77 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.
Most common 2005 Acura RL problems
39 of the 125 complaints (31%) are about the headlights.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Air Bags · airbags
36
1
0
1
Exterior Lighting · headlights
33
1
0
0
Electrical System
16
0
1
0
Exterior Lighting › Headlights · headlights
6
0
0
0
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
4
1
0
0
Structure › Body · body and frame
4
0
0
1
Unknown or Other
3
0
0
0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes
3
0
0
0
Power Train · transmission
2
0
0
0
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system
2
0
0
0
2005 Acura RL headlights problems
31% of all complaints
39 of the 125 complaints are about the headlights.
Share of the 39 headlights complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
Typical mileage
75,000 mi
median of 31 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
11 headlights complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the headlights
None
“Hid headlights. My problem has been with my headlights ever since I bought the vehicle used in july of 2015. Every now and then the passenger side headlight would flicker and go out. I can get the headllight to come back on by turning off the headlights and turning them back on. The problem can be so bad at times that I have to do it repeatedly while I'm driving.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 1, 2018 at 237,000 miles
“The headlights intermittently go off while driving. Sometimes its one and sometimes both. You have to turn the lights off and back on and they turn back on. This is a major safety issue.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 28, 2017 at 145,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the headlightsRecall (red: the headlights)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2005 RL peaked in 2016, with 31 filed that year. No recall on file covers the headlights, the subject of 31% of the complaints. In 2025 owners filed 1 so far.
11 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module19V500000
Filed Jun 27, 20191,558 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V501000
Filed Jun 27, 20191,657,752 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module17V029000
Filed Jan 10, 2017308,884 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module16V344000
Filed May 23, 20161,790,894 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module16V061000
Filed Feb 3, 20162,232,187 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Defect. 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.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers 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.
Filed Jun 20, 2014133,207 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers 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.
Filed Mar 14, 2013183,576 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder10V504000
Filed Oct 22, 2010471,820 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections07V551000
Filed Dec 4, 200743,200 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
Filed Mar 14, 2007166,561 vehiclesHonda (american Honda Motor Co.)
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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.
All 11 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2005 RL.
Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA15001Open
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …
Air Bag Inflator RupturePreliminary evaluation PE14016Closed
Opened Jun 11, 2014Closed Mar 2, 2015Led to recall 13V172000airbags
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …
Opened Feb 21, 2013Closed Mar 29, 2013Led to recall 13V092000stability control
On March 14, 2013, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) submitted a Defect Information Report to NHTSA identifying a defect in the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system in approximately 183,576 model year (MY) 2005 Honda Pilot, Acura RL and MY 2005-2006 Acura MDX vehicles (NHTSA Recall No 13V-092).The population and failure counts provided pertain only to the MY 2005 Honda Pilots that were the subject of this investigation.Honda's recall addresses two conditions in the VSA system that could result in inappropriate brake activation.The first condition is related to a manufacturing concern …
Technical service bulletins
132 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2005 RL. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
airbags 59equipment 23electrical system 15equipment adaptive/mobility 8body and frame 5engine 5tires 4visibility 3
B18-023Warranty extensionJun 30, 2026airbags
Service Bulletin - Warranty Extension: Customer Support Program For Front Passenger's Airbag Inflator.
B18-020Warranty extensionFeb 28, 2026airbags
Service Bulletin - Warranty Extension: Customer Support Program For Driver's Airbag Inflator for 2013-14 ILX Hybrid and Other Listed Years and Models.
B18-020Warranty extensionApr 8, 2022airbags
Service bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement driver's airbag inflator only.
