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
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
91% of complaints: power train — 29 distinct reports on file, 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, 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
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6% of complaints: electrical system — 2 distinct reports on file.
3% of complaints: suspension — 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 (29 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 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 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.