Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2005 Acura TL
The 2005 Acura TL has a mixed record. It has several recalls and complaints, mainly involving airbags, the vehicle structure, and some electrical issues. Given the number of recalls, especially concerning safety-critical components like airbags and steering, ensure these have been addressed. Complaints, though numerous for structure and airbags, are less specific, so further investigation is advised during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2005 Acura TL has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns and 388 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #19E068000 Accelerator Pedal May Bind/FMVSS 124 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V182000 Driver Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11E022000 LOWER BALL JOINT/REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V091000 POWER STEERING HOSE OIL LEAKING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V092000 WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07V097000 FUEL PUMP RELAY NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #05V132000 FUSE BOX NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Structure 156 complaints
- Air Bags 144 complaints
- Unknown or Other 64 complaints
- Power Train 36 complaints
- Electrical System 28 complaints
- Steering 25 complaints
Of the 388 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 388 complaints, owners report 7 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflator modules
How to check: Verify all airbag recalls are completed.
Power steering hose leaks
How to check: Check for power steering fluid leaks under the hood.
Windshield wiper motor failure
How to check: Test wipers and listen for unusual noises.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idle.
Red flag: Persistent loud noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for any warning lights.
Red flag: Unresolved warning lights
- 03
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Assess steering responsiveness and ease.
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
- 04
City driving
What to check: Test electrical features like windows and mirrors.
Red flag: Non-functioning electrical features
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Feel for acceleration hesitations or noises.
Red flag: Noticeable hesitation or jerking
- 06
Cruising at speed
What to check: Notice any unusual vibrations or sounds.
Red flag: Strong vibrations
- 07
Braking
What to check: Ensure smooth and effective stopping.
Red flag: Grinding or long stopping distances
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recall repairs been completed?
- Any known issues with the airbags?
- Any power steering leaks resolved?
- Has the fuel pump relay been replaced?
- Any electrical issues you've noticed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Vehicle service history
- Title and registration
- Previous owner records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2005 Acura TL at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2005 Acura TL? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.