The 2000 Acura TL is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and reliability. It was part of the second-generation TL, produced from 1999 to 2003. Key trims included the base TL. It gained popularity for its upscale features at a relatively accessible price point. Expect to find these on the used market for around $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition and mileage. Its smooth ride and reputation for dependability contribute to its enduring appeal.
The Good
The 2000 Acura TL offers a compelling mix of advantages. Performance is adequate with its V6 engine. Reliability is a major draw, appealing to practical buyers. Comfort is notable, providing a pleasant driving experience. The design, while dated, is still relatively sleek. It represents good value for money, balancing luxury and affordability. Emotionally, it's a respectable brand with a reputation for quality.
The Bad
The 2000 Acura TL has some potential weaknesses. Transmission issues are a common concern, so check for smooth shifting. The climate control system can also experience problems. Rust can be an issue in certain climates, particularly around the wheel wells and undercarriage. Regular maintenance is key to mitigating these risks.
2000 Acura TL: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.2L V6 (J32A1)
- Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5600 rpm
- Torque: 216 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base TL: Leather upholstery, automatic climate control, power sunroof, keyless entry, premium sound system, alloy wheels, power windows and locks, cruise control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control system (TCS), and dual front airbags.
- Optional Features: Some models may have had dealer-installed options like upgraded audio systems or appearance packages.
Further Detail: The 3.2L V6 provides ample power for everyday driving. The fuel economy is reasonable for its class and age. Performance figures are respectable for a non-sports car sedan. The standard features were quite luxurious for the time, making it a well-equipped vehicle even in its base trim. There were no significant changes to trim levels or feature content during the 2000 model year.
2000 Acura TL Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | TL |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan 3.2-Liter |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | MARYSVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1579.86 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2267.96 kg |
| Overall Height | 142.49 cm |
| Overall Length | 489.97 cm |
| Overall Width | 178.56 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 274.57 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $28,400 USD |
| Invoice Price | $25,596 USD |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Acura TL Have?
The 2000 Acura TL is generally reliable, but certain issues are frequently reported. The most concerning is the automatic transmission, which is prone to failure, particularly around 100,000-150,000 miles. Symptoms include slipping gears, harsh shifting, and complete transmission failure. Owners should check the transmission fluid regularly and consider more frequent fluid changes.
Another common issue involves the climate control system, specifically the blend door actuator. This can cause the system to blow hot air when cold air is desired, or vice versa. Replacement of the actuator is usually required.
Rust is a potential problem, especially in areas with salted roads during winter. Inspect the undercarriage, wheel wells, and rocker panels for signs of corrosion.
Recalls may have been issued for airbag inflators (a common issue across many manufacturers at that time). Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website with the VIN to see if the vehicle has any outstanding recalls.
Other less common but still noteworthy issues include power window motor failures and occasional electrical glitches. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any unusual symptoms are crucial for long-term reliability.
Another common issue involves the climate control system, specifically the blend door actuator. This can cause the system to blow hot air when cold air is desired, or vice versa. Replacement of the actuator is usually required.
Rust is a potential problem, especially in areas with salted roads during winter. Inspect the undercarriage, wheel wells, and rocker panels for signs of corrosion.
Recalls may have been issued for airbag inflators (a common issue across many manufacturers at that time). Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website with the VIN to see if the vehicle has any outstanding recalls.
Other less common but still noteworthy issues include power window motor failures and occasional electrical glitches. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any unusual symptoms are crucial for long-term reliability.
How long will the 2000 Acura TL last?
With proper maintenance, a 2000 Acura TL can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners have reported exceeding 250,000 miles with original engines and transmissions (though transmission issues are the most common cause of early retirement). The key is diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes (more frequently than recommended by Acura), and timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires.
Long-term durability depends heavily on climate. Vehicles in areas with harsh winters and salted roads are more susceptible to rust. The transmission remains the biggest potential weakness over time. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten the lifespan of any vehicle, but especially this one given the transmission concerns.
Long-term durability depends heavily on climate. Vehicles in areas with harsh winters and salted roads are more susceptible to rust. The transmission remains the biggest potential weakness over time. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten the lifespan of any vehicle, but especially this one given the transmission concerns.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2000 Acura TL came well-equipped for its time.
Tech and Entertainment: It featured a premium sound system (typically Bose), a cassette player, and a CD player. Navigation was not a common feature for this model year. Climate control was automatic, providing a comfortable cabin environment.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It included cruise control and traction control (TCS).
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual front airbags, and side-impact door beams. Stability control was not available.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2000 Acura TL generally performed well in crash tests conducted by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). However, specific ratings should be verified for that model year on their respective websites. The NHTSA typically provides star ratings for frontal and side impacts, while the IIHS provides ratings such as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor in various crash tests.
Overall, the 2000 Acura TL prioritized comfort and convenience over cutting-edge technology. While lacking modern driver-assistance features, its safety equipment was on par with other vehicles of its era.
