2018 Acura TLX Manual

The 2018 Acura TLX is a luxury sports sedan featuring advanced performance technology, premium interior amenities, and sophisticated safety systems. Available in 2.4L and 3.5L V6 engine options with front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. Key features include Jewel Eye LED headlights, AcuraWatch safety suite, dual-screen display, and precision all-wheel steering. Below are essential sections covering operation, maintenance, features, and troubleshooting.

1. Key Features 2. Vehicle Operation 3. Interior Controls 4. Performance Specifications 5. Safety Systems 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Infotainment System 8. Driving Assistance 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Key Features

Premium components: Jewel Eye LED headlights, dual-screen display, AcuraWatch safety suite, precision all-wheel steering, and available ELS Studio premium audio.

FeatureDescription
Jewel Eye LED HeadlightsAdvanced LED array for superior illumination
Dual-Screen DisplayUpper 8-inch display for navigation/audio, lower 7-inch touchscreen
AcuraWatch Safety SuiteCollision mitigation braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control
Precision All-Wheel SteeringRear wheels turn for improved handling and stability
ELS Studio Premium Audio10-speaker system with surround sound technology
Push Button StartKeyless ignition system
Dual-Zone Climate ControlIndependent temperature settings for driver and passenger
Power MoonroofOne-touch open/close with tilt feature
Heated Front SeatsThree-level heating controls
Smart Entry SystemKeyless entry and trunk access

Vehicle Operation

Basic vehicle operation procedures and controls.

  1. Starting the vehicle: Press brake pedal, then push ENGINE START/STOP button.
  2. Transmission operation: Use gear selector for Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Sport modes.
  3. Parking brake: Electronic parking brake engages automatically in Park or manually via switch.
  4. Fuel door release: Located on driver's door panel; press to open fuel door.
  5. Trunk release: Use key fob, interior button, or exterior release handle.

WARNING! Always engage parking brake on inclines. Never leave vehicle running unattended.

Interior Controls

Dashboard and console control layout and functions.

  1. Steering wheel controls: Audio, phone, cruise control, and information display.
  2. Climate control: Dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear vents.
  3. Audio system: AM/FM/XM radio, Bluetooth audio, USB connectivity, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  4. Driver information: Multi-information display showing fuel economy, trip data, vehicle status.
  5. Seat adjustments: 10-way power driver seat with lumbar support; 8-way power passenger seat.

CAUTION! Adjust seats and mirrors before driving. Avoid distractions while operating controls.

Performance Specifications

Safety Systems

AcuraWatch suite and additional safety features.

Active Safety: Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow.

Passive Safety: Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, 8 airbags including front, side, and knee airbags.

Driver Assistance: Multi-angle rearview camera, blind spot information, rear cross traffic monitor, parking sensors.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals and procedures.

  1. Oil change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil
  2. Tire rotation: Every 7,500 miles for even wear
  3. Brake fluid: Replace every 3 years regardless of mileage
  4. Engine air filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
  5. Cabin air filter: Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles
  6. Transmission fluid: Replace every 60,000 miles for V6 models
  7. Spark plugs: Replace every 105,000 miles for V6 models

Tip: Maintenance Minder system will indicate service needs based on driving conditions.

Infotainment System

AcuraLink system with dual-screen interface.

  1. Navigation: Real-time traffic, 3D landmarks, voice recognition
  2. Audio sources: AM/FM/SiriusXM, Bluetooth, USB, HD Radio
  3. Smartphone integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  4. Voice commands: Use steering wheel button for hands-free operation
  5. System settings: Personalize display, audio, and connectivity options
  6. AcuraLink: Remote engine start, security alerts, concierge services

WARNING! Program navigation and audio settings before driving. Use voice commands when possible.

Driving Assistance

Advanced driver assistance systems operation.

Adaptive Cruise Control: Set speed and following distance; system maintains set speed and adjusts to traffic ahead.

Lane Keeping Assist: Monitors lane markings and provides steering assistance if drifting detected.

Collision Mitigation: Warns of potential collisions and can apply brakes if driver doesn't respond.

Care & Maintenance

Exterior and interior care recommendations.

Exterior: Wash regularly with automotive soap; wax every 3-6 months; clean wheels with pH-balanced cleaner.

Interior: Vacuum regularly; clean leather with mild soap and water; protect dashboard from direct sunlight.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on interior surfaces. Avoid high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage: 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty; 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty; 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty. Acura Total Luxury Care provides roadside assistance and concierge services. For warranty claims, contact authorized Acura dealership.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery/key fobCheck battery; use key fob to start; jump start if needed
Warning lights onSystem malfunctionsCheck owner's manual; visit dealer for diagnosis
Poor fuel economyDriving habits/maintenanceCheck tire pressure; replace air filter; avoid aggressive driving
Infotainment issuesSoftware/connectionRestart system; check smartphone connections; update software
Unusual noisesWear and tearIdentify source; check for loose components; schedule service

Reset: Disconnect battery for 15 minutes to reset electronic systems.

Service: Contact Acura Client Relations at 1-800-382-2238 or visit acura.com

2018 Acura TLX Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025