Mediates the import of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) into the cell by facilitating their transport at the plasma membrane (PubMed:12556534). Also functions as an acyl-CoA ligase catalyzing the ATP-dependent formation of fatty acyl-CoA using LCFA and very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA) as substrates (By similarity). Plays a pivotal role in regulating available LCFA substrates from exogenous sources in tissues undergoing high levels of beta-oxidation such as the heart (PubMed:12556534).