1999 Acura TL Problems
- Complaints
- 157filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 112,000miles, 83 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 4campaigns on record
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Sources: NHTSA records for the 1999 Acura TL (complaints, recalls, investigations). Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 1999 Acura TL most often describe the engine cutting off while driving, which many attribute to the ignition switch and which has been the subject of several ignition-switch recalls over the years. A second large group of complaints describes transmission slipping, hard or delayed shifting, and solenoid or internal transmission failures. Remaining reports cover a leaking auto-dimming rearview mirror, rusted front subframe areas, and occasional unintended acceleration or cruise-related speed control complaints.
- Electrical system
Engine stalls while driving (ignition switch)
- 43 complaints (27%)
- median 125,000 mi at 11.1 yrs old (34 state mileage)
- 5 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2004–2022
Complaints describe the engine shutting off without warning at highway and low speeds, with dashboard gauges dropping out and loss of power steering and brakes; the car often restarts after being cycled off or after several attempts. Many owners state the ignition switch was replaced under one of the ignition-switch recalls and that the problem returned later, and some report smoke or melting at the ignition or steering-column area. Dealers, according to the complaints, sometimes could not duplicate the failure, and several owners were told a repeat repair would not be covered because the recall had already been performed. A service bulletin covers cranks that won't start with a flashing immobilizer light. Reported across a wide mileage range, from about 25,000 to over 220,000 miles, with many reports between roughly 85,000 and 170,000 miles.
Recall 05V025000Recall 03V423000Recall 02V1200001 related service bulletin
What to check: Ask for records showing which ignition-switch recalls were completed and when, and whether the switch has been replaced again since. During a test drive, note any flickering dash lights or hesitation, and check for a strong ignition-key feel or any smell of hot plastic near the column.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I have a 1999 Acura TL and the engine stops while I am driving on the freeway, this has happened for 5 days and each time after I pull over and re-start the engine it will run fine, according to honda and Acura there was a recall for the ignition switch, but when I went in to the dealer they say it is not covered by the recall. And I had to pay $280.00. They say the cost for the part is $75.00 and the labor is $210!!!”
NHTSA complaint #10284071, filed 2009-09, 117,316 miles“I was driving my 1999 Acura TL on the freeway at a speed of 65 MPH when the ignition shut off and the car quickly lost speed in heavy traffic. I was in the right lane and I managed to coast off the freeway but I had no power steering and I hit a concrete barrier before coming to a stop. After repeatedly attempting to restart the car over a period of five minutes the ignition turned on again and I was able to drive the car home. …”
NHTSA complaint #10328696, filed 2010-05, 95,900 miles - Transmission and drivetrain
Transmission slipping, harsh shifting, solenoid failure
- 32 complaints (20%)
- median 100,500 mi at 10.2 yrs old (14 state mileage)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 1999–2016
Owners describe the automatic transmission slipping between gears, jerking or clunking on downshifts, slow or delayed engagement, and occasional hard slams into gear, especially from a stop or when cold. Some complaints say a dealer diagnosed a failed shift solenoid or internal transmission failure and recommended replacement or rebuild, and several mention a warranty extension on the automatic transmission that had expired by the time the failure occurred. Fluid leaks from the cooler line area are also described, and one owner reported a differential-related axle seal leak. Generally reported from about 65,000 to over 190,000 miles, with many complaints in the 90,000 to 165,000 mile range.
What to check: Check automatic transmission fluid level and color, look for leaks at the cooler lines, and drive the car through all gears from cold, watching for delayed engagement or clunking. Ask whether the transmission has been rebuilt or replaced and whether any warranty extension work was done.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“When I drive the shift is usually is really slow and it also makes a clunk sound then sometimes I put it on d4 but it some how goes to reverse and I have to go back to park and try to put it back on drive as I'm driving on the highway it does jerk around but as I'm slowing down to exit it starts to break and jerk around I was able to make it home and ever since not move the car.”
NHTSA complaint #10404455, filed 2011-06, 135,000 miles“My ignition switch has been recalled and the Acura website says it has been repaired. It has failed again. My transmission was suppose to have been repair a year ago. I left the car at the dealer and they told me it was fixed. I went out to the car and the transmission lockout still was not fixed. Then they told me they would have to something different. The car had not left the dealers lot and was not fixed at that time.”
