Acura TLX Common Problems & Reliability Guide
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Overview
The Acura TLX is a midsize luxury sedan that replaced the TSX and TL models in 2015. Known for its refined ride and value proposition, the TLX has become a popular choice for owners seeking reliability with premium features. Common issues include transmission shuddering, electrical system faults, and emissions-related problems that owners frequently search for diagnostic solutions.
Quick Summary
By Generation
Available Engines
Common OBD2 Codes
| Code | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| P0730 | Very Common | Incorrect gear ratio error frequently appears on V6 models with 9-speed transmission, often accompanied by shuddering or delayed shifts during low-speed driving. |
| P0741 | Very Common | Torque converter clutch stuck off is a widespread issue on 2015-2017 V6 models, typically requiring transmission software updates or fluid changes to resolve. |
| P0456 | Common | Very small EVAP leak often triggered by faulty fuel cap seal or purge valve, common across all model years and engine types. |
| P0300 | Common | Random misfire typically appears on higher-mileage 2.4L engines, often related to carbon buildup on valves or failing ignition coils. |
| P0401 | Common | EGR flow insufficient is common on 2015-2018 models, usually caused by carbon buildup in EGR passages requiring cleaning. |
| P0171 | Occasional | System too lean Bank 1 often appears alongside P0300 on high-mileage vehicles, typically indicating vacuum leaks or failing oxygen sensors. |
| P0128 | Occasional | Coolant thermostat issue appears on 2015-2016 models during cold weather, usually requiring thermostat replacement. |
| B1342 | Occasional | ECU malfunction related to electrical system issues, sometimes appearing after battery replacement or during extreme temperature conditions. |
| P0420 | Occasional | Catalyst system efficiency below threshold appears on higher-mileage V6 models, often requiring downstream oxygen sensor or catalytic converter replacement. |
Known Problems
The ZF 9-speed automatic transmission in V6 models experiences shuddering, jerking, or hesitation during low-speed acceleration or gear changes. This issue was particularly severe in 2015-2017 models and often requires software updates, transmission fluid changes, or in severe cases, torque converter replacement.
Typical mileage: 10,000-60,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairPremature battery drain and failure to start occurs on 2015-2018 models, often caused by parasitic draw from the infotainment system or faulty electrical modules. Many owners report needing battery replacement within the first 2-3 years of ownership.
Typical mileage: 20,000-50,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe dual-screen infotainment system experiences random freezing, black screens, or failure to respond to inputs. Software updates have addressed some issues, but hardware replacement is sometimes necessary for persistent problems.
Typical mileage: Any mileage
Shop parts for this repairClunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly over bumps, are common on 2015-2017 models. The issue is typically caused by worn stabilizer bar links or deteriorating bushings that require replacement.
Typical mileage: 30,000-80,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe 2.4L engine's direct injection system leads to carbon deposits on intake valves over time, causing rough idle, misfires, and reduced performance. Walnut blasting of the intake valves is typically required for cleaning.
Typical mileage: 60,000-100,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairSmall evaporative emission system leaks are common, often caused by faulty fuel filler caps, cracked EVAP canisters, or failing purge valves. These issues trigger check engine lights but don't typically affect drivability.
Typical mileage: 40,000-80,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairRecalls
Fuel pump strainer cover may separate, causing fuel pump failure and engine stall. Acura replaces the fuel pump assembly to address this safety concern.
Front seat belt anchor may detach from the seat frame during a crash, reducing occupant protection. Dealers inspect and replace affected seat frames.
Low-pressure fuel pump may crack and leak fuel, creating a fire risk. Affected vehicles receive replacement fuel pumps from Honda/Acura.
Rearview camera may display a blank screen when shifting into reverse, violating federal safety standards. Software update corrects the camera activation timing.
Available Engines
Common OBD2 Codes
| Code | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| P0456 | Common | Small EVAP leak continues to be an issue on the new generation, often caused by fuel cap seal degradation or purge valve failures. |
| P0171 | Common | System too lean Bank 1 appears on 2021-2023 turbo models, sometimes related to boost leak or faulty MAF sensor readings. |
| P0300 | Common | Random misfire on 2.0T engines, typically caused by carbon buildup on direct injection valves or spark plug fouling from oil consumption. |
| P0101 | Occasional | Mass airflow sensor range/performance issue appears on dusty environments or when air filter maintenance is neglected on turbocharged models. |
| P0420 | Occasional | Catalyst efficiency below threshold on early 2021 models, sometimes related to software calibration issues that Acura addressed with updates. |
| P2096 | Occasional | Post catalyst fuel trim too lean Bank 1 appears alongside P0420, often indicating exhaust leaks or failing downstream oxygen sensors. |
| P0234 | Occasional | Turbocharger/supercharger overboost condition on 2.0T models, usually triggered by wastegate control issues or boost pressure sensor faults. |
| C0022 | Occasional | Right front wheel speed sensor circuit issue affects ABS and traction control systems, typically requiring sensor replacement or wiring repair. |
| U0100 | Occasional | Lost communication with ECM/PCM appears after software updates or battery disconnection, often resolved by module reinitialization procedures. |
Known Problems
The new 10-speed automatic transmission in 2.0T models occasionally exhibits gear hunting or hesitation during light acceleration, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. Software updates have improved behavior, but some owners report persistent issues requiring adaptive learning resets.
Typical mileage: 5,000-40,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairSome 2.0L turbo engines consume excessive oil, requiring top-ups between oil changes. This issue affects roughly 5-10% of 2021-2023 models and may be related to piston ring design or turbo seal wear. Severe cases may qualify for warranty engine replacement.
Typical mileage: 10,000-50,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe True Touchpad infotainment system and digital gauge cluster experience occasional freezing, delayed response, or random restarts. Software updates address many issues, but some hardware failures require module replacement under warranty.
Typical mileage: Any mileage
Shop parts for this repairSeveral 2021-2022 models exhibit premature clear coat peeling or paint bubbling, particularly on horizontal surfaces like the hood and roof. Acura has addressed some cases under warranty through repainting or panel replacement.
Typical mileage: Any mileage
Shop parts for this repairFront wheel speed sensors fail prematurely on some 2021-2023 models, triggering ABS, traction control, and stability control warning lights. Exposure to road salt and moisture appears to accelerate sensor degradation.
Typical mileage: 20,000-60,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe evaporative emission system purge valve on 2021-2024 models occasionally sticks open or closed, causing check engine lights and failed emissions tests. Valve replacement typically resolves the issue.
Typical mileage: 30,000-70,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairType S models with Brembo brakes experience brake pedal pulsation or judder during moderate to hard braking, often caused by rotor runout or pad deposits. Resurfacing or replacing rotors typically corrects the issue.
Typical mileage: 15,000-40,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairRecalls
Fuel pump control module software error may cause engine stall while driving. Acura updates the fuel pump control module software to prevent unexpected engine shutdown.
Front seat belt pretensioners may not properly restrain occupants during a crash due to manufacturing defects. Dealers replace affected seat belt assemblies.
High-pressure fuel pump on 2.0T engines may fail and cause engine stall or no-start condition. Acura replaces fuel pumps on affected vehicles under warranty extension.