2021 Acura Tlx Safety Report

The 2021 Acura TLX demonstrates a strong overall safety performance based on NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover categories. This indicates excellent occupant protection in various crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has accumulated 77 total complaints, with 3 reported crashes and 3 injuries, but no fatalities or fires. A significant concern arises from the 'POWER TRAIN' component, which accounts for 32 complaints, representing over 40% of all issues. Many of these complaints detail severe drivetrain failures, specifically involving the transfer case and transmission splines, leading to a sudden loss of all-wheel drive (AWD) capability. This issue is frequently described as occurring without warning and at relatively low mileages (e.g., 36,000-71,000 miles), posing a potential safety risk, especially in adverse weather conditions where AWD is critical. Beyond the powertrain issues, the vehicle has been subject to three recalls. One recall addresses a critical safety defect where the brake pedal pivot pin was not properly secured, potentially preventing the driver from applying brakes as intended and increasing crash risk. Another recall pertains to an improperly welded fuel filler neck and fuel tank, which could lead to a fuel leak and increase the risk of fire. The third recall involves the air bag occupant classification sensor, which could cause unintentional air bag deployment and increase injury risk. While the crash test performance is exemplary, the high volume of powertrain complaints, particularly regarding AWD failure, and the nature of the recalls (brake pedal, fuel leak, air bag sensor) highlight areas of concern that buyers should be aware of. The combination of excellent crash test scores and a moderate number of complaints, with a strong focus on a specific mechanical failure, paints a mixed safety picture. The recalls address serious potential hazards, indicating proactive measures by the manufacturer to correct known defects. However, the persistent and severe nature of the transfer case/transmission spline failures, as evidenced by numerous detailed complaints, suggests a significant reliability and potential safety flaw not yet addressed by a recall for this specific issue. The lack of warning lights for AWD failure is particularly concerning from a safety perspective.

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Acura TLX boasts excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the significant and frequently reported powertrain issues, particularly transfer case and transmission spline failures, and ensure all three active recalls have been addressed.