Looking at a Specific 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL?
Start here...enter its VIN for a free vehicle history record check.


Safety and Reliability Ratings > 2001 > Acura > RL

2001 ACURA 3.5 RL
Sedan 4 DR
Front wheel drive


CARFAX has collected the industry's leading used car safety and reliability ratings into one, convenient report. With this report, you'll know the safety and reliability of your next used car. All information presented in this report is specific to the 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL. Please view the CARFAX Vehicle History Report for the detailed history of a specific used ACURA.

 

CARFAX Safety Section One  Safety:

This information will help you select a vehicle model that meets your expectations for safety and security.

CARFAX Safety Section Two  Reliability:

Use this information to check how reliable a vehicle model is before you buy.


Let us do the work!
Be the first to know about 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL vehicles just listed for sale in your area.

Heading Graphic Print the Report

NHTSA Crash Test Results National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration
Divider image
 
Frontal Crash: Rating:   NHTSA Five Star Legend
Driver Rating 4 of 5  
Passenger Rating 4 of 5  
Side Crash: Rating:  
Front Seat Not Tested  
Rear Seat Not Tested  
Rollover Resistance: Rating:  
Rollover Resistance Not Tested  

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides 3 different ratings - full-width frontal crash test , side impact crash test , and rollover resistance . The frontal crash test indicates how well the safety features and restraints will protect an occupant in a head-on collision. The side-impact test conveys the chance of a severe chest injury, while the rollover resistance rating estimates the risk of rolling over in a single vehicle crash. Go to NHTSA to learn more about these results.


IIHS Crash Test Results Highway Loss Data Institute
Divider image

Frontal Offset Crash Test Rating:   4 star legend
Overall Evaluation   A
Structure/Safety Cage   A
Injury Measures  
Head/Neck   A
Chest   G
Leg/foot, left   G
Leg/foot, right   A
Restraints/dummy kinematics   G
Important: Frontal crash test ratings can be compared only among vehicles of similar weight. <p>The Acura RL was introduced in the 1996 model year.</p> Dummy movement was well controlled. During rebound, the dummy's head hit the B-pillar and shoulder belt upper anchorage. Measures taken from the neck, chest, and left leg indicate low risk of injuries to these body regions in a crash of this severity. A high head acceleration occurred when the dummy's head hit the B-pillar, indicating that injuries to the head would be possible. Forces on the right tibia indicate that injuries to the lower leg would be possible. 2002 Acura 3.5RL 4-door 3840 front seat-mounted torso airbags 115 197 72 3.5 L V6 18 24

Crash Tested Vehicle: Details | Vehicle Specifications

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) uses frontal offset and side impact crash tests to estimate the crashworthiness of a vehicle. These results are good indicators of how a frontal and side impact can structurally impact a 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL . The crashworthiness data for this 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these crash test results.



Low-Speed Damage Repair Highway Loss Data Institute
Divider image

Front Crash Description: Front Crash Cost:
Front into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Front into angle barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear Crash Description: Rear Crash Cost:
Rear into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear into pole   Not tested by IIHS
Average Damage Per Test   Not tested by IIHS

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts four 5 mph crash tests to assess bumper performance. These results convey how well this 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL bumpers will protect the car body from damage in low-speed collisions. Low-speed damage repair costs are obtained from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute.


Injury, Collision, & Theft Indicators Highway Loss Data Institute
Divider image

Index: Score: Rating:
Injury Index 66 Substantially better than average
Collision Index 90 Average
Theft Index 142 Worse than average


These scores are stated in relative terms, with 100 being the average for all cars in each category. Scores greater than 100 represent higher risk in each category. For example, an injury indicator score of 122 means that a passenger in this model is 22% more likely to be injured in an accident. The injury, collision, and theft indicators for this 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL are provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these results.



Safety Recalls
Divider image

NHTSA Safety Recalls:
Important: The following recalls were issued for the 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). To find out if a specific 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL still has open recalls that require repair, CARFAX recommends contacting an authorized dealership for more information.

