How long does an Acura TSX last?

In brief, a well-maintained Acura TSX can reliably reach 200,000 miles or more, with many examples surpassing 250,000 miles. Its reputation for durability comes from Honda-based engineering and solid component design, but total life depends on maintenance, driving style, and climate.

The question explores how long the TSX endures in real-world ownership, what factors influence its longevity, and what buyers should expect in terms of reliability, maintenance costs, and eventual end-of-life considerations. Below is a structured look at durability, key drivers of lifespan, and practical steps to maximize the car’s life.

Lifespan reality for the TSX

The Acura TSX, launched for North America in 2004 and produced until 2014, is built on Honda’s engineering philosophy of durability and efficiency. When cared for properly, these cars commonly traverse well over 200,000 miles.

• Engine and drivetrain reliability: The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is known for longevity and efficient operation when serviced regularly.


• Transmissions: Manuals are durable; automatics can last a long time with routine maintenance, though older automatics may require attention as mileage climbs.


• Body and chassis: Corrosion resistance is generally solid, but rust risk grows in harsh climates with road salt and neglected undercoating.


• Historical reliability: Owners report long service life with timely maintenance, fewer chronic failures compared to some peers in the segment.

In practice, the TSX shows one of the more favorable durability profiles among compact luxury sedans, with many units remaining reliable well past the 200,000-mile milestone when owners commit to proactive service and timely repairs.

What drives the lifespan

Multiple factors influence how long a TSX will stay on the road, from how it was cared for to the way it is driven day to day.

• Maintenance history: Regular oil changes, fluid services, and component replacements at or before recommended intervals significantly extend life.


• Driving conditions: Consistent highway driving tends to produce less wear than stop-and-go urban use and heavy towing or aggressive driving.


• Climate and exposure: Extreme heat, cold, humidity, and road-salt exposure can accelerate wear on batteries, undercarriage, and electronics.


• Repair quality and parts: Using genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts and skilled labor reduces long-term wear and the probability of repeated failures.


• Accidents and major repairs: Structural damage or major drivetrain repairs can shorten useful life if not properly addressed.

Understanding these influences helps owners and buyers gauge remaining life and plan maintenance budgets as the car ages.

Maximizing the TSX's life: maintenance and care

To push the vehicle past the hundred-thousand-mile mark and beyond, commit to a disciplined, preventive maintenance routine tailored to the TSX’s age and mileage.

These recommendations cover routine maintenance and proactive checks that are most effective at extending the life of the vehicle.

• Engine care: Use synthetic oil as recommended and adhere to the oil-change interval; replace spark plugs at the manufacturer-recommended milestones to prevent misfires and inefficiency.


• Cooling system: Inspect hoses, radiator, and coolant level regularly; flush and replace coolant as per service schedule to prevent overheating and head gasket issues.


• Transmission: Follow the guideline for changing automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) and monitor for shifting irregularities; manual transmissions require clutch care and fluid checks.


• Brakes and tires: Maintain braking components and tires; address squeals, pulsation, or uneven wear promptly to avoid cascading wear.


• Suspension and undercarriage: Check shocks, struts, control arms, bushings, and sway bar links; replace worn parts to prevent further wear on other systems.


• Rust prevention: In climates with road salt, rinse undercarriage, address paint chips, and consider protective coatings to slow corrosion.

With a structured maintenance plan and mindful driving habits, a TSX can remain reliable for many more years and miles, minimizing unexpected repair costs as it ages.

Owner experiences and mileage milestones

Real-world owners often share stories of hitting significant milestones with their TSXs. Common experiences include reaching 100,000 miles with few major issues, passing 150,000 miles during routine maintenance, and frequently surpassing 200,000 miles with diligent care. While the model line is aging, its core durability and Honda inheritance continue to earn favorable ratings from drivers who prioritize preventive maintenance.

