Acura TL Engine: HP, MPG, and Reliability

Braden Carlson
Aug 18, 2021

The Acura TL offered a luxury ride with great features at an affordable price, thanks to engine options that reached 305 HP before the TL was retired in 2014.

2014 Acura TLJ37 V6 Engine

Key Points

  • Acura TL debuted in 1996, sitting between the Integra and Legend in price and size.
  • The TL was Acura’s best-selling model from 1999 to 2006.
  • The TL ended in 2014, and used options offer a luxury automotive experience.
  • Throughout its 18-year run, the Acura TL underwent four different generational changes.
  • Most notable change for third-gen. TL was debut of a six-speed manual transmission.
  • Fourth and final generation debuted with 2009 TL offering two engine options.
  • 2010 TL’s 3.7L J-series V6 engine had substantial power output at 305 horsepower.
  • Acura TL proves to be very reliable, and when things do go wrong, they’re not severe.

2005 Acura TL - Photo by Acura

From 1996 to 2014, Acura’s TL Became a Best-seller and Nearly Twice as Powerful

The Acura TL first saw the light of day in the 1996 model year, taking the place of the Vigor sedan and sitting comfortably between the Acura Integra and the Acura Legend as a middle ground in both price and size.

Its intent was solely to be a trustworthy, luxurious ride that owners could comfortably cruise down the road from point A to point B without worry. The TL was a top performer for Acura, in fact, it was their best-selling model from 1999 to 2006.

Though the TL was retired after the 2014 model year and replaced with the TLX, it still offers a great opportunity for used car shoppers to take an affordable step into the luxury side of automotive life. Throughout its 18-year production run, the Acura TL underwent four different generational changes. Let’s take a look at the engines found under the hood of each generation of the TL.

2002 Acura TL Type S - Photo by Acura

First-generation TL’s Two Engines Offered 176 and 200 HP

The first-generation (1996-1998) TL was available with two different engine options. The first and lower-power variant is a bit unique in that it is an inline five-cylinder engine. The second option is a 3.2-liter V6. Let’s take a look at the specific specs of each engine.

The 2.5-liter inline-five found under the hood of first-generation TL models is a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) engine with an aluminum engine block and cylinder head. Additionally, the engine uses cast-iron cylinder sleeves for added strength. It has four valves per cylinder, for a total of 20 valves. It uses standard multi-point electronic fuel injection.

The TL models equipped with the 2.5-liter have 176 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque. They get 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

The 3.2-liter V6 engine in the first-generation TL has very similar construction to the five-cylinder but in a different (V-shaped) layout. It also uses largely aluminum construction with cast-iron cylinder sleeves, and it, too, has a single camshaft per cylinder head, for a total of two. Additionally, it features four valves per cylinder, for a total of 24, and uses standard multi-point electronic fuel injection.

The V6 has a bit of a power advantage with 200 horsepower and 210 lb.-ft. of torque. It sees fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

1999 Acura TL - Photo by Acura

Second-generation TL Engine’s Power Output Increased to 260 HP

The second-generation (1999-2003) of the Acura did away with the unique five-cylinder engine option and offered only the 3.2-liter V6 on TL models. Though the engine displacement is the same, the 3.2-liter V6 found under the hood of second-generation TLs is from a different engine family. These are J series engines, like the ones found in Honda Accords and Odysseys.

The engine found in the second-generation TL, the J32, uses similar mostly aluminum construction. Additionally, it retains the single overhead camshaft construction as well as four valves per cylinder. However, the largest difference between the first- and second-generation V6 engines is the addition of Honda’s iconic variable valve timing system, VTEC.

The standard Acura TL came with 225 horsepower on tap and 216 lb.-ft. of torque to complement it. However, the 2002 Acura TL saw the introduction of the Type-S model. While the engine remained the same 3.2-liter V6, power output was increased to 260 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. of torque.

Second-generation Acura TL models see fuel economy ratings up to 17 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, according to the EPA.

2007 TL Type S - Photo by Acura

Third-generation TL Gets Six-speed Manual Transmission, and 286 HP

The 2004 Acura TL brought on yet another forward generational step, and with it came a massive jump in both power and styling. Though, the premise remains the same with the only offering being a single engine option. Also, like the previous generation, the engine in question is in the J-series family of engines. However, third-generation (2004-2008) models saw a displacement increase to 3.5 liters.

Perhaps the most notable change for the third-generation TL, though, is Acura’s decision to offer a six-speed manual transmission. This is the first generation the TL was available with a manual option.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine, the J35, features virtually identical construction to the J32 but features a larger bore and longer stroke for the additional displacement. It retains the single overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder foundation.