B18-020Warranty extensionMar 1, 2022airbags
Service Bulletin - This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflators. American Honda is offering a Customer Support Program (Warranty Extension) to cover any manufacturing defects in the replacement driver's airbag inflator only.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2005 Acura RL 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
★★★★★
9.7%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Air Bags
Filed Apr 26, 2025NH
I bought the car there was no airbag light on it I was driving down my road and it just randomly turned on been on ever since. Sunnyside Acura Told me that the frontal driver side airbag was replaced in 2016, Then they told me that it would not be under recall because they pretty much said they had already fixed it but the problem had occurred. They said it was done it 2016 the air bag should last the life of the vehicle. I was doing some research on Kelley Blue Book I had noticed that there is a campaign number and it sounds exactly like they issue that I was occurring that Acura told me and charged me $189 for diagnosis and told be about 2K to replace airbag . The campaign number is 19V501000 and it says August 12th 2019 is when the recall stated but Acura is showing not results and it is a safety issue so I would assume that it would be free of charge because of the safety issue not being my fault and having no history of car crashes and maintenance back to 2005 was done. .
Electrical System
Filed Jun 27, 2023DE
The center display screen went blank (black) and I can't adjust anything
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Aug 29, 2021PA
Small electric fire in driver side door panel melted all the way through outside door handle . After this happened to me I looked through forums and this seems to be a common issue with this car and there has been no recall for this issue . Very unsafe
Structure › Body
Filed Jun 4, 2020220,000 milesKS
MY VEHICLE'S DASHBOARD GLOVE BOX IS DEFECTIVE. I BELIEVE THIS HAPPENS TO MANY VEHICLES WHICH NO ONE BOTHERS TO REPORT. MY GLOVE BOX, WHEN IT'S HOT OR THE SUN IS OUT, THE EXTERNAL LEATHER OR MATERIAL THAT IT IS MADE OF, SOFTENS AND DETERIORATED LIKE IT'S MELTED PLASTIC. ANY CONTACT THE LEATHER HAS WITH ANYTHING, THE LEATHER IS DAMAGED EASILY AND INDENTED VERY BADLY WHERE IT'S UNABLE TO REPAIR BESIDES TAKING IT TO A PROFESSIONAL. I'VE NOTICED MANY OTHER VEHICLES WITH THIS ISSUE, AND IT SEEMS TO BE A DEFECT I. THE VEHICLE WHICH IS OVERLOOKED TO BE RECALLED. I'VE HAD MY SUNSHADE JUST TEMPORARILY LEFT TO LAY AGAINST THE GLOVE BOX IN THE SUN FOR ONLY A FEW MINUTES, AND THE LEATHER ON THE GLOVE BOX WAS INDENTED AND TORN FROM THE LIGHTWEIGHT SUNSHADE. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Jan 25, 2020WI
CHECK AIRBAG SYSTEM LIGHT ON. CONNECTION TO HEADLIGHT DEFECTIVE, HEADLIGHT TURNS ON AND OFF RANDOMLY LIKE WHEN GOING OVER A BUMP, BUT TURNS BACK ON IF YOU TURN LIGHT OFF THEN ON AGAIN.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Nov 21, 2019130,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER SON WAS DRIVING AND APPROACHED A CRASH THAT HAD ALREADY TAKEN PLACE. THE VICTIM OF THE CRASH WAS EJECTED FROM THE VEHICLE AND WAS LYING IN THE ROAD. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND ATTEMPTED TO AVOID A VEHICLE THAT WAS STOPPED IN THE ROAD. THE CONTACT'S SON SWERVED INTO THE OTHER LANE AND CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE THAT WAS INVOLVED IN THE CRASH AS WELL AS THE VEHICLE THAT WAS STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE DRIVER'S VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND THEN LANDED UPRIGHT AGAIN. THE CONTACT'S SON SUSTAINED HEAD TRAUMA, CUTS TO THE EYES, A BROKEN NOSE, AND ONE OF HIS EYELIDS WAS DETACHED FROM HIS EYE AND HAD TO BE REPAIRED BY A PLASTIC SURGEON. HE WAS TRANSPORTED BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE HE REMAINED FOR A MONTH AND A HALF, BATTLING INFECTIONS DURING HIS RECOVERY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONLY THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE OTHER FIVE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A WRECKING YARD TO BE INSPECTED. THE CONTACT RETRIEVED THE VEHICLE AND TOOK IT TO HER RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.