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Acura · Known Issues

2012 Acura TL Problems: 4 Known Issues

2012 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2012 Acura TL has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall ($0-$0 repair) and Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6 ($100-$4,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • TL Safety/Recalls1
  • TL Engine1
  • TL Drivetrain1
  • TL Brakes1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Engine1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Brakes1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS20142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200120001999199819971996

When Issues Typically Appear

Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall
0K-200K
Brake Pedal Vibration and Premature Front Brake Rotor Warping
20K-80K
SH-AWD Rear Differential Whine or Groan from Fluid Breakdown
30K-100K
Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6
50K-130K
050K100K150K200K mi

On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, these TL model years were included in the major Takata airbag inflator recalls affecting many Honda and Acura vehicles. In a deployment, the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a severe injury or death risk. This is one of the most serious documented safety issues for the generation and remains relevant if recall work was never completed.

Common Symptoms

  • No warning symptoms before deployment
  • Open airbag recall status by VIN
  • Potentially dangerous inflator rupture in a crash

How to Fix

Verify recall completion by VIN through Acura or NHTSA. If open, the fix is replacement of the affected inflator or airbag module at no charge through an Acura dealer. Owners should not delay recall service, especially in high-humidity regions where inflator degradation risk was emphasized.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2009-2014 Acura TL 3.7L V6 J37, the 3.7L J37 V6 used in many TL SH-AWD models has a documented pattern of excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil level warnings, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Acura/Honda issued warranty extensions and service information for affected V6 engines in this family due to piston ring-related oil consumption. Owners often notice the engine using significant oil between changes, and if ignored, the condition can progress to rough running and catalyst damage risk.

This issue also affects: Acura Integra, Acura MDX, Acura RDX

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level drops between oil changes
  • Low oil warning or dipstick reading low
  • Misfire under load or at idle
  • Fouled spark plugs
  • Blue smoke on startup in some cases

How to Fix

Monitor oil level closely and document consumption over a measured interval. Diagnosis typically includes checking for external leaks, inspecting plugs for oil fouling, and performing the manufacturer oil consumption test procedure. Repairs may involve updated pistons/rings under prior warranty programs or ongoing oil top-offs if consumption is mild and the vehicle is outside assistance coverage.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipCheck oil every 1,000 miles on the 3.7L, especially if service history is unknown; many owners avoid engine damage by topping off early.
Typical repair cost:$100 - $4,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, tL SH-AWD models are known for rear differential noise, typically a whining, moaning, or groaning sound during low-speed turns or steady cruising. Owners and Acura service literature commonly tie this to differential fluid deterioration or contamination, and in some cases to internal wear if the condition is ignored. The issue is specific to SH-AWD-equipped cars and often improves temporarily or permanently after fluid service with the correct Acura fluid.

This issue also affects: Acura RL, Honda Passport

Common Symptoms

  • Groaning from rear during turns
  • Whining or humming from rear at speed
  • Binding sensation in tight turns
  • Noise improves after differential fluid change

How to Fix

Confirm the noise source with a road test, checking whether it changes during turns or under light throttle. Drain and refill the rear differential with the specified Acura fluid, sometimes with multiple fluid changes if the fluid is badly degraded. If noise persists, inspect for internal differential wear, axle issues, or bearing damage.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse only the Acura/Honda-specified rear differential fluid; generic gear oil is frequently reported to worsen noise.
Typical repair cost:$120 - $1,800

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High Confidence

On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, many TL owners report front brake judder, steering wheel shake, and pulsation under moderate braking, often traced to uneven rotor deposits or rotor distortion. The heavier curb weight of the TL, combined with driving style and pad/rotor material, appears to make the front brakes prone to repeat issues. Complaints and forum reports show some owners needing multiple resurfacing or replacement jobs over the life of the car.

This issue also affects: Honda Pilot

Common Symptoms

  • Brake pedal pulsation
  • Steering wheel shake during braking
  • Front-end vibration when slowing from highway speeds
  • Repeated need for front brake service

How to Fix

Inspect rotor thickness variation, pad condition, caliper slide movement, and wheel torque. Replace or machine rotors if within spec, install quality pads, and service caliper hardware to prevent uneven pad contact. Proper wheel lug torque and a careful pad bedding procedure help reduce recurrence.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Front and rear brake rotors and pads kit for 2009–2014 Acura TL

    Confirm engine/drivetrain option in compatibility table.

    eBay
  • Detroit Axle front and rear brake-pad and rotor kit

    Repair parts 2009–2014 Acura TL; full-car kit includes the required front rotors/pads.

    Walmart

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse premium rotors and ceramic or OE-quality pads rather than the cheapest aftermarket kits; owners report better longevity with higher-quality components.
  • TipTorque lug nuts evenly with a torque wrench after wheel service to avoid inducing rotor distortion.
Typical repair cost:$300 - $900

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.

Campaign #19V18200006/03/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013 Acura ILX, 2015 RDX, 2005-2010 and 2012 RL, 2009-2014 TL, 2010 and 2012 ZDX, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2011-2013 and 2015 CR-Z, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013 Fit EV, 2010-2011 and 2013 Insight and 2007-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

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Other Acura Models

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Acura TL problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2012 Acura TL has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall, Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6, SH-AWD Rear Differential Whine or Groan from Fluid Breakdown. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Acura TL reliable?

The 2012 Acura TL has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall and Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Acura TL problems?

Repair costs for known Acura TL issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall, typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall?

These TL model years were included in the major Takata airbag inflator recalls affecting many Honda and Acura vehicles. In a deployment, the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a severe injury or death risk. This is one of the most serious docum… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6?

The 3.7L J37 V6 used in many TL SH-AWD models has a documented pattern of excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil level warnings, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Acura/Honda issued warranty extensions and service information for affected V6 engines in this famil… Repairs typically run $100-$4,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #19V500000
27/06/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Campaign #16V06100003/02/2016

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL SH-AWD Rear Differential Whine or Groan from Fluid Breakdown?

TL SH-AWD models are known for rear differential noise, typically a whining, moaning, or groaning sound during low-speed turns or steady cruising. Owners and Acura service literature commonly tie this to differential fluid deterioration or contamination, and in some cases to inte… Repairs typically run $120-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2009-2014 Acura TL Brake Pedal Vibration and Premature Front Brake Rotor Warping?

Many TL owners report front brake judder, steering wheel shake, and pulsation under moderate braking, often traced to uneven rotor deposits or rotor distortion. The heavier curb weight of the TL, combined with driving style and pad/rotor material, appears to make the front brakes… Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: medium.