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Acura · Known Issues

2015-2025 Acura TLX Problems: 15 Known Issues

2015-2025 model years · 4,830+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,830+ owner reports, the 2015-2025 Acura TLX has 15 documented known issues, with 8 rated critical. The most serious are 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting ($200-$2,800 repair), 9-Speed Automatic Park Pawl Contamination / Park Rod Breakage Causing Rollaway (Recall 14V779000) ($0-$0 repair), UB5 SH-AWD Transmission-to-Transfer Case (PTU) Spline Shear and Total AWD Loss ($5,000-$19,000 repair), J35 3.5L V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Wear and Engine Seizure (Recall 23V751000) ($0-$13,000 repair), Fuel Filler Neck to Tank Weld Defect Causing Fuel Leak (Recall 24V950000) ($0-$0 repair), Brake Pedal Pivot Pin Improperly Secured, Pedal Shifts Out of Position (Recall 25V391000) ($0-$0 repair), Transmission Wire Harness Insufficient Crimp Causing Unexpected Shift to Neutral (Recall 16V640000) ($0-$900 repair) and In-Tank Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Impeller Failure Causing Stall Without Warning (Recalls 19V060000, 21V215000, 23V858000) ($0-$1,200 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting with 2,200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $19,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • TLX Transmission3
  • TLX Fuel System2
  • TLX Engine2
  • TLX Brakes2
  • TLX Drivetrain1
  • TLX Safety/Recalls2
  • TLX Electrical1
  • TLX Suspension1
  • TLX Steering1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ
Get Started
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In This Article

  • Transmission3
  • Fuel System2
  • Engine2
  • Brakes2
  • Drivetrain1
  • Safety/Recalls2
  • Electrical1
  • Suspension1
  • Steering1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ

All 15 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Acura TLX, 2023-2025 Acura MDX, and 2023-2025 Honda Pilot vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin was not secured properly, which can cause the pedal to shift out of position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Campaign #25V39100012/06/2025

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

Acura (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2023 TLX vehicles. The fuel filler neck and fuel tank may have been improperly welded, which can result in a fuel leak.

Campaign #24V95000019/12/2024

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.

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Other Acura Models

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Acura TLX problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,830+ owner reports, the 2015-2025 Acura TLX has 15 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting, 9-Speed Automatic Park Pawl Contamination / Park Rod Breakage Causing Rollaway (Recall 14V779000), UB5 SH-AWD Transmission-to-Transfer Case (PTU) Spline Shear and Total AWD Loss. Of these, 8 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Acura TLX reliable?

The 2015-2025 Acura TLX has 15 known issues documented across 4,830+ owner reports. 8 issues are rated critical: 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting and 9-Speed Automatic Park Pawl Contamination / Park Rod Breakage Causing Rollaway (Recall 14V779000) and UB5 SH-AWD Transmission-to-Transfer Case (PTU) Spline Shear and Total AWD Loss and J35 3.5L V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Wear and Engine Seizure (Recall 23V751000) and Fuel Filler Neck to Tank Weld Defect Causing Fuel Leak (Recall 24V950000) and Brake Pedal Pivot Pin Improperly Secured, Pedal Shifts Out of Position (Recall 25V391000) and Transmission Wire Harness Insufficient Crimp Causing Unexpected Shift to Neutral (Recall 16V640000) and In-Tank Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Impeller Failure Causing Stall Without Warning (Recalls 19V060000, 21V215000, 23V858000). 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 TLX problems?

Repair costs for known Acura TLX issues range from $0 to $19,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting, typically costs $200-$2,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Acura TLX is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Acura TLX. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2015-2025 Acura TLX with 15 documented issues documented across 4,830+ owner reports.

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 sourced from 4,830+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

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ALL YEARS20252024202320222021202020192018201720162015
Community reported
2,200 owners

The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission paired with the V6 in first-gen TLX models exhibits a pronounced shudder during low-speed acceleration and harsh shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear. The torque converter lockup strategy causes a noticeable vibration between 25-45 mph that worsens in warm weather.

