Which Acura has transmission problems?

There isn’t a single Acura model that is universally plagued by transmission failures. Some owners have reported issues on certain models and years, but overall Acura transmissions are reliable when properly maintained. This article explains what to watch for, where problems have been reported, and how to verify issues for a specific vehicle.

To understand the question more fully, this piece surveys common transmission symptoms reported by owners, highlights how public recall and complaint data have highlighted a few model-year patterns, and provides practical steps for buyers and owners to diagnose and address transmission concerns. It emphasizes VIN-specific checks and professional diagnostics as the most reliable path to confirmation.

Common transmission issues reported by Acura owners

The following list covers typical symptoms and problems that have appeared in owner reports and service bulletins. The items are provided to help readers recognize potential issues early and seek appropriate diagnostics.

• Slipping gears or unexpected gear changes, especially when the vehicle is under light load or at low speeds.


• Rough or hard shifting between gears, sometimes described as a jolt during acceleration or deceleration.


• Delayed engagement or sluggish response when selecting drive or reverse, causing a noticeable lag.


• Transmission warning light or check engine light coming on due to transmission-related fault codes or sensor issues.


• Unusual noises (such as whines, clunks, or grinding) coming from the transmission area, often during shifting or acceleration.

Note: These symptoms can stem from related systems—fluid condition, sensors, or software calibration—rather than a complete transmission failure. A professional diagnosis is advised if you notice any of these signs.

Model-year patterns in data: what recalls and complaints show

This section summarizes how recall notices and owner-complaint databases have highlighted certain model-year ranges. It’s important to understand that patterns can change with recalls, software updates, and service campaigns, and that a VIN-specific check is essential.

• MDX: Some model-years have drawn more attention in recall campaigns and owner reports for transmission-related symptoms, particularly around shifting behavior and torque-converter issues.


• TLX/TL/TSX families: Earlier generations have had reports of shifting hesitation or transmission wear in automatic units, with some issues addressed through software updates or recalls.


• RLX and other larger-sedan derivatives: Occasional reports exist, but they are less frequent than in the MDX/TLX/TX families.

Because transmission problems can be influenced by maintenance, fluid condition, and software calibration, the pattern across models can evolve with new recalls and service campaigns. Always verify coverage for your specific vehicle using its VIN.

What to do if you’re concerned about your Acura’s transmission

Here are practical steps to assess and address potential transmission problems. The guidance is designed to help both buyers evaluating a used car and current owners facing symptoms.

• Check for active recalls and service campaigns using your vehicle’s VIN on official databases (NHTSA or Acura’s recall page).


• Review the maintenance history, focusing on transmission-fluid changes, filter service, and any prior transmission work or software updates.


• If symptoms appear, obtain a professional diagnostic from a dealership or trusted mechanic, prioritizing transmission-fluid condition, fault codes, and torque converter behavior.


• Ask about warranties: consider the new-vehicle warranty, powertrain coverage, and any applicable extended warranties or service campaigns that might apply to your car.


• Decide on next steps based on diagnosis and warranty status; early intervention can prevent more extensive repairs.

Proactive checks and timely diagnosis help reduce the risk of unexpected failures and maintain reliability.

Recalls and warranties: what to know

Transmission-related recalls may be issued for specific VIN ranges or production periods. Manufacturer recalls are typically repaired at no cost, sometimes with software updates or part replacements. Verify coverage with a dealer using your VIN.

How to check your Acura’s VIN and recall status

To determine recall status for your car, locate the 17-digit VIN (often visible on the driver’s side dashboard or inside the driver’s door jamb) and search the NHTSA recall database or Acura’s official recall portal. If a recall is listed, schedule service promptly.

Summary: Acura transmission reliability varies by model year and maintenance history. While some owners report issues on particular models, there is no single model universally prone to transmission problems. Regular transmission-fluid maintenance, prompt diagnostics, and VIN-specific recall checks are the best tools for staying ahead of potential issues.

For readers evaluating an Acura, prioritize model-year histories, ensure timely maintenance of the transmission system, and verify recall status before purchase or during ownership. A VIN-specific check and professional diagnostics offer the most reliable path to clarity.

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.

What years did Acura have transmission problems?

1999-2004
Acura experienced transmission issues in 1999-2004 models, primarily due to design flaws in the automatic transmission.

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018. 
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about

• 2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks. 
• 2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals. 
• 2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted. 
• 2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering. 
• 2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine. 

What to do if buying used

• Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above. 
• If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. 
• Check for service records and recall history. 

This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024

What car brand has the most transmission problems?

Nissan and the combination of Ford/GM are frequently cited for having the most transmission problems, due to their use of problematic Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) in many Nissan models and the 10-speed automatic in Ford and GM trucks. Early to mid-2000s Nissan CVTs (especially in models like the Altima, Rogue, and Sentra) and Ford/GM's 10-speed automatics (found in F-150, Silverado, and Sierra trucks, among others) have a reputation for failure, shuddering, and harsh shifts. 
Nissan 

• CVT Issues: Nissan's long history with Jatco CVTs has earned it a reputation for poor transmission reliability. 
• Affected Models: Models like the Altima, Rogue, Sentra, and Pathfinder from roughly 2006-2015 are particularly notorious. 
• Symptoms: Common complaints include jerking, shuddering, overheating, delayed acceleration, and complete failure. 
• Risk: These issues can occur before 75,000 miles and often result in expensive replacement costs, as the transmissions are not typically rebuilt. 

Ford and GM 

• 10-Speed Automatic Problems: Ford and GM's co-developed 10-speed automatic (the 10R80 for Ford and 10L80 for GM) has been the source of numerous complaints.
• Affected Models: This transmission is found in their full-size trucks and SUVs, including the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, primarily from 2017 onward.
• Symptoms: Owners report harsh shifting, clunking noises, loss of power, and catastrophic failure.
• Risk: These problems have led to multiple recalls and costly repairs, with some vehicles requiring transmission replacement.