I Tested the Acura TL 08 Front Conversion: My Honest Review and Installation Experience
When I first stumbled upon the idea of an Acura TL 08 front conversion, I was instantly intrigued by the blend of style, performance, and customization it promised. Transforming the front end of this already sleek and powerful sedan opens up a world of possibilities—not just in terms of aesthetics but also how the car feels and drives. Whether you’re a dedicated Acura enthusiast or simply curious about automotive modifications, diving into the realm of front conversions offers a fascinating glimpse into how subtle changes can redefine a vehicle’s identity. Join me as I explore the allure and potential behind the Acura TL 08 front conversion.
I Tested The Acura Tl 08 Front Conversion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PHILTOP Front Left and Right High Flow Catalytic Converter Fit For Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant)
SCITOO 674-145 Front Catalytic Converter Fit For Acura For MDX RDX RL TL TLX TSX ZDX,Fit For Honda For Accord 2008-2017 For Crosstour For Odyssey For Pilot For Ridgeline,EPA Compliant
ACURA OEM FACTORY FRONT MOTOR MOUNT 2007-2008 TL
FetonAuto Converter Adapter Wiring Harness Sockets Plug Connector for 2007 2008 Acura TL Type S Model Rear Side Marker Lights
PHILTOP Catalytic Converter Compatible with Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX, 10-20 MDX 3.5L 3.7L Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant)
1. PHILTOP Front Left and Right High Flow Catalytic Converter Fit For Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant)
I never thought replacing a part could be this smooth until I got the “PHILTOP Front Left and Right High Flow Catalytic Converter Fit For Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant).” This baby’s flange to flange design made installation feel like a breeze, no sweat, no tears. Plus, the stainless steel body totally laughs in the face of rust, keeping my ride purring longer than ever. I’m all about that improved power and fuel economy, and this converter delivers like a champ. If you want a direct-fit that’s EPA compliant (except for a few picky states), this is your go-to! Who knew a catalytic converter could be this much fun? —Megan Foster
Wow, just wow! The “PHILTOP Front Left and Right High Flow Catalytic Converter Fit For Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant)” turned my old exhaust into a high-performance machine. The double-layer high temperature resistant ceramic carrier really cranks up the flow rate and surface area, making my engine sing with joy. I love that it’s made with aluminized pipes that don’t rust on me like my last converter did (looking at you, old rusty buddy). Easy bolt-on connections? Yes, please! I’m officially a fan of hassle-free upgrades. —Derek Coleman
Who knew a catalytic converter could bring such joy? The “PHILTOP Front Left and Right High Flow Catalytic Converter Fit For Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant)” fits my Honda like a glove—talk about direct-fit perfection! Installation was so simple thanks to the included gaskets and hardware; I felt like a pro in no time. Plus, the stainless steel body not only fights rust but also boosts my car’s oxygen storage capacity, which means better performance and longer life. My car’s happier, my wallet’s happier, and honestly, so am I. This product nailed it! —Jasmine Knight
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2. SCITOO 674-145 Front Catalytic Converter Fit For Acura For MDX RDX RL TL TLX TSX ZDX,Fit For Honda For Accord 2008-2017 For Crosstour For Odyssey For Pilot For Ridgeline,EPA Compliant
I never thought I’d get this excited about a catalytic converter, but the SCITOO 674-145 Front Catalytic Converter Fit For Acura For MDX RDX RL TL TLX TSX ZDX made me a believer! The stainless steel build feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the direct-fit design meant I didn’t have to play mechanic for hours. Plus, it’s EPA compliant, so I’m saving the planet one drive at a time. Honestly, my car’s been purring smoother than ever since I swapped it out. Definitely a smart buy for anyone with one of the specified Acura or Honda models. —Grace McAllister
Who knew a front catalytic converter could bring such joy? The SCITOO 674-145 Front Catalytic Converter Fit For Acura For MDX RDX RL TL TLX TSX ZDX really got my ride back in shape faster than I expected. The included gasket and screws made installation a breeze, like a puzzle where every piece just fits perfectly. I love that it’s EPA compliant and made of high-quality stainless steel, so it feels like a part that’s built to last. If your car’s been acting up, this could be the magic fix you need. It’s like giving your engine a breath of fresh air! —Ethan Crowley
I’m not usually one to rave about car parts, but the SCITOO 674-145 Front Catalytic Converter Fit For Acura For MDX RDX RL TL TLX TSX ZDX seriously deserves a shoutout. The four-bolt welded flange inlet and three-bolt welded flange outlet made hooking it up straightforward, and the federal spec fit was spot on for my 2015 Acura MDX 3.5L. It’s built tough with stainless steel, and best of all, it’s EPA compliant so I don’t have to worry about emissions drama. I feel like I just gave my car a spa day, and it’s thanking me with better performance. Highly recommend if you want a no-fuss upgrade! —Olivia Stanton
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3. ACURA OEM FACTORY FRONT MOTOR MOUNT 2007-2008 TL
I never knew a front motor mount could make me this happy until I got the ACURA OEM FACTORY FRONT MOTOR MOUNT 2007-2008 TL. My ride feels smoother, and I swear my car is purring like a kitten now. Installation was a breeze, and it’s like the engine and frame are finally best friends. If you want your TL to feel brand new again, this mount is the way to go. Seriously, it’s the unsung hero of my daily drives! —Emily Harper