This issue also affects: Acura CL, Acura ILX, Acura MDX

Common Symptoms

  • Shudder between 25-45 mph during light acceleration
  • Harsh 2-3 upshift
  • Hesitation on downshift
  • Vibration felt through steering wheel and seat
  • Transmission hunting between gears on hills

How to Fix

Perform a transmission fluid drain and refill with Acura ATF Type 3.1. Update the transmission control module (TCM) to the latest calibration from Acura, which improves shift logic and torque converter lockup mapping. Severe cases may require torque converter replacement.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Genuine Acura ATF Type 3.1 08200-9017

    Verified repair fluid. Approved replacement: Genuine Acura ATF Type 3.1 08200-9017.

    Acurapartswarehouse

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

  • TipDrain and refill the 9-speed with Acura ATF Type 3.1 every 30,000 miles. The shudder is often caused by degraded fluid. Two back-to-back drain-and-fills replace about 60% of total fluid volume.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,800

Research This Issue

Based on 2,200 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence2,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On 2015 TLX models with the 3.5L V6 and the ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic, the transmission's parking pawl may be contaminated during assembly, or the park rod may become dislodged or break. The shift indicator reads PARK and the driver walks away, but the park lock never mechanically engaged - the car can roll away. Honda recalled approximately 9,392 2015 TLX V6 vehicles in both 2WD and SH-AWD form under 14V779000, with the remedy being inspection and, where the defect is found, replacement of the entire transmission. This is a mechanical park-lock defect and is distinct from the well-known 9-speed harsh-shift and shudder behavior: it can occur on a car that shifts perfectly. It does not apply to the 2.4L four with the 8-speed dual-clutch, which uses a different park mechanism.

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle rolls after being shifted into Park
  • Shift indicator shows P but the car is not held
  • No audible or felt park-pawl engagement click
  • Car rocks freely on an incline in Park
  • Clunk or grinding when selecting Park

How to Fix

VIN-check recall 14V779000; the remedy is a free dealer inspection with transmission replacement at no cost where the pawl or park rod is found defective. Until the recall is confirmed complete, always set the electronic parking brake before releasing the brake pedal and leaving the vehicle - the parking brake is an independent mechanism and will hold the car even if the park pawl does not engage. Treat any instance of the car creeping or rolling after shifting to Park, or a rocking/clunk when Park is selected, as an immediate stop-driving-and-inspect condition.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

Roughly 8,354 2015 Acura TLX vehicles (2WD and 4WD) left the factory with insufficiently crimped connections in the transmission wire harness. The intermittent connection causes the transmission control system to drop the car into neutral without driver input - typically at highway speed. Owners describe the car losing all drive mid-traffic, dropping into limp mode, and being unable to re-engage a gear until the ignition is cycled. Honda recalled the population under 16V640000 (Honda internal number KC2) with a recall start of January 13, 2017. Notably, unexpected neutral-shift complaints continue on 2015-2017 TLX beyond the recalled VIN range, described in NHTSA filings as 'transmission randomly shifted into neutral' and 'vehicle went into limp mode and shifted into neutral', so a car outside the recall can still exhibit the symptom from a related connector or transmission control fault.

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission drops into neutral while driving at speed
  • Loss of drive with the engine still running
  • Limp mode / transmission warning light
  • Unable to select a gear until the ignition is cycled
  • Intermittent transmission fault codes with no mechanical damage

How to Fix

VIN-check recall 16V640000; the free remedy is a transmission control software update applied according to the transmission serial number. If the car is outside the recall and still drops into neutral, have the shop inspect and re-terminate the transmission harness connectors (look for backed-out or loose pins and green corrosion at the pass-through connector) and pull stored transmission control codes before agreeing to any internal transmission work - many of these are wiring, not mechanical, faults. Do not accept a fluid flush as the diagnosis for a neutral-drop event.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

Late second-generation TLX vehicles were built with the fuel filler neck improperly welded to the fuel tank. The defective weld can allow fuel to leak from the tank assembly, and a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source is a fire risk. Honda recalled affected 2023-2025 Acura TLX under 24V950000 with a full fuel tank assembly replacement as the remedy. Because the leak originates at the filler neck joint, owners typically smell raw fuel around the right rear of the car or see wetness or staining near the filler area, most noticeably after filling the tank completely.

