2023 Acura Tlx problems

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The Acura TLX is a four-door entry-level luxury sedan sold by Acura, a luxury division of Honda, since 2014. It is the successor to both the TL and TSX models. As of 2021, the discontinuation of the RLX leaves the TLX as the flagship sedan in Acura's lineup.

Design history

The Acura TLX was first shown as the "TLX Prototype", a sedan designed in Acura's Los Angeles Design Studio, as a replacement of the TL and TSX sedans. The production version was unveiled in April at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. Sales began in August, the TLX entered production during July at Marysville, Ohio, United States.

First generation (UB1/UB2/UB3/UB4; 2015)

Two powertrain options are available. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine with direct injection was offered with front-wheel drive only, mated to a dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel steering (P-AWS). This model's chassis code is UB1. The Honda designed dual clutch transmission is the first to use a torque converter, which absorbs transmission gear shift shock, thus reducing NVH. The engine is rated at 206 hp (154 kW; 209 PS) with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg‑US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg‑imp)/35 mpg‑US (6.7 L/100 km; 42 mpg‑imp)/28 mpg‑US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg‑imp) (city/highway/combined) compared to 22 mpg‑US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg‑imp)/31 mpg‑US (7.6 L/100 km; 37 mpg‑imp)/26 mpg‑US (9.0 L/100 km; 31 mpg‑imp) (city/highway/combined) from the previous TSX. Honda estimates that the six-cylinder model is 1.5 seconds faster from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h).

A 3.5-liter direct injected SOHC VTEC V-6 with cylinder deactivation (VCM) is mated to Honda's first time use of a 9-speed automatic transmission (sourced from ZF), available with either P-AWS or all-wheel drive (SH-AWD). The SH-AWD system uses hydraulic clutches instead of the electromagnetic clutch packs found on the previous TL which significantly cuts weight, size and cost. The engine is rated at 290 hp (216 kW; 294 PS) and front-wheel drive models deliver 21 mpg‑US (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg‑imp)/34 mpg‑US (6.9 L/100 km; 41 mpg‑imp)/25 mpg‑US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg‑imp) (city/highway/combined) while all-wheel drive models are rated at 21 mpg‑US (11 L/100 km; 25 mpg‑imp)/31 mpg‑US (7.6 L/100 km; 37 mpg‑imp)/25 mpg‑US (9.4 L/100 km; 30 mpg‑imp). Model codes are UB2 for the front-wheel drive and UB3 for the SH-AWD, which comes standard with a "Technology Package". TLX models configured with the V6 engine lose nearly 150 lb (68 kg) compared to the FWD TL, and over 225 lb (102 kg) compared to the SH-AWD TL.

Overall length compared to the previous TL was reduced by 3.8 inches (97 mm) while the wheelbase maintains the same length. As with the ninth-generation Accord, the TLX loses the front double wishbone suspension of the TSX and TL in favor of a MacPherson strut arrangement, and loses the TL's all-aluminum front subframe in favor of a lower cost friction stir welded aluminum and steel piece.

To significantly cut down on interior noise, triple door seals are used as well as additional sound insulation.

2023 Acura Tlx

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Common 2023 Acura Tlx problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2023 Acura TLX, common problems with this car include:

  • Engine Performance: The 2.0 Tech engine performance is described as decent but loud, unrefined, and thirsty, with lower than expected fuel efficiency compared to other models like the BMW 540X.
  • Highway Noise: The TLX is reported to be excessively loud on the highway at speeds over 60 mph, with complaints about wind noise, road noise, and engine noise affecting the driving experience.
  • Cabin Material Quality: Owners have expressed disappointment in the quality of cabin materials, describing the car as feeling cheap compared to competitors like Lexus, Infiniti, and German brands. The back seat is also noted to be tight for the larger sedan segment.
  • Infotainment System: The infotainment system in the 2023 Acura TLX has been criticized for being outdated and unrefined. The touch mouse pad is highlighted as a particularly problematic feature that does not work well while driving. Bluetooth connectivity has been reported as unstable and annoying for users.

These issues highlight some key concerns raised by owners of the 2023 Acura TLX, impacting various aspects of the driving experience from performance to comfort and technology.

2023 Acura Tlx engine

What is the common problem with Acura TLX?

