Hello All, So my 2003 Acura CL 3.2 headlights won't turn on at all. I've checked all fuses and relays and done a visual inspection on the current HID bulb. Replaced with a new HID bulb and still nothing. I replaced both the ballasts and the bulbs a little over a year ago. It's not just one bulb its both and the high beams don't come on either. Has anyone had this happen before or does anyone know of any kind of fix?
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Headlights won't turn on...
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Squeaky Brakes
Hi All,
My 2014 RDX has just over 8000kms and recently I have been hearing a loud squeaking noise when backing up and then later on it is gone, anyone else have this squeaky noise too?
My 2014 RDX has just over 8000kms and recently I have been hearing a loud squeaking noise when backing up and then later on it is gone, anyone else have this squeaky noise too?
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Couple questions on locating parts
hey guys. So I am newish to this site. However I have been a WRX guy for the last 7 years or so and I know exactly where to find a source everything I need. I am looking for some guidance on a few parts.
Also I don't know if it happens a lot on here or not, but are there total car part outs on this forum? I did a quick search, but didn't find a ton.
My 2011 is white. I don't if there is multiple whites, but I believe there is only one.
I am looking for a replacement trunk, mine got dented and insurance is trying to claim it as a collison and the repair costs do not meet the deductable.
Also a rear bumper.
Also I don't know if it happens a lot on here or not, but are there total car part outs on this forum? I did a quick search, but didn't find a ton.
My 2011 is white. I don't if there is multiple whites, but I believe there is only one.
I am looking for a replacement trunk, mine got dented and insurance is trying to claim it as a collison and the repair costs do not meet the deductable.
Also a rear bumper.
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Question re rearview mirror
Just moved to a CPO 2013 TL from a 2005 RL. The new car is immaculate, but I do have a question about auto-dimming. On my RL there was a small button btw the indicator light and the sensor on the mirror itself. On the TL there is no button and I'm not sure that it is actually auto dimming. The indicator light is not lit, even at night. Is there some other control to turn on auto dimming?
Thanks.
Thanks.
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TLX v S60 v Genesis
I'm new to AcuraZine and the Acura world. I've been driving a Lexus RX300 for almost 15 years and have decided to change. Over the past several months, I have debating between the 2015 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 AWD and the 2015.5 Volvo S60 T6 Platnium Drive-E. I have test driven both cars 3X including an extended 2+ drive of each without the presence of a sales person.
Coming from the RX after all these years, I think anything will handle better and be more fun to drive. Just having the ability to corner without braking is a great feeling!
Anyway, I am interested to hear from those who have driven and/or compared the S60 to the TLX SH-AWD.
My thoughts on the S60...
Likes: accelerates quickly, corners nice with little body roll, easy to manuever, sporty looks
Dislikes: noisier in the cabin than expected, rougher ride than expected (18" wheels on the T6
My thoughts on the Genesis...
Likes: love the technology package, large LCD, extremely quiet, smooth, classy
Dislikes: feels large when driving
I found a thread comparing the Genesis and the TLX, but haven't found anything regarding the S60, so would interested to hear your thoughts if you've compared the two vehicles.
Thank you.
Coming from the RX after all these years, I think anything will handle better and be more fun to drive. Just having the ability to corner without braking is a great feeling!
Anyway, I am interested to hear from those who have driven and/or compared the S60 to the TLX SH-AWD.
My thoughts on the S60...
Likes: accelerates quickly, corners nice with little body roll, easy to manuever, sporty looks
Dislikes: noisier in the cabin than expected, rougher ride than expected (18" wheels on the T6
My thoughts on the Genesis...
Likes: love the technology package, large LCD, extremely quiet, smooth, classy
Dislikes: feels large when driving
I found a thread comparing the Genesis and the TLX, but haven't found anything regarding the S60, so would interested to hear your thoughts if you've compared the two vehicles.
Thank you.
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DIY Plug & Play Light Conversion 2015 ILX help
hello I am new to this forum since i am a proud new owner of a 2015 ILX.
I know there is already a topic for this type of modification but it was filled with many different setups and different options i was having trouble figuring out which one would be best for myself.
Im new to doing any type of aftermarket changes on a car so i am LOOKING FOR THE EASIEST SETUP POSSIBLE. I don't mind spending the extra buck for something that will last or look quality.
I am currently looking for DRL at 6000k to achieve a slight blueish tint.
I have the stock OEM fog lights, i'm considering using a 5000k replacement bulb for a clear white look.
Also, are the reverse lights and license plate LED's worth the upgrade?
Notes:
-i dont use my brights much so im not worried about that
-i have no idea what resistors are so i would like to avoid that lol
-i would also like to avoid taking my bumper off
-i have no idea about brands or anything of that nature but i do like purchasing the best of the best. my cars a lease so i would like these upgrades to last about 3 years.
Please leave your recommendations with direct links. Thanks in advance for all your help!
I know there is already a topic for this type of modification but it was filled with many different setups and different options i was having trouble figuring out which one would be best for myself.
Im new to doing any type of aftermarket changes on a car so i am LOOKING FOR THE EASIEST SETUP POSSIBLE. I don't mind spending the extra buck for something that will last or look quality.
I am currently looking for DRL at 6000k to achieve a slight blueish tint.
I have the stock OEM fog lights, i'm considering using a 5000k replacement bulb for a clear white look.
Also, are the reverse lights and license plate LED's worth the upgrade?
Notes:
-i dont use my brights much so im not worried about that
-i have no idea what resistors are so i would like to avoid that lol
-i would also like to avoid taking my bumper off
-i have no idea about brands or anything of that nature but i do like purchasing the best of the best. my cars a lease so i would like these upgrades to last about 3 years.
Please leave your recommendations with direct links. Thanks in advance for all your help!
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Aftermarket Radio/Amp/Sub install question
**I did search through forums thoroughly before posting this, all i could find were amp hook-ups using the factory HU**
Hey everyone,
Now i purchased the krankitup kit, and was happy to see someone has purchased and used it already as i was skeptical on whether this kit was real or not and whether it was as good as it looks on the website.
