3 Star Reviews for 2003 Acura TL

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
456 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2003, all TL models equipped with the navigation system receive OnStar as standard equipment.

Pros:
  • Excellent value, comfortable front seats, impressive power from the Type-S engine, long list of standard equipment.
Cons:
  • Average interior materials, lacks the panache of some competing luxury sedans.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 456.00
  • Headlights a problem - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    Be careful before you buy this car -- the headlights go for $800 each and get stolen very often. At the mall, in the driveway, parked while working, etc. It has happened twice to me and I am dumping this car -- I cant take the expense anymore.

  • Gas Guzzler 11 mpg in city - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    This car takes premium gasoline; a fact which was not disclosed to this purchaser. I get 11 mpg in the city and am filing a lawsuit again Acura and Rick Case. The car rides well, but head room is insufficient. I am down 1/4 of a tank on 50 miles driving. Buyers Beware.

  • Last honda product Ill own - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    I was very excited to get my Acura, but have had it in for brake rotors twice, and for an engine ticking noise twice which they say is normal. Sunroof squeeks, radio squeeks and navigation system is often incorrect. I am very dissapointed in this car and will not be purchasing another Acura product!

  • TL is Junk - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    I have never felt so badly about a product as to write a review, but this car is so awful that I cant let it go. I drive the car very conservatively and cautiously. The transmission has failed three times. Exterior paint scratches and chips easily. Exterior sheetmetal is thin and dents easily. Brake rotors warp and require maintenance frequently. Seat heaters no longer work. CD changer has stopped working. Interior has numerous rattles, squeaks, buzzing noises. Air conditioner has needed refrigerant refill two times. Moonroof leaked and flooded interior, car interior now has disgusting mold odor. I am sorry I purchased this vehicle.

  • Stay Close To Home - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    We purchased the 03 TL to replace our Maxima and things were fine for exactly 50,000 miles. The transmission (auto) went out at warranty, but was replaced at no charge. The second transmission lasted 1500 miles and went out when we were in a remote rural area. Now on the third tranny and fingers are crossed. Hate to trade in a car that is already paid off, but we really dont trust it anymore. Looks great and very nice ride on the Michelins.

  • Stay away from the TL Type S - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    I would not buy again or recommend buying the 2003 TL Type S. It is a piece of junk. Ive had the car for one year and needed to have the sunroof resealed (leaking), the brakes and rotors went twice (first time after 5 months - resurfaced - 3K miles, second time - completely replaced - 12500K.). These are just some of the major issues Ive had with the car. Initial quality was great, but wait two months and the car will start to rattle and squeak.

  • Stay Away From Used 2003 TL-S - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    Nearing the end of my lease on an 03 TL-S. Got it because dealer was marking down vehicles to make way for new 04s. Didnt research the vehicle beforehand as much as I usually do. So far, dealer has replaced the decal stripping around all exterior windows, the drivers side window controls replaced, clock light is out, seats squeak when driving over bumps, 6-disc CD has been on the fritz for months. I have been to the dealership 3x for the CD player, and they have had to re-order the unit because replacement doesnt work, or theyve used it to repair the stereos in other cars. The tranny is now frozen in Park, will take it in on Monday. Do not buy 03 or prior year TL.

  • Wont Buy Another One - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    My wife has owned this car for less than two years. We were sold on its so- called reliability and resale value. In 35,000 miles weve had front pads and rotors replaced, water pump replaced and now the transmission has to be replaced. Were scared to death of what might come next after the warranty expires. This thing has been pampered and its falling apart. Maybe KIA built this thing instead of ACURA. Its got to go.

  • Acura Lemon - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    I have had to return this car to the dealer 12-15 times. 3 Struts have been replaced, 2 seat frames, numerous rattles and noises. The car has not held its resale value as I had hoped. I would not continue to own it if it had.

  • very disappointed - 2003 Acura TL
    By -

    I loved my car when I first bought it. Put the CompTech headers, exhaust, springs, swaybars plus Koni shocks and Brembo Gran Turismos on it under factory warranty. Well, less than 6 months after I bought the car I start having paint problems - horrid peeling, bird doo eating through the paint (my other car is 8 years old and looks amazing - this Acura looks 20 years old at 2). Now Im in the tranny recall issues.... on my third tranny. Tranny #2 had zero power to the ground. The car was being outgunned by delivery trucks! I am furious with Acura - my family has owned 8 or 9 Acuras, ranging from Type R Integras to TLs and CLs.... and Acura wont do a thing :-(

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