2017 Acura Tlx Safety Report

2017 Acura TLX: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Significant Engine and Fuel System Recall-Related Risks

61Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
2Crash Reports
2Fire Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (9)Engine And Engine Cooling (8)Power Train (7)Unknown Or Other (6)Electrical System (3)Fuel/Propulsion System (3)Power Train,Electrical System (2)Electronic Stability Control (Esc),Service Brakes (2)Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Engine (2)Power Train,Engine (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Acura Tlx

The 2017 Acura TLX presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance, achieving a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars in Frontal, Side, and Rollover tests, its recall history and complaint data reveal significant underlying mechanical concerns. There are 61 total complaints, with 2 crashes, 2 fires, and 1 injury reported. A major area of concern is the engine and fuel system, which are implicated in all three recalls and a substantial portion of consumer complaints. Specifically, two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 23V751000 and 19V874000) address engine issues, including manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage, stalling, fire, or injury. Another two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 23V751000 and 20V314000) relate to fuel pump failures, which can cause engine stalls and increase crash risk. Many complaints detail engine stalls, sudden loss of power, and even engine fires, directly aligning with the recall descriptions. Several owners also report significant delays in obtaining recall repairs, with some being told parts are unavailable for extended periods, exacerbating the safety risk.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Acura Tlx receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2017 Acura Tlx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Acura Tlx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Rod Bearing/Crankshaft Defect
Manufacturing defect in engine crankshaft/rod bearings can lead to engine damage, stalling, fire, or injury. Subject of NHTSA recall 23V751000. Multiple complaints describe loud clanking, oil drainage, and complete engine failure.
High Common variable miles
Fuel Pump Failure
Defective fuel pumps can lead to engine stalling while driving, increasing crash risk. Subject of NHTSA recalls 20V314000 and 19V874000. Complaints mention car shutting off at idle or while driving.
High Common variable miles
Transmission Malfunction/Stalling
Vehicle unexpectedly shifts into neutral, stalls, or enters 'limp mode' with dashboard warning lights. Several complaints describe this dangerous scenario on highways.
High Occasional variable miles
Electrical System Problems
Intermittent electrical failures, random clicking/clanking, discharging lights/screens, and multiple warning lights (e.g., emissions, parking brake) appearing simultaneously.
Medium Occasional variable miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Acura Tlx:

Engine 14% of complaints

Frequent complaints about engine stalling, loud noises, oil leaks, and complete engine failure, often linked to the rod bearing recall.

Engine And Engine Cooling 13% of complaints

Issues related to engine overheating, cooling system malfunctions, and general engine performance problems, including those covered by recall 23V751000.

Power Train 11% of complaints

Problems with the transmission, including unexpected shifting into neutral, inability to engage gears, and stalling while driving.

Fuel/Propulsion System 4% of complaints

Complaints specifically mentioning fuel pump failures, engine stalling due to fuel delivery issues, and related warning lights, aligning with fuel pump recalls.

Electrical System 4% of complaints

Reports of intermittent electrical failures, dashboard warning lights, and system malfunctions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Acura Tlx

Is the 2017 Acura TLX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Acura TLX received excellent 5-star crash test ratings across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover). However, it has 61 consumer complaints, 2 reported crashes, 2 fires, and 1 injury, along with three significant safety recalls concerning engine defects and fuel pump failures that can lead to engine stalls or fires. While crash protection is high, mechanical reliability issues pose a safety risk.

What are common problems with the 2017 Acura TLX?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Acura TLX are related to the ENGINE (9 complaints), ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (8 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (7 complaints). These often manifest as engine stalls, loud engine noises, complete engine failure, and transmission malfunctions where the vehicle shifts into neutral unexpectedly. Fuel pump failures are also a recurring problem, leading to engine stalls.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Acura TLX?

Yes, the 2017 Acura TLX has three active safety recalls. These include two recalls for FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP issues (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 20V314000 and 19V874000) which can cause engine stalls, and one recall for ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL (NHTSA Campaign Number 23V751000) related to a manufacturing defect that can lead to engine damage, stalling, fire, or injury.

How does the 2017 Acura TLX perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Acura TLX performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a perfect 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 5 stars for Rollover safety.

What should I do if my 2017 Acura TLX has an open recall?

If your 2017 Acura TLX has an open recall, especially for the engine or fuel pump, it is critical to contact an authorized Acura dealership immediately to schedule the repair. Be aware that some owners have reported significant delays in obtaining parts for these recall repairs, so follow up regularly. Do not ignore recall notices, as these issues can lead to serious safety hazards like engine stalls or fires.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While offering excellent crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of the significant engine and fuel system recall-related issues; ensure all recalls are addressed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on these components.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Acura Tlx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Acura Tlx. The data includes 61 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Acura Tlx an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.