2022 Acura Tlx Safety Report

2022 Acura TLX: Excellent Crash Test Scores Mask Powertrain Reliability Concerns and Multiple Safety Recalls

23Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Power Train (9)Service Brakes (2)Suspension (1)Steering,Suspension (1)Steering,Electrical System,Service Brakes (1)Steering (1)Unknown Or Other (1)Steering,Unknown Or Other (1)Power Train,Engine (1)Tires (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Acura Tlx

The 2022 Acura TLX demonstrates a mixed safety profile, excelling in crash test performance but showing concerning patterns in owner complaints and recall history. NHTSA awarded the vehicle a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in Frontal, Side, and Rollover tests, indicating robust occupant protection in various collision scenarios. However, the vehicle has been subject to 3 recalls, addressing critical safety issues such as improperly secured brake pedal pivot pins, which could lead to a loss of braking ability; improperly welded fuel filler necks and fuel tanks, posing a fire risk; and tires with cuts and tears, increasing the risk of a sudden loss of air pressure and control. Owner complaints, though relatively low at 23 total, highlight significant powertrain issues. The 'POWER TRAIN' category accounts for 9 complaints, with specific mentions of transfer case failures, loss of AWD functionality, and transmission problems, often described with 'loud bangs' or 'shaking and stuttering.' These issues, occurring at mileages as low as 35,000, suggest potential long-term reliability concerns for critical drivetrain components. Other complaints touch on brake issues (2 complaints), steering difficulties (1 complaint), and electrical system malfunctions, some leading to dashboard warning lights and loss of steering control. While the crash test ratings are excellent, the recall history and recurring powertrain complaints warrant careful consideration for potential buyers.

Reliability Score

The 2022 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 2022 Acura Tlx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Acura Tlx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Transfer Case/Awd System Failure
Multiple reports of transfer case failure, often with a 'loud bang,' leading to loss of all-wheel-drive functionality and the vehicle becoming front-wheel drive only. Some instances required both transfer case and transmission replacement.
High Common 30000-50000 miles
Brake Pedal Pivot Pin Issue
Recall issued for improperly secured brake pedal pivot pin, which can cause the pedal to shift and prevent proper braking, increasing crash risk.
High Occasional N/A miles
Fuel Leak From Filler Neck/Tank
Recall for improperly welded fuel filler neck and fuel tank, potentially leading to fuel leaks and an increased risk of fire.
High Occasional N/A miles
Tire Damage From Manufacturing
Recall for tires that may have sustained cuts and tears during the sorting process, leading to sudden air pressure loss and loss of vehicle control.
High Occasional N/A miles
Transmission Jerking/Stuttering
Reports of transmission jerking at low speeds and during downshifting, sometimes accompanied by shaking and stuttering, even at low mileage.
Medium Occasional 14000-45000 miles
Electrical System Malfunctions/Steering Lock-Up
Instances of all dashboard lights blinking, steering wheel becoming stiff or locking completely while driving, sometimes resolving after restarting the vehicle.
High Occasional N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Acura Tlx:

Power Train 39% of complaints

The most frequent complaints relate to the powertrain, specifically transfer case failures, loss of AWD, and transmission issues like jerking or stuttering.

Service Brakes 9% of complaints

Issues with braking, including loss of brake power and a recall for an improperly secured brake pedal pivot pin.

Steering 9% of complaints

Complaints about steering difficulties, including stiffness, locking up, and persistent pulling to one side after alignments.

Tires 4% of complaints

A recall was issued for tires with manufacturing defects (cuts/tears), and there's one complaint about tires sustaining cuts/slashes.

Fuel System, Gasoline 0% of complaints

A recall was issued for potential fuel leaks due to improper welding of the fuel filler neck and tank, increasing fire risk.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Acura Tlx

Is the 2022 Acura TLX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Acura TLX received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, including 5 stars in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests, indicating excellent crash protection. However, it has been subject to 3 safety recalls addressing critical issues like brake pedal security, fuel leaks, and tire defects. Owner complaints also highlight significant powertrain reliability concerns.

What are common problems with the 2022 Acura TLX?

The most reported issues for the 2022 Acura TLX are related to the POWER TRAIN (39% of complaints), specifically transfer case failures, loss of AWD, and transmission jerking or stuttering. Other concerns include brake issues (9%), steering problems (9%), and electrical system malfunctions leading to steering lock-up.

Are there any recalls for the 2022 Acura TLX?

Yes, the 2022 Acura TLX has 3 active recalls. These include issues with the brake pedal pivot pin (NHTSA ID: 24V-076), potential fuel leaks from the filler neck/tank (NHTSA ID: 23V-751), and tires that may have sustained cuts/tears during manufacturing (NHTSA ID: 22V-193).

How does the 2022 Acura TLX perform in crash tests?

The 2022 Acura TLX received top marks in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It achieved 5 stars in the Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover resistance categories, demonstrating strong performance in protecting occupants during collisions.

Should I be concerned about the powertrain in the 2022 Acura TLX?

Yes, the powertrain is a significant area of concern. With 9 out of 23 total complaints (39%) related to the POWER TRAIN, including multiple reports of transfer case failures, loss of AWD, and transmission issues at relatively low mileages, potential buyers should be aware of these recurring problems.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2022 Acura TLX offers excellent crash safety, potential buyers should be aware of the significant powertrain reliability concerns, particularly transfer case and AWD issues, and ensure all 3 open recalls have been addressed by a dealership.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Acura Tlx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Acura Tlx. The data includes 23 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 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.