*DT CRASH REPORT (XXX) LICENSE NUMBER (XXX) VIN (XXXXXX) VEH LICENSE NUMBER (XXX) ('PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).')*JB
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Nov 21, 2019100,000 milesMN
UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SLOW DOWN. WHEN SHIFTED TO N DURING AN EVENT, TACHOMETER READS 6000 RPM. THROTTLE PEDAL AND AREA ARE CLEAR, NO CODES.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Dec 1, 2018237,000 milesMD
HID HEADLIGHTS. MY PROBLEM HAS BEEN WITH MY HEADLIGHTS EVER SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE USED IN JULY OF 2015. EVERY NOW AND THEN THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT WOULD FLICKER AND GO OUT. I CAN GET THE HEADLLIGHT TO COME BACK ON BY TURNING OFF THE HEADLIGHTS AND TURNING THEM BACK ON. THE PROBLEM CAN BE SO BAD AT TIMES THAT I HAVE TO DO IT REPEATEDLY WHILE I'M DRIVING. I DO MOST OF MY DRIVING AT NIGHT SO THIS HAS BECOME A VERY REAL ISSUE FOR ME. I'VE READ HOW OTHERS HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM BUT ACURA REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE IT. IT'S A COSTLY REPAIR ESPECIALLY IF THEY CAN'T FIND EXACTLY WHAT THE ISSUE IS. I'VE ALREADY GOTTEN STOPPED BY A POLICEMAN ABOUT THE HEADLIGHT BEING OUT. AND WHEN I EXPLAINED TO HIM WHAT THE ISSUE WAS HE LET ME GO ONCE I SHOWED HIM THAT IT CAME BACK ON. THE CAR ITSELF HAS BEEN AMAZING TO DRIVE ESPECIALLY HOW HARD I'VE DRIVEN IT OVER THE YEARS AND IT NOW HAS ABOUT 238,000 MILES ON IT OF WHICH I PUT ABOUT 95,000 MILES. OTHER MAJOR REPAIRS LIKE THE AIR CONDITIONING I HAD REPLACED WITHIN A MONTH AFTER PURCHASING THE CAR UNDER WARRANTY. I WAS NOT SO LUCKY WITH THE RADIATOR THAT WENT UP. THE WHOLE ORDEAL ENDED UP COSTING OVER $1000 AT A AAA AUTO REPAIR CENTER. I STILL SAY IT IS AN AMAZING CAR FOR THE TECHNOLOGY, ROAD MILES, AND AGE OF VEHICLE. I PURCHASED IT BECAUSE IT WAS ALL-WHEEL DRIVE AND THE PRICE WAS JUST UNDER $10K BACK IN 2015. THIS CAR NEW WAS MORE LIKE $50K-$55K. I WISH THAT ACURA WOULD ISSUE A RECALL AND MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS FOR THE HID SYSTEM. I AC
Exterior Lighting
Filed Feb 28, 2017145,000 milesCO
THE HEADLIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY GO OFF WHILE DRIVING. SOMETIMES ITS ONE AND SOMETIMES BOTH. YOU HAVE TO TURN THE LIGHTS OFF AND BACK ON AND THEY TURN BACK ON. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 15, 2017250,000 milesOH
DOOR HANDLE STARTED SMOKING AND WILL NOT LET START GPS DISPLAY SCREEN DOES NOT WORK CLOCK DISPLAY DOES NOT WORK VSA LIGHT IS ON ALL THE TIME CAR WAS STATIONARY BURNT OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Dec 19, 2016120,000 milesMN
PASSENGER SIDE LOW BEAM FLICKERS AND WILL COMPLETELY GO OFF. HAVE TAKEN INTO DEALER WITH NO RESULTS (CLAIM THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM). THIS I BELIEVE IS A SAFETY ISSUE. PEOPLE HAVE COMPLAINED OF THIS SINCE 2005 WITH NO SOLUTION. IF WHEN DRIVING YOU TURN YOUR LIGHTS OFF THEN BACK ON THEY COME BACK ON TILL THE FLICKERING STARTS AGAIN. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Oct 31, 2016MS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT AND VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE RESPECTIVELY.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 31, 2016NY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 27, 2016CA
