Acura TSX: Technical Service Bulletins

The TSB are your Acura TSX manufacture's recommended repairs. Read on to learn about the common problems with your Acura TSX.

By Bassem Girgis - April 27, 2016

This article applies to the Acura TSX (2004-2014).

TSB stands for technical service bulletins. A TSB arises when manufacturers receive enough complaints from owners regarding a certain issue with their car that an investigation is warranted. If the issue is substantiated, a TSB is issued so that dealerships can be prepared for when vehicle owners come in requesting repairs. Don't confuse TSBs with recalls; the recalls are usually a safety issue, and the manufacture is obligated to fix or replace the part free of charge. The manufacture is not obligated to fix or replace a TSB issue for free or a discounted price, however. The TSB can come in handy and save you some diagnostic time. This can also come in handy if you're in the market for a used Acura TSX, as it gives you an idea of some of the common problems this car may have. Read on to learn about the common TSBs that have been reported for the Acura TSX.

ACURA TSX TSB TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
Figure 1. Acura TSX.

Technical Service Bulletins

YearsTSBDescription
2004 Steering: Wheel & Handle Bar An issue with the vehicle alignment caused the steering wheel to be off center.
2004-2005 Suspension: Stabilizer Bar Rear sway bar links were breaking on certain cars. Links replaced with new units.
2004-2006 Engine: Cooling Some early model TSX's had an assembly error issue causing the timing chain to rattle. Engine and chain disassembly required to repair.
2004-2007 Brakes: Pedal & Linkage Some TSX models had defective brake master cylinders, causing the brake pedal to hang low and have excess slop in its travel. The master cylinder requires replacement.
2005-2007 Brakes: Speed Sensor The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) was contacting the suspension, causing a howling noise at speed. VSS assembly requires removal and refitting.
2006 Powertrain: Manual Transmission The Honda/Acura 6-speed manual transmission had issues with 2nd and 3rd gear grinding or failure to engage. A revised clutch master cylinder was released, can be backdated to all 6-speed transmissions to revise issue.
2007 Electrical: Alternator/Generator/Regulator Some models had damaged or defective control modules that required replacement.
2009-2010 Steering: Wheel & Handle Bar Popping or clicking when turning from defective suspension components.
2009-2010 Engine: Cooling System Defective variable valve.
2011 Steering: Wheels Clicking noises/burrs within angle sensor.
2011 Electrical: Software A software update was issued to revise fuel economy and emissions targets.
2013 Brakes: Hydraulic The brake booster could develop issues, causing insufficient engine vacuum, allowing the engine to shut off.
2013 Powertrain: Automatic Transmission A powertrain control module (PCM) issue found that can cause the car to shut off.

Common Questions

Does the manufacture pay for the TSBs?

No, the manufacture is only obligated to pay for the recalls. The Technical Service Bulletins are the owner's responsibility.

Who reports the TSBs?

The TSBs are reported by the owners who experience issues.

Why check for TSBs?

The TSBs can save you some money with repairs. If you experience noise or issues with your car, check the TSBs, they may point you to the problem.

What should I do if I learn there is a TSB on my car?

If the issue is serious, you may go to the dealership, go to an auto shop, or purchase the part, research the DIY, then replace it yourself.

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