Is the 2011 Acura TSX a reliable car?
Yes. The 2011 Acura TSX is generally considered a dependable used sedan, built on Honda’s reliable engineering and known for durable performance when properly maintained. As with any aging vehicle, reliability depends on maintenance history, mileage, and how well the car has been cared for.
Reliability profile: longevity and owner sentiment
The TSX shares its underpinnings with Honda’s mainstream models, which gives it a reputation for straightforward, durable engineering, solid resale value, and components that tend to hold up well with regular service. Independent reviews and owner surveys have historically rated the TSX as a reliable choice within the compact-luxury segment, with many examples reaching high mileages when properly maintained. For the 2011 model year, reliability is generally solid, though age-related wear is a factor for any vehicle this vintage.
What contributes to its reliability
- Durable Honda-based engineering and parts availability
- Proven 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine known for longevity with regular maintenance
- Drivetrain options (manual or automatic) with a track record of dependable performance
- Quality interior materials and build that tend to endure with proper care
Taken together, these attributes help the TSX remain a predictable and durable choice for buyers seeking a used compact-luxury sedan, especially when maintenance history is solid.
What to inspect in a used 2011 TSX
Before you buy, use this checklist to gauge a used TSX’s condition and maintenance history. The following points cover mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic aspects that commonly affect this model after years on the road.
- Maintenance history: verify regular service, including oil changes, fluid services, and any major repairs
- Engine condition: listen for unusual knocking or ticking; check for leaks and monitor oil consumption
- Transmission condition: ensure smooth shifting (automatic) or check clutch wear (manual)
- Suspension and steering: inspect for worn bushings, control arms, tie rods, and worn shocks/struts
- Brakes: look for uneven wear, pulsation, and proper ABS operation
- Cooling system and hoses: check for leaks, thermostat operation, and radiator condition
- Electrical systems: test lights, windows, climate control, and infotainment stability
- Body and frame integrity: inspect for rust in corners, undercarriage, and wheel arches
- Recall status: verify that any open recalls have been addressed using the VIN
Take a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a qualified mechanic to verify these items and perform a compression test if feasible.
Common issues reported by owners
Like any aging vehicle, some 2011 TSXs show wear or failures more often than others. The following issues are among those cited by owners in surveys and reports. Note: not every car experiences these problems, and proper maintenance reduces risk.
- Oil consumption or valve-cover leaks in aging engines, common with high-mileage Hondas of this era
- Brake wear and caliper/rotor issues in climates with heavy use or road salt
- Suspension wear such as worn struts or control-arm bushings leading to noises or handling changes
- Clutch wear or transmission concerns in higher-mileage examples, more noticeable in manual models
- Electrical quirks or HVAC issues in some vehicles, often tied to aging connectors or components
With diligent maintenance and timely repairs, these issues can be managed, and many TSXs reach high mileages with relatively few major problems.
Safety, recalls, and ownership costs
Safety and ongoing ownership costs are important factors to consider for any used car. For the 2011 TSX, the key points are:
- Recall status: Use the VIN to check for open recalls with the NHTSA, Honda/Acura, or the manufacturer’s portal
- Insurance and maintenance costs: typically moderate for a used Honda-based sedan, often lower than European rivals
- Parts availability and labor: widely available, with reasonable pricing compared with premium brands
In practice, a well-maintained TSX tends to be affordable to own relative to many peers in its class, provided that potential owner time and money are invested in upkeep.
Bottom line and guidance
For buyers seeking a used compact-luxury sedan with proven reliability, the 2011 Acura TSX remains a strong option when backed by solid maintenance history. Its Honda-sourced engineering and durable drivetrain offer a compelling blend of longevity and practicality, though age-related wear requires attentive upkeep. A thorough pre-purchase inspection, complete service records, and careful comparison with peers will help you gauge whether a specific example fits your expectations and budget.
Summary
The 2011 Acura TSX generally stands up well as a reliable used vehicle, benefiting from Honda-level durability and a reputation for long-term reliability. Its performance and value depend heavily on how well it has been serviced over the years. For prospective buyers, focusing on maintenance history, a thorough mechanical inspection, and current recall/status checks will provide the clearest picture of expected reliability and ownership costs in the years ahead.
How many miles will a 2011 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.
Is the Acura TSX engine reliable?
Yes, it's a good engine. But like all engines and cars, this is totally dependent upon whether it has been well maintained. Take it to a Honda/Acura specialist shop and pay the $100or $150 for a pre purchase inspection, and they can tell you if it's been well maintained, and if it's going to need any work done on it.
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.
Is the 2011 TSX reliable?
Among the 200 owners who provided feedback on the 2011 Acura TSX for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 95% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and comfort to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest.
