RL-R0ckst/\r

My first gen RL was hit and runned : , looking at a second gen. I havent seen many complaints but its a rare car. Anyone have any opinions on pre 09 models vs the 09+ models? Looks like theres tranny a couple tranny issues with the gen 2.5’s (dammit honda)

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

I enjoy the looks of the older model.
the newer model is funky looking, like a Toyota Avalon wannabe.

however, you can't beat a newer model!! refreshed tech! and a newer model will have less miles which will lead to troublefree years to come!
Just really up to you my man!
WHich one do you prefer?

for me; along with the great looking body, the older model is a lot more cheaper! and I'm a cheapskate and could pick one up for a couple grand.

RL09

2.5 or MMC has some extras like the vtech is both on intake and output, an extra stabilizer bar, 18in tires, probably some extra electronic options, not sure, but the 2011+ versions have folding mirrors and a 6 speed tranny (the 11 is the problematic one fixed in 12).

teh CL

iTrader: (1)

If you can find a 05-08 Aspec, jump on it. Otherwise, go for the 11+ with the 6spd auto

RL-R0ckst/\r

perfect this is what i was looking for. Personally i like the look of the mmc RL, guess ill be looking for a 2012.

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

i think the most beneficial thing in that list is the updated 6AT.

RL-R0ckst/\r

the a-spec is nice, looks like a bigger rsx, but man im in canada, very few RL’s up here.

RL09

The front grill was improved in 11 and 12.

My 7 yr old sees me coming with my 09 and tells his mom: "Mommy, daddy's car is upset-angry" (translation)

It does look mean from the front.

The KB1 has vtech only on output. I'm no expert but the addition of input as well may be the reason for that 3.7 vs 3.5 ; but the car is always wired ready to bite. knock on wood.

The extra stabilizer bar surely a major plus. Also I believe it's bars are thicker. I think the same were in the Aspec KB1.

You could try finding an 11 manufactured end of year, coz they did say - if i recall correctly - that first batch had tranny issues and they were fixed in later 11.

RL09

2009 mid-model change (KB2)[[url=https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Acura_RL&action=edit&section=6]edit]

2009–2010 Acura RLFor the 2009 model year, the RL received an extensive mid-model change (MMC), and made its introduction at the Chicago Auto Show on February 6, 2008, billed as "the most extensive Acura MMC ever". The new sedan was designated KB2 in the VIN codes, differentiating it from the 2005–2008 KB1 chassis VIN code. The revised sedan was released on July 1, 2008 to dealerships. The engine is upgraded to 3.7L with 300 hp (220 kW). While on paper, the engine may seem to be the same unit as shared with the Acura MDX, it is actually a variant that introduces, for the first time ever on an SOHC Honda V6, an implementation of the Honda VTEC variable valve train technology on both intake and exhaust for improved horsepower and torque. Heretofore, all previous SOHC Honda V6 engines with VTEC used the technology on the intake side only.[19] Engine emissions were reduced to meet the stricter U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) TIER 2 – BIN 5 and California Air Resources Board ULEV-2 standards. Implementation of the SH-AWD was adjusted for earlier intervention and a greater rear-wheel bias for better handling dynamics.

The MMC RL suspension was upgraded with higher-rate coil springs, larger diameter anti-sway bars and stiffer bushings all around.[20] The MMC RL was equipped with a new larger front anti-sway bar of hollow construction, 30 mm diameter overall with a 6.5 mm wall thickness, and a larger rear solid anti-sway bar, 19 mm in diameter.[21] The pre-MMC models sported a solid 29 mm front and 17 mm rear sway bar.[22]

Standard 18- x 8-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels with 245/45-18 tires replaced the previous years' 17- x 8-inch five-spoke offerings for not only the Base and Tech package models, but also for the highest trim level, the ACC/CMBS equipped model. Previous years' ACC/CMBS equipped models were equipped with [Michelin PAX System] run-flat tires on 18-inch equivalent (460 mm diameter) five-spoke wheels.

Inside, the front seats were revised for greater comfort and to allow a slight increase in rear leg room. The passenger front seat received the same full 10-way power control as the driver's seat. Both front seats featured active head restraint systems, and the existing seat-heating feature was supplemented by six levels of cooling ventilation. Controls for heating and air conditioning were simplified, and additional individual vent controls were added for the driver and passenger. The shift gear no longer had a gated sequence, but moved straight fore and aft like the ones in the Acura TSX and Acura TL. Simulated woodgrain trim was added to the steering wheel and the top of the shifter, to emphasize the RL's upscale aspirations compared to its less costly TL and TSX siblings.

Additional insulation, improved acoustic isolation windshield design, and a new implementation of the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) combined to make the 2009 RL's interior quieter in a variety of conditions. Whereas the former ANC was set to cancel out only low frequency boominess from the engine and exhaust, the MMC system, called Active Sound Control, was expanded in its range to cancel some higher frequency road and tire noise as well. Unlike its predecessor ANC, Active Sound Control was now linked to throttle position and engine RPM to provide a quieter cockpit during normal cruising, yet allowed more of the new 3.7L engine's "muscular sound" to be heard during higher-RPM, higher-speed excursions.

An additional microphone as well as some switchable directionality was added to the HFL (Hands Free Link) and Voice Activated Navigation and Convenience controls. When the system was in "accept commands" mode, the new microphone system provided more accurate system "understanding" of the driver's voice. Extraneous sounds, such as other voices in the cabin and wind noise, were better distinguished and filtered out by the dual microphone system. Directionality was removed when an HFL voice call was established, so that all passengers could still participate in a phone call as in the pre-MMC model. The new dual microphone system used real estate in the overhead console that was previously used in the 2005 and 2006 models for OnStar control electronics. The number of voice recognition commands was increased to over 700,[23] up from 560[24] previously.

