The Refreshed 2012 Acura TL

The 4th generation Acura TL got a new look. I think it looks better than the refresh, but not as good as the 3rd gen Acura TL.

he 2012 TL's refined new look includes a redesigned front bumper with improved aerodynamics, a revised grille, updated headlights and turn signals, a new fog light design and a shorter front overhang. At the rear, a new rear bumper incorporates a significantly repositioned license plate opening and smaller rear reflectors, while updated taillights and a thinner rear trunk edge trim add to a sophisticated new look.

Below is a video from VTEC.net, interviewing 2012 Acura TL Lead Designer Damon Schell. Schell explains how the look of the TL was refined. Jon Ikeda (who penned the 3rd generation 2004 TL) also weighs in briefly with a few of his comments on the TL refresh

Biggest Reason Buyers Reject Acura - Styling

"J.D. Power reports that exterior styling is the number one reason new car shoppers are rejecting the marque, followed closely by Acura's interior styling." - AutoBlog

Why am I not surprised? Acura should know they have a problem if dealers have to paint the grill to the current generation TL to make it more appealing to consumers. Instead of taking that as a sign, Acura puts the ugly grill on ALL their cars. I actually liked the MDX's old grill.

The problem with Acura's current interior styling is that it is way too "button happy." I had the hardest time locating the HVAC (fan) controls while driving a 2010 Acura TSX loaner from the dealership. It definitely felt good to be back in my 2005 Acura TSX.

Acura needs better stylists.

My New Year's Resolution for www.AboutAcura.com

First off, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

My New Year's Resolution for www.AboutAcura.com is to post more often. I not only want to post about Acura related articles, news, recalls, rumors, but also add a little bit more focus on problems & fixes, and technical service bulletins (TSBs). I noticed a large number of visits are from people who are researching an issue related to their Acura.

Feel free to share your New Year's Resolution (doesn't have to be Acura related).

Sale Date and Pricing for 2011 ZDX

The 2011 ZDX four-door sports coupe went on sale today at Acura dealerships with a manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $45,645, plus a destination and handling (D&H) charge* of $860.

All ZDX models feature as standard:

•  300 horsepower 3.7L V-6 engine with VTEC®
• Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission
• Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system
• 19x8.5-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheel

Available trim choices:

• ZDX - The ZDX features as standard equipment a hand-stitched leather interior, power-actuated and heated front seats, a dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system with automatic humidity control, rear seat vents, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity and a high powered audio system (with CD player, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio and USB audio connectivity with iPod® integration). Also standard is the panoramic glass roof, power windows, power tailgate and Xenon HID front headlights. 

•  ZDX with Technology Package - adds an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps, a full VGA display screen and an innovative multi-view rear camera. Additionally, the Technology Package includes an upgraded Acura/ELS Surround® 415-watt Premium Audio System with a built-in 15-gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system (that allows the ZDX owner to download and store up to 3,500 songs***), a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system and Keyless Access System.

• ZDX with Advance Package - In addition to the features found in the Technology Package, the Advance Package adds several premium technologies including a blind spot information system (BSI), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™), Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) active damper system, heated and ventilated front seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather seating surfaces, premium brushed tricot headliner material and a sport steering wheel.

Trim	MSRP*	EPA**
ZDX	$45,645	16/23/19
ZDX with Technology Package	$50,145	16/23/19
ZDX with Advance Package	$56,195	16/23/19

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $860.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
***Approximate capacity based on an average size of 4.2 MB per song at a 128kbps bitrate

Acura Recalls 2004-2008 TSX

Don't know how I missed this one so it might be old news to some people.

Acura today announced a recall of approximately 167,000 Acura TSX vehicles to replace a power steering hose. Affected TSX vehicles are 2004-2008 models sold in the United States with the 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine. The repair involves installing a new power steering hose, o-ring gasket and fluid-- all done at no cost to the vehicle owner.

The recall is being conducted due to the potential for premature deterioration of the exterior surface of the hose as a result of prolonged exposure to high under-hood temperatures. In the event of excessive deterioration, a crack in the hose could develop, which could allow power steering fluid to leak or spray on a hot exhaust component potentially generating smoke or a fire. Acura has only received notice of one incident resulting in a fire.

Owners of affected vehicles will be informed by mail starting at the end of May. In addition, TSX owners can go to owners.acura.com/recalls or may call (800) 382-2238 for more information.