Recall date: 05-14-2002
Units potentially affected: 25,765
NHTSA campaign number: 02V119000
Defective part or component: BRAKES:HYDRAULIC:SWITCH:BRAKE LIGHT
Description: On certain passenger vehicles, during the manufacturing process, oil was applied to the brake pedal assembly to prevent rust. This oil can leak into the brake stop switch and contaminate the electrical contacts. Eventually, the brake lights will not illuminate when the brakes are applied, which increases the risk of a crash. Dealers will clean any excess oil from the pedal assembly and replace the stop switch. Owner notification is expected to begin during June 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Acura at 1-800-382-2238.
Recall date: 05-14-2002
Units potentially affected: 25,765
NHTSA campaign number: 02V119000
Defective part or component: BRAKES:HYDRAULIC:SWITCH:BRAKE LIGHT
Description: On certain passenger vehicles, during the manufacturing process, oil was applied to the brake pedal assembly to prevent rust. This oil can leak into the brake stop switch and contaminate the electrical contacts. Eventually, the brake lights will not illuminate when the brakes are applied, which increases the risk of a crash. Dealers will clean any excess oil from the pedal assembly and replace the stop switch. Owner notification is expected to begin during June 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Acura at 1-800-382-2238.


This 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL safety recall information was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Data Loss Institute and is derived from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration list of safety recalls. Please call the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236) to report safety defects or to obtain information on cars, trucks, child seats, and highway or traffic safety. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by the National Highway Traffic and Saftey Administration, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Looking at a Specific 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL?
Start here...enter its VIN for a free vehicle history record check.


Heading Graphic Print the Report

J.D. Power Ratings
Divider image

Ownership: Rating:
Initial Ratings (up to 1 year)  
Overall Quality Rating 4.5 of 5
  Mechanical Quality Rating 3.5 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Quality Rating 5 of 5
  Body and Interior Quality Rating 4 of 5
Overall Appeal Rating 3.5 of 5
  Performance Rating 3.5 of 5
  Comfort Rating 4 of 5
  Feature and Instrument Panel Rating 4 of 5
  Style Rating 3 of 5
Midterm Ratings (1-3 Years)  
  Mechanical Reliability No data from source
  Feature and Accessory Reliability No data from source
  Body and Interior Reliability No data from source
Long Term Ratings (3-5 Years)  
Overall Dependability Rating 5 of 5
  Mechanical Dependability Rating 4.5 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Dependability Rating 4.5 of 5
  Body and Interior Dependability Rating 5 of 5

J.D. Power and Associates uses selected highlights from the firm's quality and customer satisfaction syndicated studies to create the Power Ratings at the model-level. These ratings and awards are based on model rankings within each vehicle segment, whereas Power Circle Ratings compare all models across segments.

All information provided by J.D. Power and Associates is proprietary information owned by J.D. Power and Associates and is protected by U.S. and international copyright law and conventions. Reproduction of this information, in whole or in part, by any means is prohibited without the express written consent of J.D. Power and Associates, other than printing copies of the JDPA content by site visitors for their personal use. J.D. Power and Associates® is a registered trademark of J.D. Power and Associates.



Identifix Reliability Ratings
Divider image
Category: Comments: Rating:
Engine An occasional problem on this vehicle is the failure of the Evaporative (EVAP) Bypass Solenoid. Problems with EVAP Bypass Solenoid can cause the check engine light to illuminate. The cost to replace the EVAP Bypass Solenoid is estimated at $52.52 for parts and $32.50 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax. Moderate Problems
Transmission & Driveline Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Steering & Suspension Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Brakes Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Heating & Air Conditioning Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Starting & Charging Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Accessories An occasional problem on this vehicle is failure of the Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) Sensor or Module that is part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). Problems with either component will cause the SRS light to illuminate. The cost to replace the SRS Module is estimated at $905 for parts and $97.50 for labor. Acura has released TSB #02-015 that discusses how to diagnose and repair problems related to this system. Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Parts and Service Manager or the Acura Zone Office. It is suggested that you request consideration, and get a decision, before starting any repair work to the SRS. All prices are estimates based on $65 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax. Significant Problems
Identifix Legend


This 2001 ACURA RL reliability information was provided by Identifix. Identifix is the nation's largest technical support service for the aftermarket auto repair industry. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by Identifix, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Intellichoice Cost of Ownership & Value Rating Intellichoice
Divider image

Cost of Ownership (2001 - 2005):
Category:    RL 3.5RL 4 Dr Sedan:
Depreciation $18,726
Financing $8,606
Insurance $10,034
State Fees $1,718
Fuel $5,888
Maintenance $1,068
Repairs $731
Total 5-Year Ownership Cost $46,771

Ownership costs are the costs to purchase and operate a vehicle over a period of time. Understanding these costs can save you money and help you make a wiser financial decision when it comes time to select a vehicle. Intellichoice is one of the leading providers of automotive information in the U.S.

