2021 Acura TLX: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
First year of the second generation; strong dynamics and reliability, but early-build caveats: a brake-pedal-pin recall, a Type S fuel-injection stall recall, and an open NHTSA probe into SH-AWD spline failure (loss of all-wheel drive) on 2021-2023 cars. 4 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2021 Acura TLX ranged from $37,500 to $52,300 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
First year of the second generation; strong dynamics and reliability, but early-build caveats: a brake-pedal-pin recall, a Type S fuel-injection stall recall, and an open NHTSA probe into SH-AWD spline failure (loss of all-wheel drive) on 2021-2023 cars.
Sources (1)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=tlx&mod…
Known issues
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On SH-AWD cars (including Type S), a spline interface between the transmission and power take-off unit can fail, causing sudden loss of all-wheel drive without warning lights; the subject of an open NHTSA defect investigation covering 2021-2023.
occasional · 20 NHTSA complaints · transmission
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A fuel-injection control software fault on Type S cars can cause the engine to stall or lose power; addressed by recall.
occasional · 8 NHTSA complaints · fuel
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A brake-pedal pivot pin may not be properly secured, allowing the pedal to shift out of position; addressed by recall.
occasional · 7 NHTSA complaints · brake
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The True Touchpad infotainment interface is widely criticized as awkward to use, with some reports of screen glitches in hot weather.
commonly reported · electrical
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (4)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=tlx&mod…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=tlx&mod…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=tlx&mod…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=tlx&mod…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Sharp styling and engaging handling, especially with SH-AWD.
- Standard turbo 2.0L and an available 355-hp Type S V6.
- Strong reliability ratings and low ownership costs for a luxury sedan.
- Comprehensive standard driver-assistance and safety suite.
Cons
- Turbo-4 fuel economy and engine sound underwhelm.
- Recalls and an open probe: brake-pedal pin, Type S fuel-injection stall, and an SH-AWD spline-failure investigation on 2021-2023 cars.
- Tight rear seat and limited cargo space for the segment.
- The True Touchpad infotainment controller is awkward and divisive.
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $37,500 | discontinued | — | — |
| Technology | $41,500 | $45,400 | — | — |
| A-Spec | $44,250 | $50,400 | — | — |
| Advance | $46,300 | discontinued | — | — |
| Type S | $52,300 | $58,050 | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Sources (2)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2021-acura-tlx-price
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/acura-tlx-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($37,500). Higher trims started higher (up to $52,300), and options added more.
Curve outlook: a typical 2021 loses roughly another 30% of its value over the next 3 years. These are estimates from public data, not a market-price claim.
2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/acura-tlx/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $400–450/yr |
| Insurance (medium tier) | ≈ $2,200–2,300/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~250k miles |
Requires premium fuel
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (3)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/acura/tlx
- moneygeek.comhttps://moneygeek.com/insurance/auto/acura-tlx-insurance/
- fueleconomy.govhttps://www.fueleconomy.gov/ws/rest/vehicle/44618
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2021 Acura TLX have?
Documented issue patterns include: On SH-AWD cars (including Type S), a spline interface between the transmission and power take-off unit can fail, causing sudden loss of all-wheel drive without warning lights; the subject of an open NHTSA defect investigation covering 2021-2023; A fuel-injection control software fault on Type S cars can cause the engine to stall or lose power; addressed by recall; A brake-pedal pivot pin may not be properly secured, allowing the pedal to shift out of position; addressed by recall; The True Touchpad infotainment interface is widely criticized as awkward to use, with some reports of screen glitches in hot weather. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2021 Acura TLX reliable?
First year of the second generation; strong dynamics and reliability, but early-build caveats: a brake-pedal-pin recall, a Type S fuel-injection stall recall, and an open NHTSA probe into SH-AWD spline failure (loss of all-wheel drive) on 2021-2023 cars.
How much did the 2021 Acura TLX cost new?
Between $37,500 and $52,300 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid. 2021-2023 cars held unusually high used values due to pandemic-era supply shortages, so comparisons to original MSRP read differently for these years.
Is the Acura TLX expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $400–450/year as mileage climbs. Note: it requires premium fuel.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.