1998 Acura Rl problems
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Common 1998 Acura Rl problems
The Acura RL, produced between 1996 and 2004, is known for its reliability. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported, particularly with the 1998 model. These problems can be categorized into electrical, drivetrain, ignition, and sensor issues.
Electrical problems are a common complaint among Acura RL owners, with the 2003 model year being the worst affected.
Drivetrain-related problems are also prevalent in the Acura RL, particularly with the drive shafts. The drive shafts in the Acura RL are made of carbon fiber, which makes them lightweight but expensive to replace if they fail
. The center bearing on the drive shaft is typically what fails, causing a loud whine that can be very annoying
. This issue is more common in older models, such as the 2005 and 2006 models, but seems to have been resolved in later models
Ignition problems are another common issue in the Acura RL, particularly with the 1998 model. One owner reported that their car wouldn't start, and after taking it to a local garage, they found that the fuel pump was the issue.
Sensor problems are also common in the Acura RL, with the SRS light turning on due to faulty sensors or the OPDS unit.
In summary, while the Acura RL is known for its reliability, there are some common problems that owners have reported, particularly with the 1998 model. These problems include electrical issues, drivetrain problems, ignition issues, and sensor problems. While these issues can be expensive to fix, they can often be resolved by replacing faulty parts or tinkering with the wiring. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of the vehicle.
Are Acura RL reliable cars?
These compact, midsized, and large models have high scores in CR's road tests—and they're reliable.
What is the fuel economy of a 1998 Acura RL?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 1998 Acura 3.5RL | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Premium Gasoline |
| 19 MPG 17 23 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 5.3 gal/100mi | |
| MPG estimates for 2016 and older vehicles may have been revised Learn more | View Original EPA MPG |
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.
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).
1998 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:
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Seat belts problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Acura Rl vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Acura Rl complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Acura Rl.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-10
- VIN: JH4KA9641WC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V026000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-20
- VIN: JH4KA9653WC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 ACURA RL. 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. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE RECALL. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-02
- VIN: JH4KA9650WC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MAY 15, 2010...I HAD MY LEFT CV AXLE AND TIRE ALIGNMENT ON THE LEFT SIDE SERVICED. JULY 2, 2010 I WAS DRIVING AND MADE A LEFT TURN. ABOUT A HALF A MILE DOWN THE ROAD MY CAR ON THE LEFT SIDE COMPLETELY COLLAPSED. I THOUGHT IT WAS A TIRE BLOW OUT, BUT IT WASN'T. VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND INSPECTED. DIAGNOSED: LEFT LOWER BALL JOINT CAUSED THE INCIDENT ACCORDING TO THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT. CURRENTLY CAR IS IN THE SHOP AS I AM TRYING TO SEE WHO'S AT FAULT IN ORDER TO GET ASSISTANCE FOR THE WORK TO BE DONE. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH I FOUND THAT THE LOWER BALL JOINT WAS RECALLED DURING 1996-1999 FOR THIS PART. ALSO THE LEFT SIDE FRONT FENDER ETC IS DENTED. *TR
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-03
- VIN: JH4KA9646WC
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1998 ACURA AND OTHER HONDA VEHICLES INTERIOR DOOR HANDLES ON DRIVERS SIDE FAILS NOT ALLOWING DRIVERS TO EGRESS THE VEHICLE. YOU CANT OPEN THE DOOR FROM INSIDE. THE ONLY WAY OUT OF THE VEHICLE IF SITTING IN THE DRIVERS SEAT IS TO HAVE SOMEONE OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. ACURA REFUSES TO FIX STATING VEHICLES ARE OUT OF WARRANTY. IF VEHICLE IS STUCK FROM OPPOSITE SIDE THERE IS NO WAY TO EGRESS VEHICLE YOU ARE TRAPPED. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-01
- VIN: JH4KA9683WC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED INTERMITTENTLY TWO OF THE SEAT BELTS LOCKED AND THEY HELD THE PASSENGERS IN THE SEAT. THESE WERE THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT AND DRIVER SIDE REAR. THE SEAT BELTS HAD TO BE UNBUCKLED AND THEN PUT BACK ON TO RELEASE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-04
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: A SQUEAKING NOISE COULD BE HEARD WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH OR LESS. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO INFORMED CONSUMER THAT BOTH LOWER BALL JOINTS NEEDED TO REPLACED.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- VIN: JH4KA9659WC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: APPROXIMATELY 60 DAYS AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD NO REAR SEAT BELTS. *NM THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE ENGINE STARTED ON ITS OWN WITH NO KEY OR PERSON REQUIRED. WHEN IT RAINED, WATER LEAKED INTO THE VEHICLE. SENSORS, WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASH BOARD AND WIPERS HAVE NOT FUNCTIONED PROPERLY SINCE THE PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE THEY WORK RANDOMLY OR NOT AT ALL. *TC *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WINDSHIELD HAS A GLARE. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-04
- VIN: JH4UA3645WC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE WOULD NOT/ GO INTO GEAR OR MOVE. TOOK VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC, AND THEY STATED IT WAS DIFFERENTIAL AND TRANSMISSION. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-03
- VIN: JH4KA9642WC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR BRAKE PADS WERE REQUIRED TO BE REPLACED AT 16552 MILES DUE TO WEAR. FRONT BRAKE PADS REQUIRED TO BE REPLACED AT 26,219 MILES DUE TO WEAR. DEALER CLAIMS THAT THESE ARE JUST "SOFTER PADS" AND IT IS NORMAL FOR THE BRAKES TO WEAR OUT THIS QUICKLY. I DON'T BUY IT. NO ONE HAS BEEN HURT-YET. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION JERKS WHILE COMING OUT OF FIRST GEAR.
