Used Guide: 2015-2020 Acura TLX

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The TLX was an all-new luxury sedan launched by Acura for model-year 2015. This machine’s name references the two models it replaced at launch — the TL and TSX. 

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With the TLX filling the shoes of both predecessors, selection was abundant. Customers could opt for their TLX with multiple engine and driveline choices, including a four-cylinder, front-drive model with four-wheel steering, and a V6-powered unit with two-wheel steering and All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

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Used Guide: 2015-2020 Acura TLX Back to video

After several thousand kilometres of testing various TLX models over the years, I found AWD-equipped units to be competent and comfortable year-round performers in severe weather with proper tires equipped, and front-drive models to offer a more entertaining and lively drive, thanks to a sharper and lighter handling feel. 

Look for a highly-proven 3.5 litre V6 with 290 horsepower and standard AWD on V6-powered units, while four-cylinder models got a 2.4 litre four-cylinder with 206 horsepower and front-wheel drive.

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The V6 engine came with an automatic transmission, while the four-cylinder came equipped with a special Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with torque converter for fully automatic operation and added performance and response.

Feature content included climate-controlled leather seating, automatic lights and wipers, a premium ELS stereo system, Navigation, text message and email capability, potent LED headlights, capless fuel filling, a noise-blocking acoustic windshield, and more.

Acura’s latest suite of driver assistance tech was also on board, including collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and more.

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Follow the related links for more information, specs, pricing, news, and reviews on the first-generation Acura TLX, and read on for 5 tips to help you find the best used TLX you can for the dollar.

Tip 1: Brand Reputation

Acura has a strong brand reputation for building vehicles that are safe, reliable, and offer strong resale value. For reasons like these, Acura cars and SUVs are commonly sought after by shoppers looking for maximum long-term value for their dollar.

Just remember: as a used vehicle ages, the way it was cared for and maintained by previous owners has a bigger effect on its health and reliability than brand reputation.  The Acura badge on the hood offers little protection against problems and concerns if past owners failed to maintain, inspect and care for their vehicle properly over time.

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Assuming the used vehicle you’re considering is reliable and trouble free because of the badge on its hood can lead to unpleasant surprises.  Always check service records and have the specific used vehicle you’re considering inspected by a professional before you buy, for maximum peace of mind.

Tip 2: Battery, Transmission, Auto Stop / Start

Some owners have reported issues with transmission shift quality, as well as wonky operation from the TLX’s Auto Stop / Start system, which shuts the engine off to reduce idling. Most have not.

According to discussions within the Acura TLX owner’s community, software fixes may be required to correct hard shifting issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission on V6-powered models. These issues seem rare against total sales volume, but appear to be the most common on 2015 and 2016 model-year units. 

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On your test-drive of a TLX V6, be sure the transmission shifts smoothly between all gears, especially under heavy throttle between first, second and third, in SPORT mode. If that’s not the case, further professional assessment is advised, and software updates are a likely fix. 

Ensure the Auto Stop / Start system restarts the engine quickly and smoothly, throughout your test-drive. If the system struggles or fails to restart the engine, the battery may need to be replaced. Owners say this system may be sensitive to battery health, with numerous owners reporting a fresh new battery as a fix to trouble.

The gist? As with any modern car, running the latest software updates and a fresh battery can go a long way towards fending off trouble.

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Tip 3: Direct Injection Engine Care

Like many manufacturers, Acura used Direct Injection (DI) engines in all versions of the TLX. In some applications, this engine design has been associated with harmful valve-gunk buildup within the engine over time. Some owners of DI engines experience this; most do not.

Honda and Acura introduced DI engines many years after their competitors, which some owners figure was to perfect the technology. According to the TLX owner’s community, valve gunk buildup issues do not seem to be an issue.

Still, ongoing care can help prevent future problems. During ownership of your used TLX, consistent use of top-tier rated gasoline, consistent on-time oil changes, and accelerated spark-plug change intervals are a good idea for long-term engine health and efficiency.

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Tip 4: Electronic Parking Brake and Warnings

Some owners of earlier TLX models from 2015 and 2016 have reported a concerning issue with warning messages, and the vehicle’s Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). Most have not. Still, i n some cases the TLX’s electronic parking brake may self-activate at a low speed, suddenly stopping the car.

Multiple warning lights and error messages in the instrument cluster may also appear. Owners say that this problem may be caused by a weak or dying battery, and if not, that a replacement fuel filler neck is required. Some owners report that a part within that neck may become stuck open, causing an emissions system problem.

Tip 5: Other Checks

On your test-drive, scrutinize the operation of the TLX’s backup camera, and its image quality. Some owners report backup cameras that become ‘hazy’ when moisture gets past an internal seal and fogs up the lens. Many do not.

Further, be on the lookout for a highway-speed vibration through the vehicle’s floor and steering. Numerous owners have reported frustration with hard-to-fix high-speed vibrations, which could have several sources, including (say some owners), improperly manufactured wheels.

Buying a used TLX with an undiagnosed high-speed vibration is not advised.

Final Thought

These tips are designed to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test-drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Acura TLX.