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2017 Acura TLX Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·37 Critical Recalls
2017 Acura TLX Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Engine and Powertrain Failures: The most significant ownership risk stems from frequent and severe complaints related to the engine and power train, including potential engine seizure due to connecting rod bearing wear.
  • Critical Recalls: A high number of recalls, notably for the fuel pump and engine internals, necessitate verification of completion by the owner.
  • Transmission Issues: Hesitation, hard shifting, and unexpected shifts into neutral are reported, impacting drivability and safety.
  • Inspection Priorities: A thorough inspection of the engine, transmission, and fuel system is crucial for any prospective buyer.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Acura TLX

The 2017 Acura TLX offers a premium experience with a comfortable ride and strong safety ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall score from NHTSA. However, its appeal to used car shoppers is tempered by a concerning reliability record. With 37 recalls and 90 complaints logged, issues are heavily concentrated in the engine and powertrain. Potential buyers should be aware of the significant number of recalls, which may indicate underlying manufacturing or design vulnerabilities, and the associated potential repair costs. The fuel economy is respectable, with a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall addresses potential wear in connecting rod bearings, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. This issue has been noted across multiple model years.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,500-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls37
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

90
Engine18
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
34
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy shoppers prioritizing safety and comfort over long-term reliability, and who are prepared for potential mechanical issues and associated repair costs.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Acura TLX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Acura TLX.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

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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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 18 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 16 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection - Suspension Component Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
37 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Acura TLX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Acura TLX is 6.0/10. Reliability score is 6.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 37. Owner complaints: 90.

How practical is the 2017 Acura TLX for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 374 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Acura TLX is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Acura TLX?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Exhaust System Inspection - Suspension Component Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,500 • Max: $8,000).

What engine is in the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2017 Acura TLX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura TLX, transmission is Automatic (S9). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 TLX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 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 2017 Acura TLX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura TLX, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura TLX, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Acura TLX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura TLX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S9).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2017 Acura TLX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. This guide details modifications for the 2017 Acura TLX (US market), emphasizing reliability and handling improvements.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

Top complaint category: engine (18 reports, 20% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Acura TLX?▾

This model year has 37 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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