2011 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2011 Acura TL has 5 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6 ($100-$4,500 repair) and Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall ($0-$0 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2009-2014 Acura TL 3.7L V6 J37, the 3.7L J37 V6 used in many TL SH-AWD models has a documented pattern of excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil level warnings, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Acura/Honda issued warranty extensions and service information for affected V6 engines in this family due to piston ring-related oil consumption. Owners often notice the engine using significant oil between changes, and if ignored, the condition can progress to rough running and catalyst damage risk.
Monitor oil level closely and document consumption over a measured interval. Diagnosis typically includes checking for external leaks, inspecting plugs for oil fouling, and performing the manufacturer oil consumption test procedure. Repairs may involve updated pistons/rings under prior warranty programs or ongoing oil top-offs if consumption is mild and the vehicle is outside assistance coverage.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, these TL model years were included in the major Takata airbag inflator recalls affecting many Honda and Acura vehicles. In a deployment, the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a severe injury or death risk. This is one of the most serious documented safety issues for the generation and remains relevant if recall work was never completed.
Verify recall completion by VIN through Acura or NHTSA. If open, the fix is replacement of the affected inflator or airbag module at no charge through an Acura dealer. Owners should not delay recall service, especially in high-humidity regions where inflator degradation risk was emphasized.
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On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, tL SH-AWD models are known for rear differential noise, typically a whining, moaning, or groaning sound during low-speed turns or steady cruising. Owners and Acura service literature commonly tie this to differential fluid deterioration or contamination, and in some cases to internal wear if the condition is ignored. The issue is specific to SH-AWD-equipped cars and often improves temporarily or permanently after fluid service with the correct Acura fluid.
Confirm the noise source with a road test, checking whether it changes during turns or under light throttle. Drain and refill the rear differential with the specified Acura fluid, sometimes with multiple fluid changes if the fluid is badly degraded. If noise persists, inspect for internal differential wear, axle issues, or bearing damage.
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On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, a well-documented problem on 4th-generation TL models is failure of the HandsFreeLink (HFL) Bluetooth module, which can stay awake after shutdown and slowly drain the battery. Owners commonly report dead batteries after the car sits overnight or for a few days, along with inoperative Bluetooth or intermittent audio/phone behavior. Acura forums and owner reports repeatedly identify unplugging the HFL module as a quick confirmation step because battery drain often stops immediately.
Diagnose with a parasitic draw test after the vehicle goes to sleep; excessive draw that disappears when the HFL module is disconnected strongly points to the module. The permanent fix is replacement of the HFL unit or leaving it disconnected if Bluetooth functionality is not needed. Battery condition should also be tested because repeated deep discharges often damage the battery.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2009-2014 Acura TL, many TL owners report front brake judder, steering wheel shake, and pulsation under moderate braking, often traced to uneven rotor deposits or rotor distortion. The heavier curb weight of the TL, combined with driving style and pad/rotor material, appears to make the front brakes prone to repeat issues. Complaints and forum reports show some owners needing multiple resurfacing or replacement jobs over the life of the car.
Inspect rotor thickness variation, pad condition, caliper slide movement, and wheel torque. Replace or machine rotors if within spec, install quality pads, and service caliper hardware to prevent uneven pad contact. Proper wheel lug torque and a careful pad bedding procedure help reduce recurrence.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013 Acura ILX, 2015 RDX, 2005-2010 and 2012 RL, 2009-2014 TL, 2010 and 2012 ZDX, 2007-2011 CR-V, 2011-2013 and 2015 CR-Z, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013 Fit EV, 2010-2011 and 2013 Insight and 2007-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag inflators assembled as a recall remedy part or replacement service part, that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2011-2011 Acura TL has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6, Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall, SH-AWD Rear Differential Whine or Groan from Fluid Breakdown. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2011-2011 Acura TL has 5 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6 and Takata Front Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Acura TL issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Oil Consumption and Fouled Spark Plugs on 3.7L V6, typically costs $100-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The 3.7L J37 V6 used in many TL SH-AWD models has a documented pattern of excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil level warnings, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Acura/Honda issued warranty extensions and service information for affected V6 engines in this famil… Repairs typically run $100-$4,500. Severity: high.
These TL model years were included in the major Takata airbag inflator recalls affecting many Honda and Acura vehicles. In a deployment, the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, creating a severe injury or death risk. This is one of the most serious docum… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
TL SH-AWD models are known for rear differential noise, typically a whining, moaning, or groaning sound during low-speed turns or steady cruising. Owners and Acura service literature commonly tie this to differential fluid deterioration or contamination, and in some cases to inte… Repairs typically run $120-$1,800. Severity: medium.
A well-documented problem on 4th-generation TL models is failure of the HandsFreeLink (HFL) Bluetooth module, which can stay awake after shutdown and slowly drain the battery. Owners commonly report dead batteries after the car sits overnight or for a few days, along with inopera… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
Many TL owners report front brake judder, steering wheel shake, and pulsation under moderate braking, often traced to uneven rotor deposits or rotor distortion. The heavier curb weight of the TL, combined with driving style and pad/rotor material, appears to make the front brakes… Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
