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2016 Acura TLX

Introduction:

The 2016 Acura TLX is a compact luxury sedan available with two engine options: a 2.4L inline-4 producing 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 generating 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) and a 9-speed automatic transmission. The TLX was praised for its sharp handling, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features, although some critics noted its limited rear seat space and firm ride.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 with 8-Speed DCT

  • Intake Valve Sticking: Description/Symptoms: Carbon buildup on intake valves can cause them to stick, leading to rough idle, misfires, and reduced engine performance. Solution: Cleaning the intake valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Fluid Contamination: Description/Symptoms: A faulty transmission cooler can allow coolant to leak into the transmission fluid, causing contamination. This can lead to transmission slipping, shuddering, and damage. Solution: Replacing the transmission cooler and flushing the transmission fluid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+. Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 with 9-Speed Automatic

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed DCT

  • Shuddering or Slipping: Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, shuddering during low-speed acceleration, or slipping during gear changes. Solution: Software updates or replacing transmission components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+. Recalls: None Found
  • Shift Fork Breakage: Description/Symptoms: A broken shift fork can prevent gears from engaging, causing difficulty shifting or the inability to shift out of park. Solution: Replacing the shift fork. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+. Recalls: None Found

9-Speed Automatic

  • No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushings: Description/Symptoms: Worn or torn bushings can cause clunking, knocking, or vibrations from the front end. Solution: Replacing the bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+. Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Shock Absorber Mounts: Description/Symptoms: Worn or broken mounts can cause the rear shocks to move excessively, leading to a rough ride or instability. Solution: Replacing the shock absorber mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+. Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: A parasitic drain on the battery can cause it to discharge quickly, leading to starting problems or the battery going dead. Solution: Identifying and fixing the source of the drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+. Recalls: None Found
  • Infotainment System Glitches: Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience occasional glitches, such as freezing or losing connectivity. Solution: Software updates or replacing the infotainment unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+. Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation: Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lenses. Solution: Replacing the headlight units or performing a vent modification. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+. Recalls: None Found
  • Trunk Lid Alignment Issues: Description/Symptoms: The trunk lid may not align properly, resulting in gaps or difficulty closing. Solution: Adjusting the trunk lid hinges or latch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+. Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Door Lock Malfunctions: Description/Symptoms: Door locks may not operate properly, such as failing to lock or unlock, or locking without a key inside the vehicle. Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator or latch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+. Recalls: None Found
  • Steering Wheel Noise: Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or rattling noises coming from the steering wheel. Solution: Applying lubricant to the steering wheel column or replacing the steering wheel. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+. Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2016 Acura TLX has several potential issues to be aware of, particularly with the 2.4L engine and 8-speed DCT transmission. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances (e.g., interior noise) to more serious problems (e.g., transmission shuddering or intake valve sticking). The cost of repairs can also vary widely, with some issues being relatively inexpensive to fix while others may require major repairs. Overall, the 2016 Acura TLX is a well-rated vehicle, but potential buyers should be informed of these potential issues before making a purchase.

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