2017 Acura Tl Safety Report

The 2017 Acura TLX (note: complaints often refer to TLX, not TL, which was discontinued) presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to significant engine and powertrain concerns despite a lack of official NHTSA crash test ratings. With 61 total complaints, including 2 crashes, 2 fires, and 1 injury, the vehicle has demonstrated critical failures. A major concern revolves around NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), which addresses a manufacturing defect of the engine crankshaft. Multiple complaints highlight the unavailability of parts for this recall, with some owners being told repairs might not occur until 2027, leaving them with potentially dangerous vehicles. This recall specifically impacts the engine, which is the most complained-about component with 9 reports, followed closely by 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING' with 8 reports, and 'POWER TRAIN' with 7 reports. These issues manifest as sudden engine stalls, cars shifting into neutral unexpectedly, loud clanking noises, oil drainage, and even engine fires, as reported in one instance where an engine burst into fire after purchase. Beyond the engine, other significant issues include electrical system failures, often manifesting as multiple dashboard warning lights (e.g., 'Check Engine,' 'Electric Parking Brake,' 'Check Transmission') illuminating simultaneously, leading to limp mode or complete stalling. Several complaints describe the car shutting off at idle without warning or failing to accelerate. The lack of official NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A) means there's no independent data on its crashworthiness, which is a notable gap for potential buyers. However, the reported crashes, though few, involved a 'total loss declaration' due to failure to stop in a timely manner, indicating potential issues with braking or vehicle control during incidents. The recall history shows 0 recalls for the 2017 Acura TL, but the complaints clearly reference a significant recall (23V751000) for the 2017 Acura TLX, which is likely the vehicle being discussed given the complaint details. The critical issue here is the manufacturer's inability to provide timely remedies for this engine-related recall, leaving owners in a precarious situation. The pattern of engine stalls, transmission issues, and electrical malfunctions, combined with the severe nature of the engine recall, suggests a vehicle with notable safety risks that are not being adequately addressed by the manufacturer in a timely manner.

Our recommendation: Given the critical engine recall with reported part unavailability and significant powertrain/electrical issues, exercise extreme caution; thorough pre-purchase inspection by an Acura specialist is essential, and verify the status and remedy availability for recall 23V751000 before considering purchase.