Im going to be installing a Pioneer AVH series radio, also with a pair of Pioneer 12" subs and aftermarket amp.
My question is, do i keep the factory amp as well(located at the passenger kick panel), or bypass it and just use the aftermarket amp?
My first guess is since we are not using the factory head unit, the pioneer HU will act as an amp for the mids/highs
Any help is greatly appreciated!
Hey everyone,
Now i purchased the krankitup kit, and was happy to see someone has purchased and used it already as i was skeptical on whether this kit was real or not and whether it was as good as it looks on the website.
Im going to be installing a Pioneer AVH series radio, also with a pair of Pioneer 12" subs and aftermarket amp.
My question is, do i keep the factory amp as well(located at the passenger kick panel), or bypass it and just use the aftermarket amp?
My first guess is since we are not using the factory head unit, the pioneer HU will act as an amp for the mids/highs
Any help is greatly appreciated!
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04 to 07 3.2 swap
how's it going acurazine? I have questions concerning swaping from a 04 3.2 motor to a 07 3.2.
Can it be swapped in without changing anything else like transmission, wiring harness etc.?
Can it be swapped in without changing anything else like transmission, wiring harness etc.?
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where to buy spare tires?
so while the idea of not carrying a spare tire worried me at first it made sense if your ventures are within a certain mile range radius of your home. road trips on the other hand are something else.
can anyone point me to a good tireshop that might sell spares? tirerack finally has the TLX in their system but i've never shopped for a spare and i'm not even sure of what to look for in one but want to avoid buying the stock spare.
can anyone point me to a good tireshop that might sell spares? tirerack finally has the TLX in their system but i've never shopped for a spare and i'm not even sure of what to look for in one but want to avoid buying the stock spare.
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"Squirrelly" [sic] Handling (Globe and Mail)
Quote:
Originally Posted by Globe and Mail via "flagship"
More concerning, our test car’s tail got squirrelly while we energetically negotiated one particular back-road curve. Further exploration on a Collingwood roundabout showed it wasn’t a one-off aberration. And yes, this was on dry pavement.
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This could be anything like the DC2 ITR to the modern day Civic Si Coupe.
If you've pushed it to the limit, the car starts hunting for traction left/right, left/right, left/right until you're done with whatever it is you've done to provoke this.
I'm sort of used to this because my '00 ITR #110 ended its life as a high HP K Motor hybrid with a mechanical Torsen axle on the front end. You got used to it and expected the car to hunt left, right, left, right if you pushed it beyond what was normally logical.
But we should not drive that way on the street. It's there for an ultimate handling scenario and controlling it can be unexpected if you're not prepared for it.
What happens with the Sport Hybrid when you push it that far is very similar, but with one major exception: Since it's happening at the back end of the car, it can have an adverse effect if you're not prepared, causing an inexperienced driver to provoke wider yaw angles trying to correct something that does not need correcting, and before you know it the car will intervene aggressively, thinking that you've lost control....and maybe you are about to lose control without the car's intervention.
If you watch the video of how the car handles roads that are partially iced over, you can see a visual representation of how the rear motors power left/right, left/right until you're on solid ground.
On dry pavement, a roundabout or a hard corner isn't necessarily going to have consistent and appropriately abrasive traction across the entire section of it just because it is dry.
Moreover, if you've pushed the car to its limits it is going to lose traction somehow, on one side or the other first, and when it gets traction on the lost side it might have lost it on the side that had traction when you started this unwise maneuver.
At some point the car is going to intervene because it will think you've lost your mind and the car's on the verge of going out of control.
But it is possible to be at the limit without intervention, with the rear motors searching for traction at the tail end while at the same time trying to keep track of what you are doing with the greater power on the nose of the car. One or the other of the front wheels is probably not at full grip while you're doing this, either, and you don't have a Torsen axle on the nose the way you did in your ITR or your old six speed TL, which further exacerbates what the computer is trying to do with the rear motors.
The Sport Hybrid is in no way any kind of super car.
However, it has a hell of a lot more power than we are used to seeing in a Honda sedan, and if you don't realize that it is not a Glorified Accord then you might be in for some surprises.
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FS: TSX ILX I4 Throttle Body Spacer Black K24Z3
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Consumer Reports Take on The New TLX, not thrilling!
Poised to compete with segment heavy hitters, the Acura TLX doesn't have what it takes to play in the big leagues. While it is a good overall performer, the TLX lacks the engaging performance and panache found in other upscale sedans.
Measured against its European and Japanese rivals, the TLX's handling falls short and its ride isn't as comfortable. While the cabin is quieter than any Acura sedan to date, it is not as hushed, well finished, or luxurious as other models in this aspirational category. Some common features, like a power-adjustable steering wheel, aren't even available. And Acura's clunky dash setup is distracting and annoying, with two screens and an awkward mix of hard and virtual controls.
Like most competitors, the TLX is available with either a four- or six-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive is offered with the V6. Four-cylinder models get an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers quick, direct shifts and helps accomplish very good fuel economy at 27 mpg overall. The six-cylinder engine is a gem, with plenty of refined power, but its nine-speed automatic transmission shifts with a bump, spoiling the otherwise calm powertrain.
Where the TLX can compete is with price, stickering for several thousands of dollars less than comparable alternatives. Even base models are pretty nicely equipped, without the long and expensive option list BMW or Mercedes-Benz buyers take for granted. On the other hand, for about the same money as our tested four-cylinder TLX, you can get a loaded Ford Fusion or Buick Regal. Either one offers a more comfortable ride, sportier handling, and quieter interior.
Why buy one:
The TLX lineup starts with the basic four-cylinder version. It's well equipped, including LED headlights, moonroof, power front seats, and a rear camera. Seat upholstery is a synthetic leather.
