Most common 2023 Acura TLX Type S problems
Share of the 8 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Acura TLX Type S complaints by model year
2023 Acura TLX Type S recalls (1)
Electrical system › Software
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S, 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, and 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S vehicles. A software error in the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU) may cause an engine stall or a loss of power.
Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138.
NHTSA defect investigations
Federal safety investigators have looked into a possible defect involving the 2023 Acura TLX Type S:
All wheel drive allegation
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has completed its review of a Petition dated January 9, 2026, requesting an investigation into the loss of the optional all-wheel drive capability in model year (MY) 2021-2023 Acura TLX and MY 2022-2023 Acura MDX vehicles. The Petition alleges failures in the interfacing splines between the front wheel drive transaxle and the rear wheel drive power take off unit.
What 2023 Acura TLX Type S owners say
Transmission & drivetrain
Short Description Transmission-to-PTU splines, causing AWD loss and requiring full transfer case and transmission replacement. Summary This drivetrain failure poses an unreasonable safety risk due to the sudden loss of AWD capability, lack of alerts, and resulting instability. My experience is consistent with dozens of documented cases and matches the mechanical fault pattern already under federal review. Given the potential for severe loss of vehicle control, a full investigation and corrective action (including a recall) is necessary. Symptoms Sudden AWD loss Loud bang or grinding Only front wheels receiving power No warning lights Safety risks Loss of directional stability Wheel spin under acceleration Hazard in inclement weather Cost & extent of repairs Many cases require complete drivetrain replacement costing $13k-$19k. Prevalence 137k+ vehicles, NHTSA DP26 001 currently open.
While making a right turn from a stop the car made a bang sound followed by grinding upon acceleration. I took my 23 TLX type S to a local Dunn Tire and asked them to put it on the lift. They raised all tires off the ground, started the car, and accelerated. Only the front wheels spun. This is the exact scenario lots of consumers have reported with this model when the transfer case splines break off the shaft. The car is driving without error lights but feels different while corning. It's very concerning that the car has 41k miles on it and is well taken care of. I drive it in winter so AWD is a huge reason I choose it. I have an appointment with my local Acura dealership but its over a week away. I asked to have a tech contact me back to ensure driving it more won't case future issues but they never followed up.
2023 Acura TLX Type S engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | 10-speed automatic | AWD | 19 / 25 / 21 |
EPA ratings. Class: Compact car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2023 Acura TLX Type S a good car?
Based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2023 TLX Type S rates average: 2.0× as many complaints as a typical year of the TLX Type S at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2023 Acura TLX Type S?
The transmission & drivetrain — 7 complaints, 88% of all complaints for this model year. Next is the wheels & tires (1).
How many recalls does the 2023 Acura TLX Type S have?
There is 1 recall for the 2023 Acura TLX Type S, the most recent from January 23, 2025 (software). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.