The 2005 Acura TL is a mid-size luxury sedan, part of the third generation (2004-2008) of the TL model line. Key trims included the base TL and the performance-oriented TL Type-S (introduced later in the generation).
The 2005 TL was popular for its blend of sporty handling, luxurious features, and Acura's reputation for reliability. New pricing was in the $33,000 range. Its stylish design and available manual transmission further set it apart.
The 2005 TL was popular for its blend of sporty handling, luxurious features, and Acura's reputation for reliability. New pricing was in the $33,000 range. Its stylish design and available manual transmission further set it apart.
The Good
The 2005 Acura TL offered a compelling mix of performance and luxury. Practically, it boasts Acura's renowned reliability and reasonable fuel economy.
Emotionally, it delivers sporty handling, a stylish design, and a comfortable, well-appointed interior. It's a value proposition appealing to buyers seeking a premium experience without breaking the bank.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2005 Acura TL include potential transmission issues (especially in early models), premature wear of the navigation system screen, and potential for cracking dashboard.
Also, check for signs of excessive oil consumption. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly are crucial for long-term reliability.
2005 Acura TL: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of key specifications for the 2005 Acura TL:
- Engine Options:
- 3.2-liter V6 (J32A3)
- Horsepower:
- 270 hp @ 6,200 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Automatic: 20 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Manual: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0–60 Times:
- Around 6.2-6.4 seconds (Automatic)
- Around 6.0 seconds (Manual)
- Towing Capacity:
- Not Recommended/Not Rated
- Trim-Level Features (Base TL):
- Leather Seats
- Power Moonroof
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- Premium Sound System (Acura/ELS)
- Xenon HID Headlights
- Heated Front Seats
- Power Driver and Passenger Seats
- 17-inch Alloy Wheels
- Optional Features/Packages:
- Navigation System
- Voice Recognition
- Hands-Free Phone System
2005 Acura TL Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | TL |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 6-Speed Manual |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | MARYSVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1616.6 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 144.02 cm |
| Overall Length | 472.95 cm |
| Overall Width | 183.39 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 274.07 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2-L V-6 SOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $33,100 USD |
| Invoice Price | $30,164 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $570 USD |
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What Problems Does the 2005 Acura TL Have?
The 2005 Acura TL has some frequently reported problems. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, are a common concern, especially in earlier model years. Symptoms include harsh shifting or complete failure.
Dashboard cracking is another known issue, particularly in hotter climates. The navigation system screen can also fail over time. Oil consumption can become a problem as the engine ages; regular monitoring is recommended.
Recalls may have addressed some issues, so checking the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) is crucial to ensure all recall work has been performed.
Long-term reliability hinges on regular maintenance and addressing potential problems promptly. Properly maintained examples can last well over 200,000 miles, but neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.
Dashboard cracking is another known issue, particularly in hotter climates. The navigation system screen can also fail over time. Oil consumption can become a problem as the engine ages; regular monitoring is recommended.
Recalls may have addressed some issues, so checking the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) is crucial to ensure all recall work has been performed.
Long-term reliability hinges on regular maintenance and addressing potential problems promptly. Properly maintained examples can last well over 200,000 miles, but neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.
How long will the 2005 Acura TL last?
With proper maintenance, a 2005 Acura TL can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 15-20 years of service. However, long-term durability depends heavily on maintenance habits. Neglecting regular oil changes, transmission fluid services, and other preventative measures will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Weaknesses over time include potential oil consumption, transmission issues (especially with automatics), dashboard cracking, and wear and tear on suspension components. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Careful maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly are key to maximizing longevity.
Weaknesses over time include potential oil consumption, transmission issues (especially with automatics), dashboard cracking, and wear and tear on suspension components. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Careful maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly are key to maximizing longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2005 Acura TL offered a decent suite of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included a premium Acura/ELS sound system with a 6-disc CD changer, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Xenon HID headlights.
Optional features included a navigation system with voice recognition and a hands-free phone system.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but it did have standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags.
Crash-test ratings were generally good. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it 5 stars in frontal and side-impact crash tests for both driver and passenger. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) rated it "Good" in frontal offset crash testing.
While lacking the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) of newer cars, the 2005 TL provided a solid foundation of safety and technology for its era.
Optional features included a navigation system with voice recognition and a hands-free phone system.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but it did have standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags.
Crash-test ratings were generally good. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it 5 stars in frontal and side-impact crash tests for both driver and passenger. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) rated it "Good" in frontal offset crash testing.
