So you’re looking into getting an Acura TSX? That’s great, but you should also know the years to avoid. If you’re thinking about models from 2004 to 2006, you might want to think twice.
These cars have serious transmission problems that can be expensive to fix and can really put a damper on your driving experience.
Why do these particular years have issues, and what should you look for instead if you want a reliable car? Let’s dive into the details to help you make a smart choice.
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- Steer clear of 2004-2006 models because they had major transmission issues.
- The 2009 model had problems with the power steering, making it hard to drive.
- The 2010 model had trouble with the engine timing chain.
- Models from 2011 to 2014 often had power steering system failures.
- The 2009 TSX also had issues with using too much oil.
Overview of Acura TSX
The Acura TSX, made by Honda’s luxury division, is a small, high-end car known for its sporty feel and fancy features. Aimed at buyers who want both sportiness and luxury in a compact sedan, the TSX sits just below the Acura TL in the lineup.
It offers a choice between a 2.4L four-cylinder engine in both generations and a 3.5L V6 available from 2009-2014 in the second generation. With both manual and automatic transmissions available, the TSX suits different driving tastes.
Whether you like spirited driving or a comfortable interior, the Acura TSX aims to offer a balanced experience. Knowing its design and engineering can help you decide which model years to consider.
First-Generation TSX Models
If you’re looking at first-generation TSX models, you should steer clear of the 2004 to 2006 years. Many owners have reported major transmission problems and erratic shifting during these years.
The 2005 TSX, in particular, has been known for harsh shifting and even transmission failures, making it a risky option. Similarly, the 2006 TSX had issues with transmission failures and rough shifting, which can lead to expensive repairs. These problems take away from the otherwise good engineering in other first-generation TSX models.
To have a better experience, it’s best to avoid these troublesome years and choose more reliable models.
Second-Generation TSX Models
Let’s talk about the second-generation TSX models.
If you’re looking at the 2009 or 2010 Acura TSX, there are some issues you should know about.
The 2009 model had a lot of power steering problems, which can make driving tough and repairs expensive.
The 2010 model had engine issues, especially with the timing chain, which could also cost a lot to fix and make the car less reliable.
Because of these problems and the high number of complaints, it’s a good idea to be careful with these years.
Make sure you do your homework and get a thorough inspection before buying a 2009 or 2010 Acura TSX.
Common TSX Problems
When looking at an Acura TSX, you should know about some common problems. Older models often have engine and transmission issues. People also report problems with the air conditioning and steering, which can be expensive to fix.
Knowing about these issues can help you make a better decision.
Engine and Transmission Issues
Engine and transmission problems are major worries for Acura TSX owners, often leading to costly repairs and poor vehicle performance. The 2.4-liter VTEC engine is known to have issues that can be expensive to fix.
Transmission problems are also common in some model years, causing rough shifting, gear problems, and a lack of smooth driving.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Engine problems: The 2.4-liter VTEC engine can be pricey to repair.
- Transmission issues: Rough shifting and gear problems are common.
- Timing chain problems: Some years have issues with the engine timing chain, leading to costly repairs and driving problems.
Taking care of these issues early can save you from stress and high repair costs.
A/C and Steering Problems
Air Conditioning and Steering Issues
When it comes to common problems with the Acura TSX, issues with the air conditioning (A/C) and steering stand out. Owners should be particularly aware of these. For the 2004 TSX models, A/C failures are quite common due to design flaws, often happening before you reach 60,000 miles. While the 2005 models had a redesigned A/C unit that improved reliability, the 2012 models faced different problems. In 2012 TSX models, power steering system failures can significantly affect steering performance and safety, leading to expensive repairs.
| Acura TSX Model Year | Common Issue |
|---|---|
| 2004 | A/C Failures |
| 2005 | Redesigned A/C Unit |
| 2012 | Power Steering System Failures |
| 2012 | A/C Failures |
| 2004-2012 | Early A/C Attention Needed |
Being aware of these issues can help you make better decisions.
Transmission Issues
If you’re looking at Acura TSX models from 2004, 2005, and 2006, you should know they often have transmission problems like jerky shifting and complete breakdowns.
The automatic transmissions tend to have these issues more than the manual ones.
Knowing about these common problems can help you make a better decision if you’re thinking about getting an Acura TSX.
Common Transmission Failures
Many Acura TSX models from 2004 to 2006 have common transmission problems, like erratic shifting and sometimes complete transmission failures. These issues often come from design flaws and can be expensive to fix. Transmission problems in these models can seriously affect how well the car drives and how reliable it is.