"TAKATA RECALL" I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM AMERICAN HONDA IN MARCH, 2016 ABOUT A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE. UNDER THE SECTION "WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?" THE LETTER STATES THE REMEDY PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN SUMMER 2016 AND "ACURA WILL SEND ANOTHER LETTER WHEN PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE" I NEVER RECEIVED THIS SECOND LETTER SO ON OCTOBER 24 I CALLED AMERICAN HONDA ACURA CLIENT RELATIONS AND WAS TOLD IT WAS MY RESPONSIBILITY TO LOCATE THE PARTS AND HAVE THEM INSTALLED. I CALLED MY LOCAL ACURA DEALER AND WAS TOLD THEY HAVE THE PARTS AND CAN INSTALL IMMEDIATELY. AMERICAN HONDA IS NOT HANDLING THIS RECALL WITH THE LIFE THREATENING URGENCY IT DESERVES AND IS PUTTING LIFE'S AT RISK.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 30, 2016174,000 milesTX
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000, 16V344000 (AIR BAGS), AND 13V092000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM). THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 174,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE AND PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 27, 2016NJ
TAKATA RECALL: I RECEIVED NOTICE FROM ACURA ON 7/5/16 TO CALL MY DEALER (ACURA OF OCEAN, NJ) TO SCHEDULE APPT. FOR REPLACEMENT OF (2) DEFECTIVE PARTS. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT PARTS WERE ON "BACK ORDER" AND THEY WOULD CALL ME WHEN PARTS ARRIVED TO SCHEDULE INSTALL. I HAVE CALLED DEALER 2 TIMES SINCE 7/5 AND HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT PARTS ARE STILL ON "BACK ORDER". IT HAS BEEN 84 DAYS WITH NO PARTS, I AM VERY CONCERNED AND WANT ACURA TO RECIFY MY RECALL ASAP.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 21, 2016NM
TAKATA RECALL - RECEIVED NOTICE TO REPLACE PASSENGER AIRBAG IN JULY. CALLED DEALER ON JULY 11, ( MONTANO ACURA IN ALBUQUERQUE) MADE APPOINTMENT FOR JOLY 19. GOT THERE AND THEY DID NOT HAVE THE REPLACEMENT PART. IT HAS BEEN 72 DAYS AND THEY STILL DON'T HAVE IT AND ARE UNABLE TO REPAIR MY CAR.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 13, 2016GA
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATIONS FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS), 16V344000 (AIR BAGS), 10V504000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC ) AND 13V092000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC , TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM). THE DEALER HAD BEEN UNABLE TO SUPPLY THE PARTS FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES AND PROVIDED NO OPTION OF A LOANER. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 12, 2016CA
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS). HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 9, 2016SC
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V344000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 2, 2016MA
TAKATA RECALL: BEEN WAITING SINCE MARCH, 2016 FOR REPLACEMENT AIRBAG. CAN THIS BE EXPEDITED.
Air Bags
Filed Sep 1, 2016CO
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 17, 2016MA
I AM CONCERNED WHEN THIS WILL BE REPLACED.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 16, 2016FL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK AIR BAG SYSTEM WARMING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 12, 2016NJ
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 5, 2016WA
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 4, 2016VA
I HAVE RECEIVED TWO RECALL NOTICES CONCERNED WITH AIR BAG INFLATORS. I CONTACTD A DEALER APPROX. 3 MONTHS AGO AND HAVE BEEN BACK TO THEM 3TIMES STILL NO ACTION. I AM WORRIED WHAT SHOULD I DO???
