1998 Acura Cl Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 1998 Acura Cl
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module.
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1997 Acura Cl earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (v6) (critical severity).
The 1998 Acura Cl at a glance
- Is the 1998 Acura Cl reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 1998 Acura Cl 79/100 (grade C+), categorized as moderate risk. A stylish, comfortable coupe with solid bones, but the V6 automatic transmission is its notorious Achilles' heel.
- Should I buy a used 1998 Acura Cl?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 1998 Acura Cl. While the 1998 Acura CL offers undeniable style, comfort, and a strong core engine, the pervasive issues with its V6 automatic transmission cannot be overstated. I recommend proceeding with extreme caution, prioritizing 4-cylinder manual transmission models or only buying V6 automatics with documented transmission r…
- Which Acura Cl years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: All first-generation 1997-1999 CL models are quite similar. Manual transmission I4 models are universally preferred for reliability. Later 2001-2003 CL models also suffer from significant automatic transmission problems.. Years to avoid: No specific years to outright avoid within the 1st gen, but all 1997-1999 V6 automatic models carry the inherent transmission risk. The 2nd generation (2001-2003) also has similar transmission issues..
- What are the most common problems with the 1998 Acura Cl?
- The top failure points on the 1998 Acura Cl are Automatic Transmission (V6) (typically around 80,000-150,000 miles), Power Steering System (typically around 60,000-120,000 miles), Ignition System (V6) (typically around 90,000-160,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 1998 Acura Cl?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 1998 Acura Cl is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the CL is typically still in excellent condition. Focus on ensuring regular fluid changes have been performed according to the manufacturer's schedule. This is a prime mileage for a well-maintained example to feel nearly…
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 1998 Acura Cl?
The 1998 Acura CL offers a compelling blend of style and a refined driving experience for a budget-friendly price, but it demands careful attention to its well-documented automatic transmission vulnerabilities, particularly on V6 models. While other systems are generally robust, overlooking the transmission's condition can lead to significant and costly repairs. If you find a well-maintained example, especially with a manual transmission, it can be a surprisingly durable and enjoyable coupe.
While the 1998 Acura CL offers undeniable style, comfort, and a strong core engine, the pervasive issues with its V6 automatic transmission cannot be overstated. I recommend proceeding with extreme caution, prioritizing 4-cylinder manual transmission models or only buying V6 automatics with documented transmission r…
Best Model Years
All first-generation 1997-1999 CL models are quite similar. Manual transmission I4 models are universally preferred for reliability. Later 2001-2003 CL models also suffer from significant automatic transmission problems.
Years to Avoid
No specific years to outright avoid within the 1st gen, but all 1997-1999 V6 automatic models carry the inherent transmission risk. The 2nd generation (2001-2003) also has similar transmission issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust J-series V6 and F-series I4 engines (manual transmission versions)
- Excellent build quality and interior durability for its age
- Comfortable ride and surprisingly agile handling
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1998 Acura Cl, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 4-speed automatic transmission paired with the 3.0L V6 is notoriously prone to premature failure due to internal clutch pack wear and torque converter issues. Symptoms include slipping, delayed engagement, harsh shifts, and eventuall…
Common issues include leaks from the power steering pump, reservoir, and high-pressure hose, leading to fluid loss, whining noises, and potential pump failure. This is often exacerbated by neglecting fluid changes.
The V6 engine often experiences issues with the distributor assembly, specifically the igniter unit or internal components, leading to misfires, rough idling, stalling, or no-start conditions. Spark plug wires and coil packs can also deg…
1998 Acura Cl Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1998 Acura Cl most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the CL is typically still in excellent condition. Focus on ensuring regular fluid changes have been performed according to the manufacturer's schedule. This is a prime mileage for a well-maintained example to feel nearly…
Maintenance Zone
The V6 engine's timing belt service is due around 105k miles, but many owners perform it earlier. This is a critical period for fluid flushes (transmission, power steering, coolant) to prevent premature wear. Expect standard wear items t…
Elevated Risk Zone
This mileage brings the V6 automatic transmission into its highest risk period. Thorough inspection and fluid analysis are crucial. Other components like ignition system parts and suspension elements will likely require replacement.
High Risk Zone
Vehicles at this mileage require a significant budget for continued maintenance and potential repairs. A well-maintained CL can exceed 200,000 miles, but major components will be nearing the end of their service life, especially the V6 a…
1998 Acura Cl Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1998 Acura Cl on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 1998 Acura Cl Last?
For the 1998 Acura CL, lower mileage isn't always a guarantee of transmission health, as age and lack of fluid changes can be equally detrimental. Prioritize meticulous service history over just low numbers, especially for the V6 automatic.
What 1998 Acura Cl Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Stylish and upscale exterior design for its era
- Comfortable and well-appointed interior with good ergonomics
- V6 engine offers respectable power and smooth acceleration (when transmission works)
- Handles surprisingly well, a good balance of sportiness and comfort
Common Frustrations
- The automatic transmission is a constant source of anxiety and potential expense for V6 owners
- Dated technology with limited modern features
- Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds
- Some parts, particularly interior trim or body panels, can be difficult to source
Who Should Buy the 1998 Acura Cl?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable, stylish coupe
- DIY enthusiasts willing to address minor issues and potential transmission work
- Drivers in search of a reliable, low-maintenance I4 manual transmission car
Not Ideal For
- Anyone who wants a completely worry-free ownership experience
- Drivers unwilling to pay for or perform major transmission repairs
How the 1998 Acura Cl Compares to Rivals
The Acura CL generally offers a more refined and stylish package than its direct Japanese competitors like the Accord Coupe or Camry Solara, with a slight edge in handling. However, the pervasive V6 automatic transmission issues hold it back significantly from achieving the st…
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Altima Coupe (late 90s)
- Chrysler Sebring Coupe
- Ford Probe
Comparable To
- Honda Accord Coupe (6th Gen)
- Toyota Camry Solara (1st Gen)
NHTSA Recalls
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1998-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL and Acura MDX, 1998-2000 Honda Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Sedan, Odyssey and Acura 3.5RL, 1999-2000 Acura 3.2TL, 1996-2000 Civic Coupe, 1997-2000 CR-V, 1997-1998 EV Plus, and 1998-1999 Isuzu Oasis vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
ON CERTAIN SEDANS, COUPES, HATCHBACKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH CAN DEGRADE DUE TO THE HIGH ELECTRICAL CURRENT PASSING THROUGH THE SWITCH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED.
What breaks on the 1998 Acura Cl?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Acura Cl by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Acura Cl. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
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Where the 1998 Acura Cl report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
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Common problems + repair costs
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sell your 1998 Acura Cl for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Acura Cl. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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