1998 Acura Rl recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1998 Acura Rl.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED BOLT.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION WOULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DECELERATION AND A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER. ALSO STEERING CONTROLLABILITY WOULD BE REDUCED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS.
Positive 1998 Acura Rl car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Acura Rl problems:
1998 RL issues........any suggestions? - AcuraZine - Acura ...
Nov 2, 2011 ... The gears that allow the telescoping and tilting functions may be jammed or missing a tooth. You'll need to remove the plastic covering to see ...
1998 Acura RL Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Acura RL? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Acura RL.
Common Problems with RL | Acura World
Oct 10, 2005 ... Common Problems with RL · ABS Regulators · Window Regulators · SRS Lights On · Oxygen Sensors · EGR valve and Intake Manifold carbon built-up · Ball ...
What to look for when purchasing '96-'98 RL | Acura Legend Forum
Nov 19, 2004 ... Reliability - My last 5 cars have been relatively high mileage Japanese vehicles - 2 Honda's, 2 Toyota's, 1 Infiniti. I have had extremely good ...
Opinions on 1998 Acura RL 3.5 V6? | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Nov 7, 2021 ... One major thing is a large oil leak under the engine where it meets the transmission, and goopy sludged oil at the oil cap. Caked on sludge.
Other years of Acura Rl
Are you having problems with your 1998 Acura Rl?
Elias Nitzsche 2024-11-22
I have owned my RL for over four years and have been extremely pleased with its dependability and comfort. Like most cars made by Honda/Acura, it has an understated, timeless style and is very dependable mechanically. Although it has limited acceleration ability, it is sufficient for normal driving. Overall, I highly recommend this vehicle and would definitely consider buying another Acura for my next purchase.
Dallin Schoen 2024-09-20
I purchased a 1998 model with a navigation system for $18,500 back in November 2001. Although the navigation system is not always reliable (so don't throw away your maps just yet), it is easy to use when it does work. This car is perfect for long trips or for winding down after a tough day. The only downside is the wind noise, but this can be easily remedied with a moonroof wind deflector. The car handles bumps well despite some body roll. The power is adequate, but not particularly impressive. If I want a sportier ride, I opt for my J30. The stereo is excellent and overall, this car is a great luxury option considering its price and reliability.
Oswald Kuhic 2024-08-01
This car has a quiet luxury and quality that makes it easy to live with year after year. The performance is more than sufficient, and the transmission shifts smoothly up or down. I have the navigator GPS system and will get it again in my next Acura, which will be an RL or MDX. The driver's seat is the most comfortable I've ever used, and the seating in the back seat is very comfortable as well. My colleagues at work always want to go to lunch in this car and remark on how good it looks even after 4 years. It's reliable, and maintenance is reasonable for a luxury car. The paint is superior to anything I've seen.
Tyreek Kemmer 2024-07-23
I bought the car new in 1998. This has to be one of the most reliable cars ever built. Routine maintenance and one window motor replacement is all this car has ever needed. It's very comfortable on long trips and easy to maneuver in the city. The build quality is outstanding. Inside and out, it looks like the day I bought it. Acura has definitely earned my loyalty.
Darwin Muller 2024-07-14
Always reliable. Even after ten years, the build quality of this is incredible. Leather, paint, and all interior trim pieces are still in great shape. I have test driven several cars in the last two years and none offer anything new or better quality. When driving this car, there is a tangible perception that you are experiencing engineering at its best.