What is the engine 3.5 L V-6 in the 2009 Acura TL?
The 2009 Acura TL uses Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 from the J-series family, an i-VTEC DOHC engine that delivers about 280 horsepower and roughly 254–256 lb-ft of torque, depending on trim. It is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, with SH-AWD available on all-wheel-drive models.
Engine family and design
Designed for smooth, usable power in a luxurious chassis, the 3.5 L V6 in the 2009 TL is part of Honda’s J-series. It features variable valve timing and lift control (i-VTEC), a DOHC configuration with 24 valves, and a typical displacement of 3.5 liters. The engine emphasizes refined torque delivery and reliable performance across everyday driving scenarios.
Key technical characteristics explained:
- Displacement: 3.5 L (3471 cc)
- Configuration: 60-degree V6
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 24 valves
- Induction: i-VTEC with multi-point fuel injection
- Block/heads: Aluminum alloy
- Power output: ~280 hp (varies by trim and market)
- Torque: ~254–256 lb-ft
- Fuel system: Port fuel injection
- Transmission pairing: 5-speed automatic (with manual shift mode on most trims)
- Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive on base TL; SH-AWD available on certain trims
Concluding note: The above specifications paint a picture of a refined, capable V6 that balanced everyday driveability with enough grunt for confident highway merging and overtaking, all while fitting the TL’s luxury orientation.
Engine code and where it fits
In service documentation, this 3.5 L V6 is associated with the J35 family (often referred to in manuals as J35A-series variants). It is the same family of engines used across several Honda/Acura models of the era, distinguished by its i-VTEC timing and durable timing chain design. While exact sub-variant designations can vary by model year and trim, the TL’s 3.5 L V6 is consistently described as a J-series 3.5 L V6 with i-VTEC.
Summary
The 2009 Acura TL’s engine is Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 from the J-series, an i-VTEC, DOHC powerplant that delivers around 280 hp and roughly 254–256 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a 5-speed automatic transmission and available SH-AWD, it underpins the TL’s blend of performance and luxury, pairing refined everyday driveability with capable highway acceleration.
Does the 2009 Acura TSX have a K24?
K24Z1: 2007-2009 Honda CR-V. K24Z2: 2008-2012 Honda Accord LX/LX-P. K24Z3: 2008-2012 Honda Accord LX-S/EX/EX-L, 2009-2014 Acura TSX, 2008-2012 Honda Accord. K24Z4: 2008-2012 Honda CR-V.
What engine does the Acura TL 2009 have?
3.5 L J35Z6
Fourth generation (UA8 2009, UA9 2009 SH-AWD)
| Fourth generation | |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.5 L J35Z6 (280 hp) V6 3.7 L J37A4 (305 hp) V6 (SH-AWD) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic (2009–2011) 6-speed automatic (2012–2014) 6-speed manual (2010-2014) |
| Dimensions |
Does a 2009 Acura TL have a timing belt or chain?
The 2009 Acura TL uses a timing belt, not a chain, and it is an interference engine, meaning a broken timing belt can cause severe engine damage. Both the 3.5L and 3.7L V6 engines in the 2009 TL have a timing belt and should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or according to the manufacturer's recommendation in the owner's manual.
Key facts about the 2009 Acura TL timing system
- Belt or chain: The 2009 TL uses a timing belt.
- Interference engine: A broken belt can cause the pistons to collide with the valves, resulting in major engine damage.
- Replacement interval: The timing belt should be replaced at 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but always check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle.
- Recommended service: It is recommended to replace the timing belt with a complete kit that includes new tensioners and rollers to ensure proper function.
Is 2009 a good year for Acura TL?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and performance to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 188 out of 262 of owners (72% of them) rank the 2009 TL five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2009 Acura TL.
