AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2002 Acura Rl
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $3,500–$5,500
The 2002 Acura RL receives an average reliability rating. Despite airbag recall concerns, the vehicle has moderate complaint counts mostly in the airbag and powertrain systems. However, many issues, including electrical and steering, occur at manageable levels, supporting an average estimation for cost and maintenance.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| airbags | 50,000–80,000 miles | $500–$1,000 | very common |
| brake switch | 60,000–90,000 miles | $100–$200 | common |
| powertrain | 70,000–100,000 miles | $800–$1,200 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- oil changes every 7,500 miles
- timing belt replacement at 90,000 miles
- brake fluid replacement every 2 years
- coolant replacement every 2 years
- tire rotation every 10,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- airbag warning light stays on
- strange noises from powertrain
- unresponsive or sticky brake pedal
- stalling or engine surges
- dim or flickering lights
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/19/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.