The 2005 Acura RL marked the second generation of Acura's flagship sedan, aiming for a blend of luxury and performance. It's a four-door sedan, offered from 2005 to 2012. The key trim was essentially a single, well-equipped model. When new, pricing ranged from around $49,000. Its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system was a standout feature, providing exceptional handling and all-weather capability.
The Good
The 2005 Acura RL offers a compelling mix of attributes. Performance enthusiasts appreciate the SH-AWD's handling prowess. Practically, its reliability and comfortable interior make it a dependable daily driver. Emotionally, the Acura badge signifies quality and understated luxury, while the V6 engine provides adequate power. Its relative affordability in the used market enhances its value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2005 Acura RL include potential issues with the SH-AWD system, particularly the rear differential. The navigation system can feel dated compared to modern systems. Some owners have reported issues with the electronic components and excessive oil consumption can occur. Rust can also be a concern in colder climates.
2005 Acura RL: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.5-liter V6
- Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6,200 rpm
- Torque: 256 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy: (EPA estimated) 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
The 2005 Acura RL came in a single, well-equipped trim level, featuring:
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
- Leather upholstery
- Power and heated front seats
- Navigation system with voice recognition
- Bose premium sound system
- Xenon HID headlights
- Sunroof
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Keyless entry and ignition
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Stability control
- Traction control
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Front side airbags
- Side curtain airbags
2005 Acura RL Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2005 |
Make | Acura |
Model | RL |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Japan |
Manufacturing City | EAST LIBERTY |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3984 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | J35A8 |
Engine Size | 3.5L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $49,100 |
Invoice Price | $43,714 |
Delivery Charges | $570 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
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Past Sale
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Acura RL Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2005 Acura RL often revolve around the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. Specifically, the rear differential can experience issues, leading to noise or failure. Regular maintenance and fluid changes are crucial to mitigate this. Another common complaint involves the navigation system, which, being an older system, can become outdated and slow. Some owners have reported issues with electronic components, such as the radio or climate control. Excessive oil consumption has also been reported by some owners. Recalls have been issued for various issues over the years, including potential fuel leakage and airbag inflator issues. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN against the NHTSA database for any outstanding recalls. Long-term reliability concerns center around the SH-AWD system's durability and the potential for age-related wear and tear on various components. Preventative maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of these vehicles.
How long will the 2005 Acura RL last?
With proper maintenance, a 2005 Acura RL can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report reliable service for 15-20 years with diligent care. However, long-term durability hinges on consistent maintenance, particularly regarding the SH-AWD system. Weaknesses over time often involve wear and tear on suspension components, bushings, and the aforementioned rear differential. Rust can also become a factor, especially in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Regular fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly are crucial for maximizing longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2005 Acura RL offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Its built-in tech included a navigation system with voice recognition, a Bose premium sound system, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Entertainment was primarily provided by the Bose audio system, which included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars, but it did offer stability control and traction control. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), front side airbags, and side curtain airbags.
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) generally show good scores for frontal offset and side impact protection. However, it's important to check specific ratings for the 2005 model year on the IIHS website. No significant optional features were available, as it came in a single, well-equipped trim. While lacking the advanced driver-assistance systems of modern vehicles, the 2005 RL provided a solid foundation of safety and convenience features for its era. The reliance on older technology like the navigation system is a notable limitation by today's standards.
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) generally show good scores for frontal offset and side impact protection. However, it's important to check specific ratings for the 2005 model year on the IIHS website. No significant optional features were available, as it came in a single, well-equipped trim. While lacking the advanced driver-assistance systems of modern vehicles, the 2005 RL provided a solid foundation of safety and convenience features for its era. The reliance on older technology like the navigation system is a notable limitation by today's standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Anthracite Black
Noble Brown Pearl
Nightfall Blue Pearl
Desert Mist Metallic
Silver Polish Metallic
Redondo Mist Pearl
Quartz Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Parchment
Umber
2005 Acura RL Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2005 Acura RL was priced around $49,000. Currently, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on condition, mileage, and location. The RL has experienced significant depreciation due to its age and technological advancements in newer vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, mileage, history of maintenance, and the functionality of the SH-AWD system. Models with well-documented maintenance records and a clean title command higher prices. The availability of newer, more technologically advanced cars has also impacted the RL's resale value.
2005 Acura RL Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2005 Acura RL are generally moderate, reflecting its age and value. Fuel costs can be higher than modern vehicles due to its V6 engine and fuel economy of around 18/26 mpg. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate to high, especially if SH-AWD components require attention. Long-term ownership costs are generally average for a luxury sedan of this vintage, but potential repair expenses for the AWD system and other age-related issues can make it less economical than a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle.
2005 Acura RL Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
19.4 gallons
City Mileage
16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
24 miles/gallon
2005 Acura RL Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Acura RL Recalls & Defects
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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2010-10-22
Recall no.
10v504000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Honda IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2007 Odyssey and Acura RL Vehicles. Brake Fluid Containing Polymers IS Used That Acts AS A Lubricant FOR Certain Brake System Components. IF Replacement Brake Fluid IS Used That Does NOT Contain Such Polymers, or That Contains Only Small Amounts, A Part OF THE Rubber Seal Located AT THE Rear OF THE Brake Master Cylinder MAY Become Dry, and THE Seal MAY Curl During Movement OF THE Piston. IF This Occurs, A Small Amount OF Brake Fluid Could Slowly Leak From THE Seal Into THE Brake Booster.