NHTSA complaint #10261910, filed 2009-03, 85,000 miles - Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
Rearview mirror leaks dark fluid and stops dimming
- 6 complaints (4%)
- median 97,500 mi at 9.9 yrs old (6 state mileage, few)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2008–2012
Complaints describe the auto-dimming rearview mirror leaking fluid from its seams, turning dark or silvery, and losing the night-dimming function so headlights behind reflect brightly. One owner reported the mirror rupturing and spattering fluid inside the cabin, and another reported headache and stomach discomfort afterward. Owners generally replaced the mirror. Reported from about 50,000 to roughly 105,000 miles.
What to check: Inspect the mirror glass and housing for dark streaks, discoloration or residue at the seams, and test the dimming function at night or with a light behind the car.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“1999 Acura TL 50,000 miles. Rearview mirror exploded liquid. Noticed 5 days ago that the mirror was dark. 4 days ago noticed a clear bubble in the dark liquid. I thought it was just condensation or moisture and it would go away. Yesterday it exploded leaving black spattering on leather seats and center console, as well as on personal items. I got some in my mouth accidentally, and it left numbness and bad taste. Researched online and apparently contains toxic chemicals? …”
NHTSA complaint #10245769, filed 2008-10, 50,000 miles“The fluid leaked out of the rearview mirror, apparently from a failed seal on the bottom of the mirror. The image in the mirror is now fuzzy and somewhat distorted. The mirror no longer has the night dimming function and instead headlights coming from behind are reflected brightly into the driver's eyes. I will need to have the mirror replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #10453518, filed 2012-03, 105,000 miles
Buying note. Records matter most on this model year: confirm which ignition-switch recalls were performed and whether the transmission has been serviced or replaced, then have a shop inspect the subframe for rust before purchase.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 157 consumer complaints for the 1999 Acura TL. 83 of the complaints include a mileage, and 2% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 112,000 miles. Of all complaints, 17 involved a crash, 4 a fire, 9 an injury, 2 a death, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns and 28 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Electrical system58 37%
- Air bags13 8.3%
- Engine cooling12 7.6%
- Other or unknown11 7.0%
- Vehicle speed control10 6.4%
- Steering8 5.1%
- Brakes6 3.8%
- Body and structure6 3.8%
Also reported: Engine (5), Tires (4), Interior lighting (3), Seat belts (3), Exterior lighting (2), Fuel system (2), Suspension (2), Electronic stability control (1), Seats (1), Wheels (1).
Example complaints
Electrical system: “While driving numerous times engine shuts down. I took notice that there were no common issues related to speed, weather outside, time of year. This has happened too many times to list. There was a recall on this car that was performed but it still happens with the new ignition switch. I know that I have to replace the ignition switch.”
NHTSA complaint #10487218, filed 2012-12, 100,000 milesTransmission and drivetrain: “My vehicle habitually demonstrates the performance failures detailed in the NHTSA campaign id number # 04v176000. Although the manufacturer indicated the recall is limited to the 2000-2004 models, the symptoms of the product failure on my vehicle match identically. My 2nd gear has been ruined due to excessive heat.”
NHTSA complaint #10208487, filed 2007-11, 100,000 milesAir bags: “I have a phone to a 88 honda, 94 honda 99 Acura each of those vehicles have had problems with the air condition. I'm in the process of searching for a new vehicle but I will never buy another honda due to the air condition problems unless there was a guarantee that you guys will stand behind the air conditions.”
NHTSA complaint #11203195, filed 2019-04, 149,510 milesEngine cooling: “Out of the whole month of dec until now,I am driving down the road, and my car just cuts off, no warning at all, I have almost been in 2 accidents due to this as I have a small child, I am concerned about this..also my check engine n emissions light has been on since Acura fixed my transmission back in 2005 why did they not check the recalls for this? I had no clue about the recalls as I was the new owner of what I thought was a 'safe car for my child!never again will I purchase one of these. I am a single mother who needs this completed not my fault this car had recalls...”
NHTSA complaint #10298379, filed 2010-01, 170,000 milesMileage when problems were reported
2% of the 83 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 80,000 and 163,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: falling. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Recalls and investigations
- 20V026000Jan 17, 2020Air bags › Frontal › Driver side › Inflator moduleCovers: Acura TL 1999–2000, Honda Civic 1996–2000, CR-V 1997–2000 +6 more
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…
- 05V025000Jan 28, 2005Electrical system › Ignition › SwitchCovers: Acura TL 1999–2000, Honda Prelude 1997–2001, Accord 1999–2002
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.
