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2011 Acura RL Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·6 Critical Recalls
2011 Acura RL Report

Overall Score

6.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The air bag system is a primary concern, with multiple recalls issued for inflator modules.
  • Engine oil consumption at a rate of 1 quart per 1000 miles has been reported, suggesting potential internal wear.
  • Intermittent vehicle speed control warning lights may indicate electrical or sensor faults.
  • With 6 recalls, potential repair costs should be factored into ownership.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Acura RL

The 2011 Acura RL is a luxury sedan that came standard with all-wheel drive and a 3.7L V6 engine. While it offers a comfortable ride and premium features, its reliability is rated as average. Significant safety recalls related to airbags, coupled with a notable number of TSBs, indicate potential systemic issues. Top complaints include air bags, vehicle speed control, and engine problems, with specific concerns about oil consumption. Given its average reliability and potential repair costs associated with its 6 recalls, thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial.

Critical Failure Risk

Some 2011 Acura RL models exhibit excessive engine oil consumption, with reports of 1 quart per 1000 miles. This can indicate internal engine wear or sealing issues and requires diligent monitoring.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls6
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

3
Air Bags1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a comfortable, AWD luxury sedan on a budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing top-tier reliability and minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Acura RL Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Acura RL.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
6 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Acura RL reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Acura RL is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 3.

How practical is the 2011 Acura RL for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Acura RL?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Acura RL is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.5/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Acura RL?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (estimated cost Min: $0 • Max: $500).

What engine is in the 2011 Acura RL?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.

What transmission does the 2011 Acura RL use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura RL, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2011 RL require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Acura RL?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Acura RL?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Acura RL?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura RL, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Acura RL use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura RL, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Acura RL?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2011 Acura RL good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2011 Acura RL is a luxury sedan that prioritizes comfort and refinement over aggressive performance tuning.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2011 Acura RL?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (1 reports, 33.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Acura RL?▾

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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