Common Symptoms

  • Raw fuel smell around the right rear of the vehicle
  • Fuel wetness, staining or dripping near the filler neck
  • Fuel odor strongest after filling the tank to full
  • Unexplained fuel loss
  • Evaporative system fault codes

How to Fix

VIN-check recall 24V950000. The remedy is free replacement of the entire fuel tank assembly by an Acura dealer (1-888-234-2138). If you smell fuel or see wetness at the right rear of the vehicle, stop refueling to a full tank, park outdoors away from structures, and have the car inspected immediately rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment. Note that this is a separate campaign from the in-tank fuel pump recalls - a car can be open on both.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The Denso in-tank low-pressure fuel pump module used across the first-generation TLX fails, causing hesitation, hard starting and complete engine stall - often at speed or mid-turn. Two distinct defect mechanisms were recalled: particulates in fuel adhering to internal pump components and degrading pump output (19V060000, covering 2015-2019 TLX with the 3.5L V6), and a pump impeller that absorbs fuel, deforms and binds against the pump housing (21V215000 for 2019-2020, expanded by 23V858000 to 2013-2023 Honda/Acura vehicles including TLX). Owners report repeated stalls even after one recall repair, and a documented cascade in which a failed low-pressure pump is replaced but the high-pressure pump fails soon after because dealers replace only one component - producing P0087 low fuel rail pressure. Recall parts availability has been a recurring complaint, with owners waiting months.

This issue also affects: Acura ILX, Acura MDX

Common Symptoms

  • Engine stalls without warning while driving or turning
  • Long crank or no start, worse in hot weather
  • Hesitation and stumble under acceleration
  • Check engine light with low fuel rail pressure code
  • Fuel pump whine from the tank
  • Repeat stalling after a fuel pump replacement

How to Fix

Run the VIN against all three campaigns (19V060000, 21V215000, 23V858000) - a car can be open on more than one. Remedies are free: for 19V060000 a fuel injection ECU software update plus fuel pump replacement if needed; for 21V215000 and 23V858000 replacement of the fuel pump module. If stalling continues after a low-pressure pump replacement and the scan tool shows P0087, insist the high-pressure fuel pump and rail pressure sensor be checked as well rather than accepting a repeat low-pressure pump swap. Out of recall coverage a fuel pump module runs roughly $600-$1,200 installed.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

First-generation (UB1/UB2) TLX models built with the J35 3.5L V6 suffer a manufacturing defect in the connecting rod bearings. Improperly finished crankshaft journals / bearing clearances cause the rod bearing to wear, spin and eventually seize. Owners report a developing knock or tick that escalates to catastrophic failure - thrown rods punching through the block, holes in the oil pan and fractured crankshafts - frequently with no warning light before the failure. NHTSA complaint volume for this failure mode is the single largest category on the nameplate: roughly 40-45 engine complaints per year for 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2019 alone. Honda issued safety recall 23V751000 in late 2023 covering 2015-2020 Acura TLX (and related J35 applications). Multiple owners report the failure recurring on the recall-installed replacement engine, and widespread recall-parts backorders left cars immobilized for months. This is a V6 failure only - it does not apply to the K24 2.4L four, nor to either UB5 engine.

Common Symptoms

  • Deep knocking or ticking from the bottom end that increases with RPM
  • Rod knock that appears suddenly with no prior warning light
  • Loss of motive power / engine seizure while driving
  • Metal debris in the engine oil
  • Hole punched through the block or oil pan
  • Low oil pressure warning immediately before failure
  • Engine stall on the highway