Original Manufacturer Warranty
Divider image

Coverage: Years/Mileage:
Basic 4 years or 50,000 miles  
Drivetrain 4 years or 50,000 miles  
Emissions 2 years or 24,000 miles  
Corrosion 5 years with Unlimited mileage  
Transferable Roadside assistance covered for 4years or 50,000 miles. Warranty transferable at no cost to subsequent owners.  
Roadside Assistance Extended warranty covers engine, transmission, roadside assistance and it is transferable.  
Safety Belt & Inflatable Restraint Safety belt and inflatable restraint system are covered for years or miles.  
Specific Components 8 years or 80,000 miles  
Notes: Manufacturer covers emissions components under basic warranty. Emissions coverage may vary by state. Refer to owners manual for specific details. Roadside assistance covered for 4years or 50,000 miles. Warranty transferable at no cost to subsequent owners. Battery coverage is 3 years with 100% coverage for the first 2 years. Accessories 4/50,000 mile limited warranty when installed at time of new vehicle delivery. Seatbelts are covered for the useful life of the vehicle  

This 2001 ACURA 3.5 RL warranty information has been provided by J&L Warranty Pros.


New Car Test Drive Review
Divider image

Category: Review:
Summary:

World-class luxury for less.
By Albert Hall, NewCarTestDrive.com

The Acura 3.5 RL performs in the 90th percentile in every important luxury-car measure, and a large share of potential buyers will never miss that last 10 percent. In the rare air of luxury sedan prices, the RL comes with an exceptionally handsome window sticker.

A Lexus LS 430 is a bit smoother, quieter and quicker than the Acura RL, perhaps. But with its own navigation system and comparable equipment, the LS 430 retails for nearly $15,000 more. History suggests that a V8-powered Mercedes E 430 will hold its value better than the RL. Yet that E 430 costs at least $10,000 more at the outset. Even six-cylinder competitors like the Mercedes E 320 can cost $3,000 more than the RL, without as many amenities. That makes the RL a mighty attractive alternative.

You might say that, without a V8 engine or the class-standard rear-wheel drive, the 3.5 RL couldn't compete with the best luxury sedans. Or you might ask, given its overall balance of luxury and performance, why anyone would pay a dime more for anything else.

Overview:

As you might expect from Honda/Acura, the 3.5 RL represents a decidedly different approach to a world-class luxury sedan. V6-powered and front-wheel driven, the RL nonetheless challenges the top traditional luxury models, many of them boasting more cylinders, more horsepower, and more conservative rear-wheel drive. Yet, after spending considerable time behind the wheel, we'd say the 3.5 RL has hit its mark squarely-at a price just about $10,000 less than the benchmark Lexus LS 430.

This RL does a lot of things well, and nothing badly. Like so many Honda products, its strength is its balance. There are expensive sedans that are smoother, more powerful, more agile or faster. Yet the RL offers poise and grace at a reasonable price--and it's plenty fast enough to satisfy most luxury car buyers.

The 1999 RL benefited from an exterior restyling and more than 300 engineering improvements; Acura has made few changes since then. For 2001, the RL's long list of standard equipment has expanded to include carpeted floor mats and an emergency inside trunk release.

Read the complete 2001 Acura 3.5 RL review

© 2002 NewCarTestDrive.com

CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by NewCarTestDrive.com, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Awards
Divider image

View awardees recognized by Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, Polk Automotive, and J.D. Power and Associates.



Unauthorized Usage Disclaimer

CARFAX DEPENDS ON ITS SOURCES FOR THE ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY OF ITS INFORMATION. THEREFORE, NO RESPONSIBILITY IS ASSUMED BY CARFAX OR ITS AGENTS FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS IN THIS REPORT. CARFAX FURTHER EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

SYSTEMATIC RETRIEVAL OF THE CONTENT OR OTHER DATA FROM THIS SITE TO CREATE OR COMPILE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, A COLLECTION, COMPILATION, DATABASE OR DIRECTORY WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION OF CARFAX IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. THE CARFAX SAFETY & RELIABILITY RATINGS IS SUBJECT TO THE CARFAX.COM TERMS OF USE.

© 2008 CARFAX, Inc., an R.L. Polk & Co. All rights reserved.