How long will a 2014 Acura TL last?

A well-maintained 2014 Acura TL can routinely reach around 200,000 miles or more, with many examples running into 250,000 miles and some exceeding 300,000 miles. Actual longevity depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and climate.

The following analysis examines typical lifespans for this model, factors that influence how long it will stay reliable, and practical steps owners can take to maximize its staying power.

Longevity outlook for the 2014 TL

Various variables determine whether a TL will achieve high-mileage status. The list below highlights the main influences:

• Maintenance history: Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, belt/chain inspections, and timely repairs have the biggest impact on long-term reliability.


• Driving patterns: Highway cruising and longer trips generally place less stress on components than frequent city stop-and-go driving.


• Climate and storage: Harsh winters, road salt, and extreme heat can accelerate wear and corrosion if corrosion protection or storage is poor.


• Past damage and repairs: Prior accidents or subpar repairs can affect longevity, especially in the drivetrain and suspension.


• Sourcing and quality of parts: Use of OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts and fluids supports longer life.

In short, disciplined maintenance and sensible driving are strong predictors of long life for the 2014 TL.

Engine and powertrain basics

The 2014 TL relies on a 3.5-liter V6 paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine uses a timing chain rather than a belt, which generally reduces routine maintenance needs related to timing components. With proactive service—regular oil changes, monitoring for unusual noises, and addressing any transmission concerns promptly—the powertrain can remain dependable for many miles. Owners should also stay current on recalls and service campaigns that affect the drivetrain and electronics.

Maintenance habits to extend life

Putting a proactive maintenance plan in place is the surest way to maximize the TL’s lifespan. The list below outlines practical steps:

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and use recommended fluids and parts.


• Track oil consumption and address any significant increases promptly; use the correct grade and quality of oil.


• Keep cooling system components in good condition (radiator, hoses, thermostat, and coolant levels) to prevent overheating.


• Maintain tires, brakes, and suspension; align wheels as needed to reduce wear and ensure safety.


• Monitor transmission performance; address rough shifting or slipping early with a qualified technician.


• Regularly inspect for rust and treat underbody corrosion, especially in regions with salt or moisture exposure.


• Stay current on recalls and service bulletins via the manufacturer and NHTSA databases.

Adhering to these practices can significantly extend the TL’s usable life and reduce the likelihood of major, costly failures.

Common aging issues to watch for

As the car accrues miles, certain problems become more likely. Being vigilant can catch issues early and keep the TL on the road longer:

• Oil consumption or leaks, which may indicate worn seals or gaskets.


• Transmission irregularities, such as delayed or harsh shifting.


• Cooling system wear, including leaks or overheating signs.


• Suspension component wear, including worn bushings or struts.


• Brake wear and rotor warping, requiring timely replacement.


• Electrical issues or sensor faults, common as electronics age.

Early diagnosis and timely repairs can prevent small problems from curtailing the vehicle’s remaining life.

Summary

For buyers and current owners, a 2014 Acura TL that has benefited from consistent maintenance and careful driving is capable of lasting well into the 200,000–300,000-mile range, with many reporting lifespans beyond 200,000 miles. The key to achieving and exceeding this milestone lies in adhering to the maintenance schedule, monitoring oil use, staying on top of recalls, and promptly addressing wear items. A thorough pre-purchase inspection or a detailed service history can help gauge a TL’s remaining lifespan and reliability.

What is the common problem with Acura TL?

The TL also has excellent ownership costs, low severity of repairs, and rarely develops major issues. The Acura TL can hit 100,000 miles or more without issue. Common Acura TL problems include engine troubles, electrical problems, and interior accessories issues.

What year is the most reliable Acura TL?

The most reliable Acura TL years are generally considered to be from 2008-2009 and 2012-2014, as these models consistently receive high reliability ratings from sources like Forbes, Consumer Reports, and J.D. Power. The 3rd generation (2004-2008), especially with a manual transmission, is also a solid option, though the early years of this generation had potential automatic transmission issues.
 
