2021 Acura TLX VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Acura TLX has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 79 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Acura TLX. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (38), Air Bags (6), Electrical System (6).
TLX reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Acura TLX before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 Acura TLX issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Power Train38
- Air Bags6
- Electrical System6
- Suspension5
- Forward Collision Avoidance5
- Service Brakes4
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Acura TLX
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Inspect transfer case for leaks and unusual noises
- Test AWD system functionality on a lift
- Check for unresolved airbag recalls
- Listen for brake noise at low speeds
- Verify infotainment system operation and responsiveness
- Check for steering fluid leaks near brake pedal
2021 TLX recalls (3)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 TLX. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 25V391000Jun 12, 2025
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Acura TLX, 2023-2025 Acura MDX, and 2023-2025 Honda Pilot vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin was not secured properly, which can cause the pedal to shift out of position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence: A brake pedal that shifts out of position can prevent the driver from applying the brakes as intended, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the brake pedal assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are FLX and XLY.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 24V950000Dec 19, 2024
Acura (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2023 TLX vehicles. The fuel filler neck and fuel tank may have been improperly welded, which can result in a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel tank assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is JKX.
- AIR BAGSNHTSA 24V064000Feb 1, 2024
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, October 18, 2024, and August 2025. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
2021 Acura TLX on the road
26,100 2021 Acura TLX units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Acura TLX stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Acura TLX
The 2021 Acura TLX scores a 71 out of 100, placing it just above the segment average. This indicates moderate reliability for buyers. The model's first-year status in a new generation often brings teething issues, reflected in concentrated complaints, primarily in the power train category.
With three recalls, the recall count is moderate, suggesting some room for improvement in addressing initial production concerns. Other complaint categories, such as airbags, electrical systems, service brakes, and suspension, show lower incidence, pointing to a more contained spread of issues outside the power train.
Overall, the 2021 Acura TLX presents a moderate reliability profile, with most concerns centered around the power train. Buyers should consider this when evaluating risk.
What you get in a 2021 Acura TLX report
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2021 Acura TLX — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Acura TLX reliable?
The 2021 Acura TLX scores a 71 out of 100, placing it just above the segment average. This indicates moderate reliability for buyers. The model's first-year status in a new generation often brings teething issues, reflected in concentrated complaints, primarily in the power train category.
How many recalls does the 2021 Acura TLX have?
3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Acura TLX. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Acura TLX problems?
The most-reported 2021 Acura TLX problem areas are: Power Train (38), Air Bags (6), Electrical System (6).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Acura TLX?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Acura TLX, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.