Acura Rdx problems

The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by Acura, a luxury vehicle division of Honda, as the second crossover SUV offering from the brand after the mid-size MDX. Since it was introduced, it shared its platform with the Honda Civic and CR-V.
First generation (TB1/2; 2007)
Originally previewed as the Acura RD-X concept car, the production RDX had its debut at the 2006 New York Auto Show and went on sale on August 11, 2006. A facelifted 2010 model went on sale in August 2009, which featured the addition Acura's "power plenum" grille and a front-wheel drive option.
Engine
The first-generation RDX is powered by a 2.3-litre straight-4 turbocharged gasoline engine, rated at 240 bhp (179 kW; 243 PS) at 6,000 rpm with a torque peak of 260 ft⋅lbf (350 N⋅m) at 4,500 rpm. At the time, this was uncommon among Honda vehicles.
The K23A1 engine has all-aluminum construction, an i-VTEC head, and dual balance shafts. It was also one of the only four-cylinder powered luxury SUVs of its generation. Honda's variable flow turbocharger reduces turbo lag by using a valve to narrow the exhaust passage at low rpm, increasing the velocity of the exhaust flow and keeping the turbine spinning rapidly. At higher rpm, the valve opens to allow more exhaust flow for increased boost. The engine also features a top-mounted intercooler which receives air from the grille, channeled by ducting under the hood.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated fuel mileage is 19 mpg‑US (12 L/100 km; 23 mpg‑imp) city and 23 mpg‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) highway miles per gallon. An updated EPA mileage estimate in February 2007 rated the RDX at 17 mpg‑US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg‑imp) city and 22 mpg‑US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg‑imp) highway.
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Acura Rdx model years
Common Acura Rdx problems
The Acura RDX is known for its reliability and practicality, but like any vehicle, it has had some common problems over the years. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on owner complaints and data from repair and maintenance sites.
- Engine oil leaks: This issue has been reported by seven owners of the first-generation 2007 to 2012 Acura RDX. The oil pressure sensor is known to leak during normal operation, which can be fixed by inspecting, properly sealing, and possibly replacing the sensor.
- Improperly welded tow hitch: This problem affected only the 2007 Acura RDX and prompted a recall to ensure owners wouldn't pay for repairs. It is related to the manufacturing defect of the tow hitch.
- Cracked axles: The 2012 model year of the Acura RDX has been reported to have cracked axles, which can be a significant issue affecting the vehicle's drivability and safety.
- Rodents chewing on soy-based wire coverings: This issue was reported by owners of the 2015 model year. The soy-based insulation on the electrical wiring can attract animals into the undercarriage, causing damage that can cost around $2000 to fix.
- Squeaky brakes: The 2019 model year of the Acura RDX has been reported to have squeaky brakes, which can be a nuisance and potentially indicate a more serious issue with the braking system.
- Failing turbocharger: The Acura RDX is known for its turbocharged engine, but this component can fail over time, leading to reduced power and fuel efficiency. This issue is more common in first-generation models.
- Limp mode problem: This issue can occur when there is a problem with the transmission or engine, causing the vehicle to enter a reduced power mode to prevent further damage. This has been reported in various model years of the Acura RDX.
- Dim headlights: This issue can affect the safety of the vehicle, especially when driving at night. It has been reported by owners of various Acura RDX model years.
- Squeaking brake noises: This issue can be a nuisance and potentially indicate a more serious problem with the braking system. It has been reported in various model years of the Acura RDX.
It is important to note that while these issues have been reported by some owners, the Acura RDX has a strong reputation for reliability, and many of these problems are relatively rare. When considering purchasing a used Acura RDX, it is always a good idea to research the specific model year and vehicle history to be aware of any potential issues.
Is the Acura RDX a reliable car?
RepairPal has given the Acura RDX a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, which is excellent. An owner will spend a little under $500 on average on annual service costs. If you ever find yourself visiting the mechanic for an unscheduled repair, the odds of an RDX having a severe issue is low.
Do Acura RDX have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Acura RDX transmission will slip.
Is the Acura RDX high maintenance?
Cost. The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Acura RDX is $497, compared to an average of $859 for luxury compact SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.
How many miles will an Acura RDX last?
Typical mileage for the Acura RDX is 250,000-300,000 miles. Thus, high mileage for the Acura RDX is anything past 200,000 miles. Once it reaches this point, it's far more likely to encounter serious issues than in any other portion of its life.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Acura Rdx years
We have researched Acura problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Acura Rdx cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Acura Rdx model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Acura Rdx model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Acura Rdx years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Acura Rdx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Acura Rdx , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Acura Rdx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rdx model years
A total of 46 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rdx model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rdx model years
There were a total of 39 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Rdx model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1510 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Acura Rdx . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Acura Rdx vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Acura Rdx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5J8TB4H37FL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights have gone very dim do to the reflective coating degrading in the headlight housing. This makes the vehicle unsafe to drive at night.
