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: 2008
I've had this car for about two weeks now and I absolutely love it! I test drove all the CUVs from upscale/luxury to affordable/no frills, from ML350 and X3 to the Ford Edge and Mazda CX7, and even drove a Hyundai Santa Fe. However, none of them compared to the RDX in terms of value for money and features. It's an absolute joy to drive and is incredibly comfortable. Coming from an Infiniti M45, I know what comfort feels like, and this RDX is just as cushy. I can't wait to show it off to my friends! It took me a while to decide, but I'm so glad I took my time and chose the RDX. It was definitely the best choice for my money! I even ordered chrome wheels and now it looks even prettier!
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Vehicle year: 2016
If you live in rural areas, the RDX is a great choice. You can easily pass any car when going up hills or passing slow farm trucks, while still getting good mpg. I mostly drive on the highway and get 24mpg. After 3 years of ownership, I moved from Iowa to the Los Angeles area and experienced some transmission and engine oil leaking issues, as well as a problem with the rear passenger seat. Thankfully, these were all covered by Acura's warranty services. I drove my RDX from Iowa to Los Angeles, a distance of over 1890 miles, and got 26 mpg with no problems on the Rocky mountains. I also have a 2016 Toyota Tundra with a 5.7L engine, and when I drove the same route from Iowa to Los Angeles, I had trouble going uphill without towing and heavy load, and my cruise control lost power three times. However, it was still acceptable. Now in my 4th year of ownership, my car just hit 57000 miles and I drive 90% on local streets, getting 19 mpg. I did have a brake sensor problem, which cost $180 to fix, but the car is still in great condition. The leather still looks new without any special care. My only complaint is the oil change. All Honda and Acura models have a sensor and service reminder to show you which service you need to do and how much is due. Since moving to Los Angeles, I've needed to go to the dealer almost every 4500 to 5000 miles, compared to around 6 to 7000 miles in Iowa with 90% highway driving. So, I need to go to the dealer every 3 to 4 months. The Michelin tires are down to 3/32.
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Vehicle year: 2018
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2018 RDX with technology package. After a test drive, I decided to purchase it even though I never considered myself an SUV guy. The combination of power, comfort and style won me over! Before this, I owned a 2013 TSX for five trouble-free years. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase. The only issue I have is with the gas mileage - I'm getting around 16-17 with local driving, even with a light foot on the gas pedal. I was hoping for better, but I'm sure highway driving will achieve better results. Despite this, the vehicle is amazing! The transmission is smooth and it strikes a good balance between being too wispy or too rough when confronting uneven roads. It's a very well-made vehicle where the good far outweighs the subpar gas mileage. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2015 RDX, AWD Technology Package that I purchased in May 2015. I absolutely adore this car! It has a smooth and quiet ride, great handling, excellent performance, and amazing fuel economy (23.5 mpg avg). Additionally, the sound system is top-notch. I must admit, my neighbors probably think I'm a bit odd because I don't always get out of the car right away when I get home (I'm still listening to the stereo!).
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Vehicle year: 2020
I can't express how much I love the new RDX! It drives beautifully, is incredibly comfortable, and for an SUV, it's turbocharged and very responsive. Plus, it's loaded with tech features. I couldn't be happier!
Are you having problems with your Acura Rdx?
Jaeden Wunsch 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2020
As a long-time Honda and Acura owner spanning over three decades, I recently purchased (not leased) an RDX Tech three weeks ago. Unfortunately, I have already had to return to the dealer due to some known and unresolved issues with the vehicle. Prior to this, we had three GM SUVs, all of which were problem-free. However, I must say that the RDX falls short in terms of luxury and economy, and the build quality is subpar. The road noise, tire roar, and suspension noise are even louder than my pick-up truck. Additionally, the RDX only gets 17.7 MPG in mixed driving. It seems that the RDX is a prime example of the trade-offs that come with SUVs/CUVs. Despite the positive reviews from many professionals, Acura has missed the mark with this one. We made our purchase based on our familiarity with the Honda/Acura brand and reviews, but after driving 1000 miles, it is clear that Acura has failed to deliver on their brand proposition. There are much better options available at or below the price of these vehicles.
Shayne Adams 2024-11-26
Vehicle year: 2019
Although RDX has a lot of potentially great technology, unfortunately far too much of it is poorly implemented. The things that I found lacking, in aggregate, caused me to move on to something different. The windshield and rear hatch glass both had crazing between the glass layers that was visible when light hit at a certain angle. The infotainment system, in general, was second class with basic functions either poorly implemented or missing entirely, as well as being slow to respond to input. The interior was noisy except for highway driving. The adaptive cruise control was slow to react to a vehicle in front. Rather than gradually slowing, it would wait until the last second then brake the vehicle. When traffic resumed speed, the RDX would do a near full throttle acceleration back to the set speed. There was also a major problem with oil being diluted with gasoline. The transmission was slow to shift into and out of reverse, and shifting was erratically rough. Some days it was good, other days not so much so. The 10-speed transmission made for a very 'busy' experience when driving in stop-and-go traffic. By the time the speed got up to 35MPH, it was in 7th gear and you feel every shift. There was also brake squealing/grinding, which was inconsistent and seemed to be temperature/humidity related.
Conrad Schaefer 2024-11-25
Vehicle year: 2020
After purchasing a brand new Acura and experiencing multiple issues, I was extremely disappointed with the way Honda/Acura handled the situation. Despite bringing the car in four times, they refused to fix anything, claiming they couldn't replicate the problem. It was frustrating to have to spend so much time waiting in the service center, driving a loaner, and making phone calls. This has been the worst car buying experience I have ever had. I would advise caution when considering the Honda company.
Giles Bergnaum 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 2013
Before purchasing the car, I read numerous reviews to ensure I was making the right choice. All the reviews mentioned a quiet and smooth ride, which was confirmed during the test drive. However, after driving the car for almost 3K miles, I have noticed that I can feel and hear every bump on the road, even small ones. This has made me question the suspension of the car. I have also noticed that the cabin is not as quiet as I expected it to be. Perhaps there is a lack of cabin acoustic material. It is important to me that the car lives up to its reputation of being quiet and smooth, and I hope to find a solution to these issues.
Ronaldo Keeling 2024-11-22
Vehicle year: 2022
I've read some other reviews mentioning rattles in the dash, and unfortunately, it seems like my experience is not an outlier. It's quite frustrating, and the dealer hasn't been much help. I've never had a car with rattles in the interior in the past 20 years. The fuel economy is also below my expectations. While I do like the way it rides, the touchpad control for the radio is slow to respond and requires too many inputs. On the bright side, the power is good, and the ride is a little firm, which I prefer. However, the engine noise is a little loud, but still acceptable. The auto headlight system can be prone to flashing high beams when following cars and doesn't switch to low beam quickly enough for oncoming traffic. I've opted to use manual high beams instead. The most annoying thing is that although the info screen is a nice size, the font size of the text is too small for me to read without my reading glasses. I can't read the outside temperature, miles, or the names of songs and artists on the radio. Overall, I wouldn't recommend it.