,000. ..UPDATED 06/21/17 *BF *AS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-10
- VIN: 19UYA42643A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ELIMINATED, VSA LIGHT COMES ON AND D5 LIGHT FLASHES WHILE DRIVING AFTER TRANSMISSION WARMS UP., CAR WONT SHIFT INTO 4TH OR 5TH GEAR RPMS WIND UP REAL HIGH HAVE TO PULL OVER TURN OFF ENGINE THEN RESTART TO DRIVE ONLY SHORT DISTANCE BEFORE IT STARTS DOING THE SAME THING. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT APPROX. 65 MPH WHEN CAR SUDDENLY STARTED DOWNSHIFTING ON ITS OWN CAUSING ME TO ALMOST CRASHED WHEN I WAS JERKED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-21
- VIN: 19UYA42643A
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: GOING 5 MPH IN PARKING LOT, COASTING TO A STOP AT END OF AISLE WITH FOOT OFF THROTTLE PEDAL. PUT FOOT ON BRAKE AND THE ENGINE REVVED TO HIGH SPEED. BARELY HELD CAR WITH BRAKE. SHUT OFF IGNITION. CAR RESTARTED FINE. THIS WAS THE SECOND TIME IN A WEEK IT HAD HAPPENED. PREVIOUS INCIDENT WAS ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET COMING TO A STOP AT A STOP SIGN. ACURA DEALER AND ACURA TECHLINE SAY THE PROBLEM CAN'T HAPPEN BECAUSE THE THROTTLE CONTROL IS A HARD CABLE, NO ELECTRONICS INVOLVED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-01
- VIN: 19UYA42483A
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ERRATIC/RAISED ENGINE IDLE CAUSED BY WORN IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE CREATES A CONDITION WHERE ENGINE IDLE IS SUDDENLY HIGHER THAN 2000RPM IN GEAR WHICH RESULTS/RESULTED IN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION (VEHICLE SPEEDS UP WITH NO ACCELERATOR PEDAL INPUT) AND THE ENGINE IS MORE POWERFUL THAN THE BRAKING SYSTEM (WITH VEHICLE IN DRIVE GEAR, BRAKE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR, VEHICLE WILL STILL MOVE FORWARD.) CONDITION HAPPENS TO MY VEHICLE WHEN ENGINE IS NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERATURE, WITH WARM TO HOT AMBIENT TEMPERATURES, ON ANY ROAD CONDITION.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 19UYA42703A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND CRASHED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V176000 (POWER TRAIN). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-27
- VIN: 19UYA42683A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V320000 (AIR BAGS) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE DELAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-15
- VIN: 19UYA426X3A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V351000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PARTS WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 4/15/15*CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIR BAG ISSUE WAS RESOLVED. UPDATED 04/16/15*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-10
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 19UYA42403A
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AFTER VEHICLE SKID ON BLACK ICE CRASHING INTO A SERIES OF TREES CAUSING MAJOR FRONT END DAMAGE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-20
- VIN: 19UYA42423A
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED, THE TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HTTP://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=LIETYNXGJJC AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. ABOVE IS THE LINK SHOWING THE CAR AND THE AIRBAGS INTACT......UPDATED 12/15/15 *BF
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-11
- VIN: 19UYA42773A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED DESPITE THE CAR HAVING THE FACTORY RECOMMENDED SERVICE FOR THE TRANSMISSION BEING PERFORMED AT 60K AND 89K. THE TRANSMISSION DROPPED INTO 2ND WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AT 65MPH. UPON INVESTIGATING IT WAS FOUND THE CAR WAS PART OF A CLASS ACTION DUE TO TRANSMISSION FAILURE, BUT I WAS NOT ELIGIBLE SINCE THE CAR WAS OUT OF THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-12
- VIN: 19UYA42483A
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 ACURA CL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING A REDUCTION IN ACCELERATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE 107,000.
2003 Acura Cl recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2003 Acura Cl.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: 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 Q5A and Y58.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began April 10, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on July 1, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238, select option 4. Note: Vehicles that have had their driver frontal air bag replaced previously as part of a recall remedy prior to September 12, 2014 need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well. Vehicles that, on or after September 12, 2014, received a remedy for a prior driver frontal air bag inflator recall already received an inflator of a different design, and therefore are not included in this recall and do not require additional servicing. Note: This recall fully supersedes recalls 08V-593, 09V-259, 10V-041, 11V-260, 14V-351 and 15V-153. Honda's numbers for this recall are JQ9, JR0, JR1, JR2, JR3, JR4, JR5, JR6, JR7, and JR8.
