Acura Rdx problems

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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.

photo of Acura Rdx car production

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Acura Rdx model years

acura rdx 2024 photo
Rdx 2024
Acura

5

1

21

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2023 photo
Rdx 2023
Acura

13

1

30

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2022 photo
Rdx 2022
Acura

16

1

31

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2021 photo
Rdx 2021
Acura

60

2

37

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2020 photo
Rdx 2020
Acura

185

4

29

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2019 photo
Rdx 2019
Acura

268

4

31

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2018 photo
Rdx 2018
Acura

50

1

34

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2017 photo
Rdx 2017
Acura

55

1

31

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2016 photo
Rdx 2016
Acura

33

2

36

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2015 photo
Rdx 2015
Acura

334

3

22

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2014 photo
Rdx 2014
Acura

203

3

27

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2013 photo
Rdx 2013
Acura

136

3

31

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2012 photo
Rdx 2012
Acura

14

2

24

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2011 photo
Rdx 2011
Acura

16

2

36

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2010 photo
Rdx 2010
Acura

22

2

24

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2009 photo
Rdx 2009
Acura

14

2

25

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2008 photo
Rdx 2008
Acura

33

3

36

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
acura rdx 2007 photo
Rdx 2007
Acura

53

3

28

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

Acura Rdx

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

  1. Arnoldo Lubowitz 2025-04-19

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I am the owner of a 2017 Acura RDX and have been experiencing alignment issues, dashboard noise, steering wheel noise, and front brake noise since 500-800 miles. Despite my disappointment, I am confident that these issues can be resolved by the dealer and that my car will ultimately perform to the highest standard.

  2. Benjamin Simonis 2025-04-14

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I recently traded in my 2011 Q5 for this vehicle. While I don't love it just yet, it's still a decent car. It has a similar sound and ride to a slightly upgraded Honda, but it does have some great features. For one, it's about $4000 less than a comparably equipped Q5. It also has good standard features and is priced well. The driver's seat is comfortable and there's plenty of leg room in the back seat. The cargo layout is good and space is not wasted. The engine is quiet and has good power and pickup. There's also good storage in the front cabin. However, there are some downsides. The Q5 feels more solid and is more fun to drive. The RDX has a choppy rear suspension and the interior materials are okay but not what you might expect in a luxury vehicle. There's also noticeable road noise, especially on uneven pavement.

  3. Franco Leffler 2025-04-14

    Vehicle year: 2010

    The RDX was convenient for the extra cargo space, but there were two things that really bugged me. Firstly, there was no storage space in the cabin, which made it difficult to store anything out of sight in the cargo compartment. I wish they had put more little cubbies to store stuff in. Secondly, the cabin noise when driving down the street was quite noticeable and it drove me nuts! As a luxury car owner, I had previously owned a BMW, and in comparison, I missed my BMW every day. Although the surround sound and technology were nice, I don't think the RDX was worth the almost 40K I paid for it brand new. Overall, it gets a partial substandard review due to its lack of practicality.

  4. Maynard Gutkowski 2025-04-14

    Vehicle year: 2014

    The 2014 Acura models, including mine, have a concerning front end metal on metal clang when going over bumps. Despite being diagnosed by two dealers as brake pad metal backing hitting caliper clips, Acura has refused to fix the issue, causing frustration among dealers. While the dealer has made a temporary fix, it is important to note that this is a potential safety issue that could eventually break down. I have filed a complaint with the Federal Safety Commission and urge other owners to do the same if they experience similar issues. It is unacceptable for a so-called 'high-end' SUV to have such a characteristic, and Acura should take responsibility for fixing the problem.

  5. Tracey Gleichner 2025-04-08

    Vehicle year: 2023

    The car has a stylish exterior, but unfortunately, the electrical and mechanical systems have proven to be unreliable. There have been too many software glitches in the dash each time I drive, and the worst issue is the limp mode problem that occurs when accelerating. This happened to us at less than 1000 miles on the car, when we were trying to accelerate onto the highway. The car suddenly lost all power and coasted down to 30 mph before we were able to safely exit. Based on our experience, I would not recommend this car as it has proven to be as unreliable as a Pinto.