Adding the Technology package gets you real leather, plus navigation and a fancier ELS audio system. It also adds a comprehensive suite of electronic safety gear, including blind-spot, lane-departure, and forward-collision warnings. It is disappointing that Acura doesn't offer top-level safety gear, like adaptive cruise control and autonomous braking, with the popular four-cylinder model. Those appealing features are reserved for the V6 version.
The V6 models are structured similarly as those with the four-cylinder, but they start out with larger 18-inch wheels. You can then step up to the Technology package or go with the top-trim Advance package, which is only available with the V6. Advance adds a bunch of active crash avoidance technology, with automatic braking to help avoid forward crashes and lane-departure mitigation to help keep the car on its path if it crosses lane markings. There's also adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintains a set distance behind the car ahead of you. If you need to cool down after avoiding all of those crashes, don't fear; this top trim also includes ventilated front seats.
Want all-wheel-drive? That's only available with the V6 engine and Technology or Advance trim. With all-wheel-drive, you do forgo the standard four-wheel-steering system, but that's really no great loss.
Best version/options to get: Unless you want all-wheel drive, we'd stick with the four-cylinder TLX with the Technology package. It gives you a lot of equipment for around $36,000.
Changes from the previous version: Introduced for 2015, the TLX replaces both the TSX and TL sedans in Acura's lineup. Its size and price split the difference between those two retired models, with more interior room than the TSX and smaller dimensions all around than the TL.
The TLX is quieter than either of the cars it replaces, and it has a more absorbent ride. Stacking up against its competitors, the TLX also is a better value. But not all of the changes were improvements: TLX controls are far more complex, and the TSX's available wagon body style didn't carry forward.
The Driving Experience
Handling: The TLX handles soundly, although it lacks the entertaining athleticism found with peers from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. While the taut suspension makes the TLX feel stable and controlled, turn-in response isn't particularly quick. Steering effort is neither too stiff nor too light, but it feels vague around the center.
The TLX performed well in our avoidance maneuver, recording a brisk 54.5 mph speed and instilling driver confidence. It also had plenty of grip on the road course, where it proved predictable and secure. Like most front-drive cars, the sedan tends toward understeer when pushed -- meaning the front tires lose traction first, rather than the rear rotating around when sliding.
Front-drive models have Acura's Precision All Wheel Steer (P-AWS) system. This uses electric motors to turn the rear wheels in the direction of a curve at higher speeds to quicken response. At low speeds, they turn the opposite way to help with maneuvering when parking. We really didn't notice much difference in models with or without the system, and it doesn't appear to make the TLX any better handling or easier to maneuver than competitors.
Powertrain: One of Acura's strong points has always been their powertrains, and the TLX is no exception. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder feels energetic and revs eagerly, with a decent punch at higher revs. We recorded a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.4 seconds -- about par for a four-cylinder upscale sedan.
The eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual smoothly delivers quick, direct shifts. Occasionally, when starting after a brief stop, the transmission will hesitate before putting itself in first gear. But the TLX's torque converter, an unusual component for this transmission technology, helps eliminate most of the low-speed stumbles and vibration found with other automated manuals.
We measured overall fuel economy of 27 mpg on required premium fuel.
With the V6 engine, the car is quieter and has more readily available power. However, you can feel its nine-speed automatic transmission shift with a bump. Also, the push-button shifter proves to be unintuitive to use, requiring study to select the right gear. Paddle shifters, standard with either engine, allow manual overrides, allowing for quick downshifts before passing or entering a turn.
The "IDS" button allows the driver to choose a more enthusiastic personality, with Sport or Sport Plus modes altering the steering weight and shift points. In Sport Plus, the TLX downshifts when you brake for a corner and matches engine revs for a more spirited drive.
Ride comfort: The TLX balances a firm, controlled ride with enough softness to soak up bumps. Some ride motions can be short and quick, but not enough to detract from comfort. The highway ride is especially composed -- even more so than the pricier RLX sedan.
Noise: Extensive use of sound-damping foam and sealing has resulted in a serene cabin. Road and wind noise is noticeable, although not objectionable. The four-cylinder engine has a subdued hum in steady cruising, but it has a vibration pulsing through the steering wheel at idle and sounds strained under hard acceleration. The V6 is quieter and more refined.
Braking: The TLX excels in braking performance, with very short stops on wet or dry pavement and an easy-to-modulate pedal.
Headlights: Acura makes a point of touting the attributes of their "Jewel Eye" LED headlights in much of their advertising. While we completely agree that the array of five LEDs on each side look cool and provide a bright, white light, they unfortunately don't provide much in the way of forward visibility -- which is their real job.
Inside The Cabin
Interior fit and finish: The TLX interior stands as an example of how much the lines have blurred between mainstream sedans and entry-level luxury cars. Admittedly, the TLX undercuts key competitors in price, but it shows in the interior.
On the plus side, the cabin is neatly finished. Door and dashboard tops are padded, there's decorative stitching on the doors, and everything is tightly assembled. Base models have imitation leather upholstery, but Technology and Advance versions get the real thing.
The problem is that other than some extra wood and metallic trim, the cabin doesn't really give you anything you won't get some family sedans. Maybe this is to be expected, as the TLX costs about as much as a loaded Ford Fusion or Honda Accord.
Driving position: Sitting behind the TLX's steering wheel, the car feels smaller than it really is -- the nearest windshield pillar encroaches on the driver's space. Head room and leg room are ample, but a wide center console crowds right foot room around the accelerator pedal. There's plenty of room for your left foot on its footrest; nothing intrudes into that area. Short test drivers wanted to raise the seat higher for a better view, but there is no such adjustment.
Multiple test drivers, across all-different body sizes, wanted to be able to pull the steering wheel closer to them. You'd expect a power-adjustable steering wheel in this class, but the TLX doesn't even offer one as an option. That's a bit cheap.
Visibility: Driver vision is decent. Side windows are a touch short but roof pillars aren't overly wide. Like most sedans, the high rear deck blocks some view out back.
A big plus: a rear camera is standard -- something Audi, BMW, and Mercedes can't claim in their sedans. Blind-spot monitoring comes with the Technology and Advance packages.