Air Bags
Filed Aug 1, 2016MD
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V344000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 26, 2016OK
2005 ACURA RL. CONSUMER REQUESTS AN UPDATE ON AVAILABILITY OF DEFECTIVE AIRBAG REPLACEMENT PARTS. *SMD RECALL # 16V344000 AND 16V061000.*JB
Electrical System
Filed Jul 23, 2016161,000 milesPA
MY HEADLIGHTS FLICKER A LOT WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT. THEY GO OUT SOMETIMES ONE AT A TIME, DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT OR PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT. SOMETIMES THEY BOTH GO OFF AND I AM REQUIRED TO TURN THE HEADLIGHTS OFF AND BACK ON USING THE SWITCH. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND THE AFS LIGHT COMES ON EVERY SO OFTEN. THIS NEEDS TO BE FIXED IMMEDIATELY. I READ FROM SEVERAL FORUMS THAT A LOT OF ACURA OWNERS FOR YEARS 2005 AND 2006 EXPERIENCED THIS SAME ISSUE THAT I AM GOING THROUGH. I NEED ACURA TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. IS THERE A RECALL FOR THIS? PLEASE HAVE SOMEONE CONTACT ME ASAP!
Air Bags
Filed Jul 14, 2016CA
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 9, 2016IL
TAKATA RECALL I HAD MY DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG REPLACED ALMOST 87 DAYS WITH OUT MY ACURA RL RECIEVED A LOANER... 33 DAYS LATER JULY7 2016 I RECIEVE A RECALL FOR PASSANGER SIDE AIR BAG CAN SEND METAL INJURE OR KILL PASSANGER PLEASE DONT HAVE A PASSANGER I BROUGHT THE CAR TO ACURA DEALER TOLD ME END OF SEPTEMBER THEY WILL HAVE PARTS GAVE ME A RENTAL TODAY DEALER CALLS AND ASK ME TO BRING BACK RENTAL ACURA NOT GOING TO PAY FOR IT ??? I ASK THE DEALER HOW SHOULD I DRIVE MY CHILDREN TO SPORTS AND WORK MY WIFE CANT DRIVE WITH ME I ONLY HAVE THIS VEHICLE,I CALLED ACURA 800 COMPLAINT AREA NOW THEY ARE RECONCIDERING IF THEY WILL PAY FOR LOANER,I CANT SELL THIS VEHICLE BECAUSE WHAT IF I SELL IT AND THE PASANGER GETS KILLED THIS IS SO CRAZY VW IS BUYING BACK THEIR CARS FROM PEOPLE. ,BECAUSE THE LIED ABOUT GAS MILAGE,ACURA THINKS IT IS OK TO HAVE YOU DRIVE THIS VEHICLE JUST DONT HAVE A PASSENGER WITH YOU
Air Bags
Filed Jul 8, 2016CA
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE AND PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 6, 2016CA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V344000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 1, 2016CT
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jun 29, 201690,000 milesMD
ENGINE RUNNING BUT NO ACCELERATION. SHUT OFF AND RESTART ENABLED 3 DAYS OF DRIVING WITH NO FURTHER ISSUES. SHOP DECLARED, " ... LOOSE BATTERY CABLE." (SEEMS NOT LIKELY) INCIDENT WAS ON US 3-LANE HIGHWAY IN TRAFFIC WITH SPEEDS POSTED AT 65 MPH UPDATED 01/31/17*LJ
Air Bags
Filed Jun 23, 2016IL
2005 ACURA RL. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO REPLACEMENT PARTS NOT AVAILABLE TO REPAIR AIRBAG RECALL NOTICE. *SMD
Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 20, 2016145,000 milesCA
2005 ACURA RL, HEADLIGHTS HAVE FLICKERED SINCE PURCHASE IN 2005, HAVE REPORTED THIS OVER THE PAST 9-10 YEARS CORPORATELY AND TO THE LOCAL ACURA DEALERS, ACURA OF PLEASANTON AND ACURA OF THE DESERT. THIS HAS NOW BECOME A SAFETY ISSUE, FLICKERING LIGHTS NOW TURN OFF AT NIGHT IN THE DARK WHILE IN MOTION CREATING A DRIVING HAZARD FOR BOTH THE OCCUPANTS OF THE ACURA AND ANY SURROUNDING VEHICLES. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 2005 ACURA RL ACCORDING TO NUMEROUS ONLINE BLOGS AND SITES. ACURA CONTINUES TO IGNORE AND REFUSES TO ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY. PLEASE INTERVENE ON BEHALF OF CURRENT 2005 ACURA RL OWNERS, A FIX OR RECALL IS NECESSARY BEFORE SOME IS KILLED OR INJURED.
