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Common Problems, Issues, Recalls, and Reliability

  • Check Engine Light for Running Rough and Difficulty Starting

    The exhaust recirculation valve ( EGR ) on the 1996-2012 Acura RL may fail, causing:

    • Illumination of the check engine light
    • OBD trouble codes P0401 and P1491
    • Rough idle
    • Reduced fuel economy
    • Engine vibrations
    • Hesitation or stalling
    • Long cranking before engine starts
    • Failure of state or federal smog tests

    The EGR valve has open and closed positions, and opens or closes on command from the computer.

    Exhaust gases constantly pass through the valve when it is open, leaving carbon deposits on the valve. These carbon deposits may lead the the valve sticking in the open or closed position.

    To correct this issue, sometimes it is sufficient to clean the valve, but replacement is recommended in all cases.

    For further information on your vehicle's issue, try out our diagnostics tool here .

  • Engine Stalls While Driving and WIll not Start

    The 1996-2006 Acura RL may have issues with the fuel pump and fuel injection relays .

    These relays send power to the fuel pump and fuel injectors when the key is turned to the “ON” position. So, when they fail, there is no electrical current to the necessary fuel system components to send fuel into the engine, causing engine stalling or failure to start.

    In this situation, there are many other possibilities, so testing components is vital for time and money savings.

    If the relays test bad, they must be replaced with relays specific for that circuit.

    To help prolong the life of your under-hood electrical components, ensure the lid for the fuse block is closed, and any factory sealing material is correctly installed.

  • Engine Clicks but Will Not Start

    The starter motor used on the 1996-2006 Acura RL frequently fails on vehicles around 125,000 miles.

    It may help prolong the life of the starter to service the starter to ensure the connections are clean and tight at the 100,000 mile mark.

1996 Questions and Answers

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1996 Maintenance and Repair