Summary
The Acura TL has 16 recalls covering the 1996-2008 production run, with the most serious recent issue being a power steering hose on 2004-2008 models that can crack and leak fluid onto hot exhaust components, generating smoke and potentially starting an engine fire.
The steering hose problem appears across several years: 2004, 2007, and 2008 model years all have recalls where under-hood heat causes the high-pressure power steering hose to deteriorate, crack, and leak fluid. Beyond the fire risk, fluid loss on 2007 models can also reduce or eliminate power steering assist, making the car harder to control. Moving to the 2005 model year, a loose terminal in the main fuse box can cut power to the fuel pump, stalling the engine without warning while driving.
The 2000-2002 era carries several overlapping issues. The 2000 model year has a driver-front airbag inflator that moisture can degrade over time, causing it to either underinflate or rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin in a crash. A separate passenger airbag recall on 2000 models covers an improperly welded inflator component that can prevent correct deployment. The 2000 model year also has an automatic transmission where heat buildup between gear shafts can chip or break gear teeth, potentially locking up the transmission. On the seat belt side, 2000-2002 models had improperly manufactured front buckle assemblies that may not hold an occupant in a crash, and a follow-up recall covers vehicles where the replacement buckles from the original repair were themselves incorrect parts. The 2002 model year additionally has a driver's window control unit that can fail, causing the window to move on its own or disabling the auto-reverse feature that prevents the glass from closing on an arm or hand.
The 2004-2005 models share a windshield wiper motor recall where water entering the motor's vent port corrodes the internal circuit breaker, rendering the wipers inoperative. Going back to the beginning of the production run, the 1996 model year has a front suspension lower ball joint that can wear prematurely and separate without warning, removing the connection between the front wheel and the suspension.
