Acura CL Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing Causes of Rough Idle in Your Acura CL and How to Restore Smooth Performance

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Acura CL has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Acura CL has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in an Acura CL

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Acura CL, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest potential issues before moving on to more complex ones. Start by checking for vacuum leaks, as these can significantly disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to an unstable idle. Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for any signs of wear or damage. Next, turn your attention to the air intake system; a clogged air filter or dirty throttle body can restrict airflow, so ensure the air filter is clean and consider cleaning the throttle body for optimal performance. After addressing airflow, examine the ignition system, focusing on the spark plugs and ignition coils. Worn spark plugs can cause misfires, so replace them if they show signs of wear. Additionally, inspect the ignition coils and wires for any faults. Moving on, assess the fuel system by checking the fuel filter and fuel injectors, as clogs or malfunctions here can also lead to rough idling. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can provide valuable insights by revealing any error codes related to the engine or emissions system, guiding you toward the underlying issue. Lastly, consider the throttle position sensor, as a malfunction here can disrupt idle control; testing or replacing this sensor may be necessary. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the rough idle in your Acura CL, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle Issues in an Acura CL

When troubleshooting rough idle issues in an Acura CL, it's essential to understand the common problems that can affect engine performance. One of the primary culprits is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to an unstable idle. Inspecting the vacuum lines for cracks or disconnections is a crucial first step. Additionally, worn or fouled spark plugs can significantly impact engine smoothness; ensuring they are in good condition and properly gapped can help restore a steady idle. The ignition coil is another critical component to examine, as its failure can lead to misfires and rough idling. Cleaning the throttle body and Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) is also vital, as any buildup can hinder airflow and affect engine performance. Furthermore, checking fuel pressure is necessary to confirm it meets manufacturer specifications, as low fuel pressure can contribute to idle issues. Conducting a compression test can reveal if low cylinder compression is at play, while addressing any detected engine misfires is essential for smooth operation. Lastly, if the vehicle shakes at idle but runs smoothly when accelerating, inspecting the motor mounts for wear or damage may be necessary. By systematically evaluating these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve rough idle issues in your Acura CL, ensuring optimal engine performance.

Why is it Urgent to Address Rough Idle Issues in an Acura CL?

Addressing rough idle issues in an Acura CL is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity that can significantly impact the vehicle's overall health and safety. A rough idle often indicates underlying engine problems that, if ignored, can escalate into severe damage, leading to costly repairs and diminished performance. The vehicle's fuel efficiency may suffer, resulting in increased operational costs, while the risk of unexpected stalling poses a serious safety hazard on the road. Moreover, neglecting these symptoms can lead to further damage to critical components, compounding repair expenses and complicating future diagnostics. Additionally, a rough idle can adversely affect emissions, potentially causing the vehicle to fail emissions tests and contributing to environmental concerns. Therefore, it is crucial for Acura CL owners to prioritize the resolution of rough idle issues promptly, ensuring not only the longevity and reliability of their vehicle but also the safety of themselves and others on the road.

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