After helping 800,000 drivers across the U.S. manage repairs and maintenance, Jerry has learned that the five most common Acura issues are transmission shudder or failure, V6 oil consumption, SH-AWD rear differential chatter, power steering leaks/whine and EVAP system faults.
Most problems are manageable when caught early. Start with basic checks, confirm with a mechanic and then price the likely fix. Acura parts are widely available and preventative service often restores smoothness without major teardown expenses.
If you want current shop-quote and repair-price data matched to year, mileage, ZIP code and shop type, just download the Jerry app.
Real customers Jerry has helped
With Jerry, you can quickly see what drivers are paying right now to fix common problems with their Acuras. Below are real examples of customers we’ve helped secure top prices for when they need to take their Acura to a pro.
Model-year & trim cheat sheet (scannable)
Use the Jerry app to compare line-item quotes locally before you commit.
Symptoms, likely causes, typical fixes and costs
Pro tip: Holding onto receipts when services are completed at these intervals not only helps to keep organized, but can also add value when it’s time to sell or trade up. Fortunately, you can use the Jerry app to easily track these services.
Quick checks for the top issues above (no special tools)
Transmission shudders or flares on light throttle at 25–45 mph:
On a cold start, take a gentle drive and feel for vibration or RPM flare between shifts.
Engine uses a quart every 1,000–1,500 miles and misfires on cold start:
Check the dipstick on level ground; note oil loss measured against miles since last change.
Rear end chatters or binds on tight turns at parking speeds:
In an empty lot, do slow, full-lock circles and listen/feel for chatter.
Steering whines on cold start and fluid level drops over time:
With engine off, check the power steering reservoir for low level/bubbles in fluid and look for damp hoses.
Check Engine Light with EVAP leak code and fuel smell after fill-up: Inspect the gas cap seal and ensure it clicks tight after fueling.
EVAP codes: A loose gas cap may trigger a P0457, while P0455 or P0456 often lead to leaking hoses or a faulty purge/vent valve. A smoke test/EVAP system integrity test will help pinpoint the leak.
Maintenance that reduces risk for these issues
Simple maintenance helps prevent shudder, chatter and leaks. It’s easy to stay on top of the following repairs when you set maintenance reminders in the Jerry app:
Engine oil and filter:
Every 5,000–7,500 miles with 0W-20/5W-20 per spec; frequent changes mitigate VCM oil consumption and startup misfires.
Coolant:
Flush after 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 3–5 years; stable temps protect transmissions and timing components.
Spark plugs:
90,000–105,000 miles (iridium); reduces misfires on V6s with oil consumption tendencies.
Brake fluid:
Every 2–3 years; protects ABS/VSA hardware and maintains pedal feel, which is crucial for safe stops.
Fueling/EVAP habits:
Tighten the gas cap until it clicks; avoid topping off after pump shutoff to prevent EVAP valve damage.
Maintenance tip: Acura DCT and ZF 9-speed transmission require fluid changes every 30,000–40,000 miles. Neglecting this service often leads to a shudder recurring even after a late fluid change and software updates.
When to stop driving to avoid bigger bills
If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to keep driving, pull over and call a mechanic or tow. Jerry customers know that new warning lights, severe new noises and smells or fluids pouring out are all “stop now” signals. Here are common situations where stopping immediately is the right move:
Temperature warning light, needle in the red, steam or obvious coolant loss.
Flashing Check Engine Light with power loss, rough running or strong fuel smell.
Brake warning lights, a sinking pedal or grinding that worsens rapidly.
Oil-pressure light on, loud ticking/knocking or puddling oil under the car.
I let the car sit for a bit and then took it for a drive from a cold start. There it was, a vibration right around 35 mph at a steady throttle and going uphill. I checked the transmission fluid to find it was dark, smelled burnt and likely had never been changed.
I performed three transmission fluid drain-and-fills with test drives in between and replaced the in-line transmission fluid filter right before the final fill. By the third test drive, the shudder felt as if it was mostly gone. At the time, there was also a software update available for the car and we referred the customer to the dealership to have it updated. In the end, $600 between both service facilities alleviated the customers' concerns rather than a $4,000 repair bill. I call that a win.
What our customers are asking us
-
My oil level drops between changes—should I use a thicker oil?
-
Will an EVAP code make me fail emissions?
-
Do Acuras really need Honda/Acura-branded fluids?
-
Am I overpaying for a V6 timing belt service?
Jerel Lawrence is an experienced and certified automotive technician with a strong foundation in diagnostics, repair and technical mentorship. A graduate of NASCAR Technical Institute in 2010, Jerel began his career at national automotive repair chain locations, where he earned eight certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
From 2017 to 2022, he worked as a General Motors-certified technician at a Cadillac dealership, refining his skills in manufacturer-specific diagnostics and service procedures. Today, Jerel leads as the senior technician and mentor at a family-owned repair facility, where he helps guide the next generation of technicians while ensuring top-quality service.
In addition to hands-on work, Jerel contributes to the automotive community through writing detailed articles and answering technical questions to help vehicle owners better understand and care for their cars.
Everett Cook is an award-winning journalist and editor with more than 10 years of experience across a variety of industries. In editing for Jerry, Everett’s mission is to help readers have a better understanding of the costs of owning or leasing a car and to better understand their vehicle in terms of insurance and repairs. Prior to joining Jerry, Everett was an editor for Axios. His previous work has been featured in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Atlantic, Atlantic Re:think, The Boston Globe, USA Today, and others. He’s also been a freelance writer and editor with experience in SEO, audience building, and long-term content roadmaps. Everett is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.