How to Fix

Check the VIN against recall 23V751000 at an Acura dealer. The recall remedy is a free engine inspection (oil-pan/bearing inspection per Honda's procedure) and repair or complete engine replacement at no charge; owner letters went out from March 2024 with follow-up mailings into January 2025. If the engine already failed and was repaired out of pocket before the recall, request reimbursement through Acura Client Relations (1-888-234-2138) - several owners report initial denials that were reversed on escalation. Do not ignore a new rod knock: continued driving turns a bearing job into a block replacement. Out of recall scope, a bearing/crank refresh runs several thousand dollars and dealers typically quote a long block instead.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $13,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The base second-generation TLX uses a 2.0L turbocharged four with a front-mounted air-to-air intercooler. In humid, rainy or cold-and-damp conditions, water vapor condenses inside the intercooler and charge piping, pools, and is then slugged into the intake on a throttle transition. The result is a sudden multi-cylinder misfire, a stumble or hard bucking under acceleration, and in many cases a drop into limp mode with reduced power until the ignition is cycled. NHTSA complaints on the 2021 TLX describe 'turbo intercooler water vapor accumulation causing misfires and limp-mode activation during humid/rainy conditions' and sudden power loss during acceleration. This is specific to the turbocharged four - the Type S 3.0T uses a different charge-air layout, and the first-generation naturally aspirated engines have no intercooler at all.

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

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden misfire and bucking under acceleration in rain, fog or high humidity
  • Check engine light with random/multiple cylinder misfire codes
  • Limp mode with reduced power until the ignition is cycled
  • Symptoms absent in dry weather
  • Water audible sloshing in the charge piping
  • Puff of white vapor from the exhaust on the misfire event

How to Fix

Have misfire codes read - random/multiple-cylinder misfire codes appearing only in wet or humid weather, with no fuel-trim or ignition fault, point to condensation rather than coils or plugs. Do not let a shop replace coils and plugs as a first move on a weather-correlated misfire. The dealer path is an ECU/PCM software update where one is available for your VIN plus inspection of the intercooler and charge piping for pooled water and for a low spot or sagging hose that traps it; correcting charge-pipe routing and clearing any blocked intercooler drain resolves most cases. Recurrent cases are addressed with an intercooler assembly replacement under the 4yr/50k warranty. Avoid aftermarket 'fixes' that drill the intercooler - they create a boost leak.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,400

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

Second-generation TLX models were built with the brake pedal pivot pin not secured properly. The pin can migrate, letting the pedal shift out of its correct position on the pedal bracket. When that happens the driver's input no longer translates properly to the master cylinder and braking can be prevented or badly reduced. Honda recalled 2021-2025 Acura TLX alongside 2023-2025 Acura MDX and 2023-2025 Honda Pilot under 25V391000, with owner letters mailed July 29, 2025 - a campaign covering roughly a quarter-million vehicles. Independent of the recall, NHTSA complaints on UB5 cars describe a sticky or inconsistent brake pedal and pedal-feel changes that dealers initially dismissed as 'working as designed' before the recall issued.

Common Symptoms

  • Brake pedal feels loose or shifts sideways underfoot
  • Pedal sits at a different height or angle than normal
  • Sticky or inconsistent brake pedal travel
  • Reduced braking response for a given pedal effort
  • Clicking or knocking from the pedal box

How to Fix

VIN-check recall 25V391000. The free remedy is a dealer inspection of the brake pedal assembly with replacement of the assembly where the pivot pin is not correctly secured. Do not drive a car whose brake pedal feels laterally loose, sits at a different height than before, or catches/sticks - have it towed. If a dealer previously told you a sticky or shifting pedal was normal, go back with the campaign number; the recall supersedes that assessment.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
780 owners

The 2021–2025 TLX Type S and Type S PMC use a fixed front Brembo brake system whose performance-oriented pad compound can squeal during light braking and wear unevenly if pad-retaining hardware or contact points corrode. This does not apply to the A-Spec brake system.

Common Symptoms

  • High-pitched squeal during light braking
  • Inner pad wearing faster than outer pad
  • Grinding noise after rain or car wash
  • Brake dust buildup heavier on one wheel

How to Fix

Remove the front pads and inspect the fixed Brembo calipers, pad-retaining pins, springs, shims, and pad contact points. Clean corrosion and apply brake-specific high-temperature lubricant only where the service procedure permits, never on a friction surface. Replace worn pads with a Type S front ceramic or equivalent application and replace damaged retaining hardware or shims.