While lacking the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) of newer cars, the 2005 TL provided a solid foundation of safety and technology for its era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Nighthawk Black Pearl
Silver Metallic
Desert Mist Metallic
Bronze Metallic
Deep Green Pearl
Redondo Red Pearl
Quartz Silver Metallic
Titanium Metallic
Interior Colors
Anthracite Black
Ebony
Camel
Parchment
2005 Acura TL Prices and Market Value
The 2005 Acura TL had a starting MSRP of around $33,000 when new. Currently, used market prices range from approximately $3,000 to $8,000 depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The TL has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, service history, and the presence of desirable options like the navigation system. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage command higher prices. The car’s reputation for reliability helps retain some value compared to less reliable rivals.
The TL has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, service history, and the presence of desirable options like the navigation system. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage command higher prices. The car’s reputation for reliability helps retain some value compared to less reliable rivals.
2005 Acura TL Cost of Ownership
The 2005 Acura TL offers moderate ownership costs. Insurance is typically reasonable for its class. Fuel economy is decent, averaging around 24 mpg combined. Maintenance can be more expensive than non-luxury brands due to the Acura's premium components.
Repairs can also be pricier, especially for transmission issues. While not the most economical car to own, it's not excessively costly either, provided regular maintenance is performed and major issues are addressed promptly. Budgeting for potential repairs is advisable.
Repairs can also be pricier, especially for transmission issues. While not the most economical car to own, it's not excessively costly either, provided regular maintenance is performed and major issues are addressed promptly. Budgeting for potential repairs is advisable.
2005 Acura TL Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
64.35 liters
City Mileage
8.5 km/l
Highway Mileage
12.33 km/l
2005 Acura TL Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Acura TL Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:wiring:fuses and Circuit Breakers
Recall date
2005-04-05
Recall no.
05v132000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, A Loose Terminal IN THE Main Fuse BOX MAY Cause THE Fuel Pump TO Lose Power. IF THE Fuel Pump Becomes Inoperative, THE Engine MAY NOT Start.
Consequence
IF THE Fuel Pump Loses Power While Driving THE Engine Could Stall Without Warning Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Entire Fuse BOX Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 13, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 800-999-1009 or Acura AT 1-800-382-2238.
Notes
Honda Recall Nos. P73, P74.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.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2007-03-14
Recall no.
07v097000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Vehicles, A Coil Wire Inside THE Fuel Pump Relay MAY Break, Causing THE Fuel Pump TO Lose Power. IF THE Fuel Pump Becomes Inoperative, THE Engine MAY NOT Start.
Consequence
IF THE Fuel Pump Loses Power While Driving, THE Engine Could Stall Without Warning, and A Crash Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Fuel Pump Relay Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 2, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes
Honda Recall NO. Q37 and Q38.customers MAY 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.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Recall date
2011-06-22
Recall no.
11e022000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Affinia IS Recalling Certain Aftermarket Front Suspension Lower Ball Joints, Napa Part NO. 2601662, That MAY Have Been Mistakenly Installed IN Certain Model Year 2004 - 2008 Acura TL Vehicles DUE TO A Mistake IN A Napa and Napa Dealers' Parts Application Catalogue.
Consequence
Misapplication OF This Part Could Lead TO Separation OF THE Ball Joint From THE Lower Control ARM and Collapse OF THE Front Suspension, Which Could Potentially Cause A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Affinia IS Working With Napa TO Identify ANY Owners That Have HAD This Part Mistakenly Installed ON TO AN Acura TL Vehicle, and Will Replace THE Part Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 20, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Affinia Group's Warranty Administrator AT 1-815-759-7757.
Notes
Owners 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 <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, and Connections
Recall date
2008-02-27
Recall no.
08v091000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda IS Recalling 273,000 MY 2004-2008 Acura TL Vehicles. Prolonged High Under-Hood Temperatures MAY Cause THE Power Steering Hose TO Deteriorate Prematurely Causing THE Hose TO Crack and Leak Power Steering Fluid.
Consequence
Power Steering Fluid Leaking Onto A HOT Catalytic Converter Will Generate Smoke and Possibly Lead TO AN Under-Hood Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A NEW Heat Resistant Power Steering Hose Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 28, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Acura AT 800-382-2238. This IS AN Expansion OF A Previous Recall (Please SEE 07v551).
Notes
Acura Recall NO. Q73.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.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:motor
Recall date
2008-02-27
Recall no.
08v092000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda IS Recalling 129,600 MY 2004-2005 Acura TL Vehicles. IF Water Enters THE Windshield Wiper Motor Breather Port, Which IS Designed TO Allow THE Motor TO Vent Warm AIR During Normal Operation, IT CAN Result IN Corrosion Inside THE Motor Housing. This Could Cause A Failure OF THE Electrical Circuit Breaker Inside THE Motor Housing.
