1998 Acura TL Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 1998 Acura TL
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the power train:automatic transmission.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1996 Acura TL earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (major severity).
Should You Buy the 1998 Acura TL?
The 1998 Acura TL offers a comfortable and refined ride with a generally robust V6 engine, making it a viable option for budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level luxury. However, potential buyers must exercise extreme caution regarding the condition of the automatic transmission and various age-related electrical components, as neglect in these areas can lead to significant and costly repairs. While not a 'bulletproof' choice, a well-maintained example can still provide years of dependable service, but it's far from a 'set it and forget it' proposition.
Biggest Strengths
- Smooth V6 engine (if maintained)
- Comfortable and quiet ride quality
- Good overall build quality for its era
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 1998 Acura TL. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A TRANSMISSION CASE BOLT CAN LOOSEN AND FALL OUT ALLOWING THE TRANSMISSION TO DISENGAGE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. CERTAIN VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITH BALL JOINTS THAT CAN PREMATURELY WEAR OUT AND, IN THE WORSE CASE, THE BALL JOINT WOULD SEPARATE CAUSING THE FRONT SUSPENSION TO COLLAPSE.
What breaks on the 1998 Acura TL?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Acura TL by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Acura TL. Click any year for its full report.
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Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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