Latest positive Acura Rdx car reviews

  1. Dalton Conroy 2025-04-18

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I am thrilled to share that I recently purchased my second RDX! My first was a 2014 model, which I was quite happy with despite a few minor irritations. However, the 2016 model took care of all my irritations with its added technology, specifically the blind spot and rear traffic warning sensors, and changes in the technology package. The RDX has two great blind spots, so the new tech is fantastic and solves the issues - and works beautifully. The 2016 model feels heavier and drives smoother than the 2014, with better and more substantial steering. It is also quieter with less wind noise and a smoother sunroof mechanism. I did purchase a wind deflector this time though. I absolutely love the 3D navigation viewing option, and the 10-speaker sound system is wonderful. I have been a loyal Acura customer since 2000, having owned three TLs (2000, 2003, and 2008), the 2014 RDX, and now the 2016 RDX. I had some transmission issues with my 2000 TL, but the dealer took care of it even though the warranty had expired. I have always been treated well by the dealer in South Orange County, California. I did not test drive competitors' vehicles, but I did a lot of research on the Lexus RX, Lincoln MDX, Mercedes GL and GLK, and some of the BMW and Audi SUVs, which would have fit into my budget. At the end of the day, I could not justify a higher cost for the competitors (when comparing the multitude of packages available with the competition), even though they may be more prestigious in name and perhaps have more luxurious interiors. The value, quality, and solid luxury of the Acura won out when I decided not to tie up more of my money and still have all the bells and whistles you get with the RDX. As of 28th October 2018, I still love this car. My only complaint is the Apple Car Play, which is not an Acura issue. The connection is at times touchy, and at least once a month, I have to go into the settings on the car and re-enable the connection. Fortunately, the touchpad is easy to use, and I have been able to reset the connection pretty easily.

  2. Keyon Walsh 2025-04-18

    Vehicle year: 2010

    After researching for over 6 months and test driving small crossovers from Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Toyota, Honda, GMC, Chevy, and Nissan, I can confidently say that this car is the best value for money. The fit and finish are top-notch, the ride is super quiet, and the acceleration and handling are excellent. Having owned a TL several years ago, I can attest to the quality of this car. Additionally, it costs 15% to 20% less than Infinity, Audi, and Lexus. The front-wheel drive is just as good as AWD that costs 2 grand more. I highly recommend this car to everyone.

  3. Martin Yost 2025-04-17

    Vehicle year: 2015

    I recently purchased the 2015 RDX AWD without the tech package, but I did add fog lights. I absolutely love most everything about this car. It rides very smoothly and quietly, which was important to me. The stereo is also great, and I'm thrilled to have satellite radio. However, I do have a few minor complaints. Firstly, there's no heat/air conditioning vent in the rear, which my former non-luxury car had. Additionally, the mirrors hang out quite far on the sides, making it difficult to park in my garage. Lastly, I wish the temperature gauge was larger. Overall, it was a fantastic purchase, and I'm pleased to report that my insurance did not go up. It's worth noting that the RDX has a good safety rating.

  4. Kevin Harris 2025-04-17

    Vehicle year: 2022

    Congratulations on your new 2022 RDX Advance! It's great to hear that you're enjoying your SUV and finding it to be a good value. Your comparison of different models is very helpful and informative. It's good to know that you've had no issues with your car and that it's comfortable to drive. Thank you for sharing your experience with the different driving modes and fuel efficiency. Your feedback on the touch pad is noted, but it's great that you find it intuitive and easy to use. Your decision to go with the Acura over the BMW and Audi shows that you've done your research and made a wise choice. Thank you for your recommendation and happy driving!

  5. Taylor Lockman 2025-04-13

    Vehicle year: 2011

    Thank you to the forum for helping me make my decision! I just wanted to share that I absolutely love my car and would definitely buy it again. It's fully loaded for a great price, has V6 power in a V4, and feels luxurious without the high price tag. After driving it for five months and 8,000 miles, I can truly appreciate the quality and workmanship even more.

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