2021 Acura TLX Type S
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 32 |
| 2022 | 9 |
| 2023 | 6 |
| 2024 | 0 |
| 2025 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
88% of complaints: power train — 28 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Transfer case splines sheared, causing the awd system to fail. This eliminates power output to the rear wheels and could cause a loss of control while driving in sub par road conditions. This appears to be a very common issue among the Type-S trim.
NHTSA ODI report, 20241011
13% of complaints: engine — 4 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
I am reporting a critical safety issue with my 2021 Acura TLX (VIN: [XXX] ), specifically related to the transmission and transfer case.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240918
6% of complaints: electrical system — 2 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
I am reporting a critical safety issue with my 2021 Acura TLX (VIN: [XXX] ), specifically related to the transmission and transfer case.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240918
3% of complaints: suspension — 1 distinct report on file.
3% of complaints: power train — 1 distinct report on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S, 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, and 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are EL1 and AL0.
Campaign 25V031000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Acura TLX Type S — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (28 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 25V031000 (electrical system, fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2021 Acura TLX Type S reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Acura TLX Type S?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 88% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Acura TLX Type S have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.