Most reliable years

• 2008-2009: Both years received high grades for long-term durability and dependability. The 2008 model featured a choice of a 3.2-liter or 3.5-liter V6, and the 2009 model was redesigned with a 3.5-liter V6 for the base engine or a 3.7-liter V6 for the SH-AWD model. 
• 2012-2014: These model years are highlighted for having very few issues, with the 2014 model having a high reliability rating from RepairPal. 
• 2010-2015: This entire range is often cited as having improved reliability and refined designs. However, be aware that the 2010 model is sometimes cited as having more complaints than other years in this range, specifically related to engine oil consumption, according to CarParts.com. 

Other years to consider

• 2004-2008 (3rd Gen): This generation is considered reliable, particularly if you choose the manual transmission, which is more reliable than the early automatic transmissions, note Reddit users. 
• 2006: This model year received high reliability ratings and is praised by owners for its dependability and power. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2000-2003 (2nd Gen): These years are prone to automatic transmission issues. 
• 2010: While within the generally good 2010-2015 range, this specific year had a higher number of complaints, primarily concerning engine oil consumption, according to CarParts.com. 
• 2011: This year had more technical service bulletins than the subsequent years, though it is still considered reliable overall. 

How reliable is a 2014 Acura TL?

The 2014 Acura TL is considered a highly reliable car with a strong reputation for durability, earning high marks in owner reviews and from reliability trackers like J.D. Power and Cars.com. While it generally has low repair costs and likelihood of needing repairs, common potential issues to be aware of include problems with the VTC actuator and, less frequently, transmission issues.
 
You can watch this video for an overview of the 2009-2014 Acura TL: 57sGarage DenaliYouTube · Dec 13, 2017
Reliability and ownership

• High reliability scores: The 2014 TL receives a high reliability rating of 4.9 out of 5 from Cars.com and an 84/100 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability score. 
• Low cost of ownership: The estimated annual cost to repair the vehicle is low compared to the luxury midsize car average, and the chance of needing a repair within a year is only 6%. 
• Proven durability: Many owners report that the car runs well even after 100,000 miles, often only requiring routine maintenance like oil changes and tire replacements. 

Potential issues

• VTC actuator noise: Some models may develop a loud, screeching or rattling sound on a cold start, which is caused by a faulty VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator. This issue can arise at various mileages and may cost between $800 and $1,000 to repair. 
• Transmission problems: Though not a widespread issue, some 2014 models may experience rough shifting due to issues with the automatic transmission. Low fluid or a faulty solenoid can also cause problems. 
• Interior wear: Some owners have noted that the leather-like material used in the interior can be prone to tearing over time, particularly on the driver's seat armrest. 

Other considerations

• Performance and handling: The TL is praised for its strong performance, quick acceleration, and good handling, especially the all-wheel-drive (AWD) SH-AWD model.
• Safety features: The vehicle is equipped with a range of standard safety features, including antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, and multiple airbags. 

Is Acura reliable after 100K miles?

Yes, Acuras are generally very reliable after 100k miles, especially with consistent maintenance, as they are built with quality engineering from their Honda roots. Key to this reliability is following the recommended maintenance schedule, which includes performing major services like transmission fluid changes and, for models with a timing belt, replacing it around the 100k mark. 
Key factors for long-term reliability

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Regular oil changes, fluid replacements, and other services are crucial for longevity. 
• Pay attention to major service intervals: At around 100,000 miles, certain components, like the timing belt in older models, need to be replaced. 
• Transmission fluid is critical: Changing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals is one of the most important aspects of keeping the car running smoothly long-term. 
• Consider the engine: While many Acura engines are very reliable, some J-series engines have a history of oil consumption issues, especially older ones. 
• Potential for issues: As with any car, some issues can arise after 100k miles, such as air conditioning system problems or oil consumption, so it's wise to factor in potential repair costs. 

What drivers say

• Many owners report driving their Acuras for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues if proper maintenance was performed.
• Owners of older models like the TL and MDX often report that the engines remained in good condition even after the transmission began to show wear.