Acura's Connecting Rod Bearing Stop Sale: A Call to Action for Owners

Introduction

In March 2021, Acura issued a stop sale order for certain model year 2019-2023 TLX, RDX, and MDX vehicles due to a potential issue with the connecting rod bearings. This issue has raised concerns among owners, prompting them to seek more information and take necessary actions to protect their vehicles.

Understanding the Stop Sale Order

The stop sale order affects vehicles equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. According to Acura, the issue involves a manufacturing defect that can lead to premature wear of the connecting rod bearings, potentially causing engine damage.

Affected Vehicles

The following models and model years are affected by the stop sale order:

• 2019-2023 Acura TLX
• 2019-2023 Acura RDX
• 2020-2023 Acura MDX

Symptoms and Risks

Vehicles with affected connecting rod bearings may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Knocking or rattling noises from the engine
• Reduced engine power
• Increased fuel consumption
• Illuminated check engine light

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to stop driving your vehicle immediately and contact your local Acura dealer. Continued driving could exacerbate the issue and lead to severe engine damage.

Dealer Response

Acura has instructed dealers to stop selling and delivering affected vehicles and to contact owners of vehicles already purchased. Dealers are currently performing inspections on affected vehicles and replacing affected engines as necessary.

Owner Responsibilities

Owners of affected vehicles are urged to contact their local Acura dealer as soon as possible to schedule an inspection and potential engine replacement. This service is being provided free of charge to owners.

Timeline and Communication

Acura is working diligently to address the issue and provide updates to owners throughout the process. The company has established a dedicated website and hotline for owners to stay informed:

• Website: https://owners.acura.com/connect/2021/engine-inspection-program
• Hotline: 1-888-305-6236

Financial Assistance

Acura is offering financial assistance to owners who have experienced engine damage due to the connecting rod bearing issue. The company is providing reimbursement for repairs and towing expenses, as well as rental car costs.

Safety and Reliability

Acura has emphasized the importance of owner safety and the reliability of its vehicles. The company has stated that it is committed to resolving the issue and restoring the confidence of its customers.

Stories from Affected Owners

Story 1

"I was driving home from work when I heard a loud knocking noise from my engine. My 2021 TLX has only 20,000 miles on it, so I was shocked," said John, an owner of an affected vehicle. "I called my local Acura dealer, and they scheduled an inspection right away. Luckily, the engine was replaced under warranty, but I'm still worried about the issue."

Story 2

"I was getting ready to take my 2023 MDX on a road trip when I noticed a rattling noise from the engine. I took it to a mechanic who told me the connecting rod bearings were worn," said Mary, another affected owner. "I was devastated. I just bought the car a few months ago. Fortunately, Acura covered the repairs, but I'm still a bit hesitant to take it on long trips."

Tips and Tricks

• Schedule an inspection at your local Acura dealer immediately if you own an affected vehicle.
• Pay attention to any unusual noises or symptoms coming from your engine.
• Contact Acura customer service for updates and assistance.
• Protect yourself financially by obtaining rental car coverage or roadside assistance.

Compare Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Free inspections and engine replacements for affected vehicles
• Financial assistance for owners who have experienced engine damage
• Commitment from Acura to address the issue and restore customer confidence

Cons:

• Stop sale order may prevent owners from selling or trading in affected vehicles
• Inspection and repairs may take time to complete
• Potential for further issues or concerns even after repairs

Call to Action

Acura's connecting rod bearing stop sale is a serious issue that requires the attention of affected owners. By following the recommendations outlined in this article, you can protect your vehicle and ensure your safety on the road.

Contact your local Acura dealer today to schedule an inspection and take the necessary steps to address the issue. Together, we can ensure the safety and reliability of our Acura vehicles.