Over a month ago, I noticed a sound whenever I would steer the vehicle. I checked the power steering fluid level and noted it was low. I added more fluid to the appropriate level and in a week or so, the sound returned. After repeating this process, I then noticed smoke coming from under the hood. After checking some online forums and visiting a service shop, I have learned that my power steering pressure hose has a leak that could potentially start a fire. The acura recall does not include my model year even though I am experiencing the same issue. I'd like for acura to correct this widespread problem on my 1999 3.2 tl before it gets worse. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
1999 Acura TL: fire, smoke or burning smell
5 of the 157 complaints about the 1999 Acura TL describe fire, smoke or burning smell.
- owner complaints
- 5
- of this car's complaints
- 3%
- recalls
- 3
Is there a fix? There are 3 recalls and 15 service bulletins for this area of the car. See below
Fire, smoke or burning smell by model year
What owners say
Tl* the contact owns a 1999 acura tl. While driving approximately 50 MPH, the contact noticed smoke coming from the steering wheel followed by the vehicle stalling. The contact waited for the temperature of the vehicle to cool and was able to drive the vehicle home. The vehicle stalled approximately seven times. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostics nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 172,000. The VIN was not available.
There was white smoke coming out of the steering wheel of my 1999 acura 3.2tl while I was driving. I have just noticed the problem on 9/18/2009. I am afraid to drive my car due to safety concerns. I have heard that there might be a recall on the airbag problem with the acura model.
Hi, I would like to officially file a complain against acura. I have 1999 acura 3.2tl, the engine shuts off while driving on highway or even on idle. It's a intermittent issue and I noticed that it can happy anywhere or anytime which can result in fatal accident. I did some research on web and found out that lots of people have same or similar problem in acura and honda and point to recall faulty ignition switch. According to my dealer david mcdavid of austin is already been replaced in my car. They're clueless why I'm having this issue and offer no help to diagnose and fix the issue. I asked them to replaced the ignition switch again for no cost to me but they refused to do it. I need help for the federal safety agency to investigate this issue which may result in life threatening situation and let me know what else I need to do resolve this issue with acura. Thanks in advance for your help and time yesterday evening, while I was going home from work, the car shut off and I see a smoke came out from dash board. I was able to pull the car to right lane and able to start the car after few tries.
I have a 1999 acura 3.2tl. Recently the electrical system suddenly shutdown entirely while driving local street, and smoke came out of the steering column, around ignition area. Upon further research, there was a recall back in 2002 for the ignition switch that exactly matched this dangerous symptom. Apparently the switch even after the recall fix, will still fail within 6-7 years. This horrifying experience was compounded by the fact that dealership refuse to take a look at the vehicle, stating that the recall ended when vehicle has above 80,000 miles on them.
Service bulletins that may apply
- Speedometer shops CAN transfer odometer mileage
- Safety recall: ignition switch key interlock
- Letter to service manager regarding ignition switch recall campaign
- The homelink system may have test information stored in memory that must be erased before it CAN be programmed
- Odometer accuracy
- SRS warning light on after body shop repair
- Ceiling light, ignition key beeper foil keyless entry
- Reconnecting accessories after ignition switch recall
Related recalls
Electrical system: ignition: switch
- What is wrong
- On certain passenger vehicles, the interlock operation of the ignition switch may not function properly, making it possible to turn the ignition key to the "off" position and remove the key without shifting the transmission to park.
- Risk
- If the driver does not shift to park before removing the key and fails to engage the parking brake, the vehicle could roll and a crash could occur.
- Remedy
- Dealers will perform an inspection procedure that confirms interlock function. Vehicles will be updated with a redesigned interlock lever free of charge. The recall began on march 7, 2005. Owners may contact honda at 1‑800‑999‑1009 or acura at 1‑800‑382‑2238.
Recall number 05V025000 · Recall details
Electrical system: ignition: switch
- What is wrong
- On certain passenger vehicles and mini vans, the ignition switch may wear excessively and prevent proper interlock operation, making it possible to turn the ignition key to the "off" position and remove the key without shifting the transmission to "park."
- Risk
- If the vehicle operator does not shift to "park" before removing the key and fails to engage the parking brake, the vehicle could roll and a crash could occur.
- Remedy
- Dealers will perform an inspection procedure that determines the amount of cylinder body wear. If significant wear is indicated, the dealer will replace the cylinder body, collar, and latch plate. If no signs of wear are indicated, dealers will replace the latch plate with a redesigned part. Owner notification began december 8, 2003. Owners should contact honda at 1‑800‑999‑1009 or acura at 1‑800‑382‑2238.
Recall number 03V423000 · Recall details
Electrical system: ignition: switch
- What is wrong
- 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.
- Risk
- Worn contacts could cause the engine to stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the ignition switch. Owner notification began june 14, 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 honda at 1‑800‑999‑1009 or acura at 1‑800‑382‑2238.
Recall number 02V120000 · Recall details
Questions about the 1999 Acura TL fire or smoke
Is fire, smoke or burning smell a common problem on the 1999 Acura TL?
5 of 157 owner complaints about the 1999 Acura TL (3%) mention fire, smoke or burning smell. The model year with the most reports is 2003.
Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 1999 Acura TL?
There are 3 recalls and 15 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.
Other symptoms on the 1999 Acura TL
Stalling 32Slipping 8Jerking 7Power steering loss 5Sudden acceleration 5Transmission failure 5
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