What are the most common problems with the 2012 Acura RL?

The primary ownership concern is the potential for **airbag inflator rupture**, a serious safety defect that has led to multiple recalls. Ensure all recall campaigns have been addressed.

How many recalls does the 2012 Acura RL have?

The 2012 Acura RL currently has 6 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Acura RL a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The primary ownership concern is the potential for **airbag inflator rupture**, a serious safety defect that has led to multiple recalls. Ensure all recall campaigns have been addressed. A single complaint regarding **exterior lighting** suggests potential visibility issues at night, which could impact safety and require attention. With 58 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), expect other less critical but numerous system issues that may require proactive inspection. The RL's **All-Wheel Drive** system and V6 engine offer capable performance, but fuel economy is modest at 20 MPG combined, leading to higher fuel costs. Given the recall history, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable to identify any underlying issues. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Acura RL?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Acura RL.

2012 Acura RL Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller6 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The primary ownership concern is the potential for airbag inflator rupture, a serious safety defect that has led to multiple recalls. Ensure all recall campaigns have been addressed.
A single complaint regarding exterior lighting suggests potential visibility issues at night, which could impact safety and require attention.
With 58 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), expect other less critical but numerous system issues that may require proactive inspection.
The RL's All-Wheel Drive system and V6 engine offer capable performance, but fuel economy is modest at 20 MPG combined, leading to higher fuel costs.

See the 4 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $

Overview

2012 Acura RL

The 2012 Acura RL is a luxury sedan that offers all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its 'Average' reliability rating. With six recalls, including critical ones related to airbag inflators, potential repair costs are a consideration. The vehicle achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. Its 3.7-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power for daily driving.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls address Takata airbag inflators due to the risk of rupture and metal fragment ejection during deployment. This is a critical safety defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls6

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Exterior Lighting1

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

This RL is best suited for a buyer who prioritizes all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride, and who is diligent about verifying all safety recalls have been completed. It's for someone willing to invest in a thorough pre-purchase inspection to mitigate potential risks.

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those on a tight budget for unexpected repairs should look elsewhere. The significant recall history and potential for costly issues make this a less attractive option for risk-averse shoppers.

2012 Acura RL Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

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

CarFocal account required

See the full 2012 Acura RL buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

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 specs and trim-level context

6 recall campaign details & remedy notes

1 owner complaints by system

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2012 Acura RL reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Acura RL is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 1.

How practical is the 2012 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 2012 Acura RL?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Acura RL is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Acura RL?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-20, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (estimated cost Min: $0).

What engine is in the 2012 Acura RL?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.

What transmission does the 2012 Acura RL use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Acura RL, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 RL require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Acura RL?

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Acura RL?

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

What body style is the 2012 Acura RL?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Acura RL, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Acura RL use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Acura RL, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Acura RL?

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2012 Acura RL good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2012 Acura RL is a luxury sedan with a 3.7L V6 engine and All-Wheel Drive. While it excels in comfort and reliability for daily driving,...

What are the most common exterior lighting problems on the 2012 Acura RL?

Top complaint category: exterior lighting (1 reports, 100% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Acura RL?

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.