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Acura TSX 2004-2008: Common Problems

Whether you're considering purchasing a used TSX or you already own one and are wondering about common problems, read on to find out more about any issues you may encounter during ownership.

By Kate Halse - May 4, 2016
Contributors: darowa

This article applies to the Acura TSX (2004-2008).

The TSX generally has a good reputation for reliability and longevity. While the 2004 to 2008 generation has a few issues and quirks, many owners agree that vehicles built in this time frame are generally quite solid. Some issues tend to appear right away, while others happen most frequently as the vehicle ages and accumulates miles. Here are some of the most common problems you can expect with the 2004 to 2008 Acura TSX.

Component Breakdown

Seat Squeak

Several TSX owners report hearing a seat squeak in the driver's side seat. Several also feel a bit of extra movement in the affected seat when accelerating or driving. This issue appears to be most prevalent in the 2004 to 2006 models. At least one TSX owner suggests taking the vehicle to the dealership to fix the faulty seat track.

ACURA TSX COMMON PROBLEMS SQUEAKY LEATHER
Figure 1. Squeaky leather.

Clicking Clutch

Another relatively common problem is a click in the clutch pedal during travel. One owner explains that the click is often felt when the clutch pedal is depressed, particularly when the weather is warmer. This issue may be resolved with extra lubrication of the plastics associated with the movement of the clutch pedal. However, some TSX owners need a new clutch pedal cylinder replacement.

ACURA TSX COMMON PROBLEMS SQUEAKY CLUTCH
Figure 2. Inspect your clutch pedal assembly.

Window Motor Module Failure

The window motor module failure appears to occur most often on 2005 TSX models before the 20,000 mile mark. Symptoms may include failure of the passenger's side door lock. There is not much in the way of preventative maintenance here, just have to pony up and replace it.

ACURA TSX COMMON PROBLEMS POWER WINDOW CONTRO MODULE NOT WORKING
Figure 3. The window motor module may fail.

Dash Light Failure

Some TSX owners complain about a dash light failure. The issue appears to be most common on 2004 models. Repairing this can be troublesome, as, depending on the issue, removal of the instrument cluster will be required. In more severe cases, it's an issue of the wiring and board setup powering the cluster, that can require repairs. If you're handy with the soldering iron, this is no great hardship, but if you're not, you can expect to pay a specialist about $100 to repair it.

ACURA TSX COMMON PROBLEMS DASHBOARD DASH INSTRUMENT CLUSTER LIGHTS NOT WORKING
Figure 4. Dash light failure.

Faulty A/C

This issue seems to be most common on the 2004 models, and indeed many Acura/Honda products of the period. At least one owner notes that the issue is with the A/C clutch and that the part tends to fail suddenly without prior warning. For most A/C repairs, we do recommend having a professional service it. If the issue requires depressurizing the A/C and removing or handling refrigerant, it can be a real hassle.

ACURA TSX COMMON PROBLEMS AIR CONDITIONING AC NOT WORKING
Figure 5. A/C may stop working.

Noisy Windshield Wiper

The windshield wiper on the passenger side may squeak, especially during rain. Many owners who experienced this issue simply had the windshield wiper blade replaced and the problem was resolved.

ACURA TSX COMMON PROBLEMS NOISY WIPER BLADES
Figure 6. Noisy passenger side windshield wiper.

Common Question

What are the main differences between model years?

Many TSX owners recommend purchasing a 2005 and above to avoid many of the first-year issues that were found in 2004 models. However, several owners prefer the 2006 and up models, as they have some extra features. In addition to Bluetooth, which was first offered in 2006, the 2006 and newer models have slightly more horsepower.

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