Owners have filed 153 complaints
about the 2005 Acura RL with NHTSA between 2005 and 2025.
The largest single group is the lights.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 15 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Acura RL. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 24
4.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 24
14% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Headlights
735.0%
Body
525.0%
Radio/Tape Deck/Cd Etc.
210.0%
Front
210.0%
Electrical
15.0%
Power Assist
15.0%
Cooling System
15.0%
Hose, Piping, AND Connections
15.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
33.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
66.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
11.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1515.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2424.5%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1616.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1919.4%
150,000+ miles
1414.3%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2005 Acura RL 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
9.7% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2005peak 10Apr 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2005 Acura RL
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
1
investigation is
still open.
EA15001Opened 24 Feb 2015Still openAIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
PE14016Opened 11 Jun 2014Closed 2 Mar 2015AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
EA13002Opened 21 Feb 2013Closed 29 Mar 2013ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
Vehicle Stability Assist Malfunction
On March 14, 2013, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) submitted a Defect Information Report to NHTSA identifying a defect in the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system in approximately 183,576 model year (MY) 2005 Honda Pilot, Acura RL and MY 2005-2006 Acura MDX vehicles (NHTSA Recall No 13V-092).The population and failure counts provided pertain only to the MY 2005 Honda Pilots that were the subject of this investigation.Honda's recall addresses two conditions in the VSA system that could result in inappropriate brake activation.The first condition is related to a manufacturing concern wit...
Recalls on the 2005 Acura RL
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
19V500000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013 Acura ILX, 2015 RDX, 2005-2010 and 2012 RL, 2009-2014 TL, 2010 and 2012 ZDX, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2011-2013 and 2015 CR-Z, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013 Fit EV, 2010-2011 and 2013 Insight and 2007-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V501000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2012 RL, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2006 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V029000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2011 Honda Element vehicles, 2005-2012 Acura RL vehicles, 2006-2012 Honda Ridgeline vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles and 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles, 2005-2009 Acura RL and Honda Element vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda Fit vehicles, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot vehicles and 2006-2009 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, if not included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling certain 2005-2006 Acura MDX and Honda CR-V vehicles
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V344000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2011 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2011 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Honda is recalling certain model year 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2008 Acura RL, 2005-2006 Honda CR-V, 2003-2008 Element, 2007-2008 Fit, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2002-2004 Odyssey, and 2006-2008 Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or that have ever been registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Honda is recalling model year 2002-2004 Odyssey and model year 2003-2004 Acura MDX, Honda El
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V061000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
14V700000
AIR BAGS
American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2005 Honda Civic, 2003-2004 Civic CNG and Element, 2002-2005 CR-V, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2005 Accord, Pilot, Civic Hybrid, and Acura MDX, 2005 Acura RL and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
14V353000
AIR BAGS
American Honda Motor Company, Inc.'s (Honda) is conducting a limited regional recall for certain model year 2003-2005 Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot and Acura MDX, model year 2003-2004 Odyssey and Element, and model year 2005 Acura RL, and 2006 Honda Ridgeline vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in California, and equipped with Takata-brand air bag inflators. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
13V092000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Honda is recalling certain model year 2005 Pilot vehicles manufactured July 29, 2004, through August 29, 2005; model year 2005-2006 Acura MDX vehicles manufactured September 16, 2004, through September 22, 2005; and model year 2005 Acura RL vehicles manufactured March 1, 2004, through June 29, 2005. An electrical capacitor may have been damaged during the manufacturing of the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) control module causing intermittent, automatic, minor brake application. However, if the driver applies the brakes while the VSA is malfunctioning, the vehicle may come to an abrupt stop. Additionally, due to a loose ground connection, certain model year 2005 Pilots have a VSA system that may apply partial brake force, without the illumination of the brake lights, whether or not the driver is using the brakes.
Risk: Sudden inadvertent braking, especially without illumination of the brake lights, may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2017009428,641 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag inflator. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.
Recall 2016046269,201 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the driver frontal airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will inspect/replace the driver's frontal airbag inflator. Note: Honda Canada has created a special Airbag Inflator Hotline for immediate assistance. For more information, please contact: For Honda Owners: 1-877-445-7754 For Acura Owners: 1-877-445-9844
Recall 20130787,794 units in Canada
Brakes
Certain vehicles may experience a malfunction of the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, which could apply a small amount of brake force for a fraction of a second, even if the brake pedal has not been depressed. If the driver applies the brakes during a malfunction, the VSA system may employ the brake assist feature, which would increase braking force, exceeding the driver’s intended input. In either instance, an unexpected and unnecessary brake application could increase the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will install a partial wiring harness containing a capacitor for the VSA modulator.