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: GEAR FAILURE COULD RESULT IN TRANSMISSION LOCKUP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: ON VEHICLES WITH 15,000 MILES OR LESS, THE DEALER WILL UPDATE THE TRANSMISSION WITH A SIMPLE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE TO INCREASE LUBRICATION TO THE SECOND GEAR. ON VEHICLES WITH MORE THAN 15,000 MILES, THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSION TO IDENTIFY GEARS THAT HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED DISCOLORATION DUE TO OVERHEATING. IF DISCOLORATION EXISTS, THE TRANSMISSION WILL BE REPLACED IF DISCOLORATION IS NOT PRESENT, THE DEALER WILL PERFORM THE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 21, 2004, FOR PILOT, ODYSSEY, AND MDX OWNERS. OWNERS OF THE ACCORD VEHICLES WILL START RECEIVING LETTERS ON JUNE 28, 2004, AND ON JUNE 29, 2004, FOR OWNERS OF THE TL AND CL VEHICLES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: IF THE TIMING BELT BREAKS, THE ENGINE WILL STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WATER PUMP AND IF IT IS ONE OF THE DEFECTIVE PUMPS, THE WATER PUMP AND TIMING BELT WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 30, 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 HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
Negative 2003 Acura Cl car reviews
Positive 2003 Acura Cl car reviews
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I've owned 94 cars in my life and I'm a hard-core car enthusiast. I can honestly say that the Acura CL Type S 6-speed is the best new car overall I have ever owned. I like it so much that this is the third new CL we've bought in the past 3 years. In 2001, we bought 2 CL's, a S for me and a Premium for my wife. Recently, we traded in her Premium for this new Type S 6-speed, and she inherited my previous Type S automatic. This car simply does everything well. It's comfortable, has jewel-like construction quality, bullet-proof reliability, great value, and the perfect balance between sport and luxury. There's nothing else like it on the market.
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This is my second CL. The manual transmission really makes the car with this engine. It's very balanced, phenomenally quick, and luxurious. It's also surprising how many sub-25 year olds are attracted to it, despite the marketing Acura has provided. It's a shame they didn't have the 6-speed sooner, or the car might have caught on to a wider audience. Unfortunately, it's going to be discontinued this June.
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Awesome ride, what's not to love about it!
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This car is incredible! It's sad that you guys have said that this car is horrible! This car performs awesome, it's fast and sleek. This car is the best Acura/Honda ever!
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This is a great car that is both stylish and dependable! It's also a lot of fun to drive! The Acura CL comes with all the features you need, without any extra cost. The only downside is the cupholder design, which could be improved to better accommodate different sized drinks. But overall, this is a fantastic car that I would definitely recommend!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Acura Cl problems:
Most common problems with the CL - AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast ...
Jul 14, 2004 ... 2G CL (2001-2003) - Most common problems with the CL - Obviously we all know about the transmission issues with this car, however I'd like ...
2003 Acura CL Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Acura CL? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Acura CL.
2003 Acura cl-type S 6speed mt reliability? - AcuraZine - Acura ...
Jan 24, 2012 ... Too high for that price. Your going to have the problems a 180K mile car has, Acura or not. The engines are fine. It's all the little things ...
2003 Acura 3.2TL Transmission Problem - Honda-Tech - Honda ...
May 30, 2011 ... Typical failure on these transmissions is 3rd gear clutch assembly. What you will get usually is a 2-3 slip condition initially with codes PO730 ...
2003 TL Type-S known problems - AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast ...
Sep 24, 2011 ... 2G TL (1999-2003) - 2003 TL Type-S known problems - I already have a 99 TL and I pretty much know the major problems with this year.
Other years of Acura Cl
Are you having problems with your 2003 Acura Cl?
Gordon Turner 2024-05-16
As a seasoned Toyota owner, I have high expectations for the build quality of my vehicles. Unfortunately, my Acura CL has not met those expectations. Despite multiple repairs, the fog lights have burned out twice, the sunroof still rattles, and the rear quarter panel had to be re-welded. Additionally, interior trim panels were falling off and the car continues to make rattling and squeaking noises. It is disappointing to report that my 2002 Acura does not meet the same standards as my 96 Corolla with 120,000 miles.
Mateo Lesch 2024-05-08
The car has its pros and cons, but one thing to consider is the dashboard that creaks and groans with rattles. It might be best to avoid purchasing this vehicle.
Reuben Keebler 2024-04-24
I appreciate the impressive engine, transmission, and seats of the car. The car accelerates well and has a firm yet comfortable ride. The handling is also commendable for a car of this weight. However, there are some minor issues with squeaks and rattles coming from the dash, passenger side seat, sunroof, and the rear of the car, which is unexpected for a car that costs over $31,000. I am confident that my dealer will be able to address these issues, and I am hopeful that they will be resolved soon. While my previous Acura Integra GSR did not have such issues early in its life, I am still satisfied with my purchase and would consider buying another Acura in the future.