Is the Acura TSX a reliable car?
Yes. The Acura TSX is widely regarded as a reliable used sedan, built on Honda reliability principles and known for durable engines when properly maintained.
What drives reliability in the TSX
Along with Honda's engineering excellence, the TSX benefits from a robust 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a drivetrain that tends to tolerate high mileages when maintained. The design emphasizes longevity, ease of maintenance, and durable materials. As with any aging vehicle, reliability hinges on maintenance history and exposure to harsh environments.
Reliability by generation
Two generations share a similar reliability ethos, but there are notable differences in refinement and common wear as they age. Here is a concise look at each.
- First generation (2004–2008): The TSX used a robust 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and offered strong longevity with regular maintenance; manual transmission versions are particularly durable and enjoyable to own. As these cars age, common wear tends to show up in suspension components, brakes, and rubber seals, especially in cars driven in harsh climates. A well-documented maintenance history helps ensure long-term reliability.
- Second generation (2009–2014): It refined the interior and drivetrain while preserving the same reliable engine family; reliability remains strong with routine care. As with older Hondas, electronics and climate-control components can show age-related issues in higher-mileage examples, but major powertrain failures are relatively rare when maintenance is kept up.
Across both generations, maintenance records and climate history heavily influence longevity.
Independent reliability ratings and owner feedback
Independent sources track reliability through publications like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, and owner forums provide real-world feedback. Here is a snapshot of what the data generally show for the TSX.
- Consumer Reports: The TSX tends to be rated above average for reliability in its class, with owners reporting solid long-term durability when maintenance is kept up.
- J.D. Power/Quality & Reliability: The TSX typically scores well for quality and long-term reliability, though older models can show the same aging-driven electronics and comfort-system issues common to aging vehicles.
- Owner feedback: Enthusiast owners often report reliable performance well past 150,000 miles with regular servicing; typical aging concerns include wear on suspension, brakes, and climate-control components.
Takeaway: Independent reviews broadly reinforce the TSX's reliability; as with any aging vehicle, maintenance history is the best predictor of future performance.
Maintenance strategies to maximize reliability
Proactive maintenance and inspections can extend the TSX's life. Here are practical steps to stay ahead of aging issues.
- Keep up with regular oil changes using the manufacturer-recommended schedule (often every 5,000–7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions).
- Maintain all fluids: coolant, transmission fluid (if automatic), brake fluid, power steering fluid, and battery health checks.
- Inspect and replace aging suspension components, brake pads and rotors, tires, and steering/suspension bushings as needed.
- Watch for rust, particularly in regions with road salt; treat early to prevent structural damage.
- For automatic transmissions, follow the recommended service interval for the fluid; even though manual transmissions are robust, clutch wear will occur with mileage on manual cars.
Following these steps can help ensure that a TSX remains dependable for years to come.
Summary: The Acura TSX remains a solid, reliable choice in the used-car market when the maintenance history is strong. Built on Honda engineering and powered by a durable 2.4-liter engine, it delivers longevity with proper care. As an aging vehicle, the reliability of any TSX depends on regular maintenance, climate exposure, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