Seat comfort: Luxury sedans typically have excellent front seats, free of nitpicks. The TLX's seats are pretty good, but they are not to the class standard. Seat padding is firm, but long-trip comfort could be better. The bottom cushion feels a bit short, reducing thigh support, especially for taller drivers.
While power lumbar adjustment is standard, it only adjusts for pressure. There's no height adjustment -- a feature found in many luxury models that lets you really dial the support into the small of your back. Finally, you might not be able to lower the front of the seat cushion enough to level it out beneath your legs. Only V6 models have eight-way adjustments for the passenger seat. Four-cylinder versions provide just four.
Two adults easily fit in the TLX's rear seat, but leg room falls short of being generous. There's a little more room here than in a BMW 3 Series but not as much as in a Honda Accord. Tall adults might find their head rubbing against the headliner, and toe room is tight. Three can squeeze across the backseat for short trips, but they won't be happy on longer treks.
Access: Getting in and out is fairly easy. You do need to clear the tall and wide doorsills, though. A convenient access mode automatically powers the driver's seat back when it's time to get out, creating more room for exiting.
Gauges: All are brightly backlit and easy to read. An information screen between the speedometer and tachometer shows trip and fuel data as selected. It also works along with steering wheel controls for choosing among audio presets; unlike many modern cars, it doesn't let you choose among phone contacts.
A large center screen displays audio, navigation, phone, and vehicle setting information. Too far away to be a (practical) touch screen, you navigate the screen's choices with a controller knob and buttons low on the dashboard.
Controls: With two screens -- including a touch screen that pulses and beeps when you tap it -- you'd think the TLX had all of the bases covered with controls. Not quite. The touch screen is easy to reach and read, with good-sized and clear fonts. The steering wheel controls also work well. But despite those virtues, the controls fall short of being truly intuitive.
The main offense is that this busy system makes it hard to find what you want. Most cars always display presets and song information on their audio screen; by contrast, you need to properly configure both screens to see this at the same time in the Acura. Display a navigation map on the upper screen, and you'll give up either presets or song info. The presence of a "more" button on the screen says a lot -- complication lurks in all of the layers here.
The lack of a manual tuning knob is a misdemeanor given that most owners will use presets. The felony: Putting in presets often requires popping through different screens, and if you don't hold your finger on the screen just right, it rejects reassigning the preset to a new station. Also, you'd think you browsing songs stored on your phone would be feasible through the touch screen, but doing so forces you instead to use the more-complex controller knob.
Climate controls are always shown on screen. Adjusting airflow and fan speed or calling up recirculation requires more than one step, as you must first conjure the climate functions on the screen. Other basic controls work well.
Opting for the V6 version replaces the simple shift lever found in the four-cylinder with a console-mounted row of differently shaped buttons for D, R, and Park. We found it the most unintuitive set-up we've ever encountered. Frequent shifts from Drive to Reverse, as in a parking maneuver, require a lot more looking down than in any other car.
Electronic connectivity:
Phone: The initial set up is a frustrating, multi-step process. But once it's done, the system seamlessly reconnects to your phone.
All TLX's come with Siri Eyes Free, which uses the familiar iPhone-based voice-activated system to send and read text and email messages, check the weather, get stock quotes and sports scores, and help you avoid traffic snarls. Android users can engage with the infotainment center, but they won't have this level of integration.
Music: The standard audio system has 355-watts and seven speakers. You also get Aha and Pandora compatibility via smart phone, a few months of SiriusXM satellite radio, and a USB audio interface with iPod integration. A premium 490-watt, 10-speaker ELS system is optional.
Unless you're flipping through presets, the complicated controls make changing radio stations frustrating at best, dangerous at worst. With iPhones, we found it very difficult to stream Pandora when using the USB; Bluetooth is a better bet.
The "source" button on the steering wheel makes it easy to switch radio bands or jump to music on a paired device.
Voice command: We found that the system didn't react well to natural speech and that the "help" screens were too content-heavy. It also took a long time to figure out how to say a command to change an XM station -- a very common task we've performed countless times in other cars. Speaking addresses into the navigation system also took several tries before it figured out what we wanted. Plan to study up before using these features on the road.
Navigation: Opting for the Technology package gets you navigation with 3D view. The system comes with real-time traffic alerts and rerouting options, as well as Zagat restaurant reviews.
Electronic amenities: There is one USB port in the open bin up front, as well as an auxiliary input in the center console.
Power sources: There are 12-volt outlets in the front bin and in the center console. Rear-seat passengers are powerless.
Climate features: The dual-zone automatic climate control system worked well. One annoyance: You have to wait for the central control screen to wake up before you can turn on the standard seat heaters, and even that simple adjustment takes multiple button presses. Vented seats are standard on the top-shelf V6 version with the Advance package.
Cabin storage: The two-tier lidded bin in front of the shifter is a model of convenience and simplicity. Front passengers also get a roomy, padded bin between the seats. Door pockets and map sleeves behind the seats are generous.
Cup holders: Front passengers are treated to two cup holders in the center console. Those in back make due with two holders in the fold-down center armrest. Only the front doors have bottle holders.
Cargo area: The Acura's trunk can hold two large upright suitcases and two duffel bags. You can expand the trunk by folding the standard 60/40-split seatbacks, with handy releases in the trunk. Payload capacity is 850 pounds.
You can open the trunk with a push button on the dash, a button on the key fob, or by using the touch pad in the license plate cutout. Even though the trunk lid opens on space-gobbling gooseneck hinges, they descend into their own storage grooves, so no items are crushed. There are two different sized bins under the floor. The trunk is nicely finished, but there are no extra frills. A finger grab on the underside of lid helps close the trunk. You can disable the remote and exterior release through a button in the glove box, for security when using valet parking.
Spare tire: A tire sealant inflator kit is standard. A spare tire kit costs an extra $369.
