2019 Acura TLX
Introduction
The 2019 Acura TLX is a midsize luxury sedan available in two engine and transmission options: a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. The 4-cylinder engine produces 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 produces 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The TLX’s strengths include its sharp handling, responsive acceleration, and premium interior. However, it has been criticized for its firm ride, small trunk, and lack of rear-wheel drive.
Engine
2.4-liter 4-Cylinder
- No Issues Found
3.5-liter V6
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, causing reduced oil levels and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to jump and potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage.
- Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission
- Shift Delay/Jerking
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission may delay or jerk when shifting, causing rough acceleration and hesitation.
- Solution: Reprogram the transmission control module or replace the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission clutches may wear out prematurely, resulting in slipping, lurching, or loss of power.
- Solution: Replace the transmission clutches.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains excessively while parked, potentially leading to a dead battery.
- Solution: Identify and repair the cause of the battery drain, such as faulty components or electrical leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Infotainment System Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience software glitches, display issues, or connectivity problems.
- Solution: Update the software or replace the infotainment unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Climate Control System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, resulting in inconsistent temperatures, air flow issues, or other problems.
- Solution: Replace the climate control system components, such as the compressor, condenser, or evaporator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Acura TLX has some notable issues, particularly with its V6 engine and transmission. The valve cover gasket leak and timing chain tensioner failure can be costly and potentially lead to severe problems. The dual-clutch automatic transmission also exhibits issues with shift delay/jerking and clutch failure. Other problems include battery drain, infotainment system malfunction, and climate control system failure. While the TLX offers a high-quality interior and sharp handling, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the potential repair costs before making a purchase.