The 1999 Acura TL introduced the second generation of Acura's popular mid-size luxury sedan. This elegant four-door sedan, produced from 1999 to 2003, quickly gained popularity for offering a compelling blend of Honda reliability and upscale features without the premium price tag of European rivals. It came primarily in one well-equipped trim, the 3.2 TL, boasting a new V6 engine and a new look. Its starting price was around $28,000, making luxury accessible.
The Good
The 1999 Acura TL offered a smooth 3.2L V6 engine, providing strong yet refined performance. Its Honda-derived engineering promised reliability and relatively affordable maintenance, appealing to practical buyers. Emotionally, the TL delivered a comfortable, quiet cabin with luxurious leather seating and an elegant, understated design. It represented excellent value as a well-equipped luxury sedan with reasonable fuel efficiency for its class.
The Bad
The most significant weakness of the 1999 Acura TL is its automatic transmission, notorious for premature failure. Other common issues include power steering pump and hose leaks, often leading to groaning noises. Owners also report warped brake rotors causing pulsation, and the dashboard navigation system is outdated and slow by modern standards. Interior plastics can also show age.
1999 Acura TL: Quick Overview
- Engine: The 1999 Acura TL was powered by a single engine option, the 3.2-liter SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) V6 engine, internally known as the J32A1. This engine was a new design for the second-generation TL, featuring VTEC technology for improved performance and efficiency.
- Horsepower: This potent V6 engine produced a respectable 210 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 215 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm, providing confident acceleration for highway cruising and city driving.
- Fuel Economy: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated fuel economy for the 1999 TL to be approximately 19 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. This was competitive for a luxury V6 sedan of its era, though it required premium unleaded fuel.
- 0-60 MPH Times: Independent tests and owner reports typically placed the 0-60 mph acceleration time for the 1999 Acura TL in the range of 7.5 to 8.0 seconds, making it one of the quicker mid-size luxury sedans of its time.
- Towing Capacity: The 1999 Acura TL was not officially rated or recommended for towing by the manufacturer. As a luxury sport sedan, its chassis and powertrain were designed for passenger comfort and performance, not for hauling loads.
- Trim-Level Features: The 1999 TL was offered in essentially one highly equipped trim level, often referred to as the 3.2 TL. Standard features were extensive and included:
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- Automatic climate control
- Power-adjustable driver's seat
- Heated front seats
- Power moonroof
- Bose premium audio system with in-dash CD player and cassette player
- Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
- Power windows, door locks, and side mirrors
- Remote keyless entry system
- Cruise control
- Tilt steering column
- Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS)
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Front and side airbags
- Optional DVD-based navigation system (a cutting-edge feature for the time)
1999 Acura TL Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | TL |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | EAST LIBERTY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | J32A1 |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic 4-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| 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 1999 Acura TL Have?
The 1999 Acura TL, while praised for many aspects, is unfortunately synonymous with a major long-term reliability concern: the automatic transmission. This is the most frequently reported and costly problem across the 1999-2003 second-generation TL models. The 4-speed (and later 5-speed) automatic transmissions were prone to premature failure, often manifesting as slipping, harsh shifting, or complete loss of gears, especially as mileage increased. Class-action lawsuits were filed against Honda/Acura regarding these transmission defects, and while some warranty extensions were offered, it remains a critical point of concern for any potential buyer.
Beyond the transmission, several other issues are commonly reported for the 1999 TL. Power steering system problems are prevalent, including leaks from hoses and the pump itself, leading to groaning noises or reduced assist. Brake rotors are known to warp easily, causing steering wheel vibration and pedal pulsation under braking, often requiring frequent replacement or upgrading to aftermarket components.
Another common complaint involves the car's electrical system, specifically the instrument cluster lights failing or flickering. The optional DVD-based navigation system, while advanced for its time, is notoriously slow, outdated, and often suffers from disc reading errors. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve clogging can lead to rough idling or misfires, requiring cleaning or replacement. Suspension components like control arm bushings and struts will naturally wear over time, but some owners report premature wear.
Regarding recalls, the 1999 TL was subject to the widespread Takata airbag inflator recall, specifically for the passenger frontal airbag. This recall, issued years after the car's production, addressed a defect that could cause the inflator to rupture and spray metal fragments upon deployment. Owners should verify if this crucial safety recall has been completed on any prospective purchase. Other minor recalls related to fuel system components were also issued.
