What is the common problem with Acura TLX?
The Acura TLX is a popular midsize luxury sedan, but it has been known to experience some common problems. The most notable issues include transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical system malfunctions. Let's take a closer look at these common problems with the Acura TLX.
Transmission Problems
One of the most frequently reported problems with the Acura TLX is transmission issues. Many owners have experienced transmission slippage, delayed gear changes, and even complete transmission failure. This can be a costly repair, often requiring a full transmission rebuild or replacement. The transmission problems seem to be more prevalent in earlier model years of the TLX.
Engine Issues
Another common problem with the Acura TLX is engine-related issues. Some owners have reported engine misfires, loss of power, and even complete engine failure. These problems can be caused by faulty spark plugs, fuel injectors, or other engine components. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to prevent engine problems in the Acura TLX.
Electrical System Malfunctions
The Acura TLX's electrical system has also been known to experience various issues. These include problems with the infotainment system, dashboard displays, and even the car's lighting. Electrical gremlins can be tricky to diagnose and repair, often requiring the expertise of a skilled technician.
Addressing the Problems
To address these common problems, Acura has issued several recalls and technical service bulletins over the years. Owners should stay up-to-date on any recalls or service campaigns that may affect their vehicle and have any necessary repairs performed promptly. Regular maintenance, such as transmission fluid changes and engine tune-ups, can also help prevent or mitigate these issues.
Overall, while the Acura TLX is generally a reliable and well-built vehicle, it is not immune to the occasional problems. By being aware of the common issues and taking proactive steps to address them, Acura TLX owners can help ensure their vehicle continues to provide a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
What Acura to stay away from?
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2003 model is one of the most problematic Acura TL years, with over 400+ NHTSA user complaints. This car's top three most prominent problems are transmission failure, car shakes during acceleration, and the peeling clear coat.
Is the Acura TLX a reliable car?
The Acura TLX is generally considered a reliable car, especially with proper maintenance, but some model years and configurations have known issues. Lower costs for repairs and maintenance compared to the average luxury car indicate good reliability, though some owners have reported problems with specific components like transmissions, electrical systems, and adaptive suspension plugs.
Areas of concern
- Transmission issues: Some models, particularly those with the 9-speed ZF transmission, have been reported to have hard or hesitant shifting.
- Electrical problems: Some owners have experienced issues with dashboard warning lights coming on, sometimes related to the wheel speed sensor.
- Adaptive suspension: The adaptive suspension on certain models has a potential issue with corroding rear suspension plugs, which can be costly to repair.
- V6 engine: Some older V6 models are known to have potential issues like misfires or high oil consumption, particularly as mileage increases.
Positive indicators
- Lower repair costs: The average annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a TLX is lower than the average for luxury midsize cars.
- Owner satisfaction: Many owners report high satisfaction with the driving experience, features, and overall performance.
- Strong safety ratings: The TLX has received high safety ratings and comes with many standard safety features.
Recommendations
- Consider the 4-cylinder model: Some owners suggest the 4-cylinder engine may be more reliable over the long term compared to the V6.
- Check service history: When buying a used TLX, a complete service history is essential to ensure all maintenance has been performed on time.
- Be aware of specific model year issues: Research the specific model year and trim you are interested in, as some have known problems that have been reported by owners.
What year is the most reliable TLX?
The most reliable Acura TLX years are generally considered to be 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, with many sources highlighting the entire second generation (2021-2024) as a strong choice. Years to avoid are the first model year, 2015, and the 2016 and 2018 models, which had more common issues.
Recommended years
- 2017: A great option, especially since it was the year after the first generation was refreshed.
- 2019–2020: Both years have excellent ratings and were part of the second generation redesign.
- 2021–2024: These models are part of the second generation, with many owners praising their reliability, performance, and improved infotainment systems.
Years to avoid
- 2015: The first model year of the TLX generation often had issues with the transmission and other systems.
- 2016: Also had some issues that were more common in the first generation.
- 2018: The first year of the refresh for the second generation, which can sometimes lead to minor issues.
Other tips
- Transmission: The 9-speed automatic transmission on V6 models in the 2015-2016 range could sometimes have issues with rough shifting. This is often resolved with software updates, so check service records.
- Warranty: Consider purchasing an extended warranty or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle, especially for the newer models.
- Maintenance: Proper maintenance, such as following recommended service intervals, is crucial for long-term reliability.
What problems does the Acura TLX have?
If your TLX stalls unpredictably, it's not just an inconvenience—it's a safety risk. The Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was designed for convenience. Instead, it's been a constant source of frustration. Freezing screens, Bluetooth malfunctions, random shutdowns, and system reboots plague many TLX owners.