Consequence
IF THE Circuit Breaker Fails, IT Will Cause THE Windshield Wiper Motor TO Become Inoperative, Which CAN Increase THE Likelihood OF A Crash IN Certain Conditions.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Windshield Wiper Motor FOR Signs OF Corrosion. IF NO Signs OF Corrosion ARE Present, A Snorkel Tube Will BE Added TO THE Wiper Motor Breather Port TO Prevent Water From Entering THE Wiper Motor Housing and Foam Tape Will BE Installed ON THE Cowl Above THE Wiper Motor TO Direct Water Away From THE Wiper Motor. IF Signs OF Corrosion Damage ARE Observed ON THE Wiper Motor, THE Motor Will BE Replaced, and THE Breather Tube and Foam Tape Will Also BE Installed TO Prevent Water Intrusion ON THE NEW Wiper Motor. THE Recall Began ON April 28, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Acura AT 1-800-382-2238.
Notes
Acura Recall NO. Q72.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.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-03-06
Recall no.
19v182000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Specific 2003 Acura 3.2cl, 2013-2016 Ilx, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 Mdx, 2007-2016 Rdx, 2002-2003 3.2tl, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX Ngv, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 Cr-v, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Received A Replacement Driver AIR BAG Inflator AS Part OF A Previous Takata Inflator Recall Remedy or A Replacement Driver AIR BAG Module Containing THE Same Inflator Type AS A Service Part. DUE TO A Manufacturing Error, IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode.
Consequence
AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Driver Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver, Front Seat Passenger or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 10, 2019. Honda Owners MAY Contact Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS O41. Acura Owners MAY Contact Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Acura's Number FOR This Recall IS U40.
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.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
Recall date
2019-10-10
Recall no.
19e068000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) IS Recalling Certain Accelerator Pedal Assemblies Part Numbers 699-114 and 825-5029-1, Sold AS Replacement Parts FOR 2003-2006 Acura Mdx, 2004-2008 Acura TL and Tsx, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, 2005-2006 Honda Cr-v, 2007-2011 Honda Element, 2005-2008 Honda Pilot and 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline Vehicles. THE Rotating Portion OF THE Accelerator Pedal Assembly MAY Bind. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 124, "accelerator Control Systems."
Consequence
IF THE Accelerator Pedal Binds, THE Engine MAY NOT Quickly Return TO Idle After THE Pedal IS NO Longer Pressed, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners, and Qualified Service Facilities Will Replace THE Affected Accelerator Pedal Assemblies, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 9, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Dorman Customer Service AT 1-800-523-2492, Using Option 5. Dorman's Number FOR This Recall IS As1019xxxx.
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.
2005 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
2005 Acura TL Insurance
Insurance for a 2005 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 2005 Acura TL Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2005 Acura TL competed against rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Lexus ES 330, Infiniti G35, and Audi A4.
In terms of performance, the TL offered a good balance, though the G35 was sportier. For features, it was competitive, though the BMW offered more options. Reliability was a strong suit for the TL, arguably better than the BMW and Audi. Price-wise, it offered excellent value compared to the German brands.
The Lexus ES 330 offered similar comfort and reliability but lacked the TL's sporty handling. The Infiniti G35 was more performance-oriented but less refined.
Alternatives to consider include the Lexus ES 330 for a more comfortable and relaxed ride or the Infiniti G35 for a sportier experience. However, the 2005 Acura TL remains a compelling choice for its blend of performance, luxury, and reliability at a reasonable price point, if maintained well.
In terms of performance, the TL offered a good balance, though the G35 was sportier. For features, it was competitive, though the BMW offered more options. Reliability was a strong suit for the TL, arguably better than the BMW and Audi. Price-wise, it offered excellent value compared to the German brands.
The Lexus ES 330 offered similar comfort and reliability but lacked the TL's sporty handling. The Infiniti G35 was more performance-oriented but less refined.
Alternatives to consider include the Lexus ES 330 for a more comfortable and relaxed ride or the Infiniti G35 for a sportier experience. However, the 2005 Acura TL remains a compelling choice for its blend of performance, luxury, and reliability at a reasonable price point, if maintained well.
Ranks #1932 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 | (4.0★) |
| 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★) |
| 1932 | 2005 Acura TL | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Acura TL a Good Sedan?
The 2005 Acura TL is ideal for someone seeking a comfortable, sporty, and reliable mid-size luxury sedan at an affordable price. It's a good choice for those who appreciate Acura's reputation for build quality and a well-appointed interior.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition of the specific vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection is essential. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history. A manual transmission might appeal to enthusiasts, but automatics are more common. Avoid vehicles with obvious signs of neglect or transmission problems. Overall, a well-cared-for 2005 Acura TL offers excellent value and a rewarding driving experience for the right buyer.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition of the specific vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection is essential. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history. A manual transmission might appeal to enthusiasts, but automatics are more common. Avoid vehicles with obvious signs of neglect or transmission problems. Overall, a well-cared-for 2005 Acura TL offers excellent value and a rewarding driving experience for the right buyer.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.