Beyond the transmission, several other issues are commonly reported for the 1999 TL. Power steering system problems are prevalent, including leaks from hoses and the pump itself, leading to groaning noises or reduced assist. Brake rotors are known to warp easily, causing steering wheel vibration and pedal pulsation under braking, often requiring frequent replacement or upgrading to aftermarket components.
Another common complaint involves the car's electrical system, specifically the instrument cluster lights failing or flickering. The optional DVD-based navigation system, while advanced for its time, is notoriously slow, outdated, and often suffers from disc reading errors. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve clogging can lead to rough idling or misfires, requiring cleaning or replacement. Suspension components like control arm bushings and struts will naturally wear over time, but some owners report premature wear.
Regarding recalls, the 1999 TL was subject to the widespread Takata airbag inflator recall, specifically for the passenger frontal airbag. This recall, issued years after the car's production, addressed a defect that could cause the inflator to rupture and spray metal fragments upon deployment. Owners should verify if this crucial safety recall has been completed on any prospective purchase. Other minor recalls related to fuel system components were also issued.
How long will the 1999 Acura TL last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1999 Acura TL can easily achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and many well-cared-for examples surpass 250,000 miles, lasting 15-20 years or more. The underlying Honda J-series engine is remarkably durable and reliable, often outliving the transmission. The body and chassis generally hold up well against rust, depending on climate. However, its long-term durability is severely hampered by the infamous automatic transmission failures, which represent a significant weakness over time. Owners who have replaced the transmission can expect many more years of service. Other long-term weaknesses include deteriorating power steering components, warped brake rotors, and potential electrical gremlins with dashboard lights. Interior materials, especially the leather and some plastics, may also show considerable wear or become brittle with age.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Acura TL, for its era, was well-equipped with built-in technology and convenience features that underscored its luxury aspirations. Standard tech included automatic climate control, power windows, power door locks, and power side mirrors, all operated with push-button ease. Remote keyless entry was also standard, allowing convenient access.
For entertainment, the TL boasted a premium 225-watt Bose audio system, featuring an in-dash CD player, a cassette player, and steering wheel-mounted controls for audio functions. This system delivered excellent sound quality for the time, providing a refined listening experience.
Driver-assistance features were more rudimentary compared to modern vehicles. The TL came standard with cruise control for highway driving and a sophisticated 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) to aid in emergency stopping. Advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available in this segment during the late 1990s.
Safety was a significant focus for the TL. It included dual front airbags for the driver and passenger, as well as front seat-mounted side airbags, a relatively new and important safety addition for the time. Three-point seatbelts with front seatbelt pre-tensioners were also standard. Its robust body structure contributed to solid crash performance.
The primary optional feature was the DVD-based navigation system. While a marvel of technology then, it utilized physical DVD maps, was notoriously slow to calculate routes, and its interface is rudimentary by today's standards.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the 1999 Acura TL performed commendably for its class. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the vehicle:
For entertainment, the TL boasted a premium 225-watt Bose audio system, featuring an in-dash CD player, a cassette player, and steering wheel-mounted controls for audio functions. This system delivered excellent sound quality for the time, providing a refined listening experience.
Driver-assistance features were more rudimentary compared to modern vehicles. The TL came standard with cruise control for highway driving and a sophisticated 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) to aid in emergency stopping. Advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available in this segment during the late 1990s.
Safety was a significant focus for the TL. It included dual front airbags for the driver and passenger, as well as front seat-mounted side airbags, a relatively new and important safety addition for the time. Three-point seatbelts with front seatbelt pre-tensioners were also standard. Its robust body structure contributed to solid crash performance.
The primary optional feature was the DVD-based navigation system. While a marvel of technology then, it utilized physical DVD maps, was notoriously slow to calculate routes, and its interface is rudimentary by today's standards.
In terms of crash-test ratings, the 1999 Acura TL performed commendably for its class. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the vehicle:
- Frontal Driver: 5 out of 5 stars
- Frontal Passenger: 4 out of 5 stars
- Side Front: 5 out of 5 stars
- Side Rear: 5 out of 5 stars
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Acura TL Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1999 Acura TL had an MSRP generally ranging from approximately $28,000 to $30,000, depending on the few options like the navigation system. This positioned it as an excellent value proposition against more expensive European luxury sedans.