Summary

Bottom line: The Acura TSX is capable of lasting a long time with attentive maintenance and sensible use. Realistic expectations place many cars in the 200,000-mile range, with a substantial portion reaching 250,000 miles or more when owners follow recommended service intervals, address problems promptly, and protect the car from harsh conditions. For prospective buyers of a used TSX, a thorough inspection focusing on engine condition, transmission health, cooling system, suspension, and rust readiness is advised, along with a documented maintenance history.

How long do Acura TSX engines last?

Again, here's what the experts had to say: MotorAsk.com – “Acuras can last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.

How many miles can you get on an Acura TSX?

On average, you can expect the Acura TSX to last anywhere between 250,000 to 300,000 miles, with some owners claiming their car is still going strong even after 350,000 miles.

Are Acuras good after 200k miles?

Yes, Acuras can be very reliable after 200,000 miles, often lasting between 250,000 and 300,000 miles or more with proper and consistent maintenance. Reliability beyond this mileage depends heavily on a history of good maintenance, including regular oil changes, timely transmission fluid flushes, and other routine services like timing belt replacement at the recommended intervals.
 
Factors contributing to long-term reliability

• Regular maintenance: This is the most crucial factor. Owners who consistently follow the service schedule, especially for oil and transmission fluid changes, report fewer issues. 
• Proper parts: Using high-quality parts and addressing issues like the timing belt proactively can prevent major engine damage. 
• Driving conditions: Vehicles with a history of primarily highway driving tend to have fewer wear-and-tear issues compared to those in stop-and-go city traffic. 
• Body and frame: While the engine can be durable, it's important to check for rust and accident damage, as these issues can be costly and challenging to repair. 

What to consider when buying a high-mileage Acura

• Service history: Look for a vehicle with complete and detailed service records to confirm it has been well-maintained. 
• Current condition: Beyond the engine, check the condition of the transmission, body, and interior. A vehicle with a clean body and a well-maintained interior is a good sign, even with high mileage. 
• Potential for repairs: Be prepared for the possibility of repairs. While Acuras are generally reliable, parts wear out. Having the ability to do some work yourself or having a trusted mechanic can save money. 
• Model and transmission: While many models are reliable, some, like the automatic TLs from certain years, may be more expensive to repair if they have transmission issues, say Reddit users. 

Is the Acura TSX a reliable car?

The Acura TSX is a reliable vehicle with an average annual repair cost of around $415$ 415$415, a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal, and can often last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. While generally dependable, some common issues include premature wear on the lower control arms and potential automatic transmission problems, though regular fluid changes can help prevent transmission issues.
 
This video discusses the reliability and common problems of the Acura TSX (2009-2014): 50sDiscerning CarsYouTube · Jun 16, 2023
What makes it reliable

• High reliability rating: The TSX consistently receives high reliability ratings from automotive review sites, with some models like the 2013 achieving a 4.9 out of 5.0 rating. 
• Low ownership costs: With an average annual repair cost of just $415$ 415$415, the TSX is less expensive to own and maintain than many other luxury midsize cars. 
• Long lifespan: Many owners report their TSX lasting for hundreds of thousands of miles, often between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, with no major repairs needed. 
• Infrequent and minor issues: When problems do arise, they are typically not severe. Major issues are uncommon, and the frequency of repairs is average. 

Potential issues to watch for

• Automatic transmission problems: Some models may experience rough shifting or gear slippage. Keeping up with regular transmission fluid changes can help mitigate this risk. 
• Lower control arms: Premature wear on lower control arms and bushings has been reported in some models. 
• Oil consumption: Some engines, particularly in certain model years like the 2010 model, have a known issue of consuming oil between changes. 
• Other minor issues: Depending on the model year, other minor issues like intermittent electronic problems, loud cabin noise, and melted door trim have been reported. 

How to ensure reliability

• Perform regular maintenance: Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule, especially for the automatic transmission. This includes regular fluid changes and oil changes. 
• Choose a well-maintained model: When buying used, look for a TSX with a complete service history to ensure it has been properly cared for. 
• Consider newer models: If oil consumption is a concern, newer model years (after 2010) may be a better choice as the issue was reportedly resolved in later models.