NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 32 owner complaints for the 2021 Acura TLX Type S. Most complaints involve power train (29) and engine (4). The EPA rates it 21 mpg combined.
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.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“While accelerating from a stop, I heard a loud bang from the drivetrain area and initially believed another vehicle had struck the rear of my car. After checking my surroundings, I realized there had been no collision. Immediately after the incident, the vehicle lost power delivery to the rear wheels. The vehicle is designed as an all-wheel-drive performance sedan, and the sudden loss of rear-wheel power significantly changed the way the vehicle handled. The vehicle became effectively front-wheel drive without warning, causing all engine power to be directed through the front wheels. This resulted in reduced traction, altered handling characteristics, and increased front tire wear. No warning lights, messages, or indicators appeared on the dashboard before or at the time of the failure. There were no symptoms that alerted me that a drivetrain failure was about to occur. The vehicle was inspected by an Acura dealership, and Acura confirmed failure of the transfer case and transmission components associated with the all-wheel-drive system. The transfer case and transmission are currently being replaced under the manufacturer's drivetrain warranty. I believe this…”
“My 2021 TLX Type S front wheels started to spin upon acceleration at 44K miles. I immediately scheduled an appt for the dealership. Was informed I needed a new Transfer Case Unit, as the splines were shredded. With this, I also had to replace the transmission. All replaced and picked up today 12/2/2025”
“I would like to report a serious safety issue with the 2021 Acura TLX Type s. Recently in April 2024, while driving, I heard a loud pop from the vehicle, and it turned out that the transfer case had burst into the transmission. This failure has rendered the rear-wheel drive non-functional, resulting in severe oversteer. This oversteer is especially dangerous because the vehicle is now operating as front-wheel drive, which creates an unpredictable and hazardous driving experience. This issue could lead to a catastrophic transmission failure, particularly at highway speeds, posing a severe safety risk to me and other drivers. I have contacted the dealer about the problem, but they have refused to take any corrective action. I’ve also found that multiple other owners have reported similar issues with this model, highlighting a potential widespread problem with the transfer case and transmission interface. Given the safety risks associated with this failure, I urge NHTSA to investigate this defect and take appropriate action to ensure public safety.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TLX Type-S Auto (S10), 6 cyl, 3.0 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 19 | 25 | 21 | $3,800 | 420 |
| TLX Type-S Perf Tire Auto (S10), 6 cyl, 3.0 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 19 | 24 | 21 | $3,800 | 421 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Oct 28, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 32 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are power train (29), engine (4), electrical system (2). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2021 Acura TLX Type S at 21 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).