Today, the 1999 Acura TL has depreciated significantly, as is typical for most older luxury sedans. Current used market prices typically range from $1,500 to $4,000, varying greatly based on condition, mileage, and most critically, the health of its automatic transmission. Exceptional, low-mileage examples with documented service history might fetch slightly more, but these are rare finds.
Factors severely affecting its resale value include its age, high mileage on most examples, and particularly the widespread notoriety of its automatic transmission issues. A confirmed transmission replacement can significantly boost value. Other factors include overall mechanical soundness, exterior and interior cosmetic condition, and regional demand for older, reliable (outside of the transmission) sedans. Without a healthy transmission, resale value plummets.
Today, the 1999 Acura TL has depreciated significantly, as is typical for most older luxury sedans. Current used market prices typically range from $1,500 to $4,000, varying greatly based on condition, mileage, and most critically, the health of its automatic transmission. Exceptional, low-mileage examples with documented service history might fetch slightly more, but these are rare finds.
Factors severely affecting its resale value include its age, high mileage on most examples, and particularly the widespread notoriety of its automatic transmission issues. A confirmed transmission replacement can significantly boost value. Other factors include overall mechanical soundness, exterior and interior cosmetic condition, and regional demand for older, reliable (outside of the transmission) sedans. Without a healthy transmission, resale value plummets.
1999 Acura TL Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 1999 Acura TL are generally quite reasonable due to its age and lower current market value. Fuel costs are moderate; it requires premium unleaded fuel, which is a downside, but its MPG is decent for a V6. Routine maintenance (oil changes, tires, brakes) benefits from Honda's parts accessibility and affordability. However, repair costs can swing wildly. If the infamous automatic transmission fails, it's a significant expense (often $2,000-$4,000+). Power steering repairs are also common. Without major issues, it's relatively economical to own; with a transmission failure, it becomes a costly endeavor, potentially exceeding the car's value. It's a gamble on long-term repair costs.
1999 Acura TL Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
17 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
25 miles/gallon
1999 Acura TL Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date
2002-05-16
Recall no.
02v120000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sedans, Coupes, Hatchbacks, and Sport Utility Vehicles, Electrical Contacts IN THE Ignition Switch CAN Degrade DUE TO THE High Electrical Current Passing Through THE Switch When THE Vehicle IS Started.
Consequence
Worn Contacts Could Cause THE Engine TO Stall Without Warning, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch. Owner Notification Began June 14, 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).
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.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date
2003-10-27
Recall no.
03v423000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles and Mini Vans, THE Ignition Switch MAY Wear Excessively and Prevent Proper Interlock Operation, 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 Vehicle Operator 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 Determines THE Amount OF Cylinder Body Wear. IF Significant Wear IS Indicated, THE Dealer Will Replace THE Cylinder Body, Collar, and Latch Plate. IF NO Signs OF Wear ARE Indicated, Dealers Will Replace THE Latch Plate With A Redesigned Part. Owner Notification Began December 8, 2003. Owners Should Contact Honda AT 1-800-999-1009 or Acura AT 1-800-382-2238.
Notes
Honda Recall NO. 03-088/Acura Recall NO. 03-034.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.
1999 Acura TL Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 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 1999 Acura TL Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1999 Acura TL competed in the entry-level to mid-size luxury sedan segment against rivals like the Lexus ES 300, Infiniti I30, BMW 3 Series (E46), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), and Audi A4.
In terms of Performance, the TL's 210 hp V6 offered a strong, smooth, and balanced ride, comparable to the Lexus ES 300 and Infiniti I30. It wasn't as sporty or dynamically engaging as a BMW 3 Series, which prioritized driver involvement, but it offered more power than most base German models of its time. The Mercedes C-Class generally offered a more sedate, traditional luxury feel.
For Features, the TL truly excelled at its price point. It came standard with amenities like leather, a power moonroof, heated seats, and a premium Bose audio system, often requiring expensive options packages on its German rivals. The Lexus ES 300 was similarly well-appointed for luxury, while the Infiniti I30 also provided strong feature-for-dollar value.