Safety Notes
Safety belts: All front outboard seat belts are equipped with pretensioners and load limiters to reduce belt slack and forces in the event of a crash. Front belts have adjustable upper anchors to help provide a more comfortable and safe fit to the shoulder belts.
Air bags: In addition to the required frontal air bags, standard equipment includes combined front-seat side-impact air bags, curtain head protection air bags -- extending to protect the heads of outboard passenger in both rows -- and a driver's side knee air bag. An occupant classification system for the front passenger seat is designed to disable the front air bags if it detects that a small child is occupying that seat or if that seat is empty.
Head restraints: There are adjustable and locking head restraints in all seats. Rear outboard restraints are tall enough to provide protection, but the center rear restraint would need to be raised for adult passengers.
Crash-avoidance systems: Safety equipment depends on which trim level and optional packages you choose. The Technology package costs about $4,000 more than the base model. Add approximately $3,000 more to move up from the Technology package to the Advanced package.
The Technology package comes with forward-collision, lane-departure, blind-spot, and rear cross-traffic warnings. The Advanced package adds lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep your car within lane markings, and adaptive cruise control.
Only the lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise have assigned, easy-to-use buttons for adjusting or turning the system off. The others could only be adjusted or turned off using the multi-functional display in the middle of the gauge cluster. That's a hassle.
The forward-collision warning system displays "BRAKE" alert at the top of the information screen between the gauges. Depending on how you adjust the steering wheel, the wheel rim can block this warning. We found it often flashed in vain due to "seeing" a guardrail or hilly terrain ahead. Still, we're happy to have this added safety feature; it's often an expensive and relatively hard-to-find option in many other luxury cars.
Driving with kids: Forward-facing seats should prove secure in the outboard seats. The narrow belt spacing and cushion design in the rear center seat may allow rear-facing child restraints too much movement side-to-side. The lower-LATCH anchors are easy to reach and use. They are located in slits in the rear seat bite cushion area. There are three top-tether anchors on the rear parcel shelf. The tether straps tightness on our forward-facing seat just made it on making the seat secure.
Measured against its European and Japanese rivals, the TLX's handling falls short and its ride isn't as comfortable. While the cabin is quieter than any Acura sedan to date, it is not as hushed, well finished, or luxurious as other models in this aspirational category. Some common features, like a power-adjustable steering wheel, aren't even available. And Acura's clunky dash setup is distracting and annoying, with two screens and an awkward mix of hard and virtual controls.
Like most competitors, the TLX is available with either a four- or six-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive is offered with the V6. Four-cylinder models get an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers quick, direct shifts and helps accomplish very good fuel economy at 27 mpg overall. The six-cylinder engine is a gem, with plenty of refined power, but its nine-speed automatic transmission shifts with a bump, spoiling the otherwise calm powertrain.
Where the TLX can compete is with price, stickering for several thousands of dollars less than comparable alternatives. Even base models are pretty nicely equipped, without the long and expensive option list BMW or Mercedes-Benz buyers take for granted. On the other hand, for about the same money as our tested four-cylinder TLX, you can get a loaded Ford Fusion or Buick Regal. Either one offers a more comfortable ride, sportier handling, and quieter interior.
Why buy one:
- Inexpensive for an upscale sedan
- Lots of standard equipment
- Impressive fuel economy
- Acura has a better long-term reliability reputation than German brands
- For the price of a loaded Ford Fusion or Chevrolet Malibu, you can get a luxury brand ownership experience
- Unintuitive audio controls
- Doesn't feel a lot more special than a loaded midsized family sedan, like a Honda Accord
- Lacks some minor luxury features
- Despite Acura's hype, it's not all that exciting to drive
- Rear-seat room a bit tight
- AWD and advanced safety features require a more expensive V6 version
- Lexus ES
- Honda Accord EX-L
- Ford Fusion Titanium
- Buick Regal
- Volvo S60
The TLX lineup starts with the basic four-cylinder version. It's well equipped, including LED headlights, moonroof, power front seats, and a rear camera. Seat upholstery is a synthetic leather.
Adding the Technology package gets you real leather, plus navigation and a fancier ELS audio system. It also adds a comprehensive suite of electronic safety gear, including blind-spot, lane-departure, and forward-collision warnings. It is disappointing that Acura doesn't offer top-level safety gear, like adaptive cruise control and autonomous braking, with the popular four-cylinder model. Those appealing features are reserved for the V6 version.
The V6 models are structured similarly as those with the four-cylinder, but they start out with larger 18-inch wheels. You can then step up to the Technology package or go with the top-trim Advance package, which is only available with the V6. Advance adds a bunch of active crash avoidance technology, with automatic braking to help avoid forward crashes and lane-departure mitigation to help keep the car on its path if it crosses lane markings. There's also adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintains a set distance behind the car ahead of you. If you need to cool down after avoiding all of those crashes, don't fear; this top trim also includes ventilated front seats.
Want all-wheel-drive? That's only available with the V6 engine and Technology or Advance trim. With all-wheel-drive, you do forgo the standard four-wheel-steering system, but that's really no great loss.
Best version/options to get: Unless you want all-wheel drive, we'd stick with the four-cylinder TLX with the Technology package. It gives you a lot of equipment for around $36,000.
Changes from the previous version: Introduced for 2015, the TLX replaces both the TSX and TL sedans in Acura's lineup. Its size and price split the difference between those two retired models, with more interior room than the TSX and smaller dimensions all around than the TL.
The TLX is quieter than either of the cars it replaces, and it has a more absorbent ride. Stacking up against its competitors, the TLX also is a better value. But not all of the changes were improvements: TLX controls are far more complex, and the TSX's available wagon body style didn't carry forward.
The Driving Experience
Handling: The TLX handles soundly, although it lacks the entertaining athleticism found with peers from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. While the taut suspension makes the TLX feel stable and controlled, turn-in response isn't particularly quick. Steering effort is neither too stiff nor too light, but it feels vague around the center.
