The 2003 Acura CL is a sporty coupe that blends Acura's signature luxury with a dash of performance. Produced from 2001 to 2003 (after a previous generation ended in 1999), it aimed at buyers seeking a stylish alternative to sedans. Key trims included the base model and the Type-S, offering increased performance. Original pricing ranged from around $28,000 to $31,000. The CL stood out for its refined driving experience, comfortable interior, and distinctive coupe styling, making it a popular choice for those wanting a premium experience.
The Good
The 2003 Acura CL offers a compelling mix of advantages. For the emotional buyer, its sleek design and sporty handling are appealing. The practical buyer will appreciate its Acura reliability, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. The Type-S boasts strong performance, while even the base model provides adequate power and decent fuel economy, representing good overall value.
The Bad
While generally reliable, the 2003 Acura CL does have some potential weaknesses. Transmission issues, particularly in the Type-S models with the automatic transmission, are a known concern. Premature wear of suspension components and potential electrical glitches can also occur. Rust can be a factor in areas with harsh winters, so inspect the body carefully.
2003 Acura CL: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.2L V6 (Base and Type-S)
- Horsepower:
- Base: 240 hp
- Type-S: 260 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- Base (automatic): 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- Type-S (automatic): 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- Type-S (manual): 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (approximate)
- 0–60 Times:
- Base: Approximately 7.0 seconds
- Type-S: Approximately 6.2 seconds (manual), 6.7 seconds (automatic)
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Leather seats, power moonroof, automatic climate control, premium sound system, alloy wheels.
- Type-S: All base features plus more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, upgraded interior trim, perforated leather seats, navigation system (optional). The Type-S also had unique exterior styling cues like a different rear spoiler and badging.
2003 Acura CL Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | CL |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Subcompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | MARYSVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3470 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 55.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 192.00 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.60 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 106.90 inches |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2-L V-6 SOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed 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) | $30,350 |
| Invoice Price | $27,975 |
| Delivery Charges | $500 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Acura CL Have?
The 2003 Acura CL, particularly the Type-S model with the automatic transmission, is known for potential transmission issues. Some owners have reported premature transmission failure or rough shifting, often requiring expensive repairs or replacement. This issue seems more prevalent in earlier model years (2001-2002), but can still occur in the 2003 models. Other frequently reported problems include issues with the power windows, sunroof, and audio systems. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may wear out prematurely, leading to a less comfortable ride and increased maintenance costs.
Recalls for the 2003 Acura CL were relatively limited, but it's important to check the vehicle's VIN against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the transmission and the overall condition of rubber and plastic components, which can degrade over time. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these risks. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten the lifespan of the vehicle and lead to costly repairs.
Recalls for the 2003 Acura CL were relatively limited, but it's important to check the vehicle's VIN against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the transmission and the overall condition of rubber and plastic components, which can degrade over time. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these risks. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten the lifespan of the vehicle and lead to costly repairs.
How long will the 2003 Acura CL last?
With proper maintenance, a 2003 Acura CL can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report over 250,000 miles with consistent servicing. However, long-term durability depends heavily on maintenance habits. Neglecting transmission fluid changes, oil changes, and other routine maintenance can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan.
Weaknesses over time include the aforementioned transmission issues, along with potential problems with the climate control system, power accessories, and suspension. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in northern climates. The condition of the leather and interior plastics can also deteriorate with age and sun exposure.
Weaknesses over time include the aforementioned transmission issues, along with potential problems with the climate control system, power accessories, and suspension. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in northern climates. The condition of the leather and interior plastics can also deteriorate with age and sun exposure.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2003 Acura CL offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard tech and entertainment features included a premium sound system with a CD player, automatic climate control, and power windows and locks. The Type-S trim offered an optional navigation system, which was a notable feature for the era.
In terms of safety, the CL came standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side airbags. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but cruise control was standard.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally good. The NHTSA gave the CL a 5-star rating for frontal crash protection for both driver and passenger, and 4 stars for side-impact protection. The IIHS gave the CL a "Good" rating in its moderate overlap front crash test. While these ratings were commendable for the time, it's important to remember that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2003, and newer vehicles offer more advanced safety technologies. The CL lacks modern features like electronic stability control, traction control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
In terms of safety, the CL came standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side airbags. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but cruise control was standard.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally good. The NHTSA gave the CL a 5-star rating for frontal crash protection for both driver and passenger, and 4 stars for side-impact protection. The IIHS gave the CL a "Good" rating in its moderate overlap front crash test. While these ratings were commendable for the time, it's important to remember that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2003, and newer vehicles offer more advanced safety technologies. The CL lacks modern features like electronic stability control, traction control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Nighthawk Black Pearl
Satin Silver Metallic
Eternal Blue Pearl
Desert Mist Metallic
Redondo Red Pearl
Interior Colors
Anthracite Black Leather
Quartz Leather
Ebony
2003 Acura CL Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2003 Acura CL had a base price starting around $28,000, while the Type-S trim could reach over $31,000 with options. Today, used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
The CL has depreciated significantly over the years, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the vehicle, its mileage, the presence of maintenance records, and the desirability of the Type-S trim, especially those with the manual transmission. Well-maintained examples with low mileage command higher prices, while those with known issues or high mileage sell for considerably less.
The CL has depreciated significantly over the years, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the vehicle, its mileage, the presence of maintenance records, and the desirability of the Type-S trim, especially those with the manual transmission. Well-maintained examples with low mileage command higher prices, while those with known issues or high mileage sell for considerably less.
