by Federal investigation into Acura all-wheel-drive system malfunctions
The US federal authorities have launched an investigation into a potential defect in the all-wheel-drive systems of certain Acura models. The problem can effectively turn the cars into front-wheel-drive vehicles, depriving the rear axle of power, and the driver may not notice it immediately.
The essence of the petition and the scale of the problem
The official investigation, initiated by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is a response to a petition filed on January 9. It contains a demand to review 48 customer complaints related to the all-wheel-drive system in the 2021-2023 Acura TLX and 2022-2023 Acura MDX models.
According to the petition, there is a failure of the connecting splines between the transmission and the transfer case. When this happens, power no longer reaches the rear axle, and the car operates only in front-wheel drive.
The petitioner claims that this leads to “a reduction in directional control of the vehicle.” It is estimated that approximately 137,329 vehicles may be affected by the problem.
Progress of the investigation and reaction of owners
NHTSA will analyze owner complaints and conduct a technical review of the problem. Such investigations are often the first step before deciding on the need for a vehicle recall, although a recall is not yet guaranteed at this stage.
Reviews on social media show that Acura TLX and MDX owners have been complaining about transfer case problems for several years. Those who have encountered the malfunction often describe a loud powertrain noise during acceleration. One simple check used by some owners is to turn off traction control and give full throttle. If only the front wheels spin, there is a high probability that the car needs a new transfer case.
This situation once again raises questions about the durability of complex technical solutions in modern cars, especially in premium segments. Transmission problems that deprive a car of key characteristics without clear warning can have consequences not only for comfort but also for safety, especially in poor road or weather conditions. For many owners, such defects also mean significant unforeseen repair costs outside the warranty period, which significantly impacts the total cost of ownership and confidence in the brand.
