2004 Acura Rl Problems & Reliability

Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! If you’re cruising down memory lane or just happen to be in the market for a reliable used car, the 2004 Acura RL might have caught your eye. Known for its luxurious feel and smooth ride, this mid-2000s gem has been a favorite among those who appreciate a blend of performance and comfort. But, like any vehicle that’s been around the block a few times, the 2004 Acura RL has its share of quirks and issues. In this post, we’ll dive into some of the common problems owners have faced and give you the lowdown on its overall reliability. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about how it holds up, we’ve got you covered. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. The 2004 Acura RL, while generally praised for its durability, isn’t without its hiccups. From transmission troubles to electrical gremlins, there are a few things you might want to keep an eye on if you’re thinking about adding this classic to your garage. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! Many owners have found that with a little TLC and regular maintenance, the RL can still deliver a dependable and enjoyable driving experience. So, buckle up as we explore the ins and outs of the 2004 Acura RL, helping you make an informed decision about whether this ride is the right fit for you.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Sensor Problems May Cause SRS Light To Turn On

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light turning on due to sensor problems. While this doesn’t affect the car’s drivability, it can be a bit annoying and might require a trip to the mechanic to diagnose and fix the sensor issue. Overall, it’s a solid ride, but keep an eye on that pesky SRS light.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Reprogram computer to fix shifting problem in automatic transmission

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL is generally a reliable car, but some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, specifically with shifting problems. Reprogramming the computer has been a common fix for this issue, and it seems to help improve the transmissions performance. While its not a widespread problem, its something to keep in mind if youre considering this model.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Check Engine Light for Running Rough and Difficulty Starting

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL seems to have some issues with the check engine light coming on, especially when the car runs rough or has trouble starting. While this can be a bit of a headache, it’s not uncommon for older vehicles to experience these kinds of problems. Overall, if you’re considering this car, just be prepared for some potential maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Engine Stalls While Driving and WIll not Start

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL seems to have a notable issue with the engine stalling while driving and not starting again, which can be pretty frustrating and potentially dangerous. This problem might make you question the overall reliability of the car, especially if you’re relying on it for daily commutes. If you’re considering this model, it might be worth looking into how frequently this issue occurs and whether there are any known fixes.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Acura extended automatic transmission warranty

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL is generally known for its solid performance, but some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission. To address these concerns, Acura extended the automatic transmission warranty, which provides some peace of mind for those worried about potential transmission problems. Overall, while the extended warranty helps mitigate some risks, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on the transmission’s performance and get regular maintenance.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Engine Clicks but Will Not Start

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL is generally a reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with the engine clicking but not starting. This problem is often related to the battery, starter, or ignition switch, which can be frustrating but typically isn’t too costly to fix. Overall, while this issue can be a hassle, it doesn’t overshadow the car’s reputation for reliability.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Brake Pedal Vibration and Grinding from Brakes

Analysis:

The 2004 Acura RL seems to have some issues with brake pedal vibration and grinding noises, which can be pretty annoying and might indicate wear or problems with the brake system. While these issues aren’t uncommon in older vehicles, they can affect the overall reliability and driving experience if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep these brake problems in check and ensure a smoother ride.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

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Onboard & Powertrain Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

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