Recall 201036434,360 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, a seal in the brake master cylinder may be susceptible to damage which can result in a leak if certain conditions exist. The polymer content affects the amount of lubrication the brake fluid provides to brake system components that are exposed to brake fluid. If the brake fluid is replaced with a low polymer brake fluid, and the brake fluid is subsequently subjected to a manual brake fluid bleeding procedure, as opposed to an automated brake bleed procedure, it is possible for the seal at the end of the brake master cylinder primary circuit to become twisted within its retention groove. If this seal becomes twisted, it can result in a leak of a small amount of brake fluid each time the brake pedal is applied. Should a leak occur, after some time the driver will be alerted by the illumination of the low brake fluid indicator light on the meter panel before any effect on braking performance results. If the driver continues to drive the vehicle without refilling the brake fluid reservoir, the vehicle will eventually exhibit a soft or spongy brake pedal feel, requiring more stroke to achieve equivalent braking force. Eventually, if this continues un-remedied, braking performance will be affected, and will finally result in a low pedal and a loss of one braking circuit. Correction: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder seal cup and the master power assembly if brake fluid has leaked.
Recall 20073871,172 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the power steering hose may deteriorate prematurely, causing the hose to crack and leak. Power steering fluid leakage onto a hot catalytic converter, will generate smoke and possibly lead to an under-hood fire, causing property damage and/or personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will install an updated power steering hose.
Recall 200708812,143 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, a manufacturing fault with the fuel pump relay could cause the coil wire in the relay to break. If this happens, the fuel pump will not operate and the engine may not start. If the relay fails while driving, the engine may stall without warning and a crash could occur. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the fuel pump relay.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Allentown, PAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Small electric fire in driver side door panel melted all the way through outside door handle . After this happened to me I looked through forums and this seems to be a common issue with this car and there has been no recall for this issue . Very unsafe
NHTSA complaint #11430934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesOrange Park, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER SON WAS DRIVING AND APPROACHED A CRASH THAT HAD ALREADY TAKEN PLACE. THE VICTIM OF THE CRASH WAS EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE AND WAS LYING IN THE ROAD. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND ATTEMPTED TO AVOID A VEHICLE THAT WAS STOPPED IN THE ROAD. THE CONTACT'S SON SWERVED INTO THE OTHER LANE AND CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE THAT WAS INVOLVED IN THE CRASH AS WELL AS THE VEHICLE THAT WAS STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE DRIVER'S VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND THEN LANDED UPRIGHT AGAIN. THE CONTACT'S SON SUSTAINED HEAD TRAUMA, CUTS TO THE EYES, A BROKEN NOSE, AND ONE OF HIS EYELIDS WAS DETACHED FROM HIS EYE AND HAD TO BE REPAIRED BY A PLASTIC SURGEON. HE WAS TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE HE REMAINED FOR A MONTH AND A HALF, BATTLING INFECTIONS DURING HIS RECOVERY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONLY THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE OTHER FIVE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A WRECKING YARD TO BE INSPECTED. THE CONTACT RETRIEVED THE VEHICLE AND TOOK IT TO HER RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.*DT CRASH REPORT (XXX) LICENSE NUMBER (XXX) VIN (XXXXXX) VEH LICENSE NUMBER (XXX) ('PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).')
NHTSA complaint #11281525 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 115,000 milesLinden, NJCrash
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
WAS STRUCK BY A DRUNK DRIVER WHILE TRAVELING NORTH ON GSP. LEFT DRIVER SIDE OF THE CAR WAS SIDE SWIPED FROM THE BACK TO THE FRONT. I HADN'T NOTICE THE LIGHT PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT HOWEVER ACCORDING TO THE BODY SHOP THERE WAS A PROBLEM PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT. THE AFS LIGHT WAS NOT TRIGGERED BY THE INCIDENT AND IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. INSURANCE REFUSED TO REPAIR UNDER CLAIM AS STATED BY THEM.....ACURA SHOULD REPAIR DUE TO THE RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #10546634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 145,000 milesLoomis, CA1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
MY 2005 ACURA RL HAS CHROME TRIM THAT IS APPARENTLY A THIN SHEET OF METAL THAT HAS BEEN APPLIED TO THE VEHICLE. AFTER SOME TIME, IT HAS DEGRADED, AND IS PEELING FROM ITS ORIGINAL POSITION. THIS HAS EXPOSED VERY SHARP EDGES. ONE OF THE DELAMINATED TRIM PIECES IS UNDER THE HOOD RELEASE, AND WHILE INSERTING MY FINGERS TO OPEN THE HOOD I RECEIVED A CUT ON MY HAND.
