I've owned my 07 RL since Jan 2014. Haven't had any issues other than the alternator $840 and the pwr steering hose leaking $700. I bought this car after much research, after enjoying a BMW E60 with major transmissions issues at ~70k. The RL has 175k and the car still looks and performs very well. Over the past few months I have been hearing a consistent fast tapping and rattle noise from the engine, previously present only in cold weather. A top rated Honda mechanic think's it's the timing belt tensioner, and since I'm close to the next belt change it's best to take care of everything at once. Is it time to send it to greener pastures and get a new ride? I've never owned a car with mileage over 100k, but I feel safe and comfortable in this one and it's nice not having to give money to a bank just to get around town. Did anyone get rid of theirs and regret it or is it stupid to be in a high mileage vehicle?

 

Welcome to the forums.

Since this is a technical issue which will require replies and not a "New Member Introduction" I moved this thread to the appropriate subsection so you can hopefully get more help.

 

what you described is normal term for an Acura RL/TL, its just little thing here and there and don't forget the car is 10 years old so thing can get wear out. I had a 200k miles Lexus and drive it daily 86 miles per day 6 days a week and never leave me stranded as long as I take care of problem before it became an issue.

 

I have a 07 with 167K miles and I LOVE that car. Looks great; runs great. That's because I do the maintenance regularly, and fix things that are wrong.

I'd have that noise looked at. You belt isn't due for change until 205K presuming the PO did it at the proper time.

 

I would just do the timing belt job. It's cheaper than a new car payment... Honestly, the J series is one of the more reliable motors, and it's paired to a fairly solid transmission in the RL. I'd hang on to your car.

 

I've decided to keep the car. I'm comfortable with the quality of mechanics in the city and it seems to make more sense giving my business to a local small business rather than to the bank and in taxing authority. I'll be sure to send an update some day in the future. Cheers

 

I always like to keep a car unless it throws something obscene at me, or something that compromises the car's integrity, reliability or overall safety.

 

RL > *