Acura TSX Has Rough Idle

Troubleshooting Causes of Rough Idle in Your Acura TSX and How to Restore Smooth Performance

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 TSX 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 TSX 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 TSX

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Acura TSX, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking for vacuum leaks, as these can significantly impact engine performance. Inspect the vacuum hoses and connections for any signs of wear or disconnection. Next, examine the spark plugs; worn or faulty plugs can lead to misfires and an unstable idle, so replace them if necessary. Following this, clean the throttle body and Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) to ensure they are functioning optimally, as dirt buildup can disrupt airflow and affect idle quality. Testing the fuel pressure is also crucial; low pressure can indicate fuel delivery issues that may cause rough idling. Additionally, inspect the ignition coil for faults, as a malfunctioning coil can lead to poor ignition and rough idle conditions. Don’t overlook the Throttle Position Sensor, which can also contribute to idle problems; refer to your repair manual for specific testing procedures. If these checks do not resolve the issue, consider resetting the ECU by pulling the fuse, which can clear any stored error codes affecting idle performance. Lastly, be cautious when adjusting the idle speed; excessive adjustments can lead to further complications. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and remedy the rough idle in your Acura TSX.

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

When dealing with a rough idle in your Acura TSX, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be causing this frustrating issue. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can significantly disrupt the air-to-fuel ratio necessary for optimal engine performance. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can hinder the ignition process, leading to misfires and an uneven idle. The ignition coil is another critical component; if it malfunctions, it can result in engine hesitation and further exacerbate rough idling. Motor mount issues may also contribute to the problem, as they can cause excessive engine movement at idle, creating vibrations that are felt throughout the vehicle. Lastly, irregularities in the air intake or problems with vacuum lines can lead to inconsistent engine performance. By identifying and addressing these common issues, you can restore your Acura TSX to a smoother, more reliable operation.

Why is My Acura TSX Idling Rough and What Should I Do?

When your Acura TSX is idling rough, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring symptoms like rough idling can lead to more severe problems, such as engine misfires or even complete engine failure, which can be costly to repair. The rough idling may stem from an imbalance in the air-to-fuel ratio, which can disrupt the combustion process and lead to inefficient engine performance. Additionally, issues with the mass airflow (MAF) or manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensors can prevent the engine from receiving the correct amount of air, exacerbating the problem. Spark plug malfunctions can also hinder ignition, resulting in rough idling and potential damage to the engine over time. Regular maintenance checks, including inspecting for leaks and testing the battery, are essential to ensure that all components are functioning correctly. By taking immediate action to diagnose and resolve these issues, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance but also safeguard against more significant repairs down the line.

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