Exterior Lighting
Filed May 30, 2016118,000 milesCA
FRONT PASSENGER LIGHT FLICKERING MORE FREQUENTLY THESE DAY. WENT TO DEALER AND REPLACED THE LOW BEAM LIGHT BULB. STILL EXPERIENCED THE ISSUE WHEN YOU MADE A RIGHT TURN AND NOTICED LIGHT START FLICKERING AND SOMETIME IT OFF. VERY ANNOYING AND BOTHERSOME TO DRIVER. SAW NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE FLICKERING LIGHT AND THINK IT'S TIME FOR NHTSA TO START LOOKING INTO THIS PROBLEM BEFORE THEY GET WORSE. HONDA KNEW THE PROBLEM BUT AVOID ACKNOWLEDGE UNTIL SOMEONE GET HURT. DEALER ARE CHARGING CONSUMER OVER $1000 JUST TO REPLACE THE WHOLE HEADLIGHT. SOMETIME, STILL WOULDN'T FIX THE PROBLEM, I URGE NTHSA TO INVESTIGATE IMMEDIATELY.
Unknown or Other
Filed May 27, 201640,000 milesCA
HEADLIGHTS HAVE PREVIOUSLY FLICKERED AND TEMPORARILY TURNED OFF, DEALER HAS CLAIMED OUR VEHICLE WAS THE ONLY ONE IMPACTED, LOW BEAMS HAVE NOW COMLPLETELY FAILED CREATING A SAFETY HAZARD
Air Bags
Filed Apr 11, 2016MI
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT WANTED TO VOICE THEIR DISSATISFACTION AT HONDA FOR THE WAY THEY WERE HANDLING A MANUFACTURERS AIR BAGS RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER DID OFFER THE OPTION OF A TEMPORARY PROVISIONAL VEHICLE HOWEVER THEY STATED THE CONSUMER HAD TO PAY THE INSURANCE FOR THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE THEIR INSURANCE WOULD ONLY COVER 30 DAYS. THE CONTACT THE TIME FRAME THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED WAS UNREASONABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD COVER THE COST OF THE RENTAL BUT WOULD NOT COVER THE COST FOR THE INSURANCE.
Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 22, 20159,900 milesHI
GLOVE BOX MATERIAL IS MELTING AND SAGGING. ITHE GLOVE BOX MATERIAL HAS ALSO "ORANGE PEELED". WHEN GOOGLED, THIS IS A WIDESPREAD AND COMMON PROBLEM WITH ACURA'S BETWEEN 2005-2007. A DEFECTIVE MATERIAL WAS USED ON THE GLOVE BOX.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 19, 2015130,451 milesSC
ONE NIGHT WHILE DRIVING THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT BEGAN FLICKERING CONSTANTLY AND THE AFS LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED AND HAS BEEN STEADILY ON SINCE THEN, WHENEVER MY HEADLIGHTS ARE IN OPERATION. ALSO, THE HEADLIGHT WENT DARK. THIS BEGAN WHEN THE CAR WAS IN MOTION HEADING FROM A RURAL AREA INTO A MORE POPULATED ONE. I WAS ABLE TO TURN THE LIGHTS ON AND OFF VERY QUICKLY AND THE HEADLIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. HOWEVER. