2021-2025 Acura TLX Forward Camera: ADAS Errors, Calibration, and Part Number Guide

Symptoms of a Failing Acura TLX Forward Camera

When the forward-facing camera on a 2021-2025 Acura TLX fails, it typically triggers a cascade of warning messages on the Multi-Information Display (MID). The car will remain drivable, but crucial safety features will be disabled. Owners on forums frequently report seeing a variety of messages light up the dashboard.

• Dashboard Warning Lights: The most common symptom is the appearance of multiple warning messages. These can include: "Collision Mitigation Braking System Problem," "Lane Keeping Assist Problem," "Road Departure Mitigation System Problem," and "Adaptive Cruise Control Problem." An orange icon of a car with radiating lines may also appear, indicating a fault in the ADAS systems.
🎬 Watch: Common reasons for ACC and LKAS warning lights
• Disabled Safety Features: Functionally, you will notice that features like ACC, LKAS, and CMBS are no longer available to be activated. The car will operate like a conventional vehicle without these driver aids.
• Intermittent Operation: In some cases, particularly in inclement weather like snow or heavy rain, the sensors can become temporarily obstructed, leading to warning messages that may clear on their own once the obstruction is gone. However, if the warnings persist in clear conditions, it often points to a hardware or software fault.
• Blurry or Unusable Surround View: While a separate issue from the ADAS camera, some owners have reported blurry front or rear parking cameras due to moisture intrusion or lens degradation, which requires camera replacement.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of early 2026, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database do not show any recalls specifically for the failure of the forward-facing camera on the 2021-2025 Acura TLX. However, there are related items and bulletins for similar systems on other Acura models that are worth noting.

• No Direct Recalls: There are no active recalls for the camera itself. There have been recalls for the 2021-2025 TLX related to software for the fuel injection system and for brake pedal pins, but these do not directly involve the ADAS camera.
• TSB 15-027 (Older Models): While for the previous generation TLX (2015-2016), a relevant TSB was issued for the LKAS not keeping the vehicle in its lane. The cause was an improperly secured wiring harness that allowed the camera to shift. The fix involved securing the harness and recalibrating the camera. This highlights the sensitivity of the camera's alignment.
• Software Updates: In some instances, a dealership visit for a software flash has resolved a dashboard full of warning lights that appeared without a clear cause. Before replacing hardware, it's wise to ensure all vehicle software is up to date.

Buying a Used 2021-2025 Acura TLX Forward Camera

Purchasing a used forward camera can offer significant savings over a new OEM part. However, due to the complexity and safety-critical nature of this component, careful purchasing is essential.

1. Match the Part Number EXACTLY

This is the most critical step. Acura used several different camera part numbers for the 2021-2025 TLX, depending on the trim level (Base, Tech, A-Spec, Advance, Type S) and included options. Using the wrong part number will result in system incompatibility, even if the camera physically fits. Always remove your original camera and find the part number printed on its housing sticker before ordering a replacement.

2. Physical Inspection

When you receive the used camera, inspect it carefully:

• Lens: Check for any cracks, deep scratches, or signs of hazing.
• Housing: Ensure the plastic housing and mounting points are not cracked or broken.
• Connectors: Look at the electrical connector pins to ensure they are straight and free of corrosion.

3. Why Used OEM is a Smart Choice

For a complex electronic component like the ADAS camera, a used OEM part is often a better choice than a new aftermarket one. The OEM part was designed and tested specifically for your vehicle's systems, ensuring proper communication with the car's other computers. Aftermarket electronics can sometimes introduce unpredictable software conflicts.

Replacement and Calibration: Not a Full DIY Job

While the physical replacement of the camera is straightforward, the final step of calibration is not a DIY task and is absolutely mandatory for the system to function safely.

• Physical Installation (Difficulty: 2/5): The camera is located in a housing attached to the windshield, behind the rearview mirror. The process generally involves removing the plastic covers, disconnecting the electrical connector, and releasing the clips holding the camera in its bracket.
• Electronic Calibration (Difficulty: 5/5): This is a job for a dealership or a qualified auto glass/ADAS repair shop. The camera must be precisely aimed using special targets placed at specific distances and angles from the vehicle. The technician then uses a dealer-level scan tool (like the Acura i-HDS) to run the aiming procedure. 🎬 Watch: Basic ADAS operations and calibration for Honda and Acura Failure to calibrate will mean the safety systems do not work, or worse, they could activate at the wrong time, creating a serious safety hazard.
🎬 See how technicians calibrate Acura cameras to clear fault codes

Cost Comparison

Prices can vary based on location and supplier, but this provides a general estimate for the forward ADAS camera.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)