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 91% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2021 Acura TLX Type S have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2021 Acura TLX Type S

○ Not enough data

2021 Acura TLX Type S
RENDERED 2026-10-31T18:01:00.865Z

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 32
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Power train

Complaints per year

2021: 32 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2021	32
2022	9
2023	6
2024	0
2025	0

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Power train

91% · 29 reports

Most commonly citing output.

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, 2024-10-11

Engine

13% · 4 reports

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, 2024-09-18

Also filed under Electrical system

Electrical system

6% · 2 reports

Suspension

3% · 1 report

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2025-03-17Electrical system, fuel system, gasoline25V031000 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.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2021 Acura TLX Type S — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Power train: 29 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 4 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 25V031000 · Electrical system, fuel system, gasoline

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 91% 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 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.