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Acura is a brand that seems to get drowned out by all the others, not falling to the top or the bottom of the list on many consumer reports.
Known for their overall look, many drivers looking at the Acura are left wondering, are Acuras reliable? They handle well, perform well, and don’t cost a fortune, three things consumers love, but is it worth it to purchase one? Let’s find out.
Are Acuras Reliable?
When looking at 32 different car brands onRepairPal, the Acura scores second place. That’s a huge score for the brand, as the rating looked at more than 345 other models. They scored an overall 4.0 out of 5.0, which not many cars of their type do. Among the main reasons why the brand scored so high was that there were little to no meaningful reports regarding repairs, and the cost of repairs was reasonably low.
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Acura Ownership Cost
When looking at the reliability of a model or brand, it’s good to look at the cost and frequency of repairs. Though Acura is known for its low-frequency repair rate, they do have a higher rate than some of the competition. For luxury cars, they do fall on the lower scale of repair costs, but because the parts of durable and well-made, they cost more to fix.
As you’ll see below, many of the issues present in Acuras are minor, so the average repair cost per year is relatively low. Large issues will cost more to repair, but luckily, they don’t come around often.
The Most Reliable Acura Models
The Integra Type-R
The Type-R hit the scene in the 80s and got its lift-off in 1997. It was the perfect mix of sport and muscle cars, giving drivers something fun to drive and easy to handle. With 195 horses under the hood, this model is known to be one of the best and continues to be a top seller for the brand.
The Acura TSX Sport
This model is part of the carmaker SUV and crossover line. It’s most known for its solid engineering, killer sound system, and 2.4L inline V6 engine. Because the Acura car was such a hit, the SUVs followed suit, catching the eye of many that needed both space and performance.
The Acura RDX
Known as the brand’s most compact SUV, the RDX quickly became a consumer favorite for more reasons than one. It’s affordable, has excellent gas mileage, and has a smaller price tag for a luxury SUV. On top of that, the model won a ton of awards back in 2016 as one of the safest and most reliable models on the market.
The Least Reliable Acuras
Are Acuras reliable? Yes, but some models don’t perform as well as others. Though the brand is solid and known for its innovative and durable design, they are still known for a few flaws, which are linked to being the least reliable of the bunch.
The Acura TL
A lagging transmission, an airbag recall, and shifting all out of whack gave this model a bad name. Among the terrible things that have been said about the model, critics have ranked it with the Buick, even saying that the Acura is much noisier.
The Acura ZDX
Among the things that Acura lovers and other consumers seemed to hate was the lack of space with the hatchback design. Among the worst comments, you’ll find about the model is that ZDX stands for “zero demand expected.” sales were significantly low even though there were no major issues with the electrical or drivetrain.
Acura TLX
This model was tainted by a recall on the transmission, which led a lot of consumers to ignore the model later altogether. The top issue was that the transmission would suddenly switch to neutral, which was very dangerous for drivers in many driving conditions.
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Common Issues of Acura Cars
Though the Acura brand scores high in many areas, there are a few where they still need to. There are common problems associated with the brand and different models. Though the Acura has a higher rating than most, they are still not without issues, a few of which include:
- Faulty check engine light– Many Acura owners have complained about their vehicles’ checking engine light that tends to illuminate even without apparent issues. There are various reasons for this, such as a loose gas cap or a faulty catalytic converter.
- Engine shudder between 35-40 mph– Reported shudders could range from a slight shimmy to violent vibrations and are commonly experienced in the MDX model. According to experts, this may be due to a failed automatic transmission torque converter.
- Issues with SRS light– According to frustrated owners, the Acura’s Airbag (SRS) warning light may illuminate for seemingly no reason. Expert technicians believe this may be because of one or more failed sensors.
- Transmission failure– While many Acura models have issues with the transmission, this problem was widely reported by 1st generation ILX and TLX models. One of the main complaints was about the 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that refuses to shift or slips.
- Excessive oil consumption– Acura models with the V6 J37 engine were reported to consume more excessive oil than usual. Acura tried to shift the blame to owners by citing poor driving performance and maintenance routines. Owners had to top off sooner or risk damaging the engine.
As you can see, most of the issues listed are not major and don’t cost much to repair. The only problem that could cost more is the transmission, which is part of why the brand extended its warranty. Still, it’s good to know the top issues before purchasing a new or used Acura.
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So, Are Acuras Reliable?
When putting all the puzzle pieces together, the Acura is reliable overall. Like all brands, a few issues pop up, though you won’t see them coming around often. On top of that, they are minor and don’t come with high repair costs, something everyone can be comfortable with when looking for a new car.
According to consumer reports, the car ranks high in most areas, knocking out the competition in several places. Still, that doesn’t mean that all models are perfect, and a few have more issues than others.
It can be a good choice if you’re in the market for an Acura. They have a low yearly repair rate, an excellent reputation regarding looks and performance, and little to no major issues noted across all models. Be sure to go with some of the most reliable models, and if you choose a less reliable model, do your research first so that you don’t have any unforeseen costs.