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND LOOKS ILLEGAL FROM A LAW ENFORCEMENT POINT OF VIEW. EVERY SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD ISSUES WITH INTERMITTENT OPERATIONAL HEADLIGHTS. ONE OF THEM WILL FLICKER CONSTANTLY AND MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, TURN OFF COMPLETELY. ALSO, THE AFS DOESN'T WORK SO MY HEADLIGHTS NO LONGER SHIFT WHEN I TURN. IN ADDITION TO MYSELF, I HAVE READ SEVERAL FORUMS WHERE THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING TO OWNERS OF THIS SAME GENERATION RL. FROM RESEARCH, REPLACING THE BULB ITSELF AND/OR THE IGNITER IS NOT SOLVING THE PROBLEM. IT WILL START AGAIN AND ANY OTHER SOLUTIONS ARE EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE. IT SEEMS WITH THIS BEING SUCH A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM THAT SOMETHING IS FAULTY ABOUT THE EQUIPMENT USED IN PRODUCTION. I THINK HONDA NEEDS TO RESEARCH THIS AND OWN UP TO THEIR MISTAKE BY ISSUING A RECALL WHEN THEY DISCOVER THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 6, 2015OK
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 ACURA RL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V700000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
Air Bags
Filed Jul 15, 2015FL
2005 ACURA RL. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG RECALL REPLACEMENT ISSUES. *SMD ACURA INFORMED THE CONSUMER, HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED HE LIVES IN A STATE WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN A STATED THAT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. *JB
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jun 26, 201590,000 milesMD
WITH THE ENGINE STILL RUNNING, THERE WAS NO ACCELERATION. CYCLING IGNITION OFF/ON BROUGHT THINGS BACK TO NORMAL. REPORTED TO THE DEALER THROUGH HONDA, CA. DEALER SAID CAUSE WAS "LOOSE BATTERY CABLE." THE CAR HAS RUN FINE SINCE. NO ONE HAS BEEN ABLE TO EXPLAIN HOW THE ENGINE SUFFERED A SINGLE INCIDENT, BUT WAS DRIVEN FOR THREE DAYS BEFORE THE DEALER SAW THE CAR. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THE DEALER HAS FOUND A LOOSE BATTERY CABLE AS THE CAUSE OF AN ISSUE. IN EACH CASE, THE NEW BATTERY WAS NOT INSTALLED BY THE DEALER, BUT AT THE SAME SAM'S CLUB SERVICE CENTER. BEFORE THIS REPORTED INCIDENT ABOVE, AND ABOUT SEVERAL WEEKS EARLIER, A NEW BATTERY WAS AGAIN INSTALLED BY SAM'S CLUB. HAVING BEEN ADVISED OF THE PREVIOUS "LOOSE CABLE," THE SAMS CREW WAS ASKED SPECIFICALLY TO ASSURE THE BATTERY CABLE WAS SECURE. THE TECH SUPERVISOR REPLIED THAT IT WOULD BE DONE. SAFETY WAS AN ISSUE. THE ACCELERATOR SITUATION ABOVE OCCURRED WHEN TEMPORARILY STOPPED WITH TRAFFIC ON THE CENTER LANE OF BALTIMORE'S INTERSTATE BELTWAY. FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, THE HIGHWAY TRAFFFIC HAD RESUMED FULL SPEED IN THE 2 ADJACENT LANES.THE SPEED LIMIT FOR OTHERS WAS 65 MPH. FORTUNATELY, THERE WAS ;A SEMI AND ANOTHER TRUCK THAT WERE WAITING BEHIND US. THEY UNDERSTOOD AND STAYED PUT AT THEIR PERIL. REQUEST: A REPLY WITH A SIMPLE BUT TECHNICAL EXPLANATION OF JUST HOW A "LOOSE BATTERY CABLE" COULD BE THE CAUSE.