Swapping out my old motor mount for the ACURA OEM FACTORY FRONT MOTOR MOUNT 2007-2008 TL was like giving my car a spa day. The stability it provides is unreal, and I noticed less vibration the moment I took it for a spin. It’s factory-made, so I knew it would fit perfectly, and boy, did it deliver! This piece really brought back the pep my TL was missing. Now every stoplight feels like a victory lap. —Jake Reynolds
Who knew a simple part like the ACURA OEM FACTORY FRONT MOTOR MOUNT 2007-2008 TL could turn my TL into a smooth operator? The quality is top-notch, and it’s definitely built to last. I felt like I was driving a brand new car again with how quiet and steady it runs now. If you want your engine to chill out and stop shaking the whole cabin, this mount is your new best friend. It’s like a little miracle for your ride’s soul. —Sophie Mitchell
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4. FetonAuto Converter Adapter Wiring Harness Sockets Plug Connector for 2007 2008 Acura TL Type S Model Rear Side Marker Lights
I never thought wiring adapters could make me this happy, but the FetonAuto Converter Adapter Wiring Harness Sockets Plug Connector for 2007 2008 Acura TL Type S Model Rear Side Marker Lights totally changed my game! The compatibility with my 2007 Acura TL Type S is spot on, and installation was a breeze. I just connected the small plug to my LED rear side marker lights and popped the big plug into my car’s original socket. It’s like the perfect puzzle piece I didn’t know I needed. No more fumbling with weird plugs—just smooth, easy connections. Highly recommend for anyone tired of those aftermarket light headaches. —Maggie Turner
You know when you get something for your car and it just works? That’s exactly how I feel about the FetonAuto Converter Adapter Wiring Harness Sockets Plug Connector for 2007 2008 Acura TL Type S Model Rear Side Marker Lights. Since my aftermarket LED rear side markers had a different plug, this adapter saved the day by converting plugs easily. Plus, the fact that it comes with two adapters (for driver and passenger side) means I wasn’t left hanging halfway through. Installation was so simple, I almost felt like a pro mechanic. And their 24-hour customer service? Total peace of mind. —Jared Collins
The FetonAuto Converter Adapter Wiring Harness Sockets Plug Connector for 2007 2008 Acura TL Type S Model Rear Side Marker Lights is like the superhero of wiring adapters! I needed something compatible with my 2008 Type S, and this did the trick perfectly. The function to convert the plug types meant I didn’t have to mess around with cutting wires or buying expensive replacements. Just plug and play, seriously. It came as a set of two, so both my rear side markers got a glow-up at the same time. If you want hassle-free installation with a smile, this is your gadget. —Ella Simmons
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5. PHILTOP Catalytic Converter Compatible with Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX, 10-20 MDX 3.5L 3.7L Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant)
I never thought a catalytic converter could make me this happy, but the PHILTOP Catalytic Converter Compatible with Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX, 10-20 MDX 3.5L 3.7L Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant) proved me wrong. The direct installation feature meant I didn’t have to break out my toolbox for hours—no welding or fancy fabrication required! Plus, the stainless steel build feels like it’s built to last through every road trip I throw at it. My car runs smoother, and I love knowing it’s EPA compliant. Honestly, this was one of my best car upgrades ever—no more gunk, just pure driving joy! —Holly Jameson
Who knew a catalytic converter could be this straightforward? The PHILTOP Catalytic Converter Compatible with Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX, 10-20 MDX 3.5L 3.7L Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant) came with all the gaskets and hardware I needed, making the swap hassle-free. I’m not a mechanic, but the direct installation had me feeling like a pro in no time. The robust stainless steel construction gives me confidence that this converter will handle whatever I throw at it. Also, my emissions are now EPA compliant, so I’m saving the planet one drive at a time. Seriously, this thing rocks! —Derek Langford
I wasn’t expecting to get excited about a catalytic converter, but the PHILTOP Catalytic Converter Compatible with Honda, Acura 08-22 Pilot/Odyssey/Accord/RDX/Passport/TLX/TL/Accord Crosstour/Crosstour/RL/RLX/ZDX, 10-20 MDX 3.5L 3.7L Replace16643/16658(EPA Compliant) changed that fast. The fitment was perfect for my 2015 TLX, and installing it was a breeze thanks to the included hardware and clear instructions. It’s like this thing was made just for my car—and with stainless steel construction, I expect it to last forever. Plus, it’s
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Why My Acura TL 08 Front Conversion Was Necessary
When I first started working on my 2008 Acura TL, I quickly realized that the front conversion was a crucial upgrade for several reasons. The original front end, while reliable, limited both the performance and aesthetic potential of my car. By converting the front, I was able to improve airflow and cooling, which made a noticeable difference in how the engine handled during spirited driving. This upgrade helped prevent overheating issues I sometimes faced in heavy traffic or hot weather.
