You’re considering a pre-owned 2018 Acura TLX V6 SH-AWD Tech, and during the test drive, you noticed some transmission jerking at lower speeds. This is a valid concern, especially when investing in a vehicle known for its smooth performance. Let’s delve into whether this issue with the Acura Tlx 2018 transmission should be a deal-breaker, or if it’s a minor concern that can be addressed.
During your test drive of the acura tlx 2018, you experienced jerking during gear shifts at lower speeds, which smoothed out at higher speeds. This is something that would understandably cause hesitation. The dealer suggested that this might be due to the car sitting for a while, cold weather (-12c), and a potentially weak battery. While cold weather can sometimes affect transmission performance, and a weak battery can cause various electrical quirks in modern cars, let’s explore these explanations and other possibilities related to the acura tlx 2018 transmission.
The acura tlx 2018 V6 model is equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Some owners have reported experiencing similar transmission issues, particularly a hesitation or jerking sensation at lower speeds. It’s important to note that not all owners experience this, and reports suggest it doesn’t necessarily indicate long-term transmission reliability issues.
The dealer’s explanation about the car sitting and cold weather might hold a grain of truth. Transmission fluid can become thicker in cold temperatures, potentially affecting shift smoothness initially. However, a consistently jerky transmission, even after the car has warmed up, warrants further investigation. The battery explanation is less likely to be the primary cause of transmission jerking. A weak battery is more likely to cause issues with starting, electronic systems, or potentially affect the car’s computer systems in unpredictable ways, but directly causing transmission jerking is less common.
Given that the acura tlx 2018 you’re considering is a certified pre-owned vehicle and still under warranty, this provides a significant layer of protection. If the transmission issue is a genuine problem, it should be covered under the warranty.
So, is this transmission jerking a red flag for this specific Acura TLX 2018?
It’s not necessarily a definitive red flag, but it is a yellow flag that requires further investigation before you make a purchase decision. Here’s what you should do:
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Extended Test Drive: A 10-minute test drive might not be sufficient to fully assess the issue. Request a longer test drive, ideally for at least 30 minutes, and in varied driving conditions (city streets, highway). This will allow the transmission to fully warm up and you to better evaluate the consistency of the jerking.
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Repeat the Test After Warm-up: Pay close attention to whether the jerking persists after the car has been driven for a while and the engine and transmission are at operating temperature. If the issue diminishes significantly or disappears after warm-up, it could be less concerning and potentially related to cold start conditions. However, persistent jerking even when warm is more worrisome.
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Independent Inspection: Before finalizing the purchase, consider taking the acura tlx 2018 to an independent mechanic specializing in Acura or Honda vehicles for a pre-purchase inspection. They can specifically evaluate the transmission and provide an unbiased opinion on its condition. This will cost you some money, but it’s a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
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Detailed Questioning at the Dealership: Press the dealer for more details. Ask if they have performed any transmission servicing or diagnostics on this vehicle. Inquire if they are willing to have their service department inspect the transmission specifically based on your concerns before you commit to buying. Their willingness to do this can indicate their confidence in the vehicle.
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Review Vehicle History Report: Check the vehicle history report (like Carfax or AutoCheck) for any reported transmission issues or servicing history. While not all issues are reported, it can provide additional information.
Regarding the Year and Model: The 2018-2019 Acura TLX V6 SH-AWD Tech is generally considered a good choice. The SH-AWD system is highly regarded for its handling and all-weather capability, and the V6 engine provides ample power. The “Tech” trim adds desirable features. However, like any vehicle, specific model years can have common issues. Researching common problems for the 2018 Acura TLX, particularly related to the 9-speed transmission, is advisable.
In conclusion, the transmission jerking in the acura tlx 2018 is a point of concern that needs careful examination. It’s not necessarily a reason to walk away immediately, especially with the warranty coverage, but it’s crucial to investigate further. Prioritize a thorough inspection and seek expert opinions to make an informed decision and ensure you’re getting a reliable acura tlx 2018.
