2011 Acura TL: common problems and reliability

Where owners report problems

Recalls affecting the 2011 TL

What owners say across generations

Overwhelmingly positive sentiment for sport sedan regarded as Acura's golden era defining model, praised extensively for powerful smooth J-series V6 engines delivering effortless acceleration, engaging driving dynamics balancing sport and comfort, timeless ele

• Catastrophic automatic transmission failures (1999-2006 primarily), complete 2nd gear failures, oil jet clogging, inadequate cooling, premature wear 80,000-120,000 miles typical, replacement cost $3,500-$5,500, Honda extended warranties covered many failures though expired, drain-and-fill every 30,000 miles (NEVER power flush) critical prevention, 2007+ significantly improved though not immune, very frequent (1999-2006), recurrent (2007-2008), isolated (2009-2014 with 6-speed auto)
• Universally cracked dashboards, all 3rd generation (2004-2008) affected regardless of climate or care, cracks develop 80,000-150,000 miles, sunlight accelerates deterioration, no permanent repair exists, dash covers only solution, replacement dash costs $1,200-$2,000 installed and cracks again, very frequent (3rd gen universal)
• Driver seat bolster wear and peeling, leather quality poor allowing driver side bolster to crack, peel, tear exposing foam, typical 100,000-150,000 miles, replacement seat covers $200-$400, reupholstery $600-$1,000 per seat, very frequent
• Paint clear coat failure and peeling, Honda/Acura paint notoriously poor quality, clear coat delaminates exposing primer, typical 10-15 years regardless of care, black and red colors most affected, complete respray only solution $3,000-$8,000, recurrent
• Oil consumption issues (3.7L V6 2009-2014), worn piston rings or deteriorated piston liners cause excessive oil burning, 1-2 quarts per 1,000 miles typical severe cases, Honda issued recall for piston ring replacement, repair requires engine disassembly $3,000-$5,000, check recall completion status, recurrent (3.7L engines)

Owner insights cover all generations of the TL.

Typical used price

Used TL listings typically run $8,537–$13,495 across 2002 to 2014 model years.