Reliability is where the TL faced its biggest challenge. While the engine itself is robust (a common Honda trait), the notorious automatic transmission issues significantly detract from its overall reliability score. The Lexus ES 300 of the same era is generally considered superior in long-term reliability, particularly regarding its drivetrain. The Infiniti I30, with its robust VQ engine and Nissan lineage, also boasts a strong reputation for durability. German rivals (BMW, Mercedes, Audi), while offering different driving dynamics and brand prestige, typically incurred higher maintenance and repair costs and often had more complex electronic issues as they aged.
Price was a major selling point for the TL. New, it significantly undercut its European competitors, offering comparable luxury and performance at a more accessible price. Its used market value today, however, is severely impacted by the transmission reputation.
Recommended Alternatives:
In terms of Performance, the TL's 210 hp V6 offered a strong, smooth, and balanced ride, comparable to the Lexus ES 300 and Infiniti I30. It wasn't as sporty or dynamically engaging as a BMW 3 Series, which prioritized driver involvement, but it offered more power than most base German models of its time. The Mercedes C-Class generally offered a more sedate, traditional luxury feel.
For Features, the TL truly excelled at its price point. It came standard with amenities like leather, a power moonroof, heated seats, and a premium Bose audio system, often requiring expensive options packages on its German rivals. The Lexus ES 300 was similarly well-appointed for luxury, while the Infiniti I30 also provided strong feature-for-dollar value.
Reliability is where the TL faced its biggest challenge. While the engine itself is robust (a common Honda trait), the notorious automatic transmission issues significantly detract from its overall reliability score. The Lexus ES 300 of the same era is generally considered superior in long-term reliability, particularly regarding its drivetrain. The Infiniti I30, with its robust VQ engine and Nissan lineage, also boasts a strong reputation for durability. German rivals (BMW, Mercedes, Audi), while offering different driving dynamics and brand prestige, typically incurred higher maintenance and repair costs and often had more complex electronic issues as they aged.
Price was a major selling point for the TL. New, it significantly undercut its European competitors, offering comparable luxury and performance at a more accessible price. Its used market value today, however, is severely impacted by the transmission reputation.
Recommended Alternatives:
- For superior reliability: A Lexus ES 300 (1997-2001) or a slightly newer Infiniti I30/I35 (early 2000s) would be better choices, as they generally don't suffer from the same catastrophic transmission issues.
- For a similar ownership experience with less luxury: Consider a Toyota Camry XLE V6 or Honda Accord EX V6 from the same generation, offering excellent reliability on a similar platform but with fewer luxury trappings.
- For sportier driving (with higher ownership costs): A BMW 3 Series (E46) for pure driving pleasure, but be prepared for significantly higher maintenance and repair expenses.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Acura TL a Good Sedan?
The 1999 Acura TL is ideal for individuals seeking an affordable, comfortable, and well-appointed luxury-oriented sedan on a tight budget. It appeals to those who appreciate Honda's reputation for quality but desire more features and sophistication than a standard Accord. As a used vehicle, it can be a fantastic value buy, offering a smooth ride and a luxurious interior for minimal outlay.
However, it is worth buying only under very specific conditions. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely essential, with a primary focus on the automatic transmission. It is most advisable to purchase a 1999 TL if the transmission has already been replaced with a documented, reliable unit, or if you are prepared for the significant potential cost of a transmission replacement. Without this assurance, the vehicle can quickly become a financial burden. For the 1999 model year, there was essentially one well-equipped trim, simplifying choices. If you find a well-maintained example with a healthy transmission, it represents a comfortable and capable older sedan that can still serve reliably for years to come, provided you accept its dated tech and premium fuel requirement.
However, it is worth buying only under very specific conditions. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is absolutely essential, with a primary focus on the automatic transmission. It is most advisable to purchase a 1999 TL if the transmission has already been replaced with a documented, reliable unit, or if you are prepared for the significant potential cost of a transmission replacement. Without this assurance, the vehicle can quickly become a financial burden. For the 1999 model year, there was essentially one well-equipped trim, simplifying choices. If you find a well-maintained example with a healthy transmission, it represents a comfortable and capable older sedan that can still serve reliably for years to come, provided you accept its dated tech and premium fuel requirement.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma