2014 Acura TL

The 2014 Acura TL is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and upscale features. It was offered with two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-4 producing 201 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 generating 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. The inline-4 was exclusively paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 came with a 6-speed automatic, with an optional 6-speed manual transmission available on the SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) model. Owners generally appreciate the TL’s smooth ride, spacious interior, and Acura’s reputation for reliability. Common dislikes include the controversial styling (particularly the “beak” grille) on pre-refresh models, and the lack of some of the latest tech features compared to newer rivals.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between services. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels and potentially replacing valve stem seals or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• VTEC Solenoid Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The VTEC (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) solenoid gasket can dry out and leak oil over time. Symptoms include oil stains on the engine block near the VTEC solenoid and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VTEC solenoid gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (2.4L Inline-4) No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic (3.5L V6)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced a shudder or vibration during light acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This is often attributed to a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a transmission flush with updated fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for fluid flush, $800 - $2,000+ for torque converter replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (3.5L V6 SH-AWD) No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported creaking or clunking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn sway bar bushings, struts, or control arm bushings.
  • Solution: Inspection of the rear suspension components and replacement of worn bushings, struts, or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the specific components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System/Infotainment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system or infotainment screen may freeze, glitch, or become unresponsive. The backup camera may also fail to display.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update if available, $300 - $1,500+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the vehicle sits unused for extended periods.
  • Solution: Inspection for parasitic draws, battery testing, and replacement of the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the door lock actuators. Doors may not lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may get stuck, fail to open or close smoothly, or make excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacement of the sunroof motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 for cleaning and lubrication, $200 - $800+ for motor or regulator replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor may only work on certain settings or not at all. This is often caused by a failing blower motor resistor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Acura TL, while generally reliable, has a few common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most prevalent engine issue is oil consumption in the 2.4L, while the 3.5L may experience VTEC solenoid gasket leaks. The 6-speed automatic transmission in the V6 can have torque converter issues. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and premature battery drain are also reported. Suspension noises and door lock actuator failures round out the list of common complaints. While not all TLs will experience these problems, being aware of them can help buyers make an informed decision and budget for potential repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences (like the VTEC gasket leak) to more significant and costly repairs (like torque converter replacement or infotainment system failure). Overall, the TL remains a decent vehicle, but pre-purchase inspections are recommended to catch potential problems early.