Transmission super bad on downshifts, when going uphill low throttle you can feel grinding like the engine is going to stall out.

What are the negatives of the Acura TLX?

While the TLX's ride is comfortable and handling is nimble, there's too much road and engine noise, undermining the premium pretense. The front seats are supportive, but the rear seat is tight, and the car's low stance hurts cabin access. The touchpad-based infotainment system is very distracting to use.

Is the Acura TLX a reliable car?

The Acura TLX Reliability Rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 1st out of 31 for luxury midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $440 which means it has excellent ownership costs.

Is the TLX being discontinued?

Ram will send the range-topping 702-horsepower Ram 1500 TRX off into the sunset with a Final Edition model for the 2024 model year. Technically called the 2024 Ram 1500 TRX 6.2L Supercharged V8 – Final Edition (phew), only 4,000 examples of this limited-production model will be produced worldwide.

2023 Acura Tlx car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Tlx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Unknown or other problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2023 Acura Tlx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2023 Acura Tlx complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2023 Acura Tlx.

2023-11-10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-09
  • VIN: 19UUB5F41PA
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: My TLX Tech 2023 lost complete power while I pulled up to a busy intersection on a dark and rainy day. As a puled to stop and my idle stop enabled the car was fine. Once I tried to accelerate the car immediately went into Park from Drive. All of the controls started to blink and the car powered down like a computer system who was on 0%. I completely lost power, so that I could not even put my hazard lights on to indicate to the busy oncoming traffic that I was in danger. When the police arrived, he even tried to shift to neutral to help me roll out of the street, but the car was inoperable. I had to remain in the car due to the freezing rain and sleet. The emergency services called an emergency tow to get me out of the street and I was then towed to the nearest Acura dealership to get it reviewed. The service department indicated that they had known about the idle start/stop issue, but not on my specific model. I had my car inspected just the day before at the same dealership and there were no issues that had come up. I am concerned that this is very dangerous and leaves me in a vulnerable state.
2023-09-29

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-28
  • VIN: 19UUB5F42PA
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Well, since i purchased the 2023 Acura Tlx TECH PCKG, "It's a nightmare" everytime i drive it , i'm not enjoying it at all! I can't keep the car to go between the 2 lines! It just keeps going zigzag, i keep telling myself that maybe because "it's a brand new car" give it more time for adjustment...! But it's getting worse and worse to the point that when it's raining, i have to pray to get home safely!
2023-09-16

SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-06
  • VIN: 19UUB5F40PA
  • Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Please see attached document, as my whole description would not fit in the box.

Negative 2023 Acura Tlx car reviews

  1. Osbaldo Flatley 2024-11-06

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that I've come across an issue with the iPhone 12 (all models) not working on a wireless charger. I noticed that Acura is aware of this issue, but unfortunately, they haven't taken any steps to fix it. Additionally, I wasn't made aware of this when I made my purchase. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

  2. Curt Williamson 2024-07-14

    I recently purchased an Acura chillax all-wheel-drive advanced model and unfortunately, it has already died twice, requiring a jump. The first time, the dealer replaced the battery, but the issue persisted and it is currently being investigated. I am quite concerned about this problem, especially since the car has only been driven for two weeks and has less than 300 miles on it.

  3. Ulises O'Reilly 2024-06-18

    I recently ordered the TLX Type S from the dealership, but unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car. The fit and finish of the car were not up to my expectations, and there were some problems with the headlights, tail lights, and panel above the lights. Additionally, the hood had a slight hump on the passenger side, which caused it to sit higher than the quarter panel. I also noticed some rust on the bolts of the front quarter panels, which was disappointing. The car also hesitates when taking off, and I have received an Emissions System Problem error code. Although the dealership has been trying to help, they have not been able to find the root of the problem. Recently, I have been experiencing some issues with the infotainment system, which intermittently blacks out and says lost connectivity. I have videos of this happening, but unfortunately, the dealership and Acura customer care have not been able to address this issue yet. I understand that these issues can be frustrating, but I am hopeful that the dealership will be able to resolve them soon.

Positive 2023 Acura Tlx car reviews

  1. Darius Rutherford 2025-01-08

    You'll love the smooth and comfortable ride, great handling, and fun driving experience! The only thing I would suggest is adding power folding mirrors, 360 cameras, and a little more power.

