2019-2020 Acura TLX Rear Sunshade: Fixing a Stuck or Noisy Shade
A guide to diagnosing common failures, finding a quality used replacement, and understanding the complex installation process for the power rear window sunshade.
- Replacement is a complex job requiring the removal of the rear seats and rear parcel shelf, making it a 4/5 difficulty.
- The most common failure is stripped plastic gears inside the motor, which causes a grinding noise before the unit fails completely.
- Acura sells the sunshade only as a complete assembly; the motor or fabric cannot be purchased separately.
- When buying a used assembly, carefully inspect the fabric for tears and ensure the electrical connector is undamaged.
Symptoms of a Failing Rear Sunshade
When the rear sunshade on a 2019-2020 Acura TLX begins to fail, the symptoms are usually obvious. Because the motor, arms, and fabric are all part of a single assembly, a problem with any one component often affects the entire system.
- Stuck in One Position: The most common failure is the shade getting stuck either up or down. Pressing the button results in no movement at all.
- Grinding or Clicking Noises: Loud grinding or rapid clicking sounds during operation are a strong indicator of stripped or broken plastic gears inside the motor assembly. The motor may continue to run, but it can no longer move the shade's arms.
- Jerky or Uneven Movement: If the shade stutters, moves slowly, or rises unevenly, it could point to a failing motor, binding in the mechanism's arms, or an obstruction.
- No Operation and No Sound: If pressing the switch does nothing and you don't hear the motor, the problem could be electrical. This could be a blown fuse, a faulty switch in the overhead console, or a wiring issue. Some owners have had success fixing a faulty switch by cleaning the contacts inside the overhead console.
Pro Tip: The TLX is designed to automatically lower the rear sunshade when the car is put into reverse for better visibility. If your shade goes down but won't go back up when you shift into drive, this points to a failure in the 'up' function of the motor or switch.
Buying a Used 2019-2020 TLX Rear Sunshade
Since the rear sunshade is sold as a complete assembly, buying a quality used OEM part is often the most cost-effective solution. Aftermarket options are generally not available for this specific integrated part. Here’s what to look for when buying used.
What to Inspect on a Used Unit
- Check the Fabric: Carefully inspect the entire mesh fabric for any rips, tears, stains, or fraying. Ensure it is still firmly attached to the top bar and retracts cleanly.
- Examine the Frame and Arms: The plastic and metal frame should be free of cracks or stress marks. Check the pivot points of the arms to ensure they aren't bent or damaged.
- Verify the Part Number: While the sunshade assembly should be consistent for 2018-2020 TLX models equipped with this feature, always try to match the part number from your original unit to the used one to guarantee a perfect fit and correct electrical connection.
- Ask About the Motor: If possible, ask the seller if the part was tested before being removed from the donor vehicle. Inquire if it operated smoothly and quietly. A reputable seller may have this information.
- Inspect the Electrical Connector: Ensure the wiring pigtail and connector are intact, with no cut wires or corroded pins. A damaged connector will make installation much more difficult.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Acura or the NHTSA that directly address the power rear sunshade for the 2019-2020 Acura TLX. Most issues reported by owners are related to general wear and tear of the motor's internal gears. While TSBs exist for sunroof sunshade motors on other Acura models like the RDX and MDX, these do not apply to the TLX's rear window shade.
The 2019 and 2020 TLX have been subject to other recalls, including for issues with the fuel pump and engine connecting rod bearings, but none affect the sunshade assembly.
Replacement Overview & Difficulty
Replacing the rear sunshade assembly is a labor-intensive job that requires significant interior disassembly. It is considered an advanced DIY project.
Installation Difficulty: 4 out of 5
The general steps include:
- Rear Seat Removal: The entire rear seat bottom and backrest must be removed to gain access to the trim panels.
- C-Pillar Trim Removal: The plastic trim panels on both sides of the rear window (the C-pillars) need to be carefully unclipped and removed.
- Rear Deck (Parcel Shelf) Removal: The shelf where the speakers and sunshade are mounted must be unbolted and lifted out of the car. This is often the most challenging part, requiring careful maneuvering to avoid damaging the panel or surrounding trim.
- Unbolting the Assembly: Once the parcel shelf is out, the sunshade assembly is simply bolted to the underside. Swap the old unit for the new one.
- Reassembly: The process is reversed, paying close attention to ensure all clips and bolts are properly secured.
Warning: Be extremely careful with plastic trim clips, as they can become brittle over time and break easily. Using a set of plastic trim removal tools is highly recommended to avoid scratching or damaging interior panels.
Cost to Replace a 2019-2020 TLX Rear Sunshade
The cost can vary significantly depending on whether you perform the labor yourself or use a professional shop. The part itself is not available from typical aftermarket retailers.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Assembly | $750 - $950 |
| Used OEM Assembly | $200 - $400 |
| Shop Labor | $300 - $550 (2.5-4 hours) |
| Total (New Part, Pro Install) | $1,050 - $1,500 |
| Total (Used Part, DIY) | $200 - $400 |
Prices are estimates and may vary based on location, supplier, and vehicle condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just remove the sunshade and not replace it?
Yes. If you don't want to replace the unit, you can simply perform the disassembly, remove the broken sunshade assembly from the parcel shelf, and reinstall the shelf. However, this will leave a cutout in the parcel shelf where the shade used to be.
Is the motor available separately from the rest of the assembly?
No, Acura does not sell the motor, gears, or fabric as separate components for the rear sunshade. The entire assembly must be purchased as a single unit, which is why a used assembly is a popular repair option.
My shade is stuck up. Is there a way to lower it manually?
Sometimes, you can manually lower a stuck shade. While one person presses and holds the 'down' button, another person can gently but firmly push down on the top bar of the shade. This can sometimes help free a binding mechanism or overcome a weak motor, but it is not a permanent fix and may not work if the gears are completely stripped.
🎬 Watch: How to lower a stuck sunshade by yourselfMy sunshade works, but it's noisy. Should I replace it?
A grinding or clicking noise is a clear sign that the internal gears are failing. While the shade may continue to work for a short time, it will eventually fail completely, likely getting stuck in the up or down position. It is best to plan for a replacement before it fails entirely.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 83700-TZ3-A01ZA
The part is a complete assembly including the motor, fabric shade, and lifting arms, mounted to the rear parcel shelf.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Acura TLX: