2012 Acura TL Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The airbag system is the primary concern, with multiple recalls and the highest complaint volume, indicating a critical safety risk that must be verified as addressed.
- Powertrain and steering issues are also common, suggesting potential for costly repairs related to the engine, transmission, or steering components.
- Despite a good public reliability score of 6.9, the LLM assessment is 'Below Average' (5.8) due to significant safety and mechanical concerns.
- All-Wheel Drive and a manual transmission are available, offering engaging driving dynamics, but these complex systems can be expensive to repair if faulty.
2012 Acura TL
The 2012 Acura TL offers a blend of luxury and performance, but used car shoppers should proceed with caution. Its 'Below Average' reliability rating stems from notable issues, particularly with the airbag system and powertrain. While it boasts a respectable overall safety score of 4 out of 5, the prevalence of complaints and recalls warrants a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Fuel economy is adequate for its class, achieving a combined 20 MPG. The available All-Wheel Drive and manual transmission add to its appeal for driving enthusiasts, but potential buyers must weigh these positives against documented mechanical and safety concerns.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints and multiple recalls are associated with the airbag system, specifically Takata inflators. Symptoms include airbag warning lights and potential non-deployment or unintended deployment. This is a critical safety issue.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts seeking an engaging driving experience with AWD and a manual transmission, who are willing to meticulously inspect the vehicle and budget for potential repairs, particularly concerning the airbag system and powertrain.
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability or those on a tight budget who cannot afford unexpected major repairs. Those uncomfortable with the documented safety concerns surrounding the airbag system should also look elsewhere.
2012 Acura TL Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Acura TL.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 43 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 27 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Acura TL reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Acura TL is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 161.
How practical is the 2012 Acura TL for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Acura TL?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Acura TL is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.0/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Acura TL?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $2,000. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (estimated cost Min: $0).
What engine is in the 2012 Acura TL?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.
What transmission does the 2012 Acura TL use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Acura TL, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2012 TL require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Acura TL?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Acura TL?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Acura TL?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Acura TL, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Acura TL use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Acura TL, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Acura TL?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Is the 2012 Acura TL good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2012 Acura TL is a luxury sedan that, while not a primary tuning platform for massive power gains, can be enhanced for improved driving... Popular platforms: Acura TL.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2012 Acura TL?
Top complaint category: air bags (43 reports, 26.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Acura TL?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.