What's Wrong with the 3rd Generation (2004–2008) TL?

TL owners have made 179 complaints about the 2004–2008 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it dead last in overall reliability, with significant interior and electrical concerns.

Compare With Other TL Generations

Common 2004-2008 Acura TL Problems

Some of the worst issues 3rd generation TL owners have to deal with.

  1. Takata Airbag Inflator Recall

    A large number of Acura vehicles have been recalled because they contain dangerous airbag inflators made by Takata. The shrapnel-hurling inflators have been recalled in over 37 million vehicles (and counting).

    Continue reading article "Takata Airbag Inflator Recall" Crash ttest dummy about to slam into an airbag with a super-imposed Takata logo

  2. TL Cracked Dashboards

    Does every 2004-2008 Acura TL have cracks in the dashboard? It certainly feels that way. Regardless of your climate or if you’ve garage-kept your sedan, hairline cracks and deep gaps are a common complaint from owners.

    Continue reading article "TL Cracked Dashboards" An Acura dashboard with two cracks running perpendicular to the windshield

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

3rd Generation (2004–2008) TL Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 179 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 30th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 30 eligible generations.