2003 Acura CL Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2003 Acura CL are generally moderate, given its age. Fuel costs are reasonable, with the V6 engine offering decent mileage for its performance. However, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average, especially if the transmission requires attention. Finding parts may become challenging. Overall, long-term ownership costs can be moderate to high, depending on the vehicle's condition and the owner's willingness to perform preventative maintenance. It is not the most economical car to own compared to modern cars.
2003 Acura CL Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
17.20 gallons
City Mileage
20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
29 miles/gallon
2003 Acura CL Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2003 Acura CL Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date
2002-08-28
Recall no.
02v226000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Minivans, Sedans, Coupes, and Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With V6 Engines, A Timing Belt Tensioner Pulley ON THE Water Pump IS Misaligned and Could Cause THE Timing Belt TO Contact A Bolt ON THE Cylinder Head. Eventually THE Belt Could BE Damaged and Fail.
Consequence
IF THE Timing Belt Breaks, THE Engine Will Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Water Pump and IF IT IS ONE OF THE Defective Pumps, THE Water Pump and Timing Belt Will BE Replaced. Owner Notification Began August 30, 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
Also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
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
2015-05-28
Recall no.
15v320000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2007 Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2001-2004 Honda Civic GX, 2003-2005 Honda Civic Hybrid, 2002-2006 Cr-v, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, 2006 Ridgeline, 2003 Acura 3.2cl, 2003-2006 Acura Mdx, and 2002-2003 Acura 3.2tl Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Dual-stage Driver Frontal AIR BAG That MAY BE Susceptible TO Moisture Intrusion and Other Factors, Including Manufacturing Variability That, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
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.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 1, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Owners MAY Contact Acura Customer Service AT 1-800-382-2238, Select Option 4. Note: Vehicles That Have HAD Their Driver Frontal AIR BAG Replaced Previously AS Part OF A Recall Remedy Prior TO September 12, 2014 Need TO Have Their AIR BAG Replaced Under This Recall AS Well. Vehicles That, ON or After September 12, 2014, Received A Remedy FOR A Prior Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflator Recall Already Received AN Inflator OF A Different Design, and Therefore ARE NOT Included IN This Recall and DO NOT Require Additional Servicing. Note: This Recall Fully Supersedes Recalls 08v-593, 09v-259, 10v-041, 11v-260, 14v-351 and 15v-153. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Jq9, Jr0, Jr1, Jr2, Jr3, Jr4, Jr5, Jr6, Jr7, and Jr8.
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
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.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-06-27
Recall no.
19v499000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2003 Acura 3.2cl, 2002-2003 3.2tl, 2003-2006 Mdx, 2001-2007 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX Ngv, 2002-2006 Cr-v, 2003-2011 Element, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot and 2006 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.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 12, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Q5A and Y58.
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.
2003 Acura CL 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
2003 Acura CL Insurance
Insurance for a 2003 Acura CL is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Acura CL Compare to Other Coupe?
The 2003 Acura CL competed with coupes like the Honda Accord Coupe, Toyota Solara, and Nissan Altima Coupe. In terms of performance, the CL Type-S offered a slight edge over the Accord and Solara, but the Altima Coupe with its V6 engine could provide similar thrills. Feature-wise, the CL boasted a more luxurious interior and a more refined driving experience than the Accord and Altima. The Solara focused more on comfort than sporty handling.
Reliability is where the CL falls slightly behind some of its rivals, particularly the Toyota Solara, which is known for its bulletproof reliability. The Honda Accord Coupe is also generally considered more reliable than the CL. Price-wise, used examples of the CL are generally comparable to those of its rivals.
Alternatives to the 2003 Acura CL include the Acura TL (for those prioritizing a sedan), the Honda Accord Coupe (for a more reliable and practical option), or the Toyota Solara (for ultimate reliability and comfort). If performance is a top priority, consider the Nissan Altima Coupe with the V6 and manual transmission, though reliability may be a concern. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.
Reliability is where the CL falls slightly behind some of its rivals, particularly the Toyota Solara, which is known for its bulletproof reliability. The Honda Accord Coupe is also generally considered more reliable than the CL. Price-wise, used examples of the CL are generally comparable to those of its rivals.
Alternatives to the 2003 Acura CL include the Acura TL (for those prioritizing a sedan), the Honda Accord Coupe (for a more reliable and practical option), or the Toyota Solara (for ultimate reliability and comfort). If performance is a top priority, consider the Nissan Altima Coupe with the V6 and manual transmission, though reliability may be a concern. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.
Ranks #404 Coupe
| 1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
| 404 | 2003 Acura CL | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Acura CL a Good Coupe?
The 2003 Acura CL is ideal for someone seeking a stylish and somewhat sporty coupe with a touch of luxury, at an affordable price point. It's worth buying *if* you find a well-maintained example with a comprehensive service history, and *if* you're prepared for the possibility of potential repairs, particularly to the transmission. It's only available used.
The Type-S trim is more desirable for its added performance, but the base model can still be a good value. Thoroughly inspect any potential purchase, paying close attention to the transmission, suspension, and overall condition. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to avoid any costly surprises. Consider examples with lower mileage and detailed maintenance records to minimize risks.
The Type-S trim is more desirable for its added performance, but the base model can still be a good value. Thoroughly inspect any potential purchase, paying close attention to the transmission, suspension, and overall condition. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to avoid any costly surprises. Consider examples with lower mileage and detailed maintenance records to minimize risks.
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.