The DVD-based navigation system improved on previous XM satellite-linked traffic flow reporting, adding continuously updated real-time weather reporting and the capability to reroute based on current traffic conditions. The DVD Audio-capable 10-speaker sound system remained, but integration with the audio system was improved with the addition of Bluetooth stereo and a USB port that allowed integration and operation of Apple iPod and other MP3 type devices. Also new was the ability to display iPod or other MP3 device (such as a USB flash memory device) folder and playlist information on the car's 8-inch central navigation display screen.[25]

New shifter and center console arrangements were added, including a Sport mode. The steering wheel paddle shifters were reprogrammed for faster response, and the paddle shifters could be operated in both Drive and Sport modes. In pre-MMC models, the gear selector had to be put in manual mode for the paddle shifters to operate.

In exterior length, the 2009 RL grew slightly by 2.2 inches (56 mm). The height grew by a scant 0.1 inches (2.5 mm), while the width, track and wheelbase remained the same,.[21]
[22]The front end including the hood, and the rear including the trunkline, were revised, and the headlights and taillights redesigned. One of the most controversial features of the 2009 RL was its "Power Plenum" grille design, the first of three similar designs that was soon joined by the second-generation 2009 Acura TSX and the fourth-generation 2009 Acura TL.

Curb weights increased for 2009. The MMC Base weighed in at 4083 lbs, the Technology Package model 4085 lbs, and the ACC/CMBS with no PAX weighed 4110.[26] The equivalent 2006 pre-MMC Technology Package had weighed 4012 lbs, and the pre-MMC with ACC/CMBS/PAX weighed 4074 lbs.[27]

MSRP for the 2009 Acura RL increased by $500 over 2008 model for each of its three trim levels.[28] For 2009, the Michelin PAX Run Flat Tire system was no longer offered in combination with the CMBS/ACC package. ACC was now featured alongside CMBS as part of the package name, after a two-year hiatus. In reality, ACC was always included as a part of the CMBS. Colors were also added and deleted.

The 2011 Acura RL added new color combinations and new features: six-speed automatic transmission, power folding mirrors, and rear backup/parking sensors.

The 2012 Acura RL appears to be a carryover from the 2011 refresh with no substantive changes.[36] Price increases US$1,000.[37] The color Platinum Frost Metallic had been dropped in 2011, but appears to be added back in 2012.[38]
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It was fun to re-read that

Continue

hmm thanks for this!

jaetee

Wow... very helpful info! I had a 2005 RL for the last 7 years, just sold it to my Dad and replaced it with a 2010! Thanks for posting this extensive write up!

rlx015

I am only concerned with the 3.7L engine that has been reported across the line-up of all cars having it to burn oil... 2.5 RL, MDX, ZDX, TL-SH-AWD - all burn oil...

More extensive reports are on 2012-2014 TL SH-AWD, but per numbers, more of the TLs were sold when compared to RL for example... or ZDX I think too...

https://acurazine.com/forums/fourth-...mption-939258/

teh CL

iTrader: (1)

I've never seen reports of the 3.7 in the RL burning oil. Maybe it's because most RL owners at the time didn't service their own vehicles..

projektvertx

iTrader: (2)

Between that and sales numbers being so low on the 3.7's, I honestly doubt we'll ever run into the reports of oil burning. In theory the risk is there.

2009 only had 2043 units sell in the US and 94 in Canada. And it only got worst from there.... In 2012 only 379 sold across the US and 29 in Canada

rlerman

projektvertx

iTrader: (2)

The new marketplace has been rolled out, that might be why you're having an issue

https://acurazine.com/forums/market/

If there is still an issue PM Ron A, he's usually great about marketplace listings!

teh CL

iTrader: (1)

Aside from the 3.7 and sway bar upgrades. This has to be the most intriguing upgrade. I'm curious to see how much more aggressive the SH-AWD tuning is. It's been on my list for some time to snag this newer SH-AWD ECU & see what it's all about.

Just snagged one off eBay for $20 shipped..

RL09

No one beats TehCL in the search engine. ))

A heads-up that you may not need, but, a friend bought recently a main computer for a bloody Tiburon for 200 bucks and it didn't work. She still went to dealer and paid 1300 loonies! keyword, re-programming and only dealer had the computer to do it.

teh CL

iTrader: (1)

Let's just say I'm a seasoned veteran when it comes to research/parts hunting..

As for the programming, that's a good point but I don't see the SH-AWD ECU needing to be programmed. Engine ECU''s 100% have to be reprogrammed to the new car though.

As always, we'll see what happens.

truonghthe

let us know because I m curious about this matter also. I drove couple SH-AWD TL while back and the response time to vector the torque seem to be tinny bit faster than my RL, may be the suspension is soft on the KB1?

teh CL

iTrader: (1)

That's interesting you say that since the RL's have an acceleration device to overdrive the rear diff & the TL (or any other SH-AWD vehicle) does not.

More than likely has to do with the KB1's suspension as you mentioned. The KB2's have stiffer bushings all around as mentioned earlier. The 4G TL is probably the same seeing as how it's the sportier model.

truonghthe

I can see the Acceleration device at work since if I launch the RL its seem to be put torque on the rear first (like 4-5 bars on the rear and 3 bars up front) and stay there for a good 4-5 seconds vs the TL it literally happen in the same fashion but very quickly (almost instantly) vector most of the torque up front leaving 2 bars for the rear wheel. I wonder how much stiffer KB2 vs KB1 as I never been in a KB2.

teh CL

iTrader: (1)

Curious about that as well.

Next time I need suspension parts, I'm going KB2.