- 03V423000Oct 27, 2003Electrical system › Ignition › SwitchCovers: Acura TL 1999, Honda Accord 1998–1999, Acura CL 1998–1999 +1 more
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."
- 02V120000May 16, 2002Electrical system › Ignition › SwitchCovers: Acura TL 1999, CL 1997–1999, Honda Accord 1997–1999 +5 more
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.
Recall details for the 1999 Acura TL → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 28 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 10144045Aug 9, 2018Engine cooling. Dealer message - Today, Acura is notifying dealers of a voluntary noncompliance recall for a small number of Acura vehicles due to an error on the replacement (service part) underhood emissions…
- 10144042Aug 9, 2018Equipment. Service bulletin - Emission certification labels that were replaced on a small number of vehicles may have been replaced with a label listing incorrect information. The affected emission labels are…
- 10117865Aug 30, 2017Transmission and drivetrain. Service bulletin - You are required to install a remanufactured A/T (automatic transmission) and torque converter on any vehicle with an internal failure that calls for A/T disassembly that is…
- 10193392Jan 1, 2017Equipment. Sending vehicle data to tech line.
- 10211608Mar 18, 2016Equipment. Special Tool Loan Program: Under TOOLS AVAILABLE FOR LOAN, the list has been updated.
- 10099960Dec 8, 2015Fuel system. "service bulletin - this bulletin updates the troubleshooting procedures for dtc p1456 (evap control system leakage [fuel tank system]) and dtc p1457 (evap control system leakage[evap canister…
- 10037486Nov 1, 2010Tires. Acura: there are guidelines for various situations and procedures including: tire pressure valve stem installation, trailer stability malfunction light is on, engine oil application guide, new…
- 10024664Feb 5, 2008Transmission and drivetrain. Warranty extension: 3.2 tl and 3.2 cl automatic transmission.
- 10021343Mar 16, 2007Engine cooling. Rough idle, stalls at stops, and dtc's p0172 or p0175 appear when inspected.
- 10018109Sep 16, 2005Equipment. Homelink won't program with aftermarket remotes.
Other model years of the Acura TL
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 17 | 36,000 | 3 | 4 | 23 | — | Falling |
| 2013 | 62 | 69,503 | 3 | 4 | 23 | 20 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2012 | 130 | 55,000 | 3 | 3–4 | 23 | 81 · More | Falling |
| 2011 | 20 | 89,500 | 3 | — | 21 | — | Falling |
| 2010 | 64 | 62,830 | 3 | — | 21 | 50 · Typical | Falling |
| 2009 | 42 | 60,038 | 3 | — | 21 | 50 · Typical | Rising |
| 2008 | 124 | 76,589 | 2 | — | 21 | 61 · Typical | Falling |
| 2007 | 124 | 79,000 | 2 | — | 21 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 247 | 88,000 | 4 | — | 21 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 388 | 91,000 | 5 | — | 21 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 551 | 90,000 | 4 | — | 21 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2003 | 391 | 75,900 | 5 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2002 | 333 | 64,500 | 7 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Rising |
| 2001 | 149 | 81,936 | 3 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2000 | 249 | 110,400 | 6 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1999 | 157 | 112,000 | 4 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 1998 | 20 | 77,500 | 2 | — | — | — | Stable |
| 1997 | 23 | 86,260 | 2 | — | — | — | Stable |
| 1996 | 26 | 68,100 | 2 | — | — | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
All Acura TL model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 1999 Acura TL?
Owners of the 1999 Acura TL most often describe the engine cutting off while driving, which many attribute to the ignition switch and which has been the subject of several ignition-switch recalls over the years. The issues reported most often: Engine stalls while driving (ignition switch); Transmission slipping, harsh shifting, solenoid failure; Rearview mirror leaks dark fluid and stops dimming.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 1999 Acura TL have?
NHTSA recorded 157 consumer complaints for the 1999 Acura TL as of Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 1999 Acura TL is reported most often?
Electrical system is named most often, in 58 complaints (37% of the total), followed by transmission and drivetrain with 37.
Has the 1999 Acura TL been recalled?
NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
At what mileage are problems with the 1999 Acura TL reported?
Among the 83 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 112,000 miles and the middle half falls between 80,000 and 163,000 miles; 2% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.