Tech and Entertainment: It featured a premium sound system (typically Bose), a cassette player, and a CD player. Navigation was not a common feature for this model year. Climate control was automatic, providing a comfortable cabin environment.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It included cruise control and traction control (TCS).
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual front airbags, and side-impact door beams. Stability control was not available.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2000 Acura TL generally performed well in crash tests conducted by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). However, specific ratings should be verified for that model year on their respective websites. The NHTSA typically provides star ratings for frontal and side impacts, while the IIHS provides ratings such as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor in various crash tests.
Overall, the 2000 Acura TL prioritized comfort and convenience over cutting-edge technology. While lacking modern driver-assistance features, its safety equipment was on par with other vehicles of its era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Taffeta White
Nighthawk Black Pearl
Heather Mist Metallic
Satin Silver Metallic
Royal Grape Pearl
Firepepper Red Pearl
Quartz Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Ivory
Saddle
2000 Acura TL Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2000 Acura TL had an MSRP of around $28,000 to $30,000. Today, used market prices range from approximately $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The TL has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the vehicle, mileage, service history, and any known mechanical issues (particularly transmission problems). Cars with clean titles, documented maintenance, and minimal rust command higher prices. The Acura brand name still holds some value, but the age of the vehicle is the primary driver of its current low price.
The TL has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the vehicle, mileage, service history, and any known mechanical issues (particularly transmission problems). Cars with clean titles, documented maintenance, and minimal rust command higher prices. The Acura brand name still holds some value, but the age of the vehicle is the primary driver of its current low price.
2000 Acura TL Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2000 Acura TL are relatively low due to its age. Fuel costs are moderate, reflecting its V6 engine. Maintenance can be affordable if you handle basic tasks, but repairs, especially transmission work, can be expensive. Parts availability is generally good. Long-term ownership costs can be unpredictable due to potential repairs. If the transmission and other age-related issues are addressed proactively, it can be relatively economical. However, unexpected breakdowns can make it costly.
2000 Acura TL Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
43.55 liters
City Mileage
5.87 km/l
Highway Mileage
3.7 km/l
2000 Acura TL Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2000 Acura TL Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2002-03-14
Recall no.
02v080000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, A Component IN THE Inflator OF Some Passenger AIR BAG Modules WAS NOT Welded Properly.
Consequence
AS A Result, THE Affected AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy Correctly IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO A Front Seat Passenger.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Module. Owner Notification Began April 5, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009 or Acura AT 1-800-382-2238.
Notes
Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date
2001-08-14
Recall no.
01v166002
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: THE Following Vehicles Were Repaired With Incorrect Parts: 2002 Acura 3.2tl Sedans With Replacement Buckles Installed PER Recall 01v-166001; Certain 2000 Acura 3.2tl Vehicles With Replacement Buckles Installed AS Product Update Repairs; and Certain 2000-2002 Acura 3.2tl Vehicles With Replacement Buckles Installed AS Warranty or Collision Repairs. Repairs Were Made From March 9 Through July 27, 2001. Some OF THE Noncompliant Buckles Were Mislabeled and Redistributed TO Acura Dealers TO BE Used AS Recall Repair Parts. Honda Also Determined That Incorrect Front Seat Belt Buckle Replacement Parts Were Used FOR Some Product Update Repairs OF 2000 Acura 3.2tl Vehicles, and Warranty or Collision Repairs OF 2000-2002 3.2tl Vehicles. These Seat Belt Buckles MAY NOT Comply With Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect, and IF Necessary, Replace THE Front Seat Belt Buckles. Owner Notification Began August 20, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Acura AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date
2005-01-28
Recall no.
05v025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, THE Interlock Operation OF THE Ignition Switch MAY NOT Function Properly, Making IT Possible TO Turn THE Ignition KEY TO THE "off" Position and Remove THE KEY Without Shifting THE Transmission TO Park.
Consequence
IF THE Driver Does NOT Shift TO Park Before Removing THE KEY and Fails TO Engage THE Parking Brake, THE Vehicle Could Roll and A Crash Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Perform AN Inspection Procedure That Confirms Interlock Function. Vehicles Will BE Updated With A Redesigned Interlock Lever Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 7, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009 or Acura AT 1-800-382-2238.
Notes
Honda Recall Nos.p68, P69.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
2004-04-15
Recall no.
04v176000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Some Mini Vans, Sport Utility and Passenger Vehicles, Certain Operating Conditions CAN Result IN Heat Build-Up Between THE Countershaft and Secondary Shaft Second Gears IN THE Automatic Transmission, Eventually Leading TO Gear Tooth Chipping or Gear Breakage.
