How many miles will a 2004 Acura TSX last?
A 2004 Acura TSX can commonly reach around 200,000 miles or more with regular maintenance; many owners report 250,000 miles or higher, and some exceed 300,000 miles.
The longevity of a first‑generation TSX depends on how well it has been cared for, the driving environment, and how the car has been driven over its life. Below is a breakdown of the factors that influence how far this model can go, followed by typical mileage benchmarks reported by owners.
Key factors that influence long-term durability
These are the core elements that determine how far a 2004 TSX will go, from routine upkeep to driving habits.
- Regular maintenance: Timely oil changes (often every 5,000–7,500 miles with synthetic oil), filter changes, spark plugs, coolant, and proper transmission fluid service when applicable.
- Timing chain and related components: The K24 engine in the TSX uses a timing chain, which can last a long time but may require attention to tensioners and guides as mileage accumulates.
- Fluid health and replacements: Timely replacement of brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and transmission/CVT fluid helps prevent wear and overheating.
- Driving style and usage: Highway miles are generally gentler on wear items than frequent stop-and-go city driving, and aggressive driving can accelerate parts wear.
- Climate and storage: Harsh winters, road salt, and extreme heat can accelerate corrosion and component degradation if the car isn’t protected or well serviced.
In summary, disciplined maintenance and sensible use are the main levers you have to extend the TSX’s life.
Typical mileage benchmarks reported by owners
These ranges reflect common experiences among owners who keep good maintenance records and drive a mix of highway and urban miles.
- Around 200,000 miles: A common baseline for a well-maintained TSX, with regular service history.
- 200,000–250,000 miles: A frequently reached milestone for many cars in this model line with consistent upkeep.
- 250,000–300,000 miles: Not unusual for enthusiasts who replace wear items preemptively and follow maintenance schedules closely.
- 300,000 miles and higher: Achieved by a minority of owners who maintain meticulous service records and address developing issues promptly.
These figures are indicative, not guaranteed. Actual life depends on how the car has been cared for and how it has been driven.
Maintaining a TSX for long life
Proactive maintenance and careful driving are the best strategies to maximize a 2004 TSX’s lifespan. Schedule regular inspections, address any noises or leaks early, and keep service records. When components reach the end of typical service intervals, timely replacement or refurbishment can prevent major failures that shorten a car’s usable life.
Summary
With diligent maintenance and prudent driving, a 2004 Acura TSX can reasonably be expected to reach well into the 200,000‑mile range, and many owners report 250,000 miles or more. While there is no exact mileage guarantee, the model’s reputation for reliability—especially when properly cared for—supports long-term ownership and continued roadworthiness.
How long does a 2004 Acura TSX last?
between 250,000 to 300,000 miles
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.
How long does an Acura TSX engine last?
250,000 to 300,000 miles
A lot of Santa Clara drivers believe that mileage estimates are more important than the length of years when predicting the lifespan of a vehicle. So, how many miles do Acuras 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 reliable are 2004 Acura TSX?
The 2004 Acura TSX is generally considered a reliable car, especially with the manual transmission, with many owners reporting long-term satisfaction and few major issues. However, some common problems include a faulty automatic transmission, power steering failure, and potential excessive oil consumption. Other issues can include air conditioning compressor failure on early models and problems with the entertainment/navigation screen and brake pedal feel.
This video discusses the reliability of the first-generation Acura TSX, including common issues like oil consumption and AC problems: 57sAutoMotivateYouTube · Mar 28, 2021
Positive aspects
- High owner satisfaction: Many reviews praise the car's reliability, handling, and overall performance, with some owners keeping their cars for over 20 years.
- Durable powertrain: The engine is known to be durable, and the manual transmission is generally more reliable than the automatic.
- Good value: It is considered a good value for the money due to its performance, luxury amenities, and reliability.
Common problems and considerations
This video discusses the pros and cons of owning an Acura TSX, including transmission issues: 54sMark RodenYouTube · Jun 28, 2022
- Automatic transmission: The automatic transmission is a known weak point and can fail prematurely. It is recommended to choose the manual version for better reliability.
- Power steering: Power steering failure has been reported as a common issue.
- Oil consumption: Some engines may consume excessive oil. It is best to check the oil level frequently, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
- Air conditioning: The AC compressor can fail, especially in 2004 and 2005 models. Check the fuses and relays before assuming the worst.
- Brake pedal: Some owners have experienced a soft or low brake pedal. This can sometimes be fixed by bleeding the brakes, but a faulty Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) control unit may need replacement.
- Infotainment system: The entertainment and navigation screen may fail or have illumination issues.
- Engine noise: Some owners report a loud rattling noise from the engine after a cold start.
- Tire pressure sensor: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light may turn on due to a faulty sensor.