  2. Sim Kuhn 2025-01-05

    We have owned four Acuras so far, including the 2021 TLX A-Spec, 2014 MDX Tech, 2013 TL Elite, and 2005 TL. I have been driving the 2021 TLX for three months now and have covered 2500km. Here are the things I like about it: 1. The exterior styling is great, and I love every angle. 2. The handling is excellent, and it feels like it's on rails, even better than the 2013 TL, which also had double wishbone. 3. The ELS Audio System is awesome, although not significantly better than the 2013 TL or 2014 MDX. 4. The interior styling is modern and upscale, with great materials and accent lighting. 5. The Dynamic mode lets this car behave differently depending on my mood, whether I want an aggressive or laid-back driving experience. 6. The braking is solid. However, there are a few areas that could be improved: 1. There are too many gears, and the shifts happen way too often as a result. I generally drive in S transmission mode to get decent RPM before shifts and only go into D transmission on the highway for fuel economy. D Mode literally does six shifts in ten seconds under normal throttle, and while the shifts are smooth, this is annoying and takes away from the driving experience. 2. The car is slightly underpowered for an Acura TLX that competes with other high-end brands. It should definitely have 300+ HP and 300+lb_ft torque for a car this heavy. The Honda Accord 2.0 turbo is faster 0-100km. 3. The touchpad control system is not great, although not a deal-breaker. The multifunction dial on my 2013 TL and 2014 MDX was way better.

  3. Sean Rohan 2024-11-22

    Great car! It's unfortunate that you've been experiencing some issues with charging and Hands Free use with your iPhone 12. However, I'm glad to hear that your phone charges okay. It sounds like the Hands Free feature may have some compatibility issues with the iPhone 12, but our dealer has advised that a simple 'Hard Reset' of the phone can quickly resolve these issues. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

  4. Jeffery Trantow 2024-10-23

    Coming from a Honda, I naturally looked to Acura for my next vehicle. The TLX carries a brand name of reliability and runs a similar infotainment and driver technology that I expect from Honda. I'm thrilled to be driving a car as exciting as the TLX Type S.

  5. Joe Lindgren 2024-09-04

    Great ride, really smooth and slick

Leave your review of 2023 Acura Tlx

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2023 Acura Tlx problems:

23 Type S suspension issue/noise | Acura TLX Forum
23 Type S suspension issue/noise | Acura TLX Forum
https://www.tlxforums.com/threads/23-type-s-suspension-issue-noise.46104/

Jun 25, 2023 ... Picked up a 23 type s on June 30th for my wife and she is having this same problem. It has been in the shop since this past Monday. The tech ...

Are there any reliability problems with the newer tlx? : r/Acura
Are there any reliability problems with the newer tlx? : r/Acura
https://www.reddit.com/r/Acura/comments/17za42t/are_there_any_reliability_problems_with_the_newer/

Nov 19, 2023 ... Doors won't unlock after auto start. · Apple CarPlay doesn't always connect. · The touchpad will go off on its own selecting things. · Wireless ...

2021 TLX Type-S Problems After 8 Months | Acura TLX Forum
2021 TLX Type-S Problems After 8 Months | Acura TLX Forum
https://www.tlxforums.com/threads/2021-tlx-type-s-problems-after-8-months.45507/

Apr 13, 2022 ... I don't blame my dealer; after all, the TLX 2021 is kind of a new thing. However, I find the frequent puddle light damage to be inexcusable and ...

Recurring problem with '23 TLX Type S : r/Acura
Recurring problem with '23 TLX Type S : r/Acura
https://www.reddit.com/r/Acura/comments/1729ynx/recurring_problem_with_23_tlx_type_s/

Oct 7, 2023 ... That was created on 3/16/2023, which was before I brought in my car for service. So they were aware of the issue, and they told me their fix ...

Other years of Acura Tlx

acura tlx 2012 photo
Tlx 2012
Acura

1

0

0

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acura tlx 2015 photo
Tlx 2015
Acura

307

6

29

  • 5
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  • 1
acura tlx 2016 photo
Tlx 2016
Acura

88

3

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tlx 2017 photo
Tlx 2017
Acura

51

3

11

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tlx 2018 photo
Tlx 2018
Acura

67

3

28

  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura tlx 2019 photo
Tlx 2019
Acura

57

5

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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