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2012 Acura TL

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2012 Acura TL is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and sporty handling. It came with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.7-liter V6 generating 305 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5-liter engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.7-liter engine was available with either a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission on the SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) model. Owners generally praise the TL for its comfortable interior, responsive handling (especially with SH-AWD), and Acura’s reputation for reliability. Common complaints often revolve around the polarizing exterior styling (specifically the “beak”), the sometimes-firm ride (especially on models with larger wheels), and the lack of some advanced features compared to its competitors.

Engine

3.5L V6

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between oil changes. This may be more prevalent in higher-mileage vehicles. Symptoms include low oil light illuminating, burning oil smell, or visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: There is no definitive fix for all cases. Potential solutions include replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or, in severe cases, engine replacement. Regular oil changes with high-quality oil may help mitigate the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and chosen repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.7L V6

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between oil changes. This may be more prevalent in higher-mileage vehicles. Symptoms include low oil light illuminating, burning oil smell, or visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: There is no definitive fix for all cases. Potential solutions include replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or, in severe cases, engine replacement. Regular oil changes with high-quality oil may help mitigate the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and chosen repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both 3.5L and 3.7L)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
    • Solution: A transmission fluid change with genuine Acura ATF-DW1 fluid may resolve the issue. In some cases, a software update or replacement of the transmission valve body may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+ depending on the severity and chosen repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (3.7L SH-AWD)

  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch pedal sticking to the floor, difficulty shifting, or a spongy clutch pedal feel.
    • Solution: Replacement of the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Sag
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks and/or springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
    • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot.
    • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacement of the navigation unit may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,000+ (for unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, or poor audio quality during Bluetooth calls.
    • Solution: Try deleting and re-pairing the device. Check for software updates for the infotainment system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Usually no cost, unless a hardware issue is found.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
    • Solution: Removing the headlight housing and drying it out. Sealing any cracks or gaps in the housing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (DIY or professional repair)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, sunroof getting stuck, or excessive wind noise.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or associated components. Lubrication of the sunroof tracks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Acura TL is generally a reliable vehicle, but some common issues include oil consumption (affecting both engines), harsh shifting with the automatic transmission, and some electrical glitches with the infotainment system. Suspension sag in the rear is also a fairly common complaint. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs. Addressing these potential issues proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and prevent more significant problems down the road. The cost of repairs varies, but some issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive solutions, while others may require more extensive work. Overall, despite these potential issues, the 2012 Acura TL remains a solid choice in the used luxury sedan market.

Acura, TL
Acura TL 2012
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