Acura Rdx 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5J8TB3H55HL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Dashboard warning lights all light up at once. Flickering on and off. Lights turn on and off inside car, it unlocks and locks car on it’s own. Says key is not close to car when trying to turn on car. Alarm goes off randomly once parked and locked.
Acura Rdx 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5J8TC1H52KL
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Called Southbay Acura in Torrance Ca on 10/23/24.Told them my 2019 Acura RDX has the EXACT same problem that 2019/2020 RDX's has a recall on...Front passenger seat belt Buckle will not Buckle..THe buckle won't allow the seatbelt to lock..Dealer said you VIN number is not part of the recall???? Yet my Acura RDX suffers from the exact problem the recall covers..So i'm asking for your guidance of what to do next. Obviously this is not a safe situation!!! Please advise. Thank you [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Acura Rdx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5J8TB3H53JL
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Acura RDX. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle began to jerk. After turning off the vehicle, an unknown part continued to run. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). However, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.
Acura Rdx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5J8TB4H3XFL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights on my 2015 Acura RDX have degraded so much that it is difficult to get proper visibility at night, and therefore, dangerous to drive at dark. The safety of myself and my passengers, as well as other drivers on the road, is at risk. New bulbs were installed within the last year, so it certainly isn't a bulb issue. The dealer has confirmed the issue of the housing/reflection degrading, but there is no safety recall for this issue.
Acura Rdx 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 5J8TC2H50RL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Acura RDX. The contact stated that while the child was seated in the rear drivers seat, the seatbelt buckle locking mechanism had malfunctioned. The contact was unable to unlatch the seat belt buckle and eventually scissors were used to cut the the seat belt strap in order to free the child. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 5,000.
Acura Rdx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 5J8TB4H39JL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My 2018 RDX has started to jerk when I stop and then restart. I have noticed some hesitation and a bit of jerky driving but today it was very noticeable. I could barely go above 40 miles an hour after I started driving after a stop light and the car was very jerky. It seems to be either a fuel pump or transmission issue. I am going to check with the RDX dealership where I bought the car in 2018 but I wanted to report the issue. I also looked up the VIN on my car for a recall and the system said my car had not been recalled. Not sure why my 2018 RDX is different from other 2018 RDX models that were recalled.
Acura Rdx 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 5J8TC2H77KL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The breaks did not work while in a parking lot right after switching into drive. No major risk of any injury where this occurred. Not reported to the dealer, not inspected. No injury, no property damage. I left my wife in the vehicle with the car in park and went into the store. I came out 15 minutes later, car was running. I got in, put my foot on the break, and switch to drive? The car started rolling forward on its own. I repeatedly tried the breaks, but no response. I had steering. I gave it a little gas, and the engine reved like it was in neutral. I looked down and that point the car indicated it was in neutral. My wife said that none of the drive indicators were on while I had the issue. At some point the breaks started working, after I gave it a little gas? I got the car into drive, and tested it before moving on to verify it was behaving correctly. The forward motion of the vehicle was probably due to the slope it was parked on, rather than the car's idle power. This also matches the car then reporting it was in neutral. The biggest issue was no breaks at the point it started rolling forward. My comment was that was weird, but it scared my wife, so I am reporting it. I was operating the vehicle.
Acura Rdx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 5J8TC2H72LL
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I entered my 2020 Acura RDX after it was parked for several hours while I was at work. The outdoor temperature was around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Upon closing the drivers door I hear a crashing noice and noticed the rear lift gate glass shattered and fell into the rear cargo area. This appears to be a very widespread issue with this make and model and is a serious safety concern that should be recalled.
Acura Rdx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 5J8TB3H38FL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The low beam headlights are so dim and weak it is unsafe to drive. I have read where Acura rdx years 2012-2015 have a lot of reports of this problem. I understand Honda has recalled another style of Acura in same time years but not acknowledged this. I have used brand name headlight restoration kit and paid to replace the headlight bulbs(low beam) but there is no improvment This is very unsafe and Honda needs to replace/repair the headlights.
Acura Rdx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 5J8TB4H31FL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I purchased my 2015 Acura RDX in October of 202o. At about 90K miles, two years later, the Low-Beam headlights started getting dimmer and it is now 4 years into owning the vehicle and literally impossible to see at night. It is not the lens clouding over, nor is it the bulbs which have been replaced a couple times now. Looking online I see that there is a problem with the reflective coating on the inside of the headlight assembly, as it deteriorates it makes the headlights dim at night. This needs to be recalled by ACURA and is definitely a safety hazard! I've already almost been in two accidents because of this. Leaving high beams on at night is the only option which poses another hazard to oncoming traffic.