Someone Faking To Be from AboutAcura.com

I didn't think my site would be popular enough for someone to fake that they were from www.AboutAcura.com and send out phishing emails. www.AboutAcura.com has not requested any account information from anyone, so don't enter your information anywhere. The email reads like the following and has a zip file attached (one I have not opened so I don't even know what's inside of it, you shouldn't open it either... just delete the email):

========================================

From: "aboutacura.com support"

To: dalieu@aboutacura.com

Message contains attachments

1 File (24KB) - Setup.zip

Dear Customer,

This e-mail was send by aboutacura.com to notify you that we have temporanly prevented access to your account.

We have reasons to beleive that your account may have been accessed by someone else. Please run attached file and Follow instructions

password: 12345

(C) aboutacura.com
 ========================================

A few comments:

1. Why would I ever email myself something like this? The person who is phishing is stupid because if they didn't email me this, I would never had known something like this is going on.
2. The grammar and spelling in the email is terrible, even for my standards.
3. I refer to the site as www.AboutAcura.com and not aboutacura.com (click to find out why).

Stay safe on the interweb peeps!

Acura ZDX Recall

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced a recall of approximately 1,850 Acura ZDX vehicles to inspect the dashboard surface material. On affected vehicles, the passenger side airbag of the 2010 ZDX will not deploy properly.
While no incidents have been reported, a manufacturing quality check revealed that some vehicles do not have the necessary laser-cut scoring on the underside of the dashboard surface material. Without proper scoring, the passenger side frontal airbag will not deploy properly. The dashboard inspection is a simple visual check. After dealer inspection, if a ZDX is determined to have a dashboard without the proper scoring, the dashboard will be replaced.
Owners of affected vehicles will be informed by mail later this month. In addition, ZDX owners can go to http://owners.acura.com/recalls or owners may call (800) 382-2238 for more information.

Patron Highcroft HPD ARX-01C Walk Around

David Brabham Gives Fans an In Depth Look Into the HPD ARX-01C.

New 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

The all-new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show today. The TSX Sport Wagon offers a smart solution to modern utility needs with its balanced and efficient driving performance coupled with bold styling and versatile cargo capabilities.
"The TSX Sport Wagon represents a smart choice for those seeking a vehicle with utility," said John Mendel, executive vice president, sales. "It's practical, fun to drive, luxurious and technically advanced, all while achieving an outstanding estimated highway fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon*."
The TSX Sport Wagon delivers flexible utility and generous interior space- perfect for those with a growing family or an active lifestyle. The TSX Sport Wagon boasts an innovative and highly functional rear cargo space that includes a removable side panel to accommodate wider items such as golf clubs and integrated under-floor bins for hidden storage. Along with this sizeable cargo space, the TSX Sport Wagon features a comfortable and spacious cabin with seating for up to five adults.
The TSX Sport Wagon's practical utility is cleverly masked behind crisp lines and a sleek, European-inspired exterior. Bold wheel arches frame the 17-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels, giving the Sport Wagon an aggressive stance. The chiseled, muscular body and sloping roofline emphasize its performance capabilities while making it more aerodynamic.
Powering the TSX Sport Wagon is a 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC®, inline four-cylinder engine paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission fit with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. The TSX Sport Wagon delivers brisk performance while achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg* on the highway. Drawing from its sports sedan roots, the TSX Sport Wagon features agile handling and quick off the line acceleration, allowing it to easily tackle a twisty mountain road or swiftly navigate through city streets.
To enhance the driving experience, the TSX Sport Wagon features the latest in advanced technologies including an available hard disk drive-based Acura Navigation System™ with an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™ featuring radar image mapping. For the audiophile, the TSX Sport Wagon will be available with an Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System and a hard disk drive (HDD) for media storage. Additionally, the TSX Sport Wagon is equipped with an impressive list of standard features, including a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, a premium sound system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface. Like all Acura vehicles, the TSX Sport Wagon will come with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.
The 2011 TSX Sport Wagon will be an entry luxury utility offering when it arrives at Acura dealerships in the late fall. The Sport Wagon will join the TSX lineup, which already includes the popular 4-cylinder and sporty V-6 powered sports sedans.
For media information and high-resolution photos of all Acura vehicles, please visit www.acuranews.com. For consumer information, please visit www.acura.com.
TSX Sport Wagon Specifications:
Length: 189.4 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 57.9 inches
Wheelbase: 106.5 inches
Wheel: 17x7.5- inch 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
Seating capacity: 5-passenger
*Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. You actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
Click here to watch the press release.