Consequence
Gear Failure Could Result IN Transmission Lockup, Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
ON Vehicles With 15,000 Miles or Less, THE Dealer Will Update THE Transmission With A Simple Revision TO THE OIL Cooler Return Line TO Increase Lubrication TO THE Second Gear. ON Vehicles With More Than 15,000 Miles, THE Dealer Will Inspect THE Transmission TO Identify Gears That Have Already Experienced Discoloration DUE TO Overheating. IF Discoloration Exists, THE Transmission Will BE Replaced IF Discoloration IS NOT Present, THE Dealer Will Perform THE Revision TO THE OIL Cooler Return Line. THE Recall Began ON April 21, 2004, FOR Pilot, Odyssey, and MDX Owners. Owners OF THE Accord Vehicles Will Start Receiving Letters ON June 28, 2004, and ON June 29, 2004, FOR Owners OF THE TL and CL Vehicles. Owners Should Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009 or Acura AT 1-800-382-2238.
Notes
Honda Recall Nos. P30 (Odyssey and Pilot),p31 (Mdx), P38 (accord) and P39 (acura).customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2020-01-17
Recall no.
20v026000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 1998 Acura 2.2cl, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3cl, 1998-1999 Acura 3.0cl, 2001 Acura 3.2cl and Acura Mdx, 1998-2000 Honda Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Sedan, Odyssey and Acura 3.5rl, 1999-2000 Acura 3.2tl, 1996-2000 Civic Coupe, 1997-2000 Cr-v, 1997-1998 EV Plus, and 1998-1999 Isuzu Oasis Vehicles. These Vehicles Were Equipped With Non-azide Driver AIR BAG Inflators (Nadi) and DO NOT Contain Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (psan) Propellant. DUE TO A Manufacturing Issue, THE Nadi Inflators MAY Absorb Moisture, Causing THE Inflators TO Rupture or THE AIR BAG Cushion TO Underinflate.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating AIR BAG Deployment, AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants. AN Underinflated AIR BAG Cushion MAY NOT Properly Protect THE Occupant. These Scenarios Increase THE Risk OF Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, and Replace IT IF Necessary, With AN Inflator OF A Different Design, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 1, 2020. Owners MAY Contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center AT 1-888-234-2138 or Isuzu Customer Service AT 1-800-255-6727.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2020-01-17
Recall no.
20v027000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2002 Acura 3.2cl, 2000-2003 Acura 3.5rl, 2000-2001 Acura 3.2tl, Honda Cr-v and Honda Odyssey, 2001-2002 Acura MDX and 2000 Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Coupe, and Civic Sedan Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY Have Received A Replacement Driver Frontal AIR BAG Module AS Part OF A Vehicle Repair. DUE TO A Manufacturing Issue, THE Replacement Nadi Inflator MAY Absorb Moisture, Causing THE Inflator TO Rupture or THE AIR BAG Cushion TO Underinflate.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating AIR BAG Deployment, AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants. AN Underinflated AIR BAG Cushion MAY NOT Properly Protect THE Occupant. These Scenarios Increase THE Risk OF Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE AIR Bags IN THE Vehicles, Replacing THE Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflator With AN Inflator OF A Different Design, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 1, 2020. Owners MAY Contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center AT 1-888-234-2138.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2000 Acura TL Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2000 Acura TL Insurance
Insurance for a 2000 Acura TL is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Acura TL Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2000 Acura TL competed against other mid-size luxury sedans such as the Lexus ES 300, BMW 3 Series, and Infiniti I30. In terms of performance, the TL offered adequate power, but the BMW 3 Series provided a sportier driving experience. Features were competitive, with the TL offering a good balance of luxury and convenience. Reliability is where the Acura TL shined, generally considered more reliable than the BMW and on par with the Lexus ES 300. In terms of price, the TL was often more affordable than its German rivals, making it a value proposition.
Alternatives:
Whether there are better alternatives depends on individual priorities. If driving dynamics are crucial, the BMW 3 Series might be preferred. For ultimate reliability and a plush ride, the Lexus ES 300 is a good choice. However, considering its blend of features, performance, and generally good reliability at a reasonable price, the 2000 Acura TL remains a compelling option.
Alternatives:
- Lexus ES 300: A strong competitor, offering similar reliability and comfort.
- Infiniti I30: Another reliable Japanese luxury sedan with a similar feature set.
- Toyota Avalon: If luxury isn't a primary concern, the Avalon offered similar reliability and more spaciousness.
Whether there are better alternatives depends on individual priorities. If driving dynamics are crucial, the BMW 3 Series might be preferred. For ultimate reliability and a plush ride, the Lexus ES 300 is a good choice. However, considering its blend of features, performance, and generally good reliability at a reasonable price, the 2000 Acura TL remains a compelling option.
Ranks #2091 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2091 | 2000 Acura TL | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Acura TL a Good Sedan?
The 2000 Acura TL is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable and reasonably reliable used sedan. It's a good choice for those who prioritize dependability over cutting-edge technology or sporty handling. It is worth buying if you can find one in good condition with a well-documented maintenance history and, ideally, evidence of transmission servicing. Pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to assess the transmission's health. Avoid models with significant rust or signs of neglect. The base TL trim offers the best value, as the optional features are not significant enough to warrant a higher price. Given its age, a meticulous inspection is key.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.