1999 Acura Cl Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 1999 Acura Cl
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module.
- Scores 4 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 1999 Acura Cl at a glance
- Is the 1999 Acura Cl reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 1999 Acura Cl 78/100 (grade B-), categorized as moderate risk. A reliable and comfortable coupe, but the Achilles' heel of the V6 automatic transmission demands serious scrutiny.
- Should I buy a used 1999 Acura Cl?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 1999 Acura Cl. The 1999 Acura CL is a charming and comfortable coupe that offers great value, but the widespread and costly automatic transmission failures in V6 models are a significant red flag. While the 4-cylinder models are exceptionally robust, purchasing a V6 without verified transmission service or replacement history is a…
- Which Acura Cl years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 1997-1999 (4-cylinder models), V6 models with documented transmission rebuild/replacement.. Years to avoid: 1997-1999 V6 automatic models with no transmission service history or high original mileage..
- What are the most common problems with the 1999 Acura Cl?
- The top failure points on the 1999 Acura Cl are Automatic Transmission (V6) (typically around 60,000-120,000 miles), Rust and Corrosion (typically around 80,000-150,000+ miles), Power Steering System (typically around 70,000-110,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 1999 Acura Cl?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 1999 Acura Cl is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the 1999 Acura CL is typically still in excellent condition, requiring only routine fluid changes and tire rotations. Major component failures are exceedingly rare, offering a worry-free ownership experience.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 1999 Acura Cl?
The 1999 Acura CL offers a compelling blend of luxury and Honda reliability, but prospective buyers must approach the V6 automatic models with extreme caution. While the base 4-cylinder and V6 engines themselves are robust, the V6 automatic transmission is a notorious weak link that can lead to costly, premature failure. Secure a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and verify transmission service history if considering the V6, or opt for the highly durable 4-cylinder variant to enjoy a truly low-stress ownership experience.
The 1999 Acura CL is a charming and comfortable coupe that offers great value, but the widespread and costly automatic transmission failures in V6 models are a significant red flag. While the 4-cylinder models are exceptionally robust, purchasing a V6 without verified transmission service or replacement history is a…
Best Model Years
1997-1999 (4-cylinder models), V6 models with documented transmission rebuild/replacement.
Years to Avoid
1997-1999 V6 automatic models with no transmission service history or high original mileage.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 4-cylinder engine (F23A1)
- Comfortable and well-appointed interior for its era
- Generally strong Honda build quality for chassis and body
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1999 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 (Honda M7WA/B7WA) is highly prone to premature failure, often due to internal clutch pack wear (particularly 2nd/3rd gear) and torque converter issues. This can manifest as delay…
Like many Honda/Acura vehicles of this vintage, the CL is susceptible to rust, especially in areas where road salt is used. Common spots include the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe components, and exhaust system.
The power steering pump can become noisy or develop leaks from the high-pressure hose or the pump itself. This is a common Honda issue from this era, leading to fluid loss and potential pump failure.
1999 Acura Cl Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1999 Acura Cl most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the 1999 Acura CL is typically still in excellent condition, requiring only routine fluid changes and tire rotations. Major component failures are exceedingly rare, offering a worry-free ownership experience.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks the first major service interval for many components. For V6 models, it's a critical time for automatic transmission fluid changes; neglecting this can accelerate the known transmission issues. Suspension components ma…
Elevated Risk Zone
This is a pivotal mileage for V6 models, as the timing belt and water pump service are due. Furthermore, the risk of automatic transmission failure significantly increases for V6 variants. Suspension bushings, power steering components,…
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the CL becomes a higher risk proposition, particularly for V6 models where transmission replacement is a strong possibility. Rust becomes a more significant concern, and nearly all original suspension, steering, and…
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Aluminum Single Plane Enigne Intake Manifold for Chevy/Pontiac/Cadillac/GMC LS Gen III/IV LS1/LS2/LS6
1999 Acura Cl Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1999 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 1999 Acura Cl Last?
For a V6 automatic, avoid models over 80,000 miles unless the transmission has been replaced or rebuilt, and verify records. 4-cylinder models or V6 manuals are generally safe up to 150,000+ miles with proper maintenance.
What 1999 Acura Cl Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth, quiet ride quality and comfortable highway cruising.
- Reliable and powerful V6 engine (when paired with a functioning transmission).
- Upscale interior materials and fit-and-finish for the price point.
- Distinctive and timeless styling that still looks good today.
Common Frustrations
- The constant anxiety and inevitable expense of the V6 automatic transmission.
- Noticeable road noise at higher speeds compared to modern cars.
- Lack of modern technology and safety features (expected for its age).
- Rust can be a significant cosmetic and structural issue in affected climates.
Who Should Buy the 1999 Acura Cl?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking an entry-level luxury coupe.
- Daily commuters who prioritize comfort and a smooth ride.
- Manual transmission enthusiasts (4-cylinder model).
Not Ideal For
- Buyers unwilling to risk or afford a major transmission repair.
- Performance enthusiasts seeking modern driving dynamics.
How the 1999 Acura Cl Compares to Rivals
The CL offers a more upscale feel than its Honda Accord brethren, but its V6 automatic transmission issue places it below the reliability benchmark set by Toyota/Lexus from the same era, despite its overall solid Honda engineering foundation.
More Reliable Than
- 1999 Chrysler Sebring Coupe
- 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
- 1999 Pontiac Grand Am Coupe
Comparable To
- 1999 Honda Accord Coupe
- 1999 Toyota Camry Solara (less sporty, higher reliability in V6 automatic)
NHTSA Recalls
3 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 1999 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 1999 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.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Sell your 1999 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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