NHTSA complaint #10455724 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,000 milesNorwalk, CTCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
DT: THE CALLER WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT WHEN SHE SUDDENLY LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. IT ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN , AND SHE TRIED THE BRAKE AND IT DID NOT WORK. SHE SAID THE STEERING WHEEL DID NOT WORK, SHE TRIED TO TURN THE WHEEL AND NOTHING HAPPENED. THE VEHICLE HIT A PARKED CAR. THE POLICE CAME AND A REPORT WAS TAKEN. NO ONE WAS HURT. DEALER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED YET. THE MANUFACTURER SAID A CASE WORKER WILL CALL HER THIS WEEK. THEY CALLED HER BACK AND SAID THE CASE WAS CLOSED, AND INSURANCE COMPANY WOULD HAVE TO HANDLE IT. THE VEHICLE WAS LEASED.
NHTSA complaint #10137826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 8,256 milesGlen Rock, NJCrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
AFTER INFORMING THE ACURA SERVICE CENTER ABOUT 3 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT THAT THE BRAKES WERE NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY ON 2 SEPARATE OCCASIONS, AND BEING REASSURED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE BRAKES, I REAR-ENDED ANOTHER CAR ON APRIL 5 BECAUSE THE BRAKES FAILED AGAIN. ACURA REFUSED TO RUN A COMPUTER CHECK ON THE CAR OR TO SEND ANYONE FROM CALIFORNIA TO INSPECT THE CAR. THE DEALER SERVICE CENTER HAD INITIALLY TOLD ME THAT THEY WOULD HAVE SOMEONE FROM CALIFORNIA COME TO INSPECT THE BRAKES AFTER THE ACCIDENT. THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY CHECKED THE BRAKES BY DRIVING THE CAR AND THAT THEY WERE OKAY. THEY REPEATEDLY TOLD ME THAT THEY WOULD NOT DO ANY FURTHER TESTS PERTINENT TO MY COMPLAINT UNLESS THE CAR INSURANCE COMPANY REQUESTED THAT THIS BE DONE. I SPOKE WITH SEVERAL PEOPLE AT METLIFE, (OUR INSURANCE COMPANY), AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY DO NOT MAKE SUCH REQUESTS. WE SHOULD ASK THE MANUFACTURER TO RUN FURTHER TESTING. I AGAIN SPOKE WITH ACURA SERVICE AND THE CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER IN CALIFORNIA ,(ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS), AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD NOT RUN ANY FURTHER TESTING OF THE BRAKES. THEY AGAIN STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE FINE, AND THAT WE SHOULD PICK UP THE VEHICLE. TO DATE, WE HAVE NOT PICKED UP THE VEHICLE BECAUSE WE ARE AFRAID THAT THE VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. THE DEALER HAS HAD THE CAR SENT TO AN AUTO BODY SHOP. THIS CAR IS A LEASED VEHICLE. REPEATEDLY I ASKED FOR A WRITTEN REPORT REGARDING WHAT WAS CHECKED AND FOUND WITH BRAKES FAILURES IN THESE OCCASIONS, BUT NO ANSWER WAS RECEIVED FROM ACURA.
NHTSA complaint #10118199 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Londonderry, NH
AIR BAGS
I bought the car there was no airbag light on it I was driving down my road and it just randomly turned on been on ever since. Sunnyside Acura Told me that the frontal driver side airbag was replaced in 2016, Then they told me that it would not be under recall because they pretty much said they had already fixed it but the problem had occurred. They said it was done it 2016 the air bag should last the life of the vehicle. I was doing some research on Kelley Blue Book I had noticed that there is a campaign number and it sounds exactly like they issue that I was occurring that Acura told me and charged me $189 for diagnosis and told be about 2K to replace airbag . The campaign number is 19V501000 and it says August 12th 2019 is when the recall stated but Acura is showing not results and it is a safety issue so I would assume that it would be free of charge because of the safety issue not being my fault and having no history of car crashes and maintenance back to 2005 was done. .
