Hello, new to the forum. I just picked up a used 03 TL Type-S and the first thing I want to do is fix the radio. The previous owner put a JVC head unit in which I don't find to be very user friendly. I want to go back to the factory configuration but I have a couple questions:
1. Did all 2002-2003 Acura TL's have steering wheel mounted radio controls? I ask because if I get a used head unit somewhere, I want to make sure I can use the wheel mounted controls which my car does have.
2. Did all TL's have Bose stereos? My car has a subwoofer in the center of the rear deck which has a Bose badge on it. If they all had Bose, I would imagine I can get any head unit. If Bose was an upgrade, then I would have to get a Bose head, correct?

If this has been covered already, any help finding the appropriate thread would be appreciated. Also, if anyone has the factory head unit I need just sitting around...hello, nice to meet you

 

Yes

 

Yes...to....all?

 

Bose is factory. The stock radios break so I wouldn't recommend getting one. I would get a double din in your case

 

Why in the name of all that is holy would you go back to the maker of the most hideous sounding system ever...
I bet that cheapo JVC unit is 100x times better than the horrible OEM HU..

And to Answer: YES to both of your first questions in each sentence.
To Clarify going back to OEM wont make your car more valuable for re-sale.. Its only going to give you pain and make your ears hurt with no PROs in the process.

 

Thank you all for your input. It looks like you might have saved me from making a mistake by going back to the OEM radio. I will give the aftermarket unit a chance.