I have an 05 RL that is fairly new to me. I have noticed that the exhaust tips get dirty (understatement) very quickly. Is this normal for RLs? This is my fourth Acura and I don't recall this being a problem before; however, I believe that this is the first one with chrome tips also. Thanks!

 

Yes, it is normal in 2005s. This soot frequently afflicts the nearby rear bumper as well. The fix is an upgraded set of exhaust tips that should be available at the dealer.

 

Any idea what sort of "change" we are talking about for these upgraded tips?

 

There is a TSB out on the 05 tips. I had mine replaced for free under waranty. New ones are about 1" longer.

 

Look in the Feb 06 Acura Service News. There is an article recommending the 05 finishers be replaced with the 06 finishers, however, it seems to talk about sooty bumpers, not sooty tips. Almost every RL I have seen including mine, get dirty tips. A paper towel with a few sprays of 409 on it remove the soot pretty nicely. Windex also works. Soapy water too.

 

I like when they are filthy, as they don't stand out as much. I think dual exhaust is way overdone/overused these days across all car companies.

 

I asked my dealer about them and they are $126.00 each. Think I'll pass....

 

I take it your car is not in warranty? It was a warranty repair at the time the tips were announced.

If not in warranty, you can always buy online (=cheeeeep). There are several site vendors you can buy from including www.hondacuraoworld.com or you can PM vendor Excelerate for a price.

 

It is in warranty and I have a good dealer. I read the mention in the Acura Service News and it didn't seem like it was a warranty repair, more of a "if a customer complains, here is what you can do" type deal. I'll give them a call. Thanks!