NHTSA complaint #11656922 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, DE
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The center display screen went blank (black) and I can't adjust anything
NHTSA complaint #11529219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Georgetown, DE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The center display screen went blank (black) and I can't adjust anything
NHTSA complaint #11529219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Allentown, PAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Small electric fire in driver side door panel melted all the way through outside door handle . After this happened to me I looked through forums and this seems to be a common issue with this car and there has been no recall for this issue . Very unsafe
NHTSA complaint #11430934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesOlathe, KS
STRUCTURE:BODY
MY VEHICLE'S DASHBOARD GLOVE BOX IS DEFECTIVE. I BELIEVE THIS HAPPENS TO MANY VEHICLES WHICH NO ONE BOTHERS TO REPORT. MY GLOVE BOX, WHEN IT'S HOT OR THE SUN IS OUT, THE EXTERNAL LEATHER OR MATERIAL THAT IT IS MADE OF, SOFTENS AND DETERIORATED LIKE IT'S MELTED PLASTIC. ANY CONTACT THE LEATHER HAS WITH ANYTHING, THE LEATHER IS DAMAGED EASILY AND INDENTED VERY BADLY WHERE IT'S UNABLE TO REPAIR BESIDES TAKING IT TO A PROFESSIONAL. I'VE NOTICED MANY OTHER VEHICLES WITH THIS ISSUE, AND IT SEEMS TO BE A DEFECT I. THE VEHICLE WHICH IS OVERLOOKED TO BE RECALLED. I'VE HAD MY SUNSHADE JUST TEMPORARILY LEFT TO LAY AGAINST THE GLOVE BOX IN THE SUN FOR ONLY A FEW MINUTES, AND THE LEATHER ON THE GLOVE BOX WAS INDENTED AND TORN FROM THE LIGHTWEIGHT SUNSHADE.
NHTSA complaint #11327339 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Milwaukee, WI
AIR BAGS
CHECK AIRBAG SYSTEM LIGHT ON. CONNECTION TO HEADLIGHT DEFECTIVE, HEADLIGHT TURNS ON AND OFF RANDOMLY LIKE WHEN GOING OVER A BUMP, BUT TURNS BACK ON IF YOU TURN LIGHT OFF THEN ON AGAIN.
NHTSA complaint #11301852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Milwaukee, WI
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CHECK AIRBAG SYSTEM LIGHT ON. CONNECTION TO HEADLIGHT DEFECTIVE, HEADLIGHT TURNS ON AND OFF RANDOMLY LIKE WHEN GOING OVER A BUMP, BUT TURNS BACK ON IF YOU TURN LIGHT OFF THEN ON AGAIN.
NHTSA complaint #11301852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesOrange Park, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER SON WAS DRIVING AND APPROACHED A CRASH THAT HAD ALREADY TAKEN PLACE. THE VICTIM OF THE CRASH WAS EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE AND WAS LYING IN THE ROAD. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND ATTEMPTED TO AVOID A VEHICLE THAT WAS STOPPED IN THE ROAD. THE CONTACT'S SON SWERVED INTO THE OTHER LANE AND CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE THAT WAS INVOLVED IN THE CRASH AS WELL AS THE VEHICLE THAT WAS STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE DRIVER'S VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND THEN LANDED UPRIGHT AGAIN. THE CONTACT'S SON SUSTAINED HEAD TRAUMA, CUTS TO THE EYES, A BROKEN NOSE, AND ONE OF HIS EYELIDS WAS DETACHED FROM HIS EYE AND HAD TO BE REPAIRED BY A PLASTIC SURGEON. HE WAS TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE HE REMAINED FOR A MONTH AND A HALF, BATTLING INFECTIONS DURING HIS RECOVERY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONLY THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE OTHER FIVE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A WRECKING YARD TO BE INSPECTED. THE CONTACT RETRIEVED THE VEHICLE AND TOOK IT TO HER RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.*DT CRASH REPORT (XXX) LICENSE NUMBER (XXX) VIN (XXXXXX) VEH LICENSE NUMBER (XXX) ('PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).')
