Post
Research the Car Logo

2019 Acura TLX

Posted
By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2019 Acura TLX is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and available technology. The TLX offers two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-4 producing 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 generating 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the 3.5L comes with a 9-speed automatic. Owners often praise the TLX for its handling and value proposition, but some dislike the infotainment system and perceived reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent topping off between oil changes. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored.
    • Solution: The common solution is to inspect the PCV valve for failure. Replacing the piston rings may be necessary in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ for PCV valve replacement. $2,000+ for piston ring replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

  • VTC Actuator Rattle on Cold Start
    • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up, lasting for a few seconds. This is often attributed to the Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator.
    • Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch (2.4L Engine)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rough or jerky shifting, particularly at low speeds or during acceleration. Hesitation when shifting gears can also occur.
    • Solution: Transmission control module (TCM) software update or, in some cases, replacement of the dual-clutch assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software update. $2,500 - $4,000+ for clutch replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

9-Speed Automatic (3.5L Engine)

  • Harsh Shifting/Gear Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Reports of hard or clunky shifts, especially between lower gears. Some owners have also noticed gear slippage or hesitation during acceleration.
    • Solution: Software update or valve body replacement. In more severe cases, transmission replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software update. $800 - $1500+ for valve body replacement. $4,000 - $6,000+ for transmission replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Adaptive Damper System (ADS) Malfunctions (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Error messages related to the ADS system, ride quality issues (excessive stiffness or bounciness). The ADS system can fail, leading to a loss of adaptive damping.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the ADS system to identify the faulty component (damper, sensor, or control module). Replacement of the faulty part is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per damper.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Slow response times, freezing, glitching, and connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
    • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software update. $800 - $1500+ for infotainment unit replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quicker than it should, especially if the car sits for more than a few days.
    • Solution: Replacement of the car battery with a new unit. Check the system for parasitic draw from aftermarket accessories.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
    • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per headlight.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters stop working.
    • Solution: Replacement of seat heater element or seat heater control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Acura TLX presents a mix of potential issues across its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior systems. While some problems like infotainment glitches or headlight condensation are more of an annoyance, others, such as excessive oil consumption, transmission problems, or ADS malfunctions, can be more severe and costly to address. The cost of repairs can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred dollars for software updates or minor part replacements to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2019 Acura TLX.

Acura, TLX
Acura TLX 2019
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.