Is Acura TSX a reliable car?

The Acura TSX is widely regarded as a reliable compact luxury sedan with Honda-based engineering that often delivers long-term durability. With routine maintenance, many examples reach high mileages, though reliability can vary by model year and maintenance history.

Overview: why the TSX earns reliability marks

The TSX benefits from Honda’s engineering ethos, a durable 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, and a design that emphasizes longevity and predictable maintenance costs. Its well-regarded handling, solid build quality, and strong dealer network contribute to a reputation for dependable daily driving and strong resale value when properly cared for.

Here are the attributes that contribute to the TSX's reliability as a used car.

• Honda-based engineering in the powertrain and chassis, known for long-term durability


• K-series 2.4-liter engine family renowned for high mileage tolerance when properly maintained


• Manual and automatic transmissions with careful maintenance boundaries (clutch life, fluid changes)


• Accessible parts and a wide network of technicians familiar with Honda/Acura platforms


• Solid crash-test results and stable value that incentivize careful maintenance

In short, these traits underpin the TSX's reputation for reliability, especially for drivers who keep up with regular maintenance and use quality fluids and parts.

Model-year nuances and what to watch when buying used

Produced from 2004 through 2014, the TSX spans two generations with some year-to-year differences in reliability and common wear items. Generally, all years reward diligent maintenance, but potential buyers should be mindful of oil consumption in some high-mileage K-series engines and check for transmission wear or recall status.

Regardless of generation, verify that the vehicle has detailed maintenance records, and have a trusted mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, suspension, and braking systems.

• First-generation TSX (2004–2008): solid engine performance; monitor for oil consumption in higher-mileage examples and check automatic transmission behavior.


• Second-generation TSX (2009–2014): refreshed interior and features; generally reliable; ensure cooling system components (water pump, radiator, hoses) have been addressed and verify recall repairs.

Regardless of generation, verify that the vehicle has detailed maintenance records, and have a trusted mechanic inspect the engine, transmission, suspension, and braking systems.

What owners and reviewers say: reliability ratings and common fixes

Reliability assessments for the TSX in consumer and auto-review circles tend to place it above average for its class, with many examples delivering dependable service well into the 100,000–200,000-mile range when properly maintained. Some owners report oil consumption on certain K-series engines as they accumulate mileage, and aging electronics or suspension components can require attention. Recalls, including Takata airbag campaigns common across many brands, should be checked by VIN to ensure completion.

Common issues to know

Use this guide to be aware of issues that can arise as the TSX ages. This is not a guarantee of failure, but an awareness checklist for prospective buyers and owners.

• Oil consumption on some K-series engines at high mileage; monitor oil level and consumption rate


• Transmission: occasional rough shifting on older automatics; manual clutch wear on manuals


• Clutch and flywheel wear on manual transmissions, especially with aggressive driving or insufficient maintenance


• Cooling system components such as water pump and radiator leaks; thermostat failure possible


• Suspension components including struts, control arms, and bushings can wear with age


• Electrical gremlins such as faulty sensors and power window regulators as the car ages


• Safety recall campaigns, particularly Takata airbag inflator recalls; verify VIN status

With a careful pre-purchase inspection and documented maintenance, the TSX can continue to deliver dependable service in the used-car market.

Ownership costs and maintenance: what to expect

Compared with many luxury rivals, the TSX generally offers moderate maintenance costs thanks to Honda parts and a broad service network. Routine maintenance—oil changes, brakes, tires—is typically affordable, while more substantial repairs may arise as the car ages, especially if maintenance has been inconsistent.

What to budget for owning a TSX

These figures vary by region, mileage, and driving habits. A typical annual maintenance budget includes fluids, tire replacements, brake service, and occasional major items like cooling-system work or electronics attention. With regular care, major engine issues are less likely than in some other brands.

Summary

The Acura TSX remains a strong option among used compact-luxury sedans for reliability, longevity, and value. Built on Honda’s dependable foundation, well-maintained TSXs often reach high mileages with minimal major repairs. Prospective buyers should review maintenance histories, confirm recall completions, and have a trusted mechanic assess the engine, transmission, and suspension. When cared for properly, the TSX can be a dependable daily driver for many years.

How reliable is the Acura TSX?

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. 

Are Acuras 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. 

How long will an Acura TSX last?

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. 

Is the Acura TSX expensive to maintain?

The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Acura TSX ranges from $105 to $2767, with an average of $350.