2015 Acura TLX Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine Failure Risk: The most critical concern is the potential for engine failure due to connecting rod bearing wear, a serious issue that can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
- Powertrain Complaints: Widespread complaints about the transmission, including jerky shifts and hesitation, indicate potential long-term drivability issues.
- Fuel Pump Issues: Numerous recalls related to the fuel pump suggest a systemic problem that could lead to engine stalls.
- Electrical System Concerns: A significant number of complaints point to potential issues within the electrical system.
2015 Acura TLX
Critical Failure Risk
The ZF 9-speed automatic transmission is notorious for rough shifts, hesitation, and jerky movements, particularly between gears and in stop-and-go traffic. This can manifest as feeling 'rear-ended' or a general lack of smoothness. Software updates have been issued, but some owners report persistent issues.
Early detection can help you avoid a $0-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize safety and a premium feel.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2015 Acura TLX Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2015 Acura TLX.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S9)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 25
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 158 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 80 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Inspection - Engine Air Filter Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Inspection - Battery Inspection - Belt Inspection - Hose & Connection Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection - Steering Component Inspection - Suspension Component Inspection - Wiper Blade Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2015 Acura TLX reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2015 Acura TLX is 4.1/10. Reliability score is 4.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 40. Owner complaints: 517.
How practical is the 2015 Acura TLX for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2015 Acura TLX?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2015 Acura TLX is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2015 Acura TLX?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Inspection - Engine Air Filter Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Inspection - Battery Inspection - Belt Inspection - Hose & Connection Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection - Steering Component Inspection - Suspension Component Inspection - Wiper Blade Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $6,000).
What engine is in the 2015 Acura TLX?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2015 Acura TLX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Acura TLX, transmission is Automatic (S9). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2015 TLX require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2015 Acura TLX?
EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2015 Acura TLX?
11 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2015 Acura TLX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Acura TLX, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2015 Acura TLX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Acura TLX, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2015 Acura TLX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Acura TLX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S9).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 Acura TLX?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Is the 2015 Acura TLX good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2015 Acura TLX is a luxury sedan with a mixed tuning outlook. While ECU tuning is available for modest power increases, its potential is...
What are the most common power train problems on the 2015 Acura TLX?
Top complaint category: power train (158 reports, 30.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2015 Acura TLX?
This model year has 40 official safety campaigns listed.