- Erratic Shifting: You might notice sudden, unpredictable gear changes.
- Transmission Slippage: Gears might slip, causing a loss of power.
- Complete Breakdown: In severe cases, the transmission could fail completely.
Additionally, the 2009 Acura TSX had issues with its power steering system, making it even less reliable.
If you’re thinking about getting an Acura TSX, be aware of these potential problems to avoid unexpected costs and hassles.
Manual Vs. Automatic Reliability
When looking at the reliability of Acura TSX transmissions, how do manual and automatic options stack up in terms of durability and performance? Manual transmissions are known for lasting a long time and making driving more engaging. They are usually tougher and are often liked by car enthusiasts. On the other hand, automatic transmissions in the Acura TSX are generally reliable too, and they provide a smoother and more convenient driving experience.
| Transmission Type | Durability | Driving Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Manual | High | Engaging |
| Automatic | Moderate | Smooth |
Proper maintenance is key for both manual and automatic transmissions to ensure the Acura TSX stays reliable. When deciding between manual and automatic, think about what the driver prefers and their driving skills. Always check for signs of wear and the vehicle’s maintenance history to keep it running well.
Engine Problems
Engine problems in some Acura TSX models have caused concerns for owners and buyers. The 2009 and 2010 models, in particular, have shown recurring engine issues that might affect your driving experience.
- 2009 Acura TSX: Many owners have reported that these cars use up too much oil, which can damage the engine if not watched closely.
- 2010 Acura TSX: These models sometimes have problems with the engine timing chain, especially in winter, leading to expensive repairs.
These engine issues can make these cars less reliable. If you’re thinking about buying one of these models, make sure to have the engine checked thoroughly to avoid problems and ensure a smooth ride.
A/C Unit Concerns
The A/C unit in the 2004 Acura TSX has had a lot of complaints because of design problems, often breaking down before 60,000 miles. This issue affects how reliable the Acura TSX is, especially in places with extreme weather. Acura fixed these problems in the 2005 models by redesigning the A/C unit, which made it work better and last longer. However, keep in mind that A/C units in TSX cars might still need attention by 150,000 miles.
| Model Year | A/C Reliability | Common Issues | Mileage Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Low | Frequent failures | Within 60,000 miles |
| 2005 | Improved | Design improvements | Better longevity |
| 2006-2008 | Moderate | Occasional repairs | Up to 150,000 miles |
| 2009+ | High | Few reported issues | Generally reliable |
Knowing about these issues can help you make a better decision.
Power Steering Faults
If you own a 2011-2014 Acura TSX, you might’ve run into some big problems with the power steering. Common issues include trouble with the hydraulic pressure and leaks in the power steering fluid, which can make steering harder.
Also, failures in the electronic power steering (EPS) in these models pose serious safety risks and often require expensive repairs.
Common Power Steering Issues
If you’re driving an Acura TSX, especially models from 2011 to 2014, you might run into some common power steering problems. These issues can come from hydraulic pressure failures or electric power steering (EPS) malfunctions and can lead to safety concerns and expensive repairs.
Look out for these signs:
- Stiff Steering: You might find it harder to turn the wheel.
- Loss of Power Steering: The steering could suddenly become heavy and hard to turn.
- Weird Steering Behavior: The steering might act unpredictably.
Taking care of your car and spotting these power steering problems early can help you avoid bigger and more costly repairs. Watch for these signs to keep your car safe and running smoothly.
Hydraulic Pressure Problems
If your 2011-2014 Acura TSX has stiff or unpredictable steering, it could be because of problems with the hydraulic pressure in the power steering system. These issues often cause power steering fluid leaks.
When the hydraulic pressure drops, it makes steering harder and less reliable. Ignoring these problems can lead to expensive repairs and make driving unsafe.
To avoid these risks, make sure to do regular maintenance and fix any signs of hydraulic pressure issues right away. Fixing these problems early can keep your power steering system from getting worse, making your Acura TSX drive smoother and safer.
EPS Failure Concerns
If you drive a 2011-2014 Acura TSX, you might run into problems with the electric power steering (EPS). When the EPS fails, it can be hard to steer, especially when you’re driving slowly. You might also see warning lights on your dashboard telling you there’s a power steering issue, or you could lose all power assistance while driving.
Acura knows about this problem and has extended the warranty for these models. But if your car is no longer under warranty, fixing it can be pricey, costing between $1,000 and $2,000 or more.
To avoid bigger issues, it’s a good idea to keep up with regular maintenance and get any EPS problems checked out right away. If you notice any signs of trouble, take care of them immediately to save money and stay safe on the road.