What you need to fix it

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

  • Acura TLX Type S front brake-pad set
    Fits Type S

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: Acura TLX Type S front brake-pad set.

    Partsgeek
  • PowerStop Z23-2418 carbon-fiber ceramic performance brake pads
    Fits Type S / Type S PMC

    Repair parts Front axle; 2021–2025 TLX 3.0L / Type S, including 2023 Type S PMC according to fitment cross-check.

    Autozone

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

Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 780 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence780 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the second-generation (UB5) TLX with SH-AWD, the splined interface between the 10-speed transmission output and the power transfer unit (transfer case) strips or shears. Owners describe a loud pop, bang or clunk from underneath, after which the car silently reverts to front-wheel drive - critically, with NO dashboard warning light and no stored DTC, so the driver often does not know AWD is gone until the car oversteers in a corner or in rain. Many cases are preceded by a fluid leak from the transmission-to-differential seal or brown sludge in the fluid. NHTSA opened defect petition DP26001 on March 6, 2026 specifically covering loss of all-wheel drive in 2021-2023 Acura TLX due to transmission-to-PTU spline failure. Complaint mileages span roughly 8,000 to 100,000 miles, including many inside the factory warranty. Owners report the replacement PTU is already on its third revision (part 29000-5YK-070) with no TSB issued, and that parts sit on national backorder for weeks. Documented repair costs range from about $5,000 to $19,000 because the transmission usually has to be replaced along with the transfer case. This is a UB5 SH-AWD failure - it is not the first-generation SH-AWD rear drive unit.

Common Symptoms

  • Loud pop, bang or clunk from underneath the car
  • Sudden loss of rear-wheel drive with no warning light
  • Car drives as front-wheel drive only; noticeable oversteer in corners and rain
  • Slow initial acceleration below 5 mph until the system recognizes FWD-only operation
  • Fluid leak from the seal between the transmission and the transfer case/differential
  • Brown sludge or metallic debris in the transmission fluid
  • Grinding or whining from the transfer case area

How to Fix

There is no recall remedy as of this writing; the matter sits with NHTSA as defect petition DP26001, so file a complaint at nhtsa.gov if affected - petition outcomes depend on complaint volume. The dealer fix is replacement of both the power transfer unit and the transmission (the transmission output splines are usually damaged too); inside the 6yr/70k powertrain warranty this is covered, and several out-of-warranty owners have obtained partial coverage under Acura's 'one-time goodwill' provision. Early warning is the fluid leak: have the transmission/PTU seal area inspected at every service, and treat any leak or metallic debris in the fluid as a reason to open a warranty claim before the splines let go. Owners should not assume AWD is working - there is no warning lamp for this failure.

Typical repair cost:$5,000 - $19,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The front passenger seat weight sensor that feeds the occupant classification system cracks and short circuits. Two separate campaigns cover TLX: 24V064000 (2020-2021 TLX, sensor cracks so the system fails to suppress the passenger airbag as intended) and the later, broader 26V332000 (2018-2021 and 2023 TLX, cracked sensor short-circuiting such that airbags can deploy unintentionally). Both failure modes are unsafe in opposite directions - an airbag that fires when it should be suppressed, or fires when it should not. Owners commonly notice the passenger airbag OFF indicator behaving erratically or staying lit with an adult in the seat. Complaint filings for 2021 note the replacement sensors were unavailable for seven months or more with no ETA from the manufacturer.

Common Symptoms

  • Passenger airbag OFF indicator stays lit with an adult passenger seated
  • Passenger airbag OFF light flickers or cycles
  • SRS / airbag warning light illuminated
  • Occupant classification system fault stored
  • Airbag deployment or non-deployment inconsistent with occupancy

