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How many miles does a 2011 Acura TL last?

The 2011 Acura TL can reasonably reach about 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some owners report 250,000 miles or more. Longevity depends on maintenance history, driving conditions, and timely repairs, but the model is widely regarded for solid long-term reliability when cared for consistently.


Longevity factors


These elements commonly determine how long a 2011 TL remains reliable. The following list summarizes the main categories that influence endurance and total mileage.



  • Regular oil changes and use of quality oil, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles or per the owner's manual

  • Transmission care, including periodic fluid changes and addressing slipping or shuddering early

  • Cooling system maintenance (radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses) to prevent overheating

  • Engine wear management (timing chain integrity, valve train wear, and proper cooling to avoid head-gasket issues)

  • Braking and suspension upkeep (pads, rotors, shocks/struts) to reduce metal-on-metal damage

  • Corrosion control and undercarriage protection in climates with road salt or harsh weather

  • Driving conditions and habits (highway miles vs. frequent short trips, aggressive driving)


In practice, staying on top of these areas and addressing issues promptly can significantly extend the TL’s service life.


Real-world mileage milestones


Owners and service records often highlight common mileposts that reflect what’s possible with diligent care. The following milestones are frequently cited by those who maintain and drive these cars.



  • 200,000 miles: A widely reported benchmark for well-maintained examples

  • 250,000 miles: Achieved by owners who prioritize regular service and careful driving

  • 300,000 miles and beyond: Documented in a minority of cases, usually with meticulous upkeep and favorable operating conditions


These mileposts illustrate that the TL’s longevity is feasible beyond 200k miles, especially when owners commit to proactive maintenance and timely repairs.


Maintenance strategies to maximize life


To push a 2011 TL toward higher mileage, these preventive practices are commonly recommended by technicians and owners alike.



  • Follow OEM service intervals and use quality OEM or equivalent parts

  • Regularly replace fluids: engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid

  • Inspect and replace belts, hoses, and, where applicable, timing chain components as needed

  • Keep the cooling system in good condition to prevent overheating and related damage

  • Protect against rust and corrosion; wash the undercarriage in winter months if road salt is used

  • Address warning lights promptly and perform required maintenance or repairs without delay


Adhering to these maintenance practices provides the best probability of reaching higher mileage with fewer major surprises.


Summary


In short, a 2011 Acura TL can reliably reach around 200,000 miles with consistent, proactive maintenance, and some cars push well beyond 250,000 miles under favorable conditions. The key drivers of longevity are meticulous routine service, careful driving, and timely repairs rather than the model year alone.

Are 2011 Acura TL reliable?


The 2011 Acura TL is generally considered a reliable car, with many owners praising its durability and performance, but some common issues include problems with the Check Engine light and related engine performance issues. Other reported problems include a flashing D4 light, erratic idling, and difficulty starting. Regular maintenance is crucial for long-term reliability, and the vehicle has a history of safety recalls, primarily concerning the driver's frontal airbag inflator. 
Common problems

  • Check Engine and D4 lights: A flashing D4 light and Check Engine light are among the most frequently reported issues, often accompanied by rough running or starting difficulties.
  • Engine performance: Some owners have reported erratic idling and engine stalling.
  • Starting issues: Some owners have experienced the engine taking longer than usual to start.
  • Other issues: A squeaking noise from the front door glass has also been reported. 

Reliability and longevity
  • Long-term potential: Acuras, including the TL, are known for their longevity and can last for 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, according to Capitol Acura. 
  • Owner satisfaction: Many owners have reported their 2011 TL as being reliable, with some praising it as the best car they've ever owned, notes Cars.com. 

Safety recalls
  • Airbag inflator: There is a recall for the driver's frontal airbag inflator, which can rupture and spray metal fragments during deployment. It is essential to ensure any recall work has been completed. 



How many miles can an Acura TL last?


An Acura TL can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, such as sticking to the service schedule and replacing parts like the timing belt and water pump at the recommended intervals. Many well-maintained models have surpassed 300,000 miles, with some even reaching over 400,000 miles, according to owner reports. 
Factors that influence longevity

  • Maintenance is key: Adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, is the most important factor for maximizing the lifespan of the engine and other components. 
  • Timely part replacement: Key service items like the timing belt and water pump need to be replaced around the 100,000-mile mark to prevent major engine failure. 
  • Addressing issues promptly: Fixing minor issues like small oil leaks or replacing worn bushings and ball joints as they are identified will prevent them from leading to larger problems. 
  • Driving habits: Avoid harsh acceleration and "beating on" the transmission, especially in high-mileage cars, to extend its life. 

Examples of high-mileage TLs
  • A 2004 6-speed manual TL has been reported to reach 400,000 miles and is still running well, as shown in this YouTube video. 
  • Other owners have reported hitting over 300,000 miles with original engines and transmissions, though sometimes with repairs like a new transmission. 
  • A 2008 model has surpassed 250,000 miles with no major issues, says this Facebook post. 



How long will a 2011 Acura TL last?


A long time! As we explain below, experts say that you can expect your new Acura automobile to last about 20 years with the proper maintenance, making it the ideal automobile for San Jose drivers who don't like to trade up every few years.



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. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.