Acura TL Has Rough Idle

Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your Acura TL and How to Resolve Them for a Smoother Ride

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Acura TL has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Acura TL has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in an Acura TL

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Acura TL, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach that begins with the most accessible components. Start by inspecting for vacuum leaks, as these can significantly disrupt engine performance. A visual check of hoses and connections can often reveal any obvious issues. Next, examine the spark plugs; worn or fouled plugs can lead to misfires and an unstable idle. If the spark plugs appear to be in good condition, move on to the ignition coil, as a malfunction here can also contribute to rough idling. Following these checks, assess the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and throttle body, as they are critical for maintaining proper air-fuel mixture and engine responsiveness. Additionally, inspect the idle air control valve, which regulates engine idle speed; a faulty valve can cause erratic idling. If these components check out, consider testing the engine's compression, as low compression can indicate deeper mechanical issues. Lastly, don't overlook the importance of cleaning the EGR ports and checking for OBD trouble codes, which can provide insights into any underlying problems. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the causes of a rough idle, ensuring your Acura TL runs smoothly.

What Are the Common Causes of Rough Idle in an Acura TL?

When experiencing a rough idle in your Acura TL, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture necessary for smooth engine operation. Inspecting the accordion hose connecting the air filter box to the intake for any tears can help identify this issue. Additionally, a dirty throttle body and mass airflow (MAF) sensor can significantly impact engine performance; regular cleaning of these components is crucial. Spark plug condition is another vital factor; worn or faulty spark plugs can lead to misfires, contributing to a rough idle. It's also advisable to check fuel pressure, as inadequate fuel delivery can cause the engine to struggle at idle. Conducting a compression test can reveal if low compression levels are affecting engine performance. Lastly, the idle air control valve should be examined, as a malfunctioning valve can lead to erratic idling and even engine shut-offs. By addressing these common issues, you can enhance the overall performance and reliability of your Acura TL.

How to Address Rough Idle Issues in an Acura TL?

When experiencing rough idle issues in your Acura TL, it is crucial to act swiftly to prevent further complications that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring symptoms such as uneven engine vibrations or stalling can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage or decreased fuel efficiency. For instance, failing to check for vacuum leaks can result in poor air-fuel mixture, which not only affects idle quality but can also strain the engine over time. Similarly, worn spark plugs can cause misfires, leading to increased emissions and potential damage to the catalytic converter. Additionally, neglecting to clean the throttle body and Mass Airflow Sensor can exacerbate performance issues, making it harder for the engine to maintain a stable idle. Testing fuel pressure and engine compression is equally important, as low levels can indicate underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, may lead to costly repairs. By taking proactive steps to diagnose and resolve these rough idle symptoms, you can ensure your Acura TL runs smoothly and reliably, safeguarding both your investment and your safety on the road.

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