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Acura · Mid-Size · 2015–2020

Acura TLX UB1

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Acura TLX UB1 is available with 2 engine variants — from 152 to 299 hp.

2.4 · Petrol· 200 PS
2015 2020
Good Choice 1 weakness
Show all weaknesses →
3.5 V6 · Petrol· 280 PS
2015 2020
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Acura 2.4 (Petrol, 200 PS) has the K24 (2.4L I4) — rated: "Good Choice", 1 known weaknesses.

The Acura 3.5 V6 (Petrol, 280 PS) has the J35 (3.5L V6) — rated: "Stay Away!", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!ZF 9AT: Jerky Shifting — 189 Complaints for 2015

ZF 9HP nine-speed automatic particularly problematic in 2015 model year TLX. Lurching on takeoff, kickdown hesitation, harsh downshifts.

Symptoms: Jerking at slow speed, harsh gear changes, delayed response on passing, shudder at standstill
from 50,000 km
Ad ZF 9HP transmission TLXtransmission fluid ATF TLX UB1
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
738 complaints · 2015–2020
Powertrain
219 ⚠ 7
Engine
202 ⚠ 6
Electrical
128 ⚠ 2
Other
94 ⚠ 2
Engine & Cooling
68 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (219 complaints)
⚠ Engine (202 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (128 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 6 weaknesses have been documented for the Acura TLX UB1 (2015–2020) — 4 engine-related and 2 vehicle-related. One problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Other. Considered reliable: K24 (2.4L I4).

TLX (J35, 2015–2020) — Stay Away!: VCM-Induced Oil Consumption, Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (Recall 23V751), Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Recall 23V858). Power: 280 PS.

What to watch out for with the Acura TLX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Acura TLX UB1 have? +
The Acura TLX UB1 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 2 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Acura TLX UB1? +
faq.watch_a_avoid faq.watch_a_rec
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: K24 (2.4L I4). The most reliable engine is the K24 (2.4L I4) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the J35 (3.5L V6). Problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6) — stay away!
Which Acura TLX UB1 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Acura TLX UB1. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 1 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Acura TLX UB1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Acura TLX UB1 — rated: "Decent". {description} 290 hp V6, SH-AWD, comfortable and composed. The ZF 9-speed is the Achilles heel — jerks and hesitates, especially 2015-2016. Engine itself solid.
Is the Acura TLX UB1 worth buying used? +
The Acura TLX UB1 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura TLX UB1? +
The Acura TLX UB1 is available with engine variants from 152 to 299 hp. Petrol: J35 (3.5L V6), K24 (2.4L I4).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee