Post
Research the Car Logo

2005 Acura TSX

The 2005 Acura TSX is a sporty and well-regarded entry-level luxury sedan. It was only offered with one engine option, the 2.4L K24A2 inline-4 cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. The TSX came standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, but a 5-speed automatic transmission was also available. Owners often praise the TSX for its reliability, sporty handling, comfortable interior, and overall value. Common complaints include the relatively firm ride, some interior trim rattles, and occasional electronic gremlins.

Engine

2.4L K24A2 Inline-4

  • VTC Actuator Rattle
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start, lasting for a few seconds. This is due to wear in the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator.
    • Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some 2005 TSX owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption.
    • Solution: Monitoring oil levels and topping off as needed or a full engine rebuild to replace piston rings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

  • Grinding Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gears, especially when cold. This issue is more common in high-mileage vehicles. Could be worn synchronizers
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, especially 2nd to 3rd. Can be related to worn solenoids or valve body issues.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid change. Replacing solenoids or valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Lower Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn rear lower control arm bushings are a common issue.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear lower control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Door Lock Actuators
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power door locks. Actuators wear out over time.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Radio Display Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The radio display fading or becoming unreadable. Common issue with the display unit itself.
    • Solution: Replacement of the radio unit or repairing the display (if possible).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin from the sunroof area. Clogged sunroof drains are the usual cause.
    • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drain tubes.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on complexity of the blockage)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking dashboard, especially in hotter climates.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Acura TSX is a generally reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of common issues. Engine issues such as VTC actuator rattle and oil consumption can be annoying but are often manageable. Transmission issues, especially with the automatic, can be more costly to address. Suspension wear is typical for a car of this age, and electrical gremlins can pop up. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more significant repairs, with repair costs varying accordingly.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.