Consequence
A Leak OF Brake Fluid Could Lead TO A Change IN Brake Pedal Feel and Overtime A Degradation IN Braking Performance Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Brake Master Cylinder Seal Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During December 2010. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009.
Notes
Safety Recall NO. R51 Honda R52 Acura.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
2007-12-04
Recall no.
07v551000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger 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 December 12, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Honda AT 800-382-2238.
Notes
Honda Recall NO. Q65.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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date
2013-03-14
Recall no.
13v092000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
Sudden Inadvertent Braking, Especially Without Illumination OF THE Brake Lights, MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Notified and Instructed TO Take Their Vehicles TO A Dealer OF Their Respective Brand. THE Dealer Will Install A Partial Wiring Harness Containing A Capacitor FOR THE VSA Modulator, Free OF Charge. THE Affected Model Year 2005 Pilots Will Have Their Ground Connection Tightened. THE Recall Began ON April 22, 2013. Honda Owners MAY Contact Honda Automobile Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009, and Select Option 4 or GO TO Www.recalls.honda.com; Acura Owners MAY Contact 1-800-382-2238, and Select Option 4, or GO TO Www.recalls.acura.com.
Notes
Honda's Recall Campaign Numbers ARE S87, S88, and S89.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.
Traction Control System
Recall date
2013-03-14
Recall no.
13v092000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
Sudden Inadvertent Braking, Especially Without Illumination OF THE Brake Lights, MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Notified and Instructed TO Take Their Vehicles TO A Dealer OF Their Respective Brand. THE Dealer Will Install A Partial Wiring Harness Containing A Capacitor FOR THE VSA Modulator, Free OF Charge. THE Affected Model Year 2005 Pilots Will Have Their Ground Connection Tightened. THE Recall Began ON April 22, 2013. Honda Owners MAY Contact Honda Automobile Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009, and Select Option 4 or GO TO Www.recalls.honda.com; Acura Owners MAY Contact 1-800-382-2238, and Select Option 4, or GO TO Www.recalls.acura.com.
Notes
Honda's Recall Campaign Numbers ARE S87, S88, and S89.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
Recall date
2014-06-20
Recall no.
14v353000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger?s Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Inflators IN All Affected Vehicles, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During August 2014. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009.
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
2016-02-03
Recall no.
16v061000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
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 Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 2017. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Jy0, Jy1, and Jy2.
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:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-05-24
Recall no.
16v344000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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 Element, and Honda Pilot Vehicles Originally Sold, or Registered, IN Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Front AIR Bags, These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 27, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Ka0, Ka1, Ka2, and Ka3.
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
Recall date
2014-11-04
Recall no.
14v700000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger?s Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Side AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 26, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-800-999-1009.
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.note: This Recall Supersedes Safety Recall 14v-353, With THE Exception OF Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN California.those Vehicles Will Continue TO BE Addressed, and A Free Remedy Provided, Under That Safety Recall Campaign.this Recall Also Includes Vehicles IN THE Specific Geographic Areas Listed Above That Were Included Within Safety Recalls 13v-132 and 14v-349.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2017-01-10
Recall no.
17v029000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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, 2005-2008 Acura RL, Honda Element and Honda Pilot Vehicles, 2007-2008 Honda FIT Vehicles and 2006-2008 Honda Ridgeline Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered IN Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Front AIR Bags, These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Bagan March 2017. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KD9 and Ke0.
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:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-06-27
Recall no.
19v501000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
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 Passenger Frontal Airbag 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 E5D and X5c.
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.
19v500000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
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 S5B and W59.
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 RL Insurance
Insurance for a 2005 Acura RL 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 RL Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2005 Acura RL competed with the Lexus ES 330, Infiniti G35, and BMW 5-Series. In terms of performance, the RL's SH-AWD gave it a handling advantage over the ES 330, but the G35 offered a sportier driving experience. Feature-wise, the RL was well-equipped but lacked some of the advanced technology available in the BMW 5-Series. Reliability-wise, the RL generally holds its own against its competitors, although the SH-AWD can be a potential point of concern. Price-wise, the used RL is now significantly more affordable than a comparable BMW.
Alternatives to the 2005 Acura RL include the Lexus ES 330 for its reputation for reliability and comfortable ride, or the Infiniti G35 for a more engaging driving experience. A slightly newer Acura TL (2007-2008) could also be a good alternative, offering similar features and performance with potentially lower mileage and fewer age-related issues. The BMW 5-Series offers more luxury and performance but comes with higher maintenance costs.
Alternatives to the 2005 Acura RL include the Lexus ES 330 for its reputation for reliability and comfortable ride, or the Infiniti G35 for a more engaging driving experience. A slightly newer Acura TL (2007-2008) could also be a good alternative, offering similar features and performance with potentially lower mileage and fewer age-related issues. The BMW 5-Series offers more luxury and performance but comes with higher maintenance costs.
Ranks #1931 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★) |
1931 | 2005 Acura RL | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Acura RL a Good Sedan?
The 2005 Acura RL is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable, reliable, and relatively affordable luxury sedan with all-weather capability. It's worth buying *used* if you find a well-maintained example with documented service history, especially regarding the SH-AWD system. It is a good choice for someone who values Acura's reputation for reliability and doesn't require the latest technology. Avoid examples with high mileage or signs of neglected maintenance. Getting a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to assess the condition of the SH-AWD and other critical components. If SH-AWD is not a priority, other similar sedans might offer better value and lower running costs.