Suspension
Filed May 28, 201584,000 milesFL
BOTH STRUTS APPEARED GOOD ON SMOOTH ROAD, BUT ARE ESSENTIALLY ROCK SOLID ON POTHOLES OR BUMPS. IN 60 YEARS OF DRIVING I HAVE NEVER HAD A FAILED SHOCK SO NEVER CONSIDERED IT AND BOUGHT THIS 10 YEAR OLD CAR. SCANT AND INCOMPLETE DATA RELATED TO ALL BRANDS ON THE INTERNET BLAMES THE ROUTINE LIFTING OF THE CAR FOR TIRE ROTATION AND BREAKING OF INTERNAL PARTS THAT BLOCK THE OIL FLOW IN THE SHOCK. THIS SEEMS REASONABLE SINCE MANY EVENTS OCCUR IN PAIRS (IN FRONT; I DON'T KNOW ABOUT REAR) . I EXPECT THAT A SINGLE FAILURE COULD CAUSE OBVIOUS SAFETY PROBLEMS. MANY MILES OF GOOD OPERATION ARE CUT OFF FOR OWNERS BY THIS DIABOLICAL DESIGN ERROR IN ADDITION TO THE ADDED REPAIR EXPENSE OF APPROXIMATELY $1000. (+ AND -) I BELIEVE THAT THE DEALER (BRAND NOT IMPORTANT) DID NOT RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM, INDICATING THAT MORE EXPOSURE AND TRAINING IS REQUIRED. PARTS PEOPLE AND MECHANICS SEEM TO BE AWARE BUT THERE IS NO CONCERTED EFFORT TO SOLVE IT. (A CONFLICT OF INTEREST?)
Electrical System
Filed Mar 10, 2015174,000 milesMN
HEADLIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY FLICKER AND SHUT OFF, SEEMINGLY REGARDLESS OF VEHICLE SPEED OR DRIVING CONDITIONS. AT TIMES, THE RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE LIGHT SHUTS OFF. LESS FREQUENTLY, THE LEFT DRIVER SIDE OR BOTH LIGHTS SHUT OFF. ALSO, OF LATE, THE ACTIVE FRONT LIGHTING INDICATOR ("AFS") TURNS ON, SEEMINGLY AT RANDOM, AND WHETHER OR NOT AFS IS ON OR OFF. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Mar 7, 201525,790 milesNC
WHEN TRYING TO USE KEYLESS ACCESS SYSTEM WHEN LOCKING THE 2005 ACURA RL I PRESS THE BUTTON ON THE DOOR HANDLE TO LOCK THE DOORS BUT IT IS NOT LOCKING THE CAR. THE REMOTE IS IN MY POCKET. THE KEYLESS ACCESS DOES LET ME UNLOCK THE DOOR WITH THE PULL ON THE DRIVER DOOR HANDLE. THE PROBLEM IS WHEN TRYING TO LOCK THE VEHICLE WITH THE DRIVER DOOR HANDLE IT WILL NOT LOCK THE CAR. SO NOW I HAVE TO JUST USE THE KEYFOB TO LOCK THE CAR WITH PRESSING THE LOCK BUTTON ON THE REMOTE. I HAVE READ AND DONE ALL REQUIRED TO DO WHAT THE MANUAL SAYS BUT IT IS STILL NOT WORKING. I HAVE JUST READ A SERVICE BULLETIN SAYING THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE DOOR HANDLES THAT WEATHER LIKE RAIN OR MOISTURE HAS GOTTEN INSIDE AND DAMAGED THE DOOR HANDLE SENSORS. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Nov 23, 2014272,000 milesNY
I AM QUESTION WHY NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V700000 IS ONLY IN HIGH TEMPERATURE OR HUMIDITY AREAS WHERE THERE ARE NOW INCIDENTS RECORDED ALL OVER WITH THE TAKATA AIR BAGS. *TR
Complaints 1-50 of 125, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the RL years to avoid: owners filed 125 complaints, 2.5 times as many as a typical RL year. The most common complaint is about the headlights (31%).
What is the most common problem with the 2005 Acura RL?
The headlights: 39 of the 125 complaints (31%) are about it. The typical report comes at 75,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2005 Acura RL have?
11 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 27, 2019. The largest, 16V061000, covered 2,232,187 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2005 Acura RL problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 73,000 miles. For the headlights the midpoint is 75,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2005 Acura RL?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, EA15001 ("Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Feb 24, 2015 and is still open.
Are there service bulletins for the 2005 Acura RL?
The manufacturer filed 132 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the airbags (59), the electrical system (15) and the equipment adaptive/mobility (8). They include a warranty extension, B18-023, filed Jun 30, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jun 27, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.