Acura Rdx 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 5J8TB4H33DL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My headlights are dim and this started happening about 3 years ago when my car 7-years-old. I have to use my brights to drive at night. The Ron Tonkin Acura of Portland, OR told me the projectors are bad and that both headlights need to be placed for $2000. This is luxury vehicle and this situation is ridiculous. This needs to be a recall. Others have complained online about the same issue.
Acura Rdx 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 5J8TB4H57EL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Driving at night the headlights are dim and it's difficult to see. I have read online this is a very common issue with this make and model. Bulb replacement did not fix the issue, the low beam lights are dangerously low. When it is difficult to see it makes driving dangerous. The dealership confirmed this is a common complaint amongst customers. It has not yet been inspected by the dealership, though they are familiar with the problem. There have not been any warnings or messages notifying that my lights are dim.
Acura Rdx 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 5J8TB3H3XEL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: My 2014 RDX has defective headlights and Acura Honda will not address it. They say the headlight assembly is ok, but the lights are too dim to drive in darkness. Acura Honda customer service headquarters offers no solution. There is much online information about this defect. Acura Honda should be required to address this safety hazard expeditiously.
Acura Rdx 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 5J8TB4H38FL
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Headlights are dim making driving unsafe after sunset. Even after replacing the bulb with OEM bulbs the headlight housing the fixture remains very dim forcing the driver to use high beams at after sunset.
Latest 5 recalls Acura Rdx
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 40 recalls for different components of the Acura Rdx.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Acura Rdx 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-15
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Odyssey and 2024 Acura RDX vehicles. The steering gear box assembly may not have been tightened properly, allowing water to enter the assembly and cause corrosion and binding gears.
- Consequence: Corroded and binding steering gears can result in a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the electric power steering rack, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are LHU and FHT.
- Model: Acura Rdx 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
- Model: Acura Rdx 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
- Model: Acura Rdx 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
- Model: Acura Rdx 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-18
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
Latest negative Acura Rdx car reviews
Latest positive Acura Rdx car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
It's great to hear that it has remained exceptionally reliable!
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Vehicle year: 2011
I haven't had this car for long, but it's already a huge improvement from my underpowered Honda CRV. The handling, power, fit and finish are all top-notch. However, if you're looking for a smooth ride, this might not be the car for you as it's definitely a sportscar all the way. I test drove the Infinity, Benz, and Lexus, all of which were 10 grand or more expensive, but this car still stood out. Despite being 6'2
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Vehicle year: 2013
I'm glad to hear that you've had the car for a week now and it's been driving exceptionally well. It's great to know that the Acura feels more like a car than an SUV, especially compared to your previous vehicles. I completely understand how it can be difficult to switch back to a car once you've experienced the benefits of an SUV. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2019
I've had my 2019 Acura RDX Advance for 5 years now and I wanted to share my thoughts on it. Before this, I owned a 2014 RDX and a 2010 TSX. I still love the handling, modern look (inside and out), and overall feel of the new RDX 3rd generation over the 2014 (2nd generation). However, I'm not a fan of the 4 cylinder turbo as it doesn't get any better mileage than the smooth performing 6 cylinder. Despite this, I'm happy to report that my earlier complaints about entering addresses into the navigation system are no longer an issue since the AcuraLink was updated. Now, I can enter locations from the app directly to the infotainment system while the RDX is off. I've done several at a time and all I need to do when I start the car is accept them and they are on the system for use later. The addresses for companies and other locations (besides personal locations) show up in full. Overall, the technology is amazing. Although there have been several over-the-air free updates since buying, they have not corrected all the quirks. The AcuraLink app has fewer quirks since the more recent updates and they added several features prior updates had removed, such as individual tire pressure and the ability to download directions from my living room through the AcuraLink app when the car was off. However, I still don't understand why a premium priced automobile did not come with a remote start key and requires a yearly subscription as the only way to remotely start it unless you pay nearly $500-$600 to the dealer to install a transponder. In my opinion, the standard key-fob should allow remote starts.
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Vehicle year: 2017
I love the fit and finish throughout the exterior and interior of the RDX. It's great that I can plug in my iPod and control it completely from the audio interface. However, the interface is not very intuitive and I've had to pull over several times to work through several attempts to complete an action. For example, searching for and playing a single song, then reverting back to shuffle and playing the entire collection. The front doors close with a nice solid 'thunk', but the rear doors seem very light and uninsulated. I do wish the gas tank could be larger, as it's only 16 gallons which, with an average of 23 mpg around town, gets me through about 380-400 miles before needing a refill. This seems to come up way more quickly than my former car (a Buick Lacrosse that had a much larger tank and got slightly fewer mpg's). Overall, I appreciate the ease of entry, the controls and comfort of the driver's seat, and the get-up-and-go when you hit the gas. I absolutely love the car!
