2014 Acura TSX Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Service Brakes: Be aware of potential stiffness or a frozen pedal on cold starts, which can affect braking performance for a short period.
- Engine VTC Actuator: Listen for a rattling or grinding noise on cold starts, indicative of a common issue that can be costly to repair.
- Air Bag Recalls: Confirm that all open recalls, particularly those related to the passenger frontal air bag inflator, have been completed.
- Electrical System: Some owners report persistent battery drain issues, which may require thorough diagnosis beyond simple battery replacement.
2014 Acura TSX
The 2014 Acura TSX presents itself as a compelling option for used car shoppers seeking a premium sedan with a sporty demeanor and a reputation for reliability, inherited from its Honda lineage. However, a closer inspection reveals a few areas of concern that warrant attention. While the overall public reliability score is excellent, the LLM assessment points to average reliability due to specific, recurring issues. The most prominent concerns revolve around the service brakes, which can exhibit stiffness on cold starts, and the engine's VTC actuator, known to cause rattling noises on cold starts. Additionally, there have been multiple safety recalls concerning the passenger frontal air bag inflator module, which owners must ensure have been addressed. Despite these potential drawbacks, the TSX offers a comfortable interior, engaging driving dynamics for its class, and respectable fuel economy.
Critical Failure Risk
A grinding or rattling noise on cold starts, potentially leading to timing chain wear if ignored.
Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$800 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
Used car shoppers who appreciate a refined driving experience.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a completely trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2014 Acura TSX Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Acura TSX.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Transmission
- Automatic (S5)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 22
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Most Common Issues
1. Braking System
Most reportedUsage: 3 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 2 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2014 Acura TSX reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Acura TSX is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 8.
How practical is the 2014 Acura TSX for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2014 Acura TSX?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Acura TSX is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Tuning 6.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Acura TSX?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: VTC Actuator (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $800).
What engine is in the 2014 Acura TSX?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2014 Acura TSX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Acura TSX, transmission is Automatic (S5). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2014 TSX require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Acura TSX?
EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Acura TSX?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2014 Acura TSX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Acura TSX, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2014 Acura TSX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Acura TSX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S5).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Acura TSX?
NHTSA ratings: Rollover 5/5.
Is the 2014 Acura TSX good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 6/10. The 2014 Acura TSX (US market) provides a foundation for enthusiasts looking to enhance performance. Its 3. Popular platforms: Acura TSX V6.
Should I tune the 2014 Acura TSX?
The 2014 Acura TSX, particularly the V6 model, has a 3.5L V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. There is aftermarket support for tuning, including ECU remapping (Hondata, KTuner) and performance parts like intakes, headers, and exhaust systems. While the automatic transmission's longevity with significant power increases is an unknown, manual transmission versions and the overall availability of parts suggest good tuning potential. The car also has a cult following among enthusiasts.
What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2014 Acura TSX?
Top complaint category: service brakes (3 reports, 37.5% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Acura TSX?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.