1996 Acura Rl problems

Common 1996 Acura Rl problems

The Acura RL, produced in 1996, is known for its luxury and performance, but like any car, it has its share of common problems.

• SRS Light Turning On: Another common problem with the 1996 Acura RL is the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light turning on, indicating a problem with the airbag system. This issue can be caused by a malfunctioning sensor, which could potentially cause serious injury or death in the event of an accident. Over 150 Acura RL owners have reported this problem, with the affected vehicles including the 1998 to 2007 and 2012 model years.

• Check Engine and D4 Flashing Lights: The check engine and D4 flashing lights are common issues with the 1996 Acura RL, usually caused by a faulty transmission control module (TCM) or a bad torque converter. This issue affects 17 model years from 1996 to 2014 for the Acura TL and 15 model years from 2001 to 2017 for the Acura MDX. The TCM is responsible for managing the transmission's electronic systems and shifting patterns, and when it malfunctions, it can cause the check engine and D4 lights to illuminate. A bad torque converter can cause transmission slippage, resulting in flashing lights.

• Shudder or Vibration: The shudder or vibration is often related to a problem with the torque converter or transmission mounts in the 1996 Acura RL. The shudder or vibration is usually felt when the vehicle shifts between gears or when the torque converter clutch engages or disengages. If left untreated, the problem can cause further damage to the transmission, leading to costly repairs. A general diagnosis by a certified Acura technician is necessary to determine the root cause of the shudder or vibration.

While these problems are common in the 1996 Acura RL, it's important to note that with proper maintenance, this luxury car can stay luxurious and reliable. The 1996 Acura RL has a solid drivetrain, but other systems such as brakes, suspension, electrical system, exhaust, A/C, and radiator may require repairs over time. The engine timing in the 1996 Acura RL is a timing belt, with a prescribed maintenance interval of 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the model. The cost to replace the timing belt can vary, but it's recommended to replace it before it fails to avoid more extensive damage to the engine.

Are Acura RL reliable cars?

These compact, midsized, and large models have high scores in CR's road tests—and they're reliable.

Are Acura RL expensive to maintain?

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Acura RL is $539, compared to an average of $976 for luxury fullsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.

Does the Acura RL have VTEC?

The first-generation RL was powered by a 225 hp (168 kW) 90° C-series V6 non-VTEC engine. The second-generation RL uses a newer design 60° J-series 3.5 L V6 SOHC VTEC engine delivering 300 hp (224 kW; later revised to 290 hp due to new SAE testing procedures).

Is Acura RL a luxury car?

The Acura RL is a mid-size luxury car that was manufactured by the Acura division of Honda for the 1996–2012 model years over two generations. The RL was the flagship of the marque, having succeeded the Acura Legend, and was replaced in 2013 by the Acura RLX.

1996 Acura Rl car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Rl problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Service brakes problems
• Visibility problems
• Hydraulic problems
• Engine and engine cooling problems
• Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Acura Rl vehicle components and the number of complaints received.