I am unsure of the mileage on this RL but I am going to pick it up and trailer it back to me to get it reliable once more. I am really reaching out to anybody with experience on these for common issues I should be looking out for. I have read head gaskets are fairly common and since it is having overheating issues I can only assume I will be looking into replacing them. While I am in it I will be doing timing and water pump since I really don't know when the last time it was done. Are there any good aftermarket parts available for these? If the Acura world is anything like the Goldwing world I am certain there will be varying opinions on that topic. Is the Acura factory service manual the best to get or would Chilton's/Haynes be just fine for complete engine teardown if necessary? Like I indicated I do not currently have the car but I will within a weeks time. I just want to be a little prepared for what I am about to dive into. This vehicle will be for my son's first car and I have about 3 years to get it right for him so no big rush. He really likes the idea of having air ride suspension to get it on the ground when he is parked to look cool and since I'm not paying for the car I think I'd be ok with putting the money I would have used to buy him a different one into this car. Thank you in advance for your suggestions and/or comments.

 

On common issues, there aren't too many, The head gaskets only go if there is excessive detonation or bad coolant system servicing was performed. Common issue is that the EGR gets clogged. Intake has to be removed and taken apart. Timing belt kits on the aftermarket aren't as good as oem. There is also a balance belt that runs a balance shaft. Dunno which one would be adequate. Main thing will be rust in the rear quarters and in the frame behind the front fenders. Does it have air suspension? If so that is aftermarket. Big issue is the main relay goes out every 6-8 years or so. It is a $50-100 part made by just about everyone. Main thing is to change the diff oil. DO THIS otherwise the diff dies. It never gets changed because people forget it exists. 75/80w90 or 75w110 will work just fine. Also see if you can pull the extension shaft that connects the transmission to the diff to regrease it. Grease will dry up and will strip the gears in the transmission. I can email or post the Acura service manuals if you want me to.

 

I would really appreciate the service manual on this thing. I’ve been looking for one

 

You should have it by now.

 

I think you're barking up the wrong tree there. This generation of the RL is kind of a grandpa car. If it were an American it would be a Lesabre.

Do all of the regular servicing. Not many weaknesses.

 

thank you that was exactly what I was looking for