NHTSA complaint #11281525 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesNorth Oaks, MN
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SLOW DOWN. WHEN SHIFTED TO N DURING AN EVENT, TACHOMETER READS 6000 RPM. THROTTLE PEDAL AND AREA ARE CLEAR, NO CODES.
NHTSA complaint #11281621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 237,000 milesNottingham, MD
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
HID HEADLIGHTS. MY PROBLEM HAS BEEN WITH MY HEADLIGHTS EVER SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE USED IN JULY OF 2015. EVERY NOW AND THEN THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT WOULD FLICKER AND GO OUT. I CAN GET THE HEADLLIGHT TO COME BACK ON BY TURNING OFF THE HEADLIGHTS AND TURNING THEM BACK ON. THE PROBLEM CAN BE SO BAD AT TIMES THAT I HAVE TO DO IT REPEATEDLY WHILE I'M DRIVING. I DO MOST OF MY DRIVING AT NIGHT SO THIS HAS BECOME A VERY REAL ISSUE FOR ME. I'VE READ HOW OTHERS HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM BUT ACURA REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE IT. IT'S A COSTLY REPAIR ESPECIALLY IF THEY CAN'T FIND EXACTLY WHAT THE ISSUE IS. I'VE ALREADY GOTTEN STOPPED BY A POLICEMAN ABOUT THE HEADLIGHT BEING OUT. AND WHEN I EXPLAINED TO HIM WHAT THE ISSUE WAS HE LET ME GO ONCE I SHOWED HIM THAT IT CAME BACK ON. THE CAR ITSELF HAS BEEN AMAZING TO DRIVE ESPECIALLY HOW HARD I'VE DRIVEN IT OVER THE YEARS AND IT NOW HAS ABOUT 238,000 MILES ON IT OF WHICH I PUT ABOUT 95,000 MILES. OTHER MAJOR REPAIRS LIKE THE AIR CONDITIONING I HAD REPLACED WITHIN A MONTH AFTER PURCHASING THE CAR UNDER WARRANTY. I WAS NOT SO LUCKY WITH THE RADIATOR THAT WENT UP. THE WHOLE ORDEAL ENDED UP COSTING OVER $1000 AT A AAA AUTO REPAIR CENTER. I STILL SAY IT IS AN AMAZING CAR FOR THE TECHNOLOGY, ROAD MILES, AND AGE OF VEHICLE. I PURCHASED IT BECAUSE IT WAS ALL-WHEEL DRIVE AND THE PRICE WAS JUST UNDER $10K BACK IN 2015. THIS CAR NEW WAS MORE LIKE $50K-$55K. I WISH THAT ACURA WOULD ISSUE A RECALL AND MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS FOR THE HID SYSTEM. I ACTUALLY READ HOW ONE OWNER HAD BOTH HEADLIGHTS GO OUT WHILE DRIVING. SCARY TO EVEN THINK ABOUT THAT HAPPENING AT THE WRONG TIME AND THEY NOT KNOWING HOW TO FIX IT THE WAY I LEARNED WHICH IS TO TURN THEM OFF AND ON. SOMETIMES I CAN GO SEVERAL MONTHS WITH NO ISSUES AND THEN OTHERS IT HAPPENS JUST ABOUT EVERY NIGHT DEPENDING ON CLIMATE I SOMETIMES THINK, SPECIFICALLY, HUMIDITY, BUT I CAN'T BE SURE.
NHTSA complaint #11155315 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 145,000 milesLittleton, CO
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
THE HEADLIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY GO OFF WHILE DRIVING. SOMETIMES ITS ONE AND SOMETIMES BOTH. YOU HAVE TO TURN THE LIGHTS OFF AND BACK ON AND THEY TURN BACK ON. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10957674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 250,000 milesHamilton, OH
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
DOOR HANDLE STARTED SMOKING AND WILL NOT LET START GPS DISPLAY SCREEN DOES NOT WORK CLOCK DISPLAY DOES NOT WORK VSA LIGHT IS ON ALL THE TIME CAR WAS STATIONARY BURNT OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE.
NHTSA complaint #10945417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 250,000 milesHamilton, OH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DOOR HANDLE STARTED SMOKING AND WILL NOT LET START GPS DISPLAY SCREEN DOES NOT WORK CLOCK DISPLAY DOES NOT WORK VSA LIGHT IS ON ALL THE TIME CAR WAS STATIONARY BURNT OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE.
