2011 Acura TSX
The 2011 Acura TSX is a popular luxury sedan known for its reliability, sporty handling, and comfortable interior. It came standard with a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine producing 201 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. A 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic, was also available. Owners generally appreciate the TSX’s fuel efficiency, build quality, and engaging driving experience. Some common complaints include a somewhat dated infotainment system and limited rear passenger space.
Engine
2.4L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can be caused by worn piston rings or valve stem seals. The symptom is low oil levels and potentially engine knocking if the oil level drops too low.
- Solution: Replacement of the piston rings and/or valve stem seals is the most common solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- VTC Actuator Rattle
- Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up, lasting for a few seconds. This is caused by a faulty Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator.
- Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L V6
- No Issues Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported delayed or harsh shifting, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. This can be due to worn transmission solenoids or low transmission fluid.
- Solution: Replacing the transmission solenoids and/or performing a transmission fluid flush may resolve the issue. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $500 (solenoids) - $3000+ (rebuild/replace)
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Manual (2.4L Only)
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure and leakage of rear shock absorbers, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent loss of Bluetooth connectivity, difficulty pairing devices, or poor sound quality during calls.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the Bluetooth module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $300+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Driver’s Power Seat Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The driver’s power seat may stop functioning or move erratically due to a faulty motor or switch.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat motor or switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may get stuck, not open or close properly, or make excessive noise. This is caused by a failed motor or damaged tracks.
- Solution: Sunroof track lubrication, motor replacement, or full assembly replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (lubrication) - $300 (motor replacement) - $800+ (assembly replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 Acura TSX is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues to be aware of. The most significant concerns revolve around the 2.4L engine’s potential for excessive oil consumption and VTC actuator rattle, and the 5-speed automatic transmission’s shifting problems. Electrical gremlins like Bluetooth connectivity issues and sunroof issues are also reported. The cost of repairs can vary widely, with engine and transmission work potentially being the most expensive. Overall, prospective buyers should have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase to identify any potential problems and factor these potential costs into their budget.