Power for the J35 came in quite a bit higher than the previous generation, with standard models seeing 258 horsepower and 233 lb.-ft. of torque. By the end of the third-generation production run, the Type S model made a triumphant return with 286 horsepower and 256 lb.-ft. of torque.

The third-generation TL model sees fuel economy numbers up to 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

2014 Acura TL SH AWD - Photo by Acura

Fourth-generation TL Offers Two Engines, Raises Power Output at 305 HP

The fourth and final generation (2009-2014) debuted with the 2009 Acura TL. It’s only appropriate that it ends the way it started, with two different engine options.

The first option remains the J35 3.5-liter V6 engine like the third-generation models. Though this engine remains nearly identical to the previous models’ variant, it came standard with 280 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 2010 Acura TL introduced the successor to the Type S, the SH-AWD. It features a 3.7-liter J-series V6 engine that, once again, retains the single overhead camshaft construction and all the other standard features of the J series engine, like valve count and material makeup. This engine was mated to a six-speed manual all-wheel-drive transmission and had a substantial power output at 305 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque.

Fourth-generation models see fuel economy ratings up to 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Is the Acura TL Engine Reliable?

For those not in the know, Acura is the luxury division of Honda. As such, you’d expect that Acura vehicles retain Honda’s notoriety for reliability. That assumption would be correct. Don’t just take our word for it, though. Let’s take a look at the Acura TL’s reliability rating according to Repair Pal.

Repair Pal gives the Acura TL an overall reliability rating of four out of five stars across all model years. In terms of luxury midsize cars, that ranks it sixth most reliable out of 31 possible. Additionally, the site states that the average annual repair cost for an Acura TL is low at $467. Furthermore, issues are infrequent, and the severity of repairs is generally very low.

Overall, used car buyers looking into buying an Acura TL should take solace in knowing that they are indeed very reliable. Furthermore, when things do go wrong, they are not all that severe.

As always, when shopping for a used car, it is a good idea to have a certified mechanic take a look before purchasing. Additionally, inputting the vehicle’s VIN into our free VIN research tool helps to see if the vehicle has any accident or theft history so you know what you’re getting yourself into.

Photos: Acura

Frequently Asked Questions

Mar 30, 2022

Does the Acura TL have transmission problems?

The Acura TL has been known to have transmission problems over the years, along with most Honda and Acura vehicles that have a V6 engine. There were known problems with excessive heat building up in the transmission and there was a recall that was issued in 2004 to add a cooler line to the transmission to try to reduce the wear and tear.

The 2000 through 2003 model years of the Acura TL had the most transmission problems, with them failing very frequently between 60,000 and 120,000 miles due to problems with the third gear clutch pack. The cost to replace the transmission could be over $3,000 depending on labor rates, so it gave the TL a reputation for having a bad transmission.

After 2004 the transmissions got better in the TLs but they were not without their faults. Acura has issued service bulletins to help improve the reliability of the transmissions up until the 2011 model year. Transmission failure rates have dropped off significantly since then as the latest revisions have fixed a lot of the original problems.

Does the Acura TL require premium gas?

The Acura TL does not require premium gas, but it is a good idea to use premium gas in the vehicle if you can afford it. The engine in the Acura TL is very similar to the ones that are offered in Honda vehicles, but they are tuned up to produce extra power. To make the extra power you will need to use a higher octane fuel, otherwise, you may notice a degradation in performance.

It is always a good idea to use the highest grade fuel that you can afford in your Acura TL. Using a higher octane fuel will burn more completely in the engine and that helps reduce carbon buildup and sludge within the cylinders. There are also options on the market that are listed as "top tier gas" which have detergents in them to remove residue left behind by cheaper gasoline options.

Acura typically recommends that you use premium gasoline in your car, but if you cannot find premium or it will not fit into the budget then using a regular gasoline choice from time to time will not cause damage.

Is an Acura TL expensive to maintain?

The Acura TL is not too expensive to maintain, they have an estimated annual maintenance cost of $500 to $550 per year. This falls right in line with what you would expect since the national average is $500 to $700 per year across all makes and models. The TL is significantly more affordable to maintain than a lot of other luxury vehicles which often have maintenance costs over $800 per year.

At its core, the Acura TL is built on the same platform as the Honda Accord which helps keep the maintenance and running costs low. These are simple to work on, and most of the parts are interchangeable with other Honda parts which keeps them affordable to own.