The TLX performed well in our avoidance maneuver, recording a brisk 54.5 mph speed and instilling driver confidence. It also had plenty of grip on the road course, where it proved predictable and secure. Like most front-drive cars, the sedan tends toward understeer when pushed -- meaning the front tires lose traction first, rather than the rear rotating around when sliding.
Front-drive models have Acura's Precision All Wheel Steer (P-AWS) system. This uses electric motors to turn the rear wheels in the direction of a curve at higher speeds to quicken response. At low speeds, they turn the opposite way to help with maneuvering when parking. We really didn't notice much difference in models with or without the system, and it doesn't appear to make the TLX any better handling or easier to maneuver than competitors.
Powertrain: One of Acura's strong points has always been their powertrains, and the TLX is no exception. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder feels energetic and revs eagerly, with a decent punch at higher revs. We recorded a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.4 seconds -- about par for a four-cylinder upscale sedan.
The eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual smoothly delivers quick, direct shifts. Occasionally, when starting after a brief stop, the transmission will hesitate before putting itself in first gear. But the TLX's torque converter, an unusual component for this transmission technology, helps eliminate most of the low-speed stumbles and vibration found with other automated manuals.
We measured overall fuel economy of 27 mpg on required premium fuel.
With the V6 engine, the car is quieter and has more readily available power. However, you can feel its nine-speed automatic transmission shift with a bump. Also, the push-button shifter proves to be unintuitive to use, requiring study to select the right gear. Paddle shifters, standard with either engine, allow manual overrides, allowing for quick downshifts before passing or entering a turn.
The "IDS" button allows the driver to choose a more enthusiastic personality, with Sport or Sport Plus modes altering the steering weight and shift points. In Sport Plus, the TLX downshifts when you brake for a corner and matches engine revs for a more spirited drive.
Ride comfort: The TLX balances a firm, controlled ride with enough softness to soak up bumps. Some ride motions can be short and quick, but not enough to detract from comfort. The highway ride is especially composed -- even more so than the pricier RLX sedan.
Noise: Extensive use of sound-damping foam and sealing has resulted in a serene cabin. Road and wind noise is noticeable, although not objectionable. The four-cylinder engine has a subdued hum in steady cruising, but it has a vibration pulsing through the steering wheel at idle and sounds strained under hard acceleration. The V6 is quieter and more refined.
Braking: The TLX excels in braking performance, with very short stops on wet or dry pavement and an easy-to-modulate pedal.
Headlights: Acura makes a point of touting the attributes of their "Jewel Eye" LED headlights in much of their advertising. While we completely agree that the array of five LEDs on each side look cool and provide a bright, white light, they unfortunately don't provide much in the way of forward visibility -- which is their real job.
Inside The Cabin
Interior fit and finish: The TLX interior stands as an example of how much the lines have blurred between mainstream sedans and entry-level luxury cars. Admittedly, the TLX undercuts key competitors in price, but it shows in the interior.
On the plus side, the cabin is neatly finished. Door and dashboard tops are padded, there's decorative stitching on the doors, and everything is tightly assembled. Base models have imitation leather upholstery, but Technology and Advance versions get the real thing.
The problem is that other than some extra wood and metallic trim, the cabin doesn't really give you anything you won't get some family sedans. Maybe this is to be expected, as the TLX costs about as much as a loaded Ford Fusion or Honda Accord.
Driving position: Sitting behind the TLX's steering wheel, the car feels smaller than it really is -- the nearest windshield pillar encroaches on the driver's space. Head room and leg room are ample, but a wide center console crowds right foot room around the accelerator pedal. There's plenty of room for your left foot on its footrest; nothing intrudes into that area. Short test drivers wanted to raise the seat higher for a better view, but there is no such adjustment.
Multiple test drivers, across all-different body sizes, wanted to be able to pull the steering wheel closer to them. You'd expect a power-adjustable steering wheel in this class, but the TLX doesn't even offer one as an option. That's a bit cheap.
Visibility: Driver vision is decent. Side windows are a touch short but roof pillars aren't overly wide. Like most sedans, the high rear deck blocks some view out back.
A big plus: a rear camera is standard -- something Audi, BMW, and Mercedes can't claim in their sedans. Blind-spot monitoring comes with the Technology and Advance packages.
Seat comfort: Luxury sedans typically have excellent front seats, free of nitpicks. The TLX's seats are pretty good, but they are not to the class standard. Seat padding is firm, but long-trip comfort could be better. The bottom cushion feels a bit short, reducing thigh support, especially for taller drivers.
While power lumbar adjustment is standard, it only adjusts for pressure. There's no height adjustment -- a feature found in many luxury models that lets you really dial the support into the small of your back. Finally, you might not be able to lower the front of the seat cushion enough to level it out beneath your legs. Only V6 models have eight-way adjustments for the passenger seat. Four-cylinder versions provide just four.
Two adults easily fit in the TLX's rear seat, but leg room falls short of being generous. There's a little more room here than in a BMW 3 Series but not as much as in a Honda Accord. Tall adults might find their head rubbing against the headliner, and toe room is tight. Three can squeeze across the backseat for short trips, but they won't be happy on longer treks.
Access: Getting in and out is fairly easy. You do need to clear the tall and wide doorsills, though. A convenient access mode automatically powers the driver's seat back when it's time to get out, creating more room for exiting.
Gauges: All are brightly backlit and easy to read. An information screen between the speedometer and tachometer shows trip and fuel data as selected. It also works along with steering wheel controls for choosing among audio presets; unlike many modern cars, it doesn't let you choose among phone contacts.
A large center screen displays audio, navigation, phone, and vehicle setting information. Too far away to be a (practical) touch screen, you navigate the screen's choices with a controller knob and buttons low on the dashboard.
Controls: With two screens -- including a touch screen that pulses and beeps when you tap it -- you'd think the TLX had all of the bases covered with controls. Not quite. The touch screen is easy to reach and read, with good-sized and clear fonts. The steering wheel controls also work well. But despite those virtues, the controls fall short of being truly intuitive.
