The Acura TL is a luxury sedan that existed for four generations. This post reviews the top 5 Acura TL problems owners experienced with the 3rd generation, years 2004 to 2008, including common symptoms and their fixes.
Top 5 Issues with the 3rd Gen Acura TL (2004 to 2008)
1. Transmission Problems
Symptoms of Transmission Problems on the 3rd Gen Acura TL
- Problems with the transmission shifting
- D4 light flashing on the dash
Causes of Transmission Problems
Sometimes the transmission leaks on the 1st gen Acura TL and can cause problems with the transmission, but usually these are caused by an internal problem with the transmission.
How to Fix Transmission Problems
If the transmission is leaking, the leaks usually need to be fixed and the transmission fluid will need to be flushed.
If there is an internal problem with the transmission, it will need to be removed, repaired, or replaced.
2. Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Failure
Symptoms of Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Failure
- Abnormal tire wear
- Clunking when driving over bumps
Causes of Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Failure
The bushings on the front lower control arms are made of rubber and can deteriorate and dry rot over time, which can loosen them and reduce performance. As the bushings wear out, the wheel alignment can misadjust and cause the tires to wear out faster than usual.
How to Fix Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Failure
Replace the control arm and have an alignment completed after finishing this repair.
3. Front and Rear Shock Absorber Failure
Symptoms of Front and Rear Shock Absorber Failure
- Car bounces more than normal when driving over bumps
- The shocks may be leaking fluid
How to Fix Front and Rear Shock Absorber Failure
Replace the shocks if they are leaking or damaged.
4. EGR Valve Failure
Symptoms of EGR Valve Failure
- Rough engine idle
- Rough running engine
- Extended crank when starting
- Check engine light
How to Fix EGR Valve Failure
Disconnect the electrical connector, remove the two nuts, and replace the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and gasket.
5. Idle Air Control Valve Failure
Symptoms of Idle Air Control Valve Failure
- Surging engine idle
- Stalling engine
Causes of Idle Air Control Valve Failure
Earlier generations of the Acura TL have an idle air control valve attached to the bottom of the throttle body, which is cable-operated. The 3rd gen Acura TL has an electric throttle body with the idle air control valve integrated into the throttle body. All of these generations can have the same problem, but earlier generations can have the idle air control valve replaced separately.
How to Fix Idle Air Control Valve Failure
Since the idle air control valve is integrated into the throttle body, replace the throttle body.
Diagnose and Fix Parts Yourself
Learn how to diagnose and fix parts yourself on many makes and models. 1A Auto has thousands of how-to videos that cover repairs, diagnostics, and general knowledge of many different vehicles with expert advice to guide you.
3rd Generation Acura TL Model Years
Related Content
- How to Check for Bad Transmission Fluid
- Is your Transmission Slipping, Jerking, or Low on Fluid?
- Signs of transmission failure and ways to prevent it
- Rattle in Front End When Going Over Bumps?
- Front End Clunking Noise While Driving?
- Bad Shocks & Struts Symptoms
- When Should Shocks & Struts Be Replaced?
- How to Check Tire Tread for Wear
- DIY Alignment
Shop 3rd Gen Acura TL Parts