How Good Is Acura's SH-AWD?

Temple Of VTEC was fortunate enough to attend Acura's Winter Test Experience at in Baudette, MN. Acura demonstrated the sophistication of their SH-AWD and Vehicle Stability Assist systems relative to those offered by competitors. The Acuras included the MDX, ZDX, and TL SH-AWD 6MT. The competitors included the 2010 Audi Q7, 2010 BMW 335xi, 2010 BMW X6 3.5 xDrive, 2010 Infiniti FX35, and 2010 Lexus RX350.

The interesting part of the video starts around 1 minute 20 seconds in. All I can say is SH-AWD is pretty impressive!

Q&A From Winter 2010 Acura Style

Q: I will be traveling to an area where I may need to use snow chains on my 2008 TSX. What product does Acura recommend?

A: If road conditions require extra traction equipment, Acura recommends SCC Radial Chain CH2412T, a cable-type chain made by Security Chain Company. Always follow your vehicle Owner's Manual when selecting traction aids, because improperly installed or incorrectly sized traction devices can damage your vehicle's break lines, suspension, body and wheels.

Traction products for other Acura models can be found at www.scc-chain.com and www.qualitychaincorp.com.


Q: I'm having difficulty dialing numbers that aren't in my phone book. Can you give me a few tips on operating the Bluetooth feature on my 2007 MDX with navigation system?

A: To dial a number not stored in your Bluetooth HandsFreeLink(R) phone book, press and release the "Talk" button, wait for the beep and in a clear, natural speaking voice say, "Dial," and state the phone number. Be sure to close the windows and moonroof first, to minimize background noise.

Your 2007 MDX also has a help feature where you can review a list of voice commands: just press "Talk," wait for the beep, then say, "HandsFreeLink help." Your command can be repeated to you.

For more info and a cell phone compatibility chart, visit www.acura.com/handsfreelink.


Q: I would like to change the automatic door lock and unlock settings on my 2009 TL. Where can I find out how to do this?

A: You can find this information in a few places. The fastest and easiest is the Quick Start Guide, under Personalized Settings. Another great source is the Door Lock Settings video at myacura.com. And of course, the vehicle Owner's Manual has everything you need to know about your car.

Essentially, your TL has two memory settings. The personalized settings include door locks, seat and outside mirror positions, climate control and radio settings. Save your preferences immediately by pressing the "Memo" button on the driver's door and the number that matches your key fob -- either 1 or 2.


Have a question you'd like answered in the next Acura Style magazine? Write to acurastyle@javelincp.com

For technical questions, call Acura Client Services directly at 1-800-382-2238.

[TSB 09-041] TSX Engine Pings During Moderate to Heavy Acceleration

TSB 09-041

Apples To:2009 TSX – ALL
2010 TSX L4 – From VIN JH4CU2...AC000001 thru JH4CU2...AC009053


SYMPTOM:The engine pings during moderate to heavy acceleration.

PROBABLE CAUSE:The PCM software, combined with knock sensor sensitivity, may not adjust the ignition timing as expected.

NOTE: This condition does not cause internal engine damage. Some engine ping is a desired characteristic for optimal performance and fuel economy.

CORRECTIVE ACTION:Replace the knock sensor, then update the PGM-FI software with the HDS. If you’re working on a vehicle with A/T, also update the A/T software.

NOTE: On vehicles with A/T, you must update the A/T software to complete the repair.
Click here for more details.

Consumer Reports Recommends Acura RL For Luxury Seden Over $50k

The Cadillac CTS sedan outscored its competition Audi A6 3.0T, Acura RL, Mercedes-Benz E350 and Lincoln MKS Ecoboost in a Consumer Reports competition of luxury sedans over $50,000. However, only the Acura RL is recommended due to the CTS's reliability issues. Here's what CR had to say about the Acura RL.

The Acura RL is a pleasant and refined car, but the driving experience isn't special enough to justify its $50,000 price tag. The car is full of electronic conveniences, but the ride and backseat are not as comfortable as those found in competing vehicles. Handling is sound, but less sporty than most of its competitors. The Acura RL AWD ($50,660 MSRP as tested), is powered by a 300-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine that is smooth and slick and delivers 19 mpg overall on premium gasoline. The five-speed automatic transmission is very smooth and responsive. Braking is very good. The RL's high-quality interior has impeccable fit and finish. For a car in this class, the RL's trunk is modest.

