Hey there, Acura fans! Shopping for the perfect Acura can be a lot like hitting the open road—exciting, full of potential, but with a few bumps along the way. While many Acura models are top-notch, offering a great mix of luxury and reliability, some years are better left in the dust. In this guide, we’re going to chat about the Acura years to avoid, helping you dodge the costly repairs and headaches that could spoil your ride. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s talk about which Acura models to steer clear of to keep your driving experience smooth and enjoyable.
#1 Acura MDX 2001-2005
The first-generation Acura MDX models, particularly from 2001 to 2005, are known for their significant transmission failures and engine problems. Many owners reported that the transmission would fail, often around the 100,000-mile mark, requiring costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, the 2003 model year had frequent electrical issues, adding to the overall maintenance burden. These mechanical problems overshadowed the vehicle’s otherwise luxurious ride and advanced features for its time, making these years some of the worst for the MDX.
Beyond mechanical issues, these early MDX models also faced engine misfires, leading to rough driving experiences and lower overall reliability. Owners often had to deal with expensive repairs, diminishing the appeal of these vehicles despite their spacious interiors and robust safety features. Potential buyers should exercise caution and be prepared for potential significant repair costs if considering these years.
#2 Acura MDX 2014-2015
The 2014-2015 Acura MDX models are notorious for transmission problems and issues with the air conditioning and infotainment systems. These model years experienced significant reliability challenges, with many drivers reporting transmission failures that could leave them stranded. The infotainment system problems in the 2014 MDX, including frequent system crashes and unresponsive controls, further detracted from the luxury experience expected from Acura.
Moreover, the air conditioning system in these models often failed prematurely, leading to discomfort during hot weather. These issues, coupled with the high cost of repairs, make the 2014 and 2015 MDX models less desirable for used car buyers. While these vehicles offer a stylish design and smooth ride when functioning correctly, the risk of costly repairs makes these years a gamble.
#3 Acura MDX 2016-2017
The 2016-2017 Acura MDX models continued to face transmission and engine problems, making them some of the worst Acura years to avoid.. Owners reported issues with rough shifting and transmission failures, which severely impacted the overall driving experience. The 2016 model, in particular, was noted for frequent mechanical problems that often required expensive repairs, leading to dissatisfaction among many owners.
In addition to transmission issues, these MDX models also had problems with engine performance, including engine misfires and stalling. While these vehicles offer a comfortable and luxurious interior, advanced safety features, and a smooth ride under normal conditions, the mechanical reliability concerns are significant enough to warrant caution. Buyers should ensure thorough inspections and detailed service records if considering these years.
#4 Acura TL 2004-2005
The 2004-2005 Acura TL models are top avoided due to transmission issues and cracked dashboards, which significantly impact their reliability. Owners frequently reported transmission failures, often requiring costly repairs. This issue was prevalent enough to overshadow the vehicle’s other attributes, such as its powerful V6 engine and luxurious interior. The problem of cracked dashboards also detracted from the aesthetic appeal of these models.
Despite these significant drawbacks, the 2004-2005 TL models offered a sporty driving experience and came well-equipped with high-end features for their time. However, the combination of transmission failures and cosmetic issues makes these years less desirable. Potential buyers should be wary of the high repair costs associated with these problems and consider alternative model years with better reliability records.
#5 Acura TL 2010-2011
For the 2010-2011 Acura TL, transmission failures and steering problems are major issues. The 2010 model year, in particular, suffered from a high rate of transmission failures, often necessitating complete replacements. These issues severely impacted the vehicle’s reliability and led to substantial repair bills. The 2011 model continued to experience steering and engine problems, affecting the overall driving experience and safety.
However, these TL models are praised for their luxurious interiors and powerful V6 engines, which provide a smooth and engaging driving experience when functioning correctly. The high incidence of mechanical problems makes them a risky choice for used car buyers. A thorough inspection and detailed service history are crucial if considering these models.
#6 Acura TLX 2015-2016
The 2015-2016 Acura TLX models are most avoided due to transmission and electrical system issues. Early models of the TLX faced numerous complaints about transmission jerking and hesitation, which compromised the driving experience. These issues often required multiple trips to the dealership for repairs, leading to frustration among owners. Additionally, the electrical systems in these models were prone to malfunctions, including issues with the infotainment system and other electronic components.
Despite these problems, the TLX from these years offered a stylish design and comfortable interior, with advanced safety features and technology. The potential for ongoing transmission and electrical problems makes these models less attractive. Prospective buyers should ensure any used TLX has been well-maintained and thoroughly inspected.
#7 Acura TLX 2018
The 2018 Acura TLX also faced transmission and electronic component issues, continuing the trend of reliability concerns in early TLX models. Owners reported problems with rough shifting and transmission failures, which detracted from the overall driving experience. Additionally, the electronic systems in the 2018 TLX were known to malfunction, causing issues with the vehicle’s infotainment and other critical features.
While the 2018 TLX offered a refined driving experience and a well-appointed interior, the frequent mechanical and electronic issues make it a less reliable option for used car buyers. Thoroughly inspecting any prospective purchase and verifying its service history is essential to avoid costly repairs.
#8 Acura RDX 2016
When considering Acura models, it’s important to be aware of certain Acura years to avoid. The 2016 Acura RDX is known for brake and electronic issues, making it a model to avoid. Many owners reported that the brakes started making noise within the first 10,000 miles, and fixing the issue often required multiple replacements of brake pads and rotors without a permanent solution. Additionally, the 2016 RDX had battery draining problems, frequently leaving owners with a dead battery and necessitating annual replacements.
Despite these drawbacks, the 2016 RDX offered a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, with advanced safety features and technology. The persistent mechanical problems, however, make it a less desirable choice for used car buyers. Ensuring the vehicle has been well-maintained and considering alternative model years with better reliability records is advisable.
#9 Acura RDX 2019-2020
The 2019-2020 Acura RDX models faced significant issues with the infotainment system and brakes, as well as a major fuel pump recall. Owners frequently reported that the infotainment system was unreliable and would often freeze, denying access to navigation and music. Additionally, the brakes on these models were prone to making loud squeaking sounds, which Acura was unable to fix satisfactorily.
The fuel pump recall in 2020 affected many vehicles, including the RDX, due to defects that could cause the engine to lose power and stall. While these models offer a stylish design and a comfortable ride, the mechanical and electronic issues, along with the significant recall, make them less reliable options. Potential buyers should confirm that recall repairs have been completed and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected.