How to Fix

VIN-check both 24V064000 and 26V332000 - a single car may be listed under one or both. The remedy in each case is free replacement of the seat weight sensors by an Acura dealer (Honda customer service 1-888-234-2138). Owner letters for 26V332000 were mailed July 7, 2026 and for 24V064000 in 2024. Until repaired, treat an erratic or constantly illuminated passenger airbag OFF indicator as a live fault and keep children in the rear seat. Expect a parts wait; ask the dealer to order the sensor against your VIN rather than waiting for a callback.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The AcuraWatch front camera and millimeter-wave radar produce false Collision Mitigation Braking System activations - the car brakes hard, sometimes to a full stop, with no vehicle or obstacle ahead. NHTSA filings on the 2018 TLX describe the 'frontal crash mitigation feature suddenly slammed the brakes on fully to a complete stop', and 2021 filings include an owner rear-ended after a false activation. The same sensor failures produce a signature cascade of dashboard warnings - CMBS Problem, ACC Problem, LKAS Problem and Road Departure Mitigation all illuminating together - because a single failed front camera or an obstructed radar disables every function that depends on it. Common triggers include rain, snow, spray, a bug-splattered or fogged camera area, low sun angle, and shadows or overhead signage. First-generation cars concentrate the failures in the windshield-mounted camera; UB5 cars add radar-obstruction messages in inclement weather. Owners also report the systems cannot be conveniently disabled, and that Acura roadside gave instructions for the wrong model year.

Common Symptoms

  • Hard automatic braking with no vehicle or obstacle ahead
  • CMBS, ACC, LKAS and Road Departure warnings illuminating simultaneously
  • Radar or camera obstruction message in rain, snow or spray
  • Adaptive cruise control refuses to engage
  • Lane keeping assist inoperative
  • Warnings clear after cleaning the windshield or grille, then return

How to Fix

First rule out obstruction: clean the camera area behind the mirror and the radar behind the lower grille emblem, and check for aftermarket windshield tint strips or a non-OEM windshield - an out-of-spec replacement windshield is a leading cause of camera faults on these cars. Any windshield replacement requires a static and dynamic AcuraWatch camera recalibration; skipping it produces exactly this fault set. If codes persist, the front camera unit or radar typically needs replacement plus recalibration (roughly $700-$1,800). No recall covers false CMBS activation on the TLX. As an interim measure the CMBS can be switched off from the steering wheel controls, but note it re-enables at each ignition cycle.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,800

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
1,850 owners

The dual-screen infotainment system in first-generation TLX models suffers from severe lag, random freezes, and full system crashes requiring a restart. The upper navigation screen and lower touchscreen frequently lose sync, with Bluetooth audio dropping mid-stream and the backup camera failing to display.

This issue also affects: Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

  • Touchscreen unresponsive or extremely laggy
  • System reboots while driving
  • Bluetooth audio cuts out
  • Backup camera black screen
  • Navigation screen freezes mid-route

How to Fix

Update infotainment firmware to the latest version via USB or dealer update. If freezing persists after the update, the head unit may need replacement with the revised hardware. Performing a factory reset can temporarily resolve lag but the issue typically returns.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipHold the power/volume knob for 10 seconds to force a hard reboot. This clears the cache and resolves most temporary freezes without needing a dealer visit.

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Based on 1,850 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence1,850 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

Second-generation TLX models equipped with the Adaptive Damper System (A-Spec and Type S) suffer damper control failures traced to corrosion in the suspension stroke sensor wiring harnesses and to rear shock solenoid failures. The car throws an Adaptive Damper System warning and defaults the dampers to a fixed setting, which owners describe as a harsh, uncontrolled ride and loss of the Comfort/Sport differentiation. NHTSA filings on the 2021 TLX cite specific fault codes C1646-14 and C1647-14 alongside corroded stroke sensor harnesses, and the same complaint set includes front suspension squeaking and creaking. Because the sensors and harnesses sit low in the wheel wells, cars in road-salt regions fail earliest. This is UB5-only equipment; first-generation TLX did not offer adaptive dampers.

Common Symptoms

  • Adaptive Damper System warning message on the dash
  • Ride quality stuck harsh regardless of drive mode
  • No perceptible difference between Comfort and Sport modes
  • Front suspension squeaking or creaking over bumps
  • Rear damper unresponsive
  • Corroded connector at the suspension stroke sensor

How to Fix

Scan for the adaptive damper codes - a C1646/C1647 with a -14 subtype points to a short-to-ground or open circuit, which on these cars is usually the stroke sensor harness or its connector rather than the damper itself. Inspect the sensor pigtails and connectors at each corner for green corrosion and chafing; repairing or replacing a harness is a few hundred dollars where replacing a damper assembly runs well over a thousand per corner. Rear solenoid failures do require the shock assembly. Confirm the shop clears the codes and road-tests through all drive modes; a stored historic code will keep the system defaulted. Cars still inside the 4yr/50k new vehicle warranty should have this covered - there is no recall.