NHTSA complaint #10945417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesBloomington, MN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
PASSENGER SIDE LOW BEAM FLICKERS AND WILL COMPLETELY GO OFF. HAVE TAKEN INTO DEALER WITH NO RESULTS (CLAIM THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM). THIS I BELIEVE IS A SAFETY ISSUE. PEOPLE HAVE COMPLAINED OF THIS SINCE 2005 WITH NO SOLUTION. IF WHEN DRIVING YOU TURN YOUR LIGHTS OFF THEN BACK ON THEY COME BACK ON TILL THE FLICKERING STARTS AGAIN.
NHTSA complaint #10936128 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jackson, MS
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT AND VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE RESPECTIVELY.
NHTSA complaint #10920289 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Staten Island, NY
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10920303 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
LOS Angeles, CA
AIR BAGS
"TAKATA RECALL" I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM AMERICAN HONDA IN MARCH, 2016 ABOUT A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE. UNDER THE SECTION "WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?" THE LETTER STATES THE REMEDY PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN SUMMER 2016 AND "ACURA WILL SEND ANOTHER LETTER WHEN PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE" I NEVER RECEIVED THIS SECOND LETTER SO ON OCTOBER 24 I CALLED AMERICAN HONDA ACURA CLIENT RELATIONS AND WAS TOLD IT WAS MY RESPONSIBILITY TO LOCATE THE PARTS AND HAVE THEM INSTALLED. I CALLED MY LOCAL ACURA DEALER AND WAS TOLD THEY HAVE THE PARTS AND CAN INSTALL IMMEDIATELY. AMERICAN HONDA IS NOT HANDLING THIS RECALL WITH THE LIFE THREATENING URGENCY IT DESERVES AND IS PUTTING LIFE'S AT RISK.
NHTSA complaint #10919383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 174,000 milesMissouri City, TX
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000, 16V344000 (AIR BAGS), AND 13V092000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM). THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 174,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE AND PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #10910853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Belford, NJ
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL: I RECEIVED NOTICE FROM ACURA ON 7/5/16 TO CALL MY DEALER (ACURA OF OCEAN, NJ) TO SCHEDULE APPT. FOR REPLACEMENT OF (2) DEFECTIVE PARTS. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT PARTS WERE ON "BACK ORDER" AND THEY WOULD CALL ME WHEN PARTS ARRIVED TO SCHEDULE INSTALL. I HAVE CALLED DEALER 2 TIMES SINCE 7/5 AND HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT PARTS ARE STILL ON "BACK ORDER". IT HAS BEEN 84 DAYS WITH NO PARTS, I AM VERY CONCERNED AND WANT ACURA TO RECIFY MY RECALL ASAP.
NHTSA complaint #10909876 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Edgewood, NM
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL - RECEIVED NOTICE TO REPLACE PASSENGER AIRBAG IN JULY. CALLED DEALER ON JULY 11, ( MONTANO ACURA IN ALBUQUERQUE) MADE APPOINTMENT FOR JOLY 19. GOT THERE AND THEY DID NOT HAVE THE REPLACEMENT PART. IT HAS BEEN 72 DAYS AND THEY STILL DON'T HAVE IT AND ARE UNABLE TO REPAIR MY CAR.
NHTSA complaint #10908570 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kennesaw, GA
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATIONS FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS), 16V344000 (AIR BAGS), 10V504000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC ) AND 13V092000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC , TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM). THE DEALER HAD BEEN UNABLE TO SUPPLY THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES AND PROVIDED NO OPTION OF A LOANER. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #10906018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kennesaw, GA
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATIONS FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS), 16V344000 (AIR BAGS), 10V504000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC ) AND 13V092000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC , TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM). THE DEALER HAD BEEN UNABLE TO SUPPLY THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES AND PROVIDED NO OPTION OF A LOANER. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #10906018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kennesaw, GA
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATIONS FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS), 16V344000 (AIR BAGS), 10V504000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC ) AND 13V092000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC , TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM). THE DEALER HAD BEEN UNABLE TO SUPPLY THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES AND PROVIDED NO OPTION OF A LOANER. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #10906018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palm Springs, CA
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS). HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #10905720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Myrtle Beach, SC
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V344000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10904954 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