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FAQs
Do acuras break down a lot? ›
Reliability Factor
Acuras are very reliable, not just compared to other luxury cars but also compared to the average car. Most of this is because Acura is owned by Honda, which is known for making reliable cars.
Cost of Acura Maintenance
Acura is a luxury brand, but the cost of the vehicles don't carry the higher luxury price tag. They are also not expensive to maintain. According to YourMechanic.com, Acura ranks 11th out of 30 on a list of the most and least expensive cars to maintain.
Acuras have a reputation for being more durable than their more affordable Honda counterparts, but they cost more to repair when things go wrong. The quality of Acuras is a testament to the lasting standard of the brand, but only with proper maintenance and care.
Are acuras reliable after 100k miles? ›Any car can go over 100k with proper preventative maintenance. I have an Acura legend with over 300,000 on it when I sold it to the kid next door. He drove it for another few years and gave it to his little brother when he turned 16. Probably has over 400k on it now and is still on the road!!!!
Is Acura as good as Toyota? ›Toyota and Acura both have high-performance vehicles that have stellar performance capabilities as well as more refined vehicles that are designed for a responsive, smooth drive through town. Because Acura is a luxury brand, you can generally expect to find most sophisticated performance-based features in its models.
Is Acura a long lasting car? ›Every new Acura vehicle is backed for six years / 70,000 miles. Conversely, other luxury automakers such as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz only have a four-year / 50,000-mile powertrain warranty. That's quite the difference!
Which Acura is most reliable? ›- The Integra Type-R. The Type-R hit the scene in the 80s and got its lift-off in 1997. ...
- The Acura TSX Sport. This model is part of the carmaker SUV and crossover line. ...
- The Acura RDX. ...
- The Acura TL. ...
- The Acura ZDX. ...
- Acura TLX. ...
- Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You.
For this reason, the INFINITI vs. Acura match-up is a very close competition. INFINITI pulls ahead by offering vehicles with more power and more standard features, and the brand has slight but important advantages in new and CPO warranty coverage, as well.
Is insurance high on Acuras? ›On average, Acura car insurance combining all the models, costs $1,671 per year for a 40-year-old driver. However, there are models like Acura RDX and Acura ILX which are cheaper to insure than other models. Keep reading to learn how much your Acura model costs to insure.
What brand is comparable to Acura? ›Two luxury Japanese brands, Acura and Lexus, have developed into two worthy competitors with a unique position in the luxury automotive industry, loved by many US drivers. Both car manufacturers offer a variety of models. And both vehicles have their own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Do Acuras have Honda engines? ›
And since Acura and Honda are very closely linked, most of these technologies are used for both brands. For example, the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX share the same platform and engine (as well as the nine-speed transmission on the Pilot Touring).
Which Acura is top of the line? ›INTEGRA WINS
The 2023 Integra earns the prestigious North American Car of the Year™ award.
The Acura also has a more powerful base engine and a longer powertrain warranty than the Audi, adding to its value proposition. Muscular Engines: The base engine in the TLX is a potent 272-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder.
Does Acura have good engines? ›With praise for its power, performance and refinement, the double overhead cam 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powering the 2023 Acura Integra has received a “Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems” award from the experts at WardsAuto, an industry-leading automotive research and intelligence resource since ...
Which is better Honda or Acura? ›Acura stands out from Honda in a few key areas. Its cars generally have sportier designs and more powerful engines. Additionally, Acura has a few vehicles that Honda can't match, like the NSX luxury sports car and limited PMC Editions.
Which is better Acura or Volkswagen? ›While VW generally caters to price-conscious buyers, Acura is considered a luxury brand with vehicles that are best known for their performance and reliability. With ample technology and safety features, high-performance stats, and overall luxuriousness, the Acura lineup outshines VW in many ways.
How long do Acura transmissions last? ›Some transmissions can last just over 10,000 miles, while others will last over 200,000 miles. Generally though, regular vehicle maintenance is the number one factor effecting a transmission's lifespan, and good upkeep can help it last even longer.
What are common problems with Acura? ›- Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing. ...
- Check Engine and D4 Lights Flashing. ...
- Shudder or Vibration While Driving at Speeds Between 35 and 40 MPH. ...
- Sensor Problems May Cause SRS Light To Turn On. ...
- Loud Rattle Type Noise from Engine After Cold Start. ...
- AutomaticTransmission May Fail, May Have Extended Warranty.
Absolutely; Acura is considered a luxury brand as it features high-end features inside and out that deliver an overall experience marked by comfort, performance, and style.
Is Acura a higher end Honda? ›Acura is widely considered to be a luxury brand — the premium lineup of Honda. Their vehicles contain premium materials, advanced technology, upscale design, and high-end performance. So, if you're looking for a luxury car or SUV, you'll likely come across options from Acura.
