Is the Acura CL Reliable?
1997–2003 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Acura CL? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Acura CL Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 3 | 43 | 2 | 1 | 57 | Fair |
| 2002 | 2 | 28 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2001 | 2 | 140 | 6 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2000 | 0 | 7 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1999 | 1 | 23 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1998 | 3 | 40 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1997 | 1 | 45 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the CL Compares to Similar Vehicles
The CL scores exactly at the sedan average.
Known Acura CL Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 326 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Acura CL reliable?+
The Acura CL scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 7 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 12 recall campaigns and 326 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year CL is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2003 CL achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 3 recalls and 43 complaints.
How many miles does a CL last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Acura CL owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used CL will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Acura CL Research
Check a Specific Acura CL VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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