How long will a 2012 Acura TL last?

A well-maintained 2012 Acura TL can typically reach 200,000 miles or more, and some owners report hitting 250,000 miles or beyond with careful maintenance.

The longevity of any individual TL depends on maintenance history, driving conditions, and how reliably the car has been cared for. This article outlines expected lifespans, common wear points, and practical steps to extend the TL’s usable life.

Estimated lifespan ranges for the 2012 TL

Lifetime ranges reflect what owners report across typical usage, combining reliability data and real-world mileage records.

• Well-maintained examples often reach 200,000 miles or more when serviced regularly and driven conservatively.


• With consistent maintenance and attentive care, many TLs commonly surpass 150,000–180,000 miles and can approach 250,000 miles.


• Some units, particularly when subjected to harsh driving or neglected maintenance, stop around 150,000 miles or less; however, experienced owners have extended life beyond 250,000 miles with rigorous upkeep.

In summary, the 2012 TL can be expected to last into the 200,000-mile range for most owners who adhere to a robust maintenance plan. Higher-mile examples exist, but longevity is not guaranteed and varies by history and use.

Maintenance milestones that help extend life

Keeping the car in optimal condition is the most effective way to push its mileage higher. The following milestones emphasize preventive care rather than reactive repairs.

• Oil and filter changes every 5,000–7,500 miles (or per the owner's manual) to minimize engine wear.


• Brake system inspection at least twice a year; replace pads and rotors as needed to prevent damage to calipers and rotors.


• Coolant and cooling system checks every 60,000 miles; replace coolant as recommended to prevent overheating and corrosion.


• Transmission fluid changes as advised by Acura, typically around 60,000–100,000 miles depending on driving, to maintain smooth shifting and prevent wear.


• Spark plugs and ignition system inspection around 90,000–100,000 miles (or as specified) to maintain efficiency and power.


• Belts and hoses inspection during regular service; replace worn belts to prevent breakdowns and engine damage.

Following these maintenance steps improves reliability and helps maximize the TL’s lifespan, especially in adverse climates or high-mileage scenarios.

Common wear items and typical failure points on the 2012 TL

Several parts are more likely to show wear as the car ages; being aware of them can guide proactive maintenance and inspections.

• Engine components: valve cover gasket leaks and oil leaks are common on older V6 Hondas; monitor oil level and signs of seepage.


• Cooling system: water pump and radiator hoses can fail with age, risking overheating if not caught early.


• Transmission and drivetrain: some owners report transmission shudder or delayed engagement in older TLs; ensure fluid is clean and service history is complete.


• Suspension and steering: worn struts, bushings, and ball joints can affect handling and ride quality; address noises and sagging promptly.


• Electrical: door lock actuators, window regulators, and sensors may need replacement after years of use.


• SH-AWD components (if equipped): torque-vectoring and differential components can show wear in high-mileage examples; proper maintenance of seals and fluids is important.

Regular inspections and timely replacements of these parts can prevent larger breakdowns and extend the vehicle’s life.

How to assess a used 2012 TL today

Before buying, a careful inspection and record check can reveal whether the car has been well cared for and what issues might lie ahead.

1. Check service history and maintenance records to confirm regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and part replacements.


2. Review recall notices and TSBs; ensure any required repairs have been completed.


3. Perform a thorough test drive: listen for unusual noises, check transmission for smooth shifting, and verify steering and braking performance.


4. Inspect for obvious leaks, rust, and body damage; examine undercarriage for signs of past accidents or corrosion.


5. Have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) focusing on the engine, transmission, cooling system, and suspension.


6. Check for signs of SH-AWD wear if equipped, including abnormal noises or vibration in all-wheel-drive mode.


7. Obtain a vehicle history report and verify the odometer reading against maintenance performed.

Taking these steps helps separate well-maintained examples from ones with expensive, looming repairs and provides a clearer path to a reliable used TL purchase.

Summary

With careful maintenance, the 2012 Acura TL can deliver reliable service into the 200,000-mile range and beyond. Real-world outcomes depend on how well the car has been maintained, the environment in which it’s used, and how often preventive service has been performed. For buyers, a thorough inspection and complete maintenance records are essential to gauge remaining life and expected future expense.

Are Acuras reliable 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. 

How many miles can you get out of an Acura TL?

An Acura TL can last for 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, though the average lifespan is around 128,000 miles or 9.4 years. Many owners report reaching over 200,000 miles, and some have even surpassed 300,000 or 400,000 miles with diligent care. 
Factors that contribute to longevity

• Following the maintenance schedule: Regularly performing scheduled maintenance is the most crucial factor for a long-lasting TL. 
• Addressing issues immediately: Replacing old or damaged parts as soon as they are identified helps prevent larger problems down the road. 
• Driving habits: Avoiding hard acceleration from a complete stop can reduce strain on the transmission, especially in older, high-mileage vehicles. 
• Fluid changes: Regularly changing fluids, especially engine oil and transmission fluid, is vital. Some mechanics advise against aggressive transmission flushes on very high-mileage cars, suggesting regular changes instead. 

What to expect

• Beyond 100,000 miles: The TL is known for being reliable even after reaching 100,000 miles, often continuing to drive smoothly if well-maintained. 
• Reaching 200,000+ miles: A significant portion of Acura TLs can reach 200,000 miles or more. Some owners have seen their cars hit 300,000 or 400,000 miles. 
• Potential issues: While the drivetrain is generally solid, some issues like torque converter problems can occur in older vehicles. However, these can often be addressed and the car can continue to run well. 
• Oil consumption: Older engines may start to consume more oil due to worn piston rings. Frequently monitoring the engine oil level and keeping it topped off is important to prevent damage. 

Do 2012 Acura TL have transmission problems?

Transmission slipping and delayed shifting are common issues reported by 2012 Acura TL owners.

Is the 2012 Acura TL reliable?

Yes, the 2012 Acura TL is considered a reliable car, though it is not without some reported issues that require attention. It has received high ratings for reliability from sources like Edmunds and RepairPal, but some common problems include issues with the power steering and A/C compressor, and potential transmission problems if maintenance is neglected.
 
Positive aspects

• High reliability ratings: The 2012 TL receives good to excellent reliability scores from various automotive sources. 
• Strong performance: It features a powerful V6 engine and is known for its solid handling and driving dynamics. 
• Good value: As a used car, it is often seen as a good value, especially considering its performance, features, and a comfortable interior. 

Potential issues to be aware of

• Power steering system: Some owners reported issues with the power steering linkage that required replacement. 
• A/C compressor: Problems with the A/C compressor have also been reported. 
• Transmission maintenance: The transmission can have issues if not maintained properly. Regular fluid changes are crucial to prevent problems, say Park Place Acura. 
• Recalls: The car has been subject to three recalls, which should be checked and addressed if not already completed. 

What to do before buying

• Check the car's maintenance history to ensure regular service has been performed.
• Have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic, focusing on the power steering system, A/C, and transmission.
• Confirm that all outstanding recalls have been addressed by a dealership.