The midsize sedan class sells like hot pancakes and so, it is easy to understand why each automaker tries to establish ascendancy in the segment. Acura’s TL builds on a similar idea. For almost a decade and a half, the Japanese vehicle has enticed buyers with its ergonomic build and comfortable cabin. Even the 2011 TL offers the same strengths and continues to uphold its pristine reliability. It scores 4-stars on the safety tests and has only 18 complaints registered to its name. Though there are three recalls, each of them deals with the failure of the airbag inflator, which has affected several brands in the market. The 2011 Acura TL price starts at $35,305 and it competes with the likes of the Buick LaCrosse, the Hyundai Genesis, and the Lexus ES 250.
2011 Acura TL User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Problems with the airbags: In the 2011 Acura TL recalls and complaints, the issues with the airbag inflators have irked buyers the most. The Japanese midsize sedan falls under the purview of the TAKATA recall, which necessitates the replacement of the driver's airbag inflator. However, the recall that deals with the issue, referenced by NHTSA ID 16V061000, fails to serve its purpose as the parts of replacement are on back order.
Mechanical Complaints
- Excessive oil consumption: Among the 2011 Acura TL common problems listed on NHTSA and unofficial forums, buyers have reported the vehicle consuming excessive amounts of oil. This can result in reduced lubrication, which can cause an engine stall.
- Engine fires: In a couple of cases, buyers of the Acura TLhave reported smoke emerging from the engine compartment. This is followed by the vehicle catching fire and getting engulfed in flames. While there are no symptoms and reasons known, the problem qualifies as a safety concern.
- Transmission issues: The 2011 Acura TL transmission problems deal with the gears slipping and hesitating to shift between gears, which causes an erratic performance. The problem is most commonly noted on the unofficial forums, while there is only listed complaint on NHTSA.
2011 Acura TL Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
27th June 2019 |
19V500000 |
Explosion of driver’s frontal airbag inflator |
Due to propellant degradation caused by exposure to humidity, the driver’s airbag inflator, installed as a replacement part, might explode upon deployment. |
Dealers will replace the frontal airbag inflator, free of cost. |
|
2. |
6th March 2019 |
19V182000 |
Ruptured driver’s frontal airbag inflator |
Due to a manufacturing error, the driver’s airbag inflator, installed as a replacement part, might explode upon deployment. |
Dealers will replace the frontal airbag inflator, free of cost. |
|
3. |
3rd February 2016 |
19V017000 |
Ruptured driver’s frontal airbag inflator |
Due to moisture intrusion, the dual-stage frontal driver airbag inflators might rupture upon deployment. |
Dealers will replace the inflator, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2011 Acura TL?
Absolutely! In the midsize sedan segment, the 2011 Acura TL is an enticing option, thanks to its jaunty engine, refined driving demeanor, and luxurious interior setup. It delivers the best bang for the buck with its affordable pricing, making it an accessible vehicle for the masses. But its mechanical performance is not the only aspect where its strength lies. Being a true Japanese offering, the Acura TL also guarantees first-grade dependability. Its complaints are restricted and even the recalls do not have a worrying impact. So, without a doubt, a new or even a used 2011 Acura TL for sale is a sensible choice.