Greg Towne 2025-06-07
Vehicle year: 2016
Although there were some high points with my 2016 RDX, overall it was not the best $30K+ vehicle I've ever owned. The electronics in my vehicle were unreliable and buggy, which was frustrating. The hands-free calls would fail to connect about 1/3 of the time, leaving the phone in 'private mode' and useless for 2-3 minutes. The voice recognition was also poor, as the car dialed 9-1-1 three different times when I asked it to 'call Taco Deli.' However, the entertainment system worked okay. The preset labels rarely displayed the actual saved station, but as long as I remembered what preset went with which stations, I was good to go. The navigation system worked, but the traffic indicators were illegible. The traction was abysmal in the rain and poor when it was dry. The interior build quality was sub-par over the second half of my year of ownership, with squeaking, creaking rear suspension, rattling door panels, and a squealing A/C fan. Under the hood, I only had one complaint, a pulley that squealed as it spun down after engine shutdown. On the plus side, fuel economy was quite good, and when I sold it last week, I got $35,000 for trade-in after only paying $39,500. The headlights and general visibility from the vehicle were first-rate. That's about it for positives.
General Weber 2025-06-07
Vehicle year: 2010
We bought this car to downsize from our Volvo XC90 - and be more 'green'. However, we have found that the mileage is not much better and the cabin and trunk are quite small. While the car may look big, it doesn't hold much. It may not be the best choice for families, but it could be a good option for young couples who don't drive far or carry much and don't mind the road noise.
Martin Stehr 2025-06-03
Vehicle year: 2007
Acura is a luxury brand, but unfortunately this model did not meet our expectations. While it is quick and sporty, the ride is quite stiff and the gas mileage is not great. Additionally, we had to replace the front brakes and rotors every 5000 miles. We found that it did not excel in any particular area. If you drove it as a sports SUV with paddle shifters, you paid at the pump and in maintenance. Furthermore, it is missing some key features at this price point, including automatic headlights, driver memory settings and iPod interface.
Alfonso Wunsch 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2019
I purchased my 2019 RDX in mid-June, but unfortunately, I noticed several flaws within the first few blocks of driving. These included a crazed front windshield, a steering wheel that was unraveling, flaws in the clearcoat on the hood, and a faulty rear hatch. Although the car seemed to be fixed after four weeks and a loaner for 13 days, I experienced issues with the computer screen displaying frequent messages of 'LOADING' or 'FUNCTION NOT AVAILABLE' with steering wheel controls. This made it difficult to access important information while driving. While the local dealer and corporate have informed me that an update is coming, nobody knows when it will be available. Unfortunately, I have been waiting for three months now. Additionally, my horn has stopped working and keeps blowing fuses, which has been a safety concern. The car has been in the shop for several days, and I am hesitant to drive too far from home for fear of experiencing further issues. Other problems include a cracked battery cable and a mysterious mug rolling around under the seat, which was not mine. The leather on most seats is also picked, which I have been told is normal, but it does not match the quality of other cars in the showroom. As a long-time Honda and Acura owner of 20 years, I am disappointed with the poor quality of this car and the poor attitude from corporate in trying to resolve these issues. UPDATE: After four months of filing Lemon Law Arbitration paperwork, my 2019 RDX has been deemed a lemon, and I am awaiting a buyback check. Although I have been shopping for a new car, nothing matches the great look, handling, and amenities of the RDX for the price. However, I cannot go back to Acura due to the poor treatment I received as a loyal customer. During the hearing, everything was blamed on me, which was very disheartening.I sometimes worry that I might use the horn too much or for too long, but even if I did, it's not a big deal! I also find it frustrating when the collision mitigation engages on an empty road, causing the screen to blink because I'm using my main headlights during the day. It seems a bit unnecessary, doesn't it? Unfortunately, my cruise control stopped working, but it wasn't because I used it in the rain - I even have videos of it malfunctioning on a sunny day! While I wait for a settlement, I still have to drive the car, but it's a shame that no dealer will see me to reset my flashing screen. Despite these issues, I still love my RDX - strangers even stop me to ask about it! However, I did have some trouble with Honda America during the buyback process, which took nearly a year to complete. Despite this, I'm now happily driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee, which has proven to be much more efficient and dependable than the 2019 RDX.
Emilio Spencer 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2018
Just wanted to share my experience with my 2018 RDX. I've been having some issues with the check engine light coming on and an engine mis-fire, even though the car only has 7,000 miles on it. As a precaution, I stopped driving the vehicle and took it to the Acura dealer. Although it's been in the shop for almost 5 days, they haven't been able to identify the problem yet. I just wanted to give a heads up to anyone considering an Acura RDX that we've had some reliability issues with ours. It could be a one-off situation, but I thought it was worth sharing. Thanks for listening!