The main offense is that this busy system makes it hard to find what you want. Most cars always display presets and song information on their audio screen; by contrast, you need to properly configure both screens to see this at the same time in the Acura. Display a navigation map on the upper screen, and you'll give up either presets or song info. The presence of a "more" button on the screen says a lot -- complication lurks in all of the layers here.
The lack of a manual tuning knob is a misdemeanor given that most owners will use presets. The felony: Putting in presets often requires popping through different screens, and if you don't hold your finger on the screen just right, it rejects reassigning the preset to a new station. Also, you'd think you browsing songs stored on your phone would be feasible through the touch screen, but doing so forces you instead to use the more-complex controller knob.
Climate controls are always shown on screen. Adjusting airflow and fan speed or calling up recirculation requires more than one step, as you must first conjure the climate functions on the screen. Other basic controls work well.
Opting for the V6 version replaces the simple shift lever found in the four-cylinder with a console-mounted row of differently shaped buttons for D, R, and Park. We found it the most unintuitive set-up we've ever encountered. Frequent shifts from Drive to Reverse, as in a parking maneuver, require a lot more looking down than in any other car.
Electronic connectivity:
Phone: The initial set up is a frustrating, multi-step process. But once it's done, the system seamlessly reconnects to your phone.
All TLX's come with Siri Eyes Free, which uses the familiar iPhone-based voice-activated system to send and read text and email messages, check the weather, get stock quotes and sports scores, and help you avoid traffic snarls. Android users can engage with the infotainment center, but they won't have this level of integration.
Music: The standard audio system has 355-watts and seven speakers. You also get Aha and Pandora compatibility via smart phone, a few months of SiriusXM satellite radio, and a USB audio interface with iPod integration. A premium 490-watt, 10-speaker ELS system is optional.
Unless you're flipping through presets, the complicated controls make changing radio stations frustrating at best, dangerous at worst. With iPhones, we found it very difficult to stream Pandora when using the USB; Bluetooth is a better bet.
The "source" button on the steering wheel makes it easy to switch radio bands or jump to music on a paired device.
Voice command: We found that the system didn't react well to natural speech and that the "help" screens were too content-heavy. It also took a long time to figure out how to say a command to change an XM station -- a very common task we've performed countless times in other cars. Speaking addresses into the navigation system also took several tries before it figured out what we wanted. Plan to study up before using these features on the road.
Navigation: Opting for the Technology package gets you navigation with 3D view. The system comes with real-time traffic alerts and rerouting options, as well as Zagat restaurant reviews.
Electronic amenities: There is one USB port in the open bin up front, as well as an auxiliary input in the center console.
Power sources: There are 12-volt outlets in the front bin and in the center console. Rear-seat passengers are powerless.
Climate features: The dual-zone automatic climate control system worked well. One annoyance: You have to wait for the central control screen to wake up before you can turn on the standard seat heaters, and even that simple adjustment takes multiple button presses. Vented seats are standard on the top-shelf V6 version with the Advance package.
Cabin storage: The two-tier lidded bin in front of the shifter is a model of convenience and simplicity. Front passengers also get a roomy, padded bin between the seats. Door pockets and map sleeves behind the seats are generous.
Cup holders: Front passengers are treated to two cup holders in the center console. Those in back make due with two holders in the fold-down center armrest. Only the front doors have bottle holders.
Cargo area: The Acura's trunk can hold two large upright suitcases and two duffel bags. You can expand the trunk by folding the standard 60/40-split seatbacks, with handy releases in the trunk. Payload capacity is 850 pounds.
You can open the trunk with a push button on the dash, a button on the key fob, or by using the touch pad in the license plate cutout. Even though the trunk lid opens on space-gobbling gooseneck hinges, they descend into their own storage grooves, so no items are crushed. There are two different sized bins under the floor. The trunk is nicely finished, but there are no extra frills. A finger grab on the underside of lid helps close the trunk. You can disable the remote and exterior release through a button in the glove box, for security when using valet parking.
Spare tire: A tire sealant inflator kit is standard. A spare tire kit costs an extra $369.
Safety Notes
Safety belts: All front outboard seat belts are equipped with pretensioners and load limiters to reduce belt slack and forces in the event of a crash. Front belts have adjustable upper anchors to help provide a more comfortable and safe fit to the shoulder belts.
Air bags: In addition to the required frontal air bags, standard equipment includes combined front-seat side-impact air bags, curtain head protection air bags -- extending to protect the heads of outboard passenger in both rows -- and a driver's side knee air bag. An occupant classification system for the front passenger seat is designed to disable the front air bags if it detects that a small child is occupying that seat or if that seat is empty.
Head restraints: There are adjustable and locking head restraints in all seats. Rear outboard restraints are tall enough to provide protection, but the center rear restraint would need to be raised for adult passengers.
Crash-avoidance systems: Safety equipment depends on which trim level and optional packages you choose. The Technology package costs about $4,000 more than the base model. Add approximately $3,000 more to move up from the Technology package to the Advanced package.
The Technology package comes with forward-collision, lane-departure, blind-spot, and rear cross-traffic warnings. The Advanced package adds lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep your car within lane markings, and adaptive cruise control.
Only the lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise have assigned, easy-to-use buttons for adjusting or turning the system off. The others could only be adjusted or turned off using the multi-functional display in the middle of the gauge cluster. That's a hassle.
The forward-collision warning system displays "BRAKE" alert at the top of the information screen between the gauges. Depending on how you adjust the steering wheel, the wheel rim can block this warning. We found it often flashed in vain due to "seeing" a guardrail or hilly terrain ahead. Still, we're happy to have this added safety feature; it's often an expensive and relatively hard-to-find option in many other luxury cars.
Driving with kids: Forward-facing seats should prove secure in the outboard seats. The narrow belt spacing and cushion design in the rear center seat may allow rear-facing child restraints too much movement side-to-side. The lower-LATCH anchors are easy to reach and use. They are located in slits in the rear seat bite cushion area. There are three top-tether anchors on the rear parcel shelf. The tether straps tightness on our forward-facing seat just made it on making the seat secure.
