Is the Acura RL Reliable?
1996–2012 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 RL? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Acura RL Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 4 | 0 | — | — | 64 | Good |
| 2011 | 3 | 2 | — | — | 64 | Good |
| 2010 | 4 | 7 | — | — | 64 | Good |
| 2009 | 4 | 12 | 1 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2008 | 4 | 5 | — | — | 64 | Good |
| 2007 | 5 | 11 | 1 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2006 | 5 | 21 | 2 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2005 | 7 | 91 | 2 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2004 | 0 | 14 | — | — | 64 | Good |
| 2003 | 1 | 7 | — | — | 64 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the RL Compares to Similar Vehicles
The RL scores 7 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Acura RL Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 170 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Acura RL reliable?+
The Acura RL scores 79/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 37 recall campaigns and 170 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year RL is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2012 RL achieved the highest reliability score of 64/100 with 4 recalls and 0 complaints.
How many miles does a RL last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Acura RL owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used RL will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Acura RL Research
Check a Specific Acura RL 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.
Run a Free VIN Report →