How many miles will an Acura TSX last?

In general, a well-maintained Acura TSX can reliably reach around 200,000 miles or more, with many owners reporting 250,000 miles or beyond. The exact lifespan depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and how promptly issues are addressed.

What determines a TSX's long life

Several factors influence how long a TSX will stay on the road. The following points highlight the most important drivers of longevity.

Engine reliability and drivetrain design

The TSX uses Honda’s K-series engine, which is renowned for durability. It is timing-chain driven, which reduces a common belt-failure risk and generally supports long-term reliability when properly serviced.

Maintenance history and driving conditions

Regular, timely maintenance and the way the car is used—highway cruising versus frequent short trips, climate, and road quality—significantly affect how many miles the vehicle can accumulate.

Key factors to consider include the following:

• Regular maintenance history including timely oil changes and service intervals


• Quality of parts and fluids (synthetic oil, proper coolant, transmission fluid, etc.)


• Engine and transmission reliability of the K-series engine


• Driving conditions and usage (highway vs city, stop-and-go, aggressive driving)


• Maintenance of wear items (water pump, tensioners, hoses, spark plugs when due)


• Rust protection and body integrity in regions with snow and salt


• Past accidents and repair quality

The TSX’s timing-chain design helps mitigate belt-related failures, but all major components can wear over time and benefit from attentive maintenance as miles accumulate.

Maintenance habits that help maximize miles

A disciplined maintenance routine is the best way to extend the TSX’s life. The practices below are widely recommended by owners and technicians alike.

1. Follow the manufacturer’s service schedule, including regular oil changes (typically every 5,000–7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions).


2. Use quality fluids and parts, and replace aging components (such as water pumps and tensioners) as recommended for your model and mileage.


3. Keep the cooling system in good shape to prevent overheating, a common cause of engine damage.


4. Address any unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights promptly to avoid further damage.


5. Maintain the transmission system with appropriate fluid changes (for automatics) and clutch/flywheel care for manuals.

With consistent care, a TSX can be driven well past the 200,000-mile mark, and many owners report 250,000 miles or more when maintenance is kept up.

What owners say and what to expect

In owner communities and automotive reviews, the TSX is frequently cited for its solid reliability and capacity for high mileage. While individual results vary, a well-kept example of this model line often remains practical and economical well into its second or third decade of life.

Conclusion and outlook

Overall, a well-maintained Acura TSX is typically expected to reach at least 200,000 miles, with many achieving 250,000 miles or more. The exact outcome depends on maintenance discipline, climate, and usage patterns. For prospective buyers or current owners, committing to regular, proactive maintenance is the key to maximizing longevity.

Summary: The TSX’s durability is closely tied to care. With consistent maintenance, mindful driving, and timely repairs, the Acura TSX can become a high-mileage performer that remains a practical daily driver for many miles to come.

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. 

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. 

How many miles can you get on an Acura TSX?

An Acura TSX can last for 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, with some owners reporting well over 300,000 miles. Lifespan varies significantly based on driving habits, maintenance, and specific model year, though a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 indicates it's a durable and well-engineered car. 
Factors influencing longevity

• Maintenance: Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for longevity. 
• Driving habits: How the car is driven and how often it's driven plays a large role in its lifespan. 
• Model year: Some earlier model years, specifically 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2009, have been cited for issues with the transmission, engine, and brake system, which can lead to more expensive repairs. 
• Engine and transmission: The TSX's engine and transmission are known to be very durable, with many owners reporting high mileage on the original parts. 

What to expect

• Average lifespan: The average expected lifespan based on data is around 142,268 miles, or about 10.8 years. 
• Potential for higher mileage: However, due to its strong engineering, many TSXs can exceed this average, with a 15% chance of reaching at least 200,000 miles. 
• Common issues: Be aware of potential issues like the OEM brakes wearing out quickly, which may need earlier replacement than expected.