AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2002 Acura Cl
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $4,500–$8,000
The 2002 Acura CL has a notably high number of transmission complaints and a significant airbag recall. Transmission issues and airbag recalls impact the overall confidence in reliability, resulting in a below-average rating. However, it maintains a generally stable performance in other areas, such as brakes and suspension.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic transmission | 60,000–100,000 miles | $2,500–$3,500 | very common |
| Driver airbag inflator | N/A | $0–$0 | common |
| Electrical system | 50,000–90,000 miles | $300–$700 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter change every 5,000 miles
- Brake pads inspection/replacement every 25,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change every 30,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 60,000 miles
- Spark plug replacement every 100,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Transmission slipping or harsh shifts
- Airbag warning light
- Intermittent electrical issues
- Unusual engine noise
- Unexpected brake pedal feel
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.