Which is better the Acura MDX or RDX? ›
If you're looking for the differences between the Acura MDX and RDX SUVs, the Acura MDX is bigger, has more rows of seating, and boasts a bigger engine than the Acura RDX. The Acura MDX is designed for families with more than two child safety seats and drivers who need ample cargo room and towing capabilities.
What is the safest Acura? ›It's hardly surprising that the Acura RDX has earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, and Safest Luxury SUV 2022 from Motortrend. And when it does come to crash test ratings, the RDX also got the highest possible 5 stars out of 5 overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
Why do Acuras hold their value? ›Acura has a reputation for reliability and value, especially since the brand comes from the similarly reputed Honda. However, some models struggle to compete with their rivals as proven by average satisfaction ratings.
Are Acura selling above MSRP? ›According to date from Edmunds Acura has the 5th highest dealer markup on new cars in the car industry at 3.4% over asking price. That's more than double the industry average of 1.6%.
What does an Acura say about you? ›If you drive an Acura, Audi or Volvo, you're letting the world know that you're doing very well, and hope, one day, to be the boss yourself. These are decent, high-end cars that are not quite at the top end of the luxury car market, but nice enough to let the neighbors know that you got a decent bonus last quarter.
Who makes engine for Acura? ›Acura also manufactures in East Liberty, Ohio, and Anna and Russells Point. The Anna plant makes the engines and drivetrain components.
Who is Honda's biggest competitor? ›Honda competitors include Audi, Chrysler, General Motors, Nissan and Polaris Inc.. Honda ranks 1st in Product Quality Score on Comparably vs its competitors.
What is Acura known for? ›Acura is the best automaker that is well known for providing cars with top performance, safety, and luxury look. Acura vehicles are a very reputable brand from a Japanese automaker. The company's headquarters is located in Tokyo, Japan. The name Acura is derived from the Latin language.
Do Acuras require premium gas? ›If you're curious to know, “do all Acuras require premium gas?” the short answer is no. Acura engineers require only the Acura NSX is fueled with premium gasoline. For these additional Acura models, premium or higher-octane gas is recommended: Acura MDX.
What is the best budget Acura? ›The 2022 Acura ILX premium compact sedan is the cheapest new Acura and one of the most affordable luxury cars. Ownership costs are also low.
What is the average lifespan of an Acura? ›
They're designed in a way that helps them withstand the road. According to motorask.com, an Acura should last around 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. This lifespan is incredible, especially considering that Acura is a luxury brand. They're ready to take on life.
Which is more reliable Acura or Lexus? ›What Is More Reliable: Lexus or Acura? Both Acura and Lexus vehicles have excellent scores for safety and long-term reliability, just like Honda and Toyota. But the Lexus brand comes out ahead in customer reviews and our expert analysis.
What year Acura has transmission problems? ›Transmission problems and failures with all Acura TL model vehicles from 1999–2012 have widespread defects with or in the transmissions. Acura TL cars in these three years 2002, 2003 and 2004 are the worst years to own.
Do Acuras have issues? ›Transmission issues are the most common problem seen in Acura's, along with fuel pump failures, airbag recalls, driveshaft separations, and brake problems. There's no such thing as a perfect car.
Which car has the highest life expectancy? ›Among the models with the greatest potential lifespan, Toyota Sequoia topped the list, with the ability to travel nearly 300,000 miles, followed by the Land Cruiser, according to a recent iSeeCars study, which analyzed more than 2 million cars over the past 20 years to see which vehicles could last the longest.
Do Acura cars hold their value? ›In contrast, brands like Volvo, Chrysler , Land Rover, and Acura tend to have a really low resale value making them money pits for car owners who frequently buy and sell their cars. Some of these vehicles will depreciate in value up to 61% in the first five years.
Which car brand has the longest life expectancy? ›The top two vehicles listed by iSeeCars are Toyota models, which both lasted nearly 300,000 miles over the past 20 years. The Toyota Sequoia reached 296,509 miles, and the Toyota Land Cruiser hit 280,236.
At what mileage does transmission fail? ›Transmission Mileage
Automatic transmissions often fail between 80,000 and 150,000 miles. Manual transmissions can fail even sooner than that, especially when routine maintenance is neglected.
The cost of a new Acura transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
Can a transmission last 300k miles? ›With proper maintenance, transmissions can last up to 300,000 miles or more. This includes changing the fluid in your transmission system and regular checkups. However, when you don't keep up with routine maintenance, your transmission might have problems at the 100,000-mile mark or even sooner.
Is Audi or Acura better? ›
The Acura also has a more powerful base engine and a longer powertrain warranty than the Audi, adding to its value proposition. Muscular Engines: The base engine in the TLX is a potent 272-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder. The base powertrain in the A4 only makes 201 horsepower.
What does driving an Acura say about you? ›If you drive an Acura, Audi or Volvo, you're letting the world know that you're doing very well, and hope, one day, to be the boss yourself. These are decent, high-end cars that are not quite at the top end of the luxury car market, but nice enough to let the neighbors know that you got a decent bonus last quarter.