See here for full story.

Acura To Get Hybrids

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito announced at the Detroit Auto Show that Acura will be adding a hybrid drivetrain to its models. It is unknown when and which models will be hybrids.

But in the near term, the most important approach to cut CO2 emissions is expanding the use of hybrid electric vehicles. To increase the opportunity for more customers to choose a hybrid we must be able to meet different needs with family, luxury and sporty hybrid vehicles. We will apply hybrid systems which are compact, lightweight and affordable to a wider range of products in the near future.

I wonder if it will be anything like the CR-Z hybrid they just revealed.

[TSB 08-057] HandsFreeLink (HFL) Doesn't Work

SYMPTOM
The HandsFreeLink (HFL) system doesn’t work, and the battery sometimes won’t start the vehicle.

APPLIES TO
2007-08 TL (ALL)
2008 MDX (ALL)

PROBABLE CAUSE
The HFL control unit has an internal problem, which creates a parasitic current draw of 250 mA.

CORRECTIVE ACTION
Replace the HFL control unit.

PARTS INFORMATION
HFL Control Unit:
MDX:
P/N 39770-STX-A01

TL except Type-S:
Moon Lake Gray, NH528L
P/N 39770-SEP-A12ZA
Gray, YR167L
P/N 39770-SEP-A12ZB
Light Cream Ivory, YR240L
P/N 39770-SEP-A12ZC

TL Type-S:
Graphite Black, NH167L
P/N 39770-SEP-A62ZA
Gray, NH556L
P/N 39770-SEP-A62ZB

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
In warranty: The normal warranty applies.
Failed Part: P/N 39770-SEP-A12ZA
Defect Code: 03217
Symptom Code: 09001
Skill Level: Repair Technician

Out of warranty: Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Parts and Service Manager or your Zone
Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.

For the full details, get the PDF here.

Honda HSV

So what's this Honda HSV 10GT that everyone is talking about?

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will compete in the GT500 class of the 2010 Super GT Series with its HSV-010 GT. “HSV” stand for Honda Sports Velocity and was based on the cancelled NSX's replacement. The HSV-010 GT was developed exclusively for and conforms to the 2010 GT500 Regulations. The vehicle includes a 3.4-liter V8 engine that produces over 500 bhp mated to a Ricardo gearbox and with an FR layout.

Let's take a look at it in action:



Looks like an awesome sport's car! Maybe when the time is right, Honda will release it for the general public to buy.

Honda's Official Super GT Site.

I feel like Acura is a mess now!

I feel like Acura is a mess! Whatever happened the brand that brought us the Legend, NSX, and CL? It's unbelievable that there isn't a freaking coupe in the line up anymore! Now I read on various car sites that Acura is bailing out of the Tier 1 race. WTF?!?! How can they bail out on something they were never in? Supposedly, Acura is no longer interested in V8's and rear wheel drive cars because that would be copying everyone else... Yeah, everyone else in the luxury league! Even Hyundai has a V8 and rear drive! I also read somewhere that they might bring back the RSX, what the hell?!?! Make up your mind! Acura only killed it about 4 years ago! Now they're moving towards "Green Luxury". "Green Luxury"? For some reason, I don't envision something like a Lexus LS460H or GS450H coming down the pipelines but instead something more along the lines of a glorified Civic Hybrid. I know they're an automotive company and their goal is profit, but I feel like we were all lied to. This makes me mad! I used to care about resale value, but not anymore! Give me the next hand-built, mid-engine NSX! Give me a car and brand I can brag about getting when I'm a millionaire damn it!

Keychain Giveaway Winners

The winners for our first keychain giveaway are:

Nam Pham from San Diego, CA.
Winning the digital photo keychain.

&

Jeremie Santos from San Diego, CA.
Winning the Acura keychain.

Congratulations to both! Jeff from Wholesalekeychain.com will send out the keychain ASAP.

Leave a comment when you get it and how you like it. ;)

2010 Acura ZDX starts at $45,495

The all-new 2010 ZDX four-door sports coupe is set to go on-sale at Acura dealerships on December 15 with a manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $45,495, plus a destination and handling charge* of $810, Acura announced today.