Brake System Concerns
Acura TSX owners often notice a troubling noise from the brakes, similar to the screeching sound of bus brakes, which can be a sign of serious issues. This noise usually means there are problems like worn-out brake pads or issues with the calipers.
It’s really important to keep up with maintenance to avoid these problems, as ignoring them can lead to bigger issues like less effective braking and longer stopping distances. Regular check-ups and timely replacements of parts are crucial to keep everything working well.
Compared to other cars, the TSX seems to have these specific brake challenges, so it’s important to address maintenance issues quickly to stay safe and keep the car running smoothly.
2004 TSX Issues
When looking at the problems with the TSX, it’s crucial to pay attention to the specific years that have had major issues, like transmission failures and power steering problems. Knowing the worst model year for the Acura TSX can help you avoid big headaches and expensive fixes.
Here are the main problems:
- Transmission Failures: These are especially common in the 2005 and 2010 models and can be very costly to repair.
- Power Steering Problems: These are noticeable in the 2004 and 2012 models and can make handling the car difficult.
- Engine Issues: These often happen in the 2006 models and are usually related to the timing chain.
2005 TSX Problems
When checking out the Acura TSX, it’s important to know about some common problems that have affected certain model years. For the 2004 and 2005 models, transmission issues are a big deal, with owners reporting problems like erratic shifting. The 2009 TSX often has power steering system failures, which can be a major hassle. The 2010 TSX has had issues with the engine timing chain, leading to expensive fixes. Additionally, early brake wear is a problem that keeps coming up. Here’s a quick summary:
| Model Year | Common Issues |
|---|---|
| 2004 | Transmission failures |
| 2005 | Erratic shifting |
| 2006 | Transmission problems |
| 2009 | Power steering failures |
| 2010 | Engine timing issues |
These problems show why it’s a good idea to avoid these particular Acura TSX years.
2006 TSX Reliability
When looking at the reliability of the 2006 TSX, it’s important to know about some common issues. Some model years have more problems, making them less desirable to own. Reliability can really differ, with some years having frequent issues in key areas.
Here are some main problems to watch out for:
- Transmission failures: These were reported in 2004, 2005, and 2006 models, and can be very costly to fix.
- Power steering issues: These were a problem in 2012 models, which can affect how the car handles and its safety.
- Engine problems: The 2009 models had issues with using too much oil and wearing out brakes too quickly.
2009 TSX Concerns
If you’re thinking about getting an Acura TSX, especially from the years 2004, 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, or 2012, there are some important issues you should know about. These models often have problems that might affect your choice. For example, the transmission can act up with rough or unpredictable shifting. The 2009 model has issues with the power steering system, and the 2010 model sometimes has problems with the engine timing chain, which can be expensive to fix. Here’s a quick rundown:
| Model Year | Common Problems |
|---|---|
| 2004 | Unpredictable shifting |
| 2005 | Rough shifting |
| 2009 | Power steering issues |
| 2010 | Engine timing chain problems |
Knowing these concerns can help you make a smarter decision.
2010 TSX Issues
The 2010 TSX has some problems with its engine timing chain, which can be very expensive to fix and keep you without your car for a long time. Even if you take good care of the car, these issues can still pop up.
- Engine Timing Chain Failures: If this happens, it can seriously damage the engine if not fixed quickly.
- High Repair Costs: Fixing these problems can be very costly, sometimes more than what the car is worth.
- Extended Downtime: Repairs can take a long time, so you might be without your car for days or even weeks.
Keeping up with regular maintenance can help, but the 2010 TSX is still a car to be careful with.
2012 TSX Problems
If you’re thinking about getting an Acura TSX, watch out for some big problems in certain years. The 2004, 2005, and 2006 models often have serious transmission issues. These problems can mess up how the car runs and can be expensive to fix.
Also, the 2009 Acura TSX has a lot of trouble with its power steering. Owners frequently complain about fluid leaks and hard steering, which can make driving unsafe. These issues show why it’s important to do your homework before buying a used TSX.
Avoiding these specific years can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. Aim for a more reliable model to avoid these common headaches.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Acura Tl, Acura Rdx and Acura Mdx. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
The Acura TSX is usually praised for its great engineering, but the early models from 2004-2006 have some serious transmission problems.
If you want a reliable and high-performing Acura, it’s best to avoid these years. Choosing a later model will save you from a lot of trouble and expensive repairs, showing that sometimes it’s better to skip the ‘classics.’