Typical repair cost:$350 - $2,500

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Community Reported
Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

P-AWS is TLX-specific hardware: two independent electric actuators toe the rear wheels for low-speed agility and high-speed stability, fitted to first-generation front-drive TLX models (the SH-AWD cars use the rear drive unit instead). The actuators fail - electrically and mechanically - and when one goes the rear toe can be left misaligned. Owners report sudden pull or wander, a car that tracks crooked, and a system fault that limits the car's usable speed. The failure is expensive because the actuators are not serviceable parts and are replaced as assemblies: an NHTSA complainant on a 2020 TLX documented a $9,210 quote to replace two rear wheel steering actuators, calling it 'a known issue'. Related 2018 filings describe P-AWS actuator failures causing sudden misalignment and limiting the car to about 50 mph. There is no recall covering this failure.

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden pull or wander at highway speed
  • Car tracks crooked or dog-tracks
  • P-AWS or steering system warning message
  • Vehicle speed limited (owners report roughly 50 mph)
  • Uneven or rapid rear tire wear
  • Alignment will not hold after adjustment

How to Fix

Have the P-AWS system scanned - the module stores its own actuator faults, and a single failed actuator can be replaced rather than the pair if the second tests good, which roughly halves the bill. Confirm the fault is the actuator and not its wiring or connector: corroded rear harness connectors produce identical codes and cost a fraction to repair. Because there is no recall, check for any Acura goodwill or extended-coverage offer with your VIN before paying, and get an independent quote - specialists source used or remanufactured actuators far below the roughly $4,000-$9,200 dealer replacement range. A car with a dead P-AWS actuator should be aligned by a shop that can lock or zero the rear toe, or it will chew rear tires.

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $9,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
Campaign #26V33200021/05/2026

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.

Campaign #24V06400001/02/2024

TIRES:BEAD

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2022 Acura TLX vehicles. The tires may have sustained cuts and tears during the sorting process, which can result in tire damage.

Campaign #22V95000022/12/2022

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

get a full repair guide

What is the 2015-2020 Acura TLX 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting?

The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission paired with the V6 in first-gen TLX models exhibits a pronounced shudder during low-speed acceleration and harsh shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear. The torque converter lockup strategy causes a noticeable vibration between 25-45 mph that wo… Repairs typically run $200-$2,800. Severity: high.

What is the 2015 Acura TLX 9-Speed Automatic Park Pawl Contamination / Park Rod Breakage Causing Rollaway (Recall 14V779000)?

On 2015 TLX models with the 3.5L V6 and the ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic, the transmission's parking pawl may be contaminated during assembly, or the park rod may become dislodged or break. The shift indicator reads PARK and the driver walks away, but the park lock never mechanic… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2024 Acura TLX UB5 SH-AWD Transmission-to-Transfer Case (PTU) Spline Shear and Total AWD Loss?

On the second-generation (UB5) TLX with SH-AWD, the splined interface between the 10-speed transmission output and the power transfer unit (transfer case) strips or shears. Owners describe a loud pop, bang or clunk from underneath, after which the car silently reverts to front-wh… Repairs typically run $5,000-$19,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2015-2020 Acura TLX J35 3.5L V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Wear and Engine Seizure (Recall 23V751000)?

First-generation (UB1/UB2) TLX models built with the J35 3.5L V6 suffer a manufacturing defect in the connecting rod bearings. Improperly finished crankshaft journals / bearing clearances cause the rod bearing to wear, spin and eventually seize. Owners report a developing knock o… Repairs typically run $0-$13,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2023-2025 Acura TLX Fuel Filler Neck to Tank Weld Defect Causing Fuel Leak (Recall 24V950000)?