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I'm so annoyed
Here's my gripe with Acura. The interior fit and finish is great, I have no issues with anything inside besides the plastic part around the bottom of my drivers seat is separating. I have major issues with the exterior fit and finish.
1. I noticed around my rear tail lights the paint had chipped way to the bare metal because the tail lights were installed too close to the body. The dealer was great, they rectified the situation buy sending it to the body shop and having it completely repaired. The dealer is 2 hours away, so they gave me a loaner for a week.
2. After having it repaired, it wasn't repaired correctly and it happened again - same procedure except this time it hasn't happened again.
3. Now I am having an issue with my hood. On the drivers side the hood is misaligned and the hood has been rubbing against the fender and like the rear, it's now down the the bare metal and will require paint.
This is 3, 4 hour round trips to my dealer to have paint work fixed. They have been EXCELLENT can't fault them but it's time out of my day to go there, it's money out of my pocket for gas (I returned their loaner empty last time) and it's annoying to have issues on a 3rd model year vehicle (mine is a 15) when these issues should have been taken care of in the first model year (2013).
1. I noticed around my rear tail lights the paint had chipped way to the bare metal because the tail lights were installed too close to the body. The dealer was great, they rectified the situation buy sending it to the body shop and having it completely repaired. The dealer is 2 hours away, so they gave me a loaner for a week.
2. After having it repaired, it wasn't repaired correctly and it happened again - same procedure except this time it hasn't happened again.
3. Now I am having an issue with my hood. On the drivers side the hood is misaligned and the hood has been rubbing against the fender and like the rear, it's now down the the bare metal and will require paint.
This is 3, 4 hour round trips to my dealer to have paint work fixed. They have been EXCELLENT can't fault them but it's time out of my day to go there, it's money out of my pocket for gas (I returned their loaner empty last time) and it's annoying to have issues on a 3rd model year vehicle (mine is a 15) when these issues should have been taken care of in the first model year (2013).
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2015 Canadian Nav update
If you go by the Canadian version of the Nav update site, you see the heading:
2014 Red DVD Map Update v2.80.7.C
The new 2015 map update will be available by end of November.
I called last night to inquire, as I knew the US version has been out for a few months, and the coverage areas once again appear to be the same. The woman I spoke to was quite nice, but was unable to offer any advice as to any differences between the Candian and US versions. She did confirm that although the US version gets a sale price after a few months, we Canadians don't get the same courtesy.
But she also mentioned that the 2015 version is already available; she wasn't sure if the website would redirect to the 2015 version, but she could sell it by phone (it's also a red disc(s)). She gave me the part number (U4136-0075-410) and the software version (v.3.00.7.D.0) for the 2015. I noticed that the software version is the same as the US disc. Does anyone know the 2015 US part number? I can't help but feel that they are the same product, but then why the price difference (okay...that can be answered by greed) and why the delayed release?
2014 Red DVD Map Update v2.80.7.C
The new 2015 map update will be available by end of November.
I called last night to inquire, as I knew the US version has been out for a few months, and the coverage areas once again appear to be the same. The woman I spoke to was quite nice, but was unable to offer any advice as to any differences between the Candian and US versions. She did confirm that although the US version gets a sale price after a few months, we Canadians don't get the same courtesy.
But she also mentioned that the 2015 version is already available; she wasn't sure if the website would redirect to the 2015 version, but she could sell it by phone (it's also a red disc(s)). She gave me the part number (U4136-0075-410) and the software version (v.3.00.7.D.0) for the 2015. I noticed that the software version is the same as the US disc. Does anyone know the 2015 US part number? I can't help but feel that they are the same product, but then why the price difference (okay...that can be answered by greed) and why the delayed release?
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2000 TL codes- what do they mean
I have the following codes from my acura and I'm looking for some direction as to what they mean and how to fix it/ what parts do I need to order. I got this car off craigslist (yes, big mistake I know) and now its full of problems. I just got these codes read:
P0740 tc clutch sys failure
P0730 incorrect gear ratio
P0780 shift malfunction
P0118 ect sensor 1 circut high input
P0700 automatic tran axle
P0740 tc clutch sys failure
P0730 incorrect gear ratio
P0780 shift malfunction
P0118 ect sensor 1 circut high input
P0700 automatic tran axle
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2007 TL Trunk fuse location?
Anyone know where the fuse for the trunk is located? I've looked through the diagrams in the owner's manual and I don't see a fuse for the trunk release listed for the under the dash fuse panel or under the hood. Thanks for any help.
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WTB: Modded Headlights 3G TL
Looking to buy modded headlights for 3G TL preferably blacked out with clear corner lenses but show me what you got. You can send pics to (562)-266-6451 or PM me. Thanks!
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Who is still eating Thanksgiving leftovers?
:wave:
Turkey and cranberry sauce on a roll
Green bean casserole
Sweet and sour meatballs (don't ask MIL brought them)
Turkey and cranberry sauce on a roll
Green bean casserole
Sweet and sour meatballs (don't ask MIL brought them)
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Honda Just Annouinced a National Recall on Takata Airbags
Does that include us?
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FS: TSX 2G Dash trim and Door Sills OEM
TSX Door sill plates entry guards OEM
3 still have the blue protectors
$60 Shipped CONUS others pay shipping
________________________________________
TSX Dash Trim Set of 4.
All tabs intact.
some minor scratching, see pictures.
$50 Shipped CONUS others pay shipping
___________________________________________
Sill plates
![Click the image to open in full size.]()
dash trim
![Click the image to open in full size.]()
![Click the image to open in full size.]()
![Click the image to open in full size.]()
3 still have the blue protectors
$60 Shipped CONUS others pay shipping
________________________________________
TSX Dash Trim Set of 4.
All tabs intact.
some minor scratching, see pictures.
$50 Shipped CONUS others pay shipping
___________________________________________
Sill plates

dash trim



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