Trim	MSRP*	EPA**
ZDX	$45,495	16/23/19
ZDX with Technology Package	$49,995	16/23/19
ZDX with Advance Package	$56,045	16/23/19

Click here for more info.
*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $810.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

[Closed] Acura Keychain & Digital Photo Keychain Giveaway

www.AboutAcura.com is happy to announce our first keychain giveaway! Yay!!! 2 lucky winners will be sent keychains provided by www.wholesalekeychain.com. "Wholesale Keychains is the place where car lovers can celebrate their dream machines by taking a little piece with them wherever they go. Wholesale Keychains sell automotive keychains for all major automotive companies such as Acura, BMW, Mercedes, Nissan, Ford Mustang, Chevy Corvette, Infiniti, Dodge, Jeep, Buick, and Cadillac to name a few. Whether it is an SUV, a truck or a luxury car, they have it all."

The first keychain to be given away is an Acura keychain with "AboutAcura.com" engraved on the back, this is how it looks:
I know my Acura dealership sells a keychain like this, minus the AboutAcura.com engraving. =P


The second keychain up for grabs is a digital photo keychain. This keychain is black and does not have anything engraved on it. Here's how it looks:
What you have to do to win: All you have to do is leave a comment with your email address by December 1st. Please note that I will only use your email address to contact you if you are a winner. Winners will be announced the first week of December. You do not need to have a Blogger account to enter. Contest only opened to US residents. Two winners will be selected.

Good luck! ;)

If you see something you like to buy on wholesalekeychain.com, use promotional code: aboutacura to receive a 10% discount! =)

Fix-It Tips for a Faded or Blotchy Dashboard

Currently Applies To: ’04–08 TL

Got a vehicle with a faded or blotchy dashboard? The likely cause is the compatibilizer material in the dashboard migrating through the cover. After the material ages, proper cleaning and an application of a non-silicone-based protectant should bring it back to showroom condition. Keep in mind, though, if you clean the dashboard before all that material has migrated, you may need to do it again and reapply the non-silicone-based protectant.


To clean the dashboard, first moisten a clean shop towel with Acura Leather & Vinyl Cleaner (P/N 08700-9214A), then vigorously rub the surface until the discoloration goes away. For best results, clean the dashboard twice, wiping in different directions.

To protect the dashboard, moisten another clean shop towel with a non-silicone-based protectant and generously apply it to the surface. Do this twice, wiping in different directions to make sure you’ve covered all areas. After some extensive testing of current protectants
available in the market, Acura recommends 303 Aerospace Protectant from 303 Products, Inc. When it comes to Acura dashboards, Acura has found this product offers even better protection than what was offered before with Acura Leather & Vinyl Protectant (P/N 08700-9209A).



I actually do own and use a bottle of 303 Aerospace Protectant, it was recommended on Acurazine.com. Aerospace Protectant also leaves the dash shiny! ;)

[Source] Sept. 2009 Acura ServiceNews

Properly Set ATF Dipstick to Avoid Starter Motor Failure

Currently Applies To: ’03 and later MDX and ’04 and later TL

Did you know that if you don’t properly set the ATF dipstick, you can wind up with a starter motor failure? Sounds a bit far-fetched, but it’s true! The reason is the ATF dipstick’s location; it’s next to the starter motor.


If you don’t properly set the dipstick in its tube, ATF can spill out and soak the starter motor. That fluid will eventually work its way into the motor components, causing this sort of damage:



So, whenever you need to remove the ATF dipstick, always make sure you properly reset it by pushing it all the way back into the tube. If you don’t, you could wind up with a failed starter motor.

[Source] September 2009 Acura ServiceNews

TSX Sport Wagon to Arrive in Fall of 2010

Acura will add a TSX sport wagon to its 2011 vehicle lineup. Arriving at Acura dealerships in the Fall of 2010, the TSX sport wagon will be based on the popular TSX sports sedan, which features balanced performance, advanced technology and bold styling. Additional information on the 2011 TSX sport wagon will be announced at a later date.

It will probably look very similar to this, except for the grill:

Acura AMLS LMP1 Built From Scratch Overnight

Video of the Patrón Highcroft tream building an LMP1 car in less than 24 hours after a dramatic crash for Scott Sharp prior to Petit Le Mans.




Scott Sharp's Practice Crash for 2009 Petit Le Mans below:

2010 Acura TL Gets Manual Transmission

The availability of a 6-speed manual transmission for the 2010 TL SH-AWD® represents the first time Acura has ever paired its acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system with a manual gearbox. In addition, the new close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is approximately 110 lbs lighter than the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission to further benefit the TL's acceleration, braking and cornering.

Click here for more details.