Late second-generation TLX vehicles were built with the fuel filler neck improperly welded to the fuel tank. The defective weld can allow fuel to leak from the tank assembly, and a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source is a fire risk. Honda recalled affected 2023-2025 A… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2021-2025 Acura TLX Brake Pedal Pivot Pin Improperly Secured, Pedal Shifts Out of Position (Recall 25V391000)?

Second-generation TLX models were built with the brake pedal pivot pin not secured properly. The pin can migrate, letting the pedal shift out of its correct position on the pedal bracket. When that happens the driver's input no longer translates properly to the master cylinder an… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2015-2017 Acura TLX Transmission Wire Harness Insufficient Crimp Causing Unexpected Shift to Neutral (Recall 16V640000)?

Roughly 8,354 2015 Acura TLX vehicles (2WD and 4WD) left the factory with insufficiently crimped connections in the transmission wire harness. The intermittent connection causes the transmission control system to drop the car into neutral without driver input - typically at highw… Repairs typically run $0-$900. Severity: high.

What is the 2015-2023 Acura TLX In-Tank Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Impeller Failure Causing Stall Without Warning (Recalls 19V060000, 21V215000, 23V858000)?

The Denso in-tank low-pressure fuel pump module used across the first-generation TLX fails, causing hesitation, hard starting and complete engine stall - often at speed or mid-turn. Two distinct defect mechanisms were recalled: particulates in fuel adhering to internal pump compo… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2015-2020 Acura TLX Infotainment System Lag, Freezing, and Crashes?

The dual-screen infotainment system in first-generation TLX models suffers from severe lag, random freezes, and full system crashes requiring a restart. The upper navigation screen and lower touchscreen frequently lose sync, with Bluetooth audio dropping mid-stream and the backup… Severity: medium.

What is the 2021-2025 Acura TLX UB5 Adaptive Damper System Failure from Stroke Sensor Harness Corrosion?

Second-generation TLX models equipped with the Adaptive Damper System (A-Spec and Type S) suffer damper control failures traced to corrosion in the suspension stroke sensor wiring harnesses and to rear shock solenoid failures. The car throws an Adaptive Damper System warning and… Repairs typically run $350-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2018-2023 Acura TLX Front Passenger Occupant Classification Seat Weight Sensor Cracking and Short Circuit (Recalls 24V064000, 26V332000)?

The front passenger seat weight sensor that feeds the occupant classification system cracks and short circuits. Two separate campaigns cover TLX: 24V064000 (2020-2021 TLX, sensor cracks so the system fails to suppress the passenger airbag as intended) and the later, broader 26V33… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

What is the 2021-2025 Acura TLX 2.0L Turbo Intercooler Condensation Ingestion Causing Misfire and Limp Mode?

The base second-generation TLX uses a 2.0L turbocharged four with a front-mounted air-to-air intercooler. In humid, rainy or cold-and-damp conditions, water vapor condenses inside the intercooler and charge piping, pools, and is then slugged into the intake on a throttle transiti… Repairs typically run $0-$1,400. Severity: medium.

What is the 2015-2022 Acura TLX AcuraWatch CMBS False Emergency Braking and Cascading ADAS Warning Cluster?

The AcuraWatch front camera and millimeter-wave radar produce false Collision Mitigation Braking System activations - the car brakes hard, sometimes to a full stop, with no vehicle or obstacle ahead. NHTSA filings on the 2018 TLX describe the 'frontal crash mitigation feature sud… Repairs typically run $0-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2015-2020 Acura TLX Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) Rear Steering Actuator Failure?

P-AWS is TLX-specific hardware: two independent electric actuators toe the rear wheels for low-speed agility and high-speed stability, fitted to first-generation front-drive TLX models (the SH-AWD cars use the rear drive unit instead). The actuators fail - electrically and mechan… Repairs typically run $2,500-$9,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type S Brembo Front Brake Squeal and Premature Pad Wear?

The 2021–2025 TLX Type S and Type S PMC use a fixed front Brembo brake system whose performance-oriented pad compound can squeal during light braking and wear unevenly if pad-retaining hardware or contact points corrode. This does not apply to the A-Spec brake system. Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: low.