Acura TLX UB2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Acura TLX UB2 is available with 2 engine variants — from 276 to 366 hp.
2.0-liter turbo making 272 hp — a detuned variant of the K20C1 from the Civic Type R. Same architecture as the K20C4 in the Accord, paired with a 10-speed automatic in the TLX. Direct injection brings the known K-turbo themes: fuel dilution on short trips, intake valve carbon buildup past 80k mi, cold-start chain rattle. Mechanically solid if maintenance is on point.
- !! Recall: Denso fuel pump (NHTSA 23V-858)
NHTSA 23V-858 December 2023: improperly molded fuel pump impeller swells, pump seizes, engine stalls. Covers 2021–2022 TLX as part of the large Honda/Acura Denso campaign. Free replacement.
Symptoms: Sudden engine stall, starting issues, power loss - !! Fuel dilution in engine oil from 20,000 km
Direct injection pushes fuel past the rings into the oil on cold starts and short trips. Typical 2–6 percent dilution, more in winter. TLX as a premium commuter sees many short trips so is hit harder than Type R drivers. Change oil every 6k miles instead of going by the life monitor.
Symptoms: Gasoline smell at oil cap, rising oil level on dipstick, thinned oil in lab analysis - ! Cold-start timing chain rattle (1–3 seconds) from 80,000 km
The hydraulic timing chain tensioner needs oil pressure to tighten after startup. For the first seconds the chain rattles, worse in cold weather. If the rattle lasts more than 3 seconds the tensioner is due. Honda OEM tensioner 14510-5A2-A02 resolves it.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle for 1–3 seconds after cold start, reduces after oil change
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Twin-scroll turbo V6, 355 hp in Type S. Too young for reliable long-term data, but Honda turbo tech is solid so far. Check motor mounts at higher mileage.
No known weaknesses documented.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| SH-AWD Transfer Case: Spline Wear Same issue as MDX YD4 — spline connection in SH-AWD transfer case wears silently. Type S with higher torque especially affected. Symptoms: No obvious symptoms until AWD traction loss, clunking during tight turns, vibration during quick lane changes from 50,000 km | High | |
| Adaptive dampers leak oil Adaptive dampers (Advance) can develop oil leaks, especially early 2021 models. Covered under warranty. TLS reset needed after replacement. Symptoms: Oil on front shocks, vehicle pulls to one side, ride harsher than selected from 40,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
Honda Accord XI
Mid-Size (2023–2026)
Mercedes-Benz CLE C236
Mid-Size (2023–2026)
Mercedes-Benz E-Klasse W214
Mid-Size (2023–2025)
VW ID.7 I
Mid-Size (2023–2026)
Citroën C5 X I
Mid-Size (2022–2026)
Genesis G70 IK-FL
Mid-Size (2022–2025)
Explore more
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Acura TLX UB2 (2021–2025) — 4 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, Gearbox, Electronics, Body.
TLX (K20C6, 2021–2025) — Be Careful: Recall: Denso fuel pump (NHTSA 23V-858), Fuel dilution in engine oil, Cold-start timing chain rattle (1–3 seconds). Power: 272 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 UB2 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Acura TLX UB2? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Acura TLX UB2 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Acura TLX UB2 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura TLX UB2? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee