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2020 TLX Transmission Acting Up - Rough Shifts & Limp Mode

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec

My 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec, with the 9-speed automatic, has been giving me some headaches lately. It has around 60,000 miles on it. The transmission has started shifting really roughly, especially from 2nd to 3rd gear, and sometimes it feels like it's slipping.

A couple of times, while driving on the highway, it suddenly went into what I assume is 'limp mode' – RPMs were high, and it wouldn't shift past a certain gear. Turning the car off and on usually resets it, but the problem always comes back. I don't have a check engine light on yet, so no codes to pull.

Has anyone experienced this with their TLX? What could be causing these transmission issues? Is this a known problem for this model year?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:39 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing classic symptoms of a transmission issue with your 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec. Even without a Check Engine Light (CEL), the transmission control module (TCM) often stores diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can be retrieved with a professional scan tool. The 9-speed automatic transmission in these models can be complex, and rough shifting or limp mode indicates a significant problem.

Common Causes for Transmission Issues (Rough Shifts/Limp Mode):

  1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Incorrect fluid levels or old, degraded fluid can severely impact shifting performance and cause overheating.
  2. Transmission Solenoid Issues: Solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid to engage different gears. A faulty solenoid can cause delayed, harsh, or incorrect shifts.
  3. Transmission Speed Sensors: Input or output speed sensors (e.g., P0715, P0720 related codes) provide crucial data to the TCM. If they fail, the TCM might not know the correct vehicle or transmission speed, leading to limp mode.
  4. Valve Body Problems: The valve body is the hydraulic control center of the transmission. Issues here can cause a variety of shifting problems.
  5. Software Glitches/Updates: Sometimes, transmission behavior can be improved with software updates from the dealership.
  6. Internal Transmission Wear: While less common at 60,000 miles, internal component wear can lead to slipping and rough shifts.

When to See a Shop:

Given that your vehicle is entering limp mode, it's crucial to have it inspected by an Acura dealership or a reputable transmission specialist immediately. Continuing to drive with these symptoms can cause further, more severe damage to the transmission.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Professional Diagnostic Scan: Even without a CEL, a professional scan tool can read pending or stored transmission-specific codes (P07xx series codes are common for transmission issues). These codes are vital for pinpointing the problem.
  2. Check Transmission Fluid: Have the fluid level and condition checked. Acura transmissions often require specific fluid types and precise filling procedures.
  3. Software Update Check: Inquire if there are any outstanding transmission control module (TCM) software updates for your specific model year.
  4. Visual Inspection: A technician can inspect for external leaks or wiring damage.

Do not attempt to clear codes without proper diagnosis, as this can erase valuable information needed by the technician. Early diagnosis can potentially save you from a more expensive transmission overhaul.

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