A Comprehensive Guide to the XG1 2015-20 Acura Connecting Rod Bearing Stop Sale

Introduction

In 2018, Acura issued a stop sale order for certain models of the 2015-2020 XG1 due to concerns regarding connecting rod bearing failure. This issue has been attributed to premature wear of the bearings, leading to potential engine damage. Understanding the details of this stop sale is crucial for owners of affected Acura vehicles.

Affected Models and Timeline

Acura models affected by the connecting rod bearing stop sale include:

• 2015-2020 Acura TLX (2.4L engine)
• 2015-2018 Acura ILX (2.4L engine)
• 2017-2020 Acura MDX (3.5L engine)
• 2019-2020 Acura RDX (2.0L engine)

The stop sale order was initially issued in September 2018 and remains in effect as of 2023.

Causes and Consequences of Connecting Rod Bearing Failure

• Premature Wear: The connecting rod bearings are responsible for connecting the crankshaft to the pistons. In the affected Acura models, premature wear of these bearings has been observed, leading to a lack of lubrication and increased friction.
• Engine Damage: If the connecting rod bearings fail, the connecting rod can seize, damaging the crankshaft and pistons. This can result in catastrophic engine failure.

Signs and Symptoms of Connecting Rod Bearing Failure

Owners of affected Acura vehicles should be aware of the following signs and symptoms:

• Loud knocking or rattling noise from the engine
• Decreased engine power
• Poor fuel economy
• Oil leaks

Diagnosis and Repair of Connecting Rod Bearing Failure

Diagnosing connecting rod bearing failure typically involves:

• Listening for the characteristic knocking noise using a mechanic's stethoscope
• Checking oil pressure and oil quality
• Inspecting the engine internals (requires engine disassembly)

Repairing connecting rod bearing failure usually requires:

• Replacing the connecting rod bearings
• Inspecting and repairing or replacing damaged crankshaft and pistons
• Reassembling the engine

Acura's Response to the Stop Sale

Upon issuing the stop sale order, Acura implemented the following measures:

• Notified affected owners and dealers
• Provided free inspections and repairs for affected vehicles
• Extended warranty coverage for affected components
• Offered loaner vehicles to owners during repairs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the stop sale order and continuing to operate the affected vehicle.
• Attempting to diagnose or repair the issue without qualified technical expertise.
• Using aftermarket or non-OEM components for repairs.
• Failing to follow proper maintenance procedures, such as regular oil changes and oil level checks.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

• Contact an Authorized Acura Dealer: Schedule an appointment with an authorized Acura dealer for a free inspection and repair.
• Provide Vehicle Information: Share your vehicle's VIN and model information with the dealership.
• Await Inspection and Repair: The dealership will perform an inspection and repair the vehicle as needed.
• Follow Warranty Coverage: Check if your vehicle is eligible for extended warranty coverage for affected components.
• Monitor Engine Performance: After repairs are complete, monitor the engine's performance closely for any unusual noises or symptoms.

Pros and Cons of Connecting Rod Bearing Replacement

Pros:

• Resolves the risk of engine damage due to bearing failure
• Restores engine power and performance
• Improves fuel economy
• Extends the vehicle's lifespan

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially if extensive engine damage has occurred
• May require multiple repairs if the underlying cause is not fully addressed
• Potential for warranty limitations or exclusions

FAQs

1. What is the estimated cost of connecting rod bearing replacement?
   - The cost can vary depending on the extent of the repair, but typically ranges from $2,000 to $10,000.

2. How long does it take to replace connecting rod bearings?
   - The repair process usually takes several days to complete, depending on the availability of parts and the complexity of the issue.

3. Can I drive my affected Acura before it is repaired?
   - No. Continued operation can increase the risk of engine damage and invalidate any warranty coverage.

   

4. Does the stop sale affect all model years of the Acura TLX, ILX, MDX, and RDX?
   - No. Only the specific model years mentioned in the article are affected.

5. What other vehicles may be affected by the connecting rod bearing issue?
   - Honda has also issued stop sale orders for certain 2018-2020 Accord and 2019-2020 CR-V models equipped with the same 2.4L engine found in affected Acura vehicles.

6. What should I do if I am experiencing symptoms of connecting rod bearing failure?
   - Immediately stop driving the vehicle and contact an authorized Acura dealer.

7. Does this issue affect the resale value of affected Acura vehicles?
   - The impact on resale value may vary depending on the vehicle's condition, mileage, and repair history.

8. What is Acura's recommendation for affected vehicle owners?
   - Acura strongly recommends that owners of affected vehicles contact an authorized dealer for inspection and repair as soon as possible.

Call to Action

If you own an affected Acura vehicle, do not hesitate to contact an authorized dealer for a free inspection and repair. Ignoring this issue can have severe consequences for your engine and vehicle's overall performance and safety. By taking prompt action, you can protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your Acura.

Tables

Table 1: Affected Acura Models and Model Years

Table 2: Estimated Repair Costs for Connecting Rod Bearing Replacement

Table 3: Signs and Symptoms of Connecting Rod Bearing Failure