If you're in the market for a midsize luxury sedan that offers good performance then a TL is a great vehicle to look at. These are a lot more affordable than the competition while still offering great tech and luxury.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tyerell S on June 24, 2021
2001 Acura TL is the perfect blend of all the most important features a mid size sedan can have.
I absolutely love my car. I haven't had a single problem with it since the first day I got it. The v-tech engine is a great mixture of power/speed and fuel economy on top of being one of the most reliable I've ever owned. Over 200,000 miles and you couldn't ask it to run any better.
accountCircle Zack C on July 29, 2021
Acura tl 2005: a reliable car.
I love the v6 engine and it still retains a lot of its horsepower today. It is truly the most fun car I've driven. My car is very reliable, it has 250,000 miles on it and is running strong.
accountCircle Becky M on June 17, 2021
2006 Acura TL - 170,000 miles, still great condition!
I really love how this car drives. The engine is high quality and you can really tell by the way this car accelerates. It has around 170,000 miles on it and it still runs great.
accountCircle Allison K on August 19, 2021
My 2004 Acura TL has been a very reliable car.
I have 206,000 miles on the engine which shows it's been a great car. The car is said to live up until 300,000 and then the engine may need rebuilt.
accountCircle Angie K on July 3, 2021
I absolutely love my 2013 Acura TL Tech.
The powerful engine makes it easy to pick up speed to pass whenever needed. This is the perfect car for me and I would recommend it to anyone.
accountCircle Kevin T on May 31, 2021
2007 Acura TL will run great as long as you keep up with the basic maintenance.
The Acura tl type s is a great, reliable car. This model comes with a bigger engine than the basic model giving it more horsepower.
accountCircle John B on June 13, 2021
2005 Acura TL is a beautiful car.
The tl delivers sharp-handling, a powerful v6 engine, and a fully independent suspension. Its engine doles out abundant power.
accountCircle Melva G on July 22, 2021
I have over 250,000 miles on my 2000 Acura TL and feels like it could go another 250,000.
My vehicle has excellent road handling. I love how it drives on the highway and long drives. The v6 engine is so powerful.
accountCircle Autumn C on March 22, 2021
2010 Acura TL is very fast, has a lot of horsepower for its class.
I have had no problems with anything engine wise or technical difficulties. Overall a very good and reliable car.
accountCircle Don U on August 7, 2021
I would recommend 2002 Acura TL.
The performance of this vehicle is very nice for being a luxury car has a 3.2 engine has a lot of power.
accountCircle Myra H on April 6, 2021
My 2007 Acura TL is great.
I like the power of the engine, how it has held its looks and has reasonable value despite its age.
accountCircle Tracy B on May 8, 2021
Acura TL 2004- A better Honda
Great 6 cylinder engine. Great used car. Good mileage and easy repairs since it uses Honda parts.
accountCircle Mia R on May 28, 2021
2004 Acura TL has been a very reliable vehicle.
I like the sound of the engine, it sounds very strong and powerful. The performance is excellent.
accountCircle Anna D on March 27, 2021
2003 Acura TL will not give you trouble.
I love the engine on the car. It was worth every penny. I really don't have any complaints.
accountCircle Terry on November 6, 2022
2004 Acura TL
With 230,000 miles the engine still runs strong. Looking to keep past 300k to 400k.
accountCircle Joel D on April 3, 2021
2004 Acura TL is comfortable and fast!
This car is absolutely smooth, comfortable, sleek, performance, fast, v6 engine.
accountCircle Tommy N on May 27, 2021
2003 Acura TL drives smoothly.
It is old and has a bit of repair history. It has had engine issues in the past.
accountCircle Jake J on May 21, 2021
My 2000 Acura TL runs like a champ.
An interesting highlight is that it is a v6 engine which has some horsepower.
accountCircle Aubrey F on May 15, 2021
2006 Acura TL is truly reliable.
It is a 3.2 6 cylinder engine that has a nice feel of power to it.
accountCircle John J on June 21, 2021
2002 Acura TL is an older model and still runs relatively well.
The car has engine problems in the winter and starts up slowly.
accountCircle Logan Y on April 20, 2021
Great engine, great perks, 2000 Acura TL can last a while in right conditions.
The 3. 2 liter engine is great, has a lot of power behind it.
accountCircle Miles T on March 20, 2021
2004 Acura TL has call features which is pretty impressive for a 2004 car.
It's a smooth drive and the engine is real silent.
accountCircle Casey S on August 1, 2021
2004 Acura TL has nearly 200k miles and has no problems.
Love the luxuries and performance of the engine.
accountCircle Pia L on March 21, 2021
2004 Acura TL has nice leather seats.
I've had problems with the engine recently.
accountCircle Fred A on June 30, 2021
2002 Acura TL has a great working air conditioner and engine
The engine is top notch.
accountCircle Ivy G on March 29, 2021
I love my 2003 Acura TL.
Awesome engine.
avatar Braden Carlson
An automotive journalist for over six years, Braden Carlson has contributed to a variety of auto websites, including Team Speed and LS1Tech. When he’s not writing or under one of his project cars, you’ll often find him producing video and photography for his "Cursed Forever" YouTube channel.
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