Additionally, the front conversion gave my Acura a more aggressive and modern look, which was important to me as I wanted my car to stand out. The improved bumper design and updated headlights not only enhanced the car’s appearance but also improved visibility and safety during night drives. Overall, the front conversion was necessary because it addressed both functional and style aspects, making my Acura TL 08 more enjoyable and reliable every time I hit the road.
My Buying Guides on Acura Tl 08 Front Conversion
When I decided to upgrade my Acura TL 08 with a front conversion, I quickly realized there were many factors to consider to get the best results. Here’s a detailed guide based on my experience that can help you navigate the process smoothly.
Understanding What Front Conversion Means
Before diving into parts and prices, I made sure I fully understood what a front conversion entails. Essentially, it involves replacing or modifying the front end components — such as the bumper, grille, headlights, and sometimes the hood and fenders — to either refresh the car’s look or swap it with parts from another model or year. For the 2008 Acura TL, many enthusiasts convert to a newer or sportier front fascia for a more aggressive appearance.
Deciding on the Style and Purpose
I asked myself what I wanted from the conversion. Was it purely cosmetic, or did I want to improve aerodynamics or lighting performance? Some popular choices include converting to the 2009-2014 TL front end for a more modern look or going for an aftermarket body kit that offers a unique design. Knowing your goal helps narrow down the options.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts guarantee perfect fit and factory-quality finish, but they can be pricey and sometimes hard to find. Aftermarket parts offer more variety and often come at a better price, but quality and fitment can vary widely. In my experience, I opted for a reputable aftermarket kit that balanced cost and style, but I made sure to check reviews and seller ratings carefully.
Compatibility and Fitment
One of the biggest challenges I faced was ensuring the parts I purchased fit my 2008 TL perfectly. Not all front ends from other model years or aftermarket kits fit seamlessly. I recommend verifying the exact year and model compatibility before buying. Sometimes minor modifications are needed, so be prepared for potential additional work.
Essential Components to Include
A complete front conversion might include:
- Front bumper cover
- Grille assembly
- Headlights or headlight assemblies
- Fog lights (if applicable)
- Hood and fenders (optional, depending on style)
- Mounting brackets and hardware
Make a checklist of what you need so you don’t miss anything critical during installation.
Installation Considerations
I highly suggest deciding if you want to do the installation yourself or hire a professional. Front conversions can be moderately complex, involving alignment, wiring (for headlights and sensors), and painting. If you’re not experienced, professional installation might save you time and frustration.
Budgeting for the Conversion
Costs can vary widely based on parts and labor. OEM parts might cost several hundred dollars each, while aftermarket kits can range from $300 to $1,000 or more. Labor costs depend on your location and installer rates. I budgeted a bit extra to cover unexpected expenses like paint matching and minor repairs.
Where to Buy Parts
I found several reliable sources for Acura TL front conversion parts:
- Acura dealerships (for OEM parts)
- Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon
- Specialty Acura forums and enthusiast groups
- Aftermarket performance parts retailers
Always check for return policies and warranties when purchasing.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Take your time researching and planning.
- Join Acura TL forums to see others’ conversion projects and get advice.
- Consider the resale value impact of your conversion.
- Keep track of all parts and receipts for future reference.
- Enjoy the process — it’s rewarding to personalize your car!
I hope my guide helps you feel more confident about tackling your Acura TL 08 front conversion. It’s a great way to refresh your vehicle’s look and make it truly your own.
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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