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
In 2015, we had to replace our beloved 2005 CRV due to a hit and run that left it in bad shape. Initially, we were looking to get another CRV, but we stumbled upon a 2010 RDX at a dealership and decided to take it for a spin. We fell in love with it instantly! Although we weren't too fond of the pronounced fog lights on the 2010 model, we found a 2008 RDX with only 59k miles at a local dealer and took it for a test drive. We loved it even more than the 2010 model! We did try a few other CRVs (2005, 2010, 2012), but we were already smitten with the RDX and never looked back. We got the RDX for $15k, which was cheaper than any CRVs we saw, including a 2005 model that would have essentially replaced the one we lost. We are so happy with our purchase! There are a couple of things that any buyer should be aware of, especially in 2015: (1) Mileage. We just took a road trip and got 23 mpg, which is about what it was advertised at (actually slightly better). You have to be on top of RPMs, use of AC, buying gas at Costco, and other things if you want to keep your costs and gas use down - and those are all things we are good with doing. (2) We had a little rattling in the car when we got it. After a long search, we found it wasn't mechanical, but rather the latch for the back seat, which is now totally silent thanks to electrical tape! That's pretty much it so far, and granted it's only been a month since we bought the car, but it is a 2008 model and no other red flags (just had it inspected too). We are so happy with our purchase! The cabin is like a dream after the CRV. We loved our CRV, but we didn't realize how much better it could be with a car like an RDX. Driving it feels like we got bumped from coach to first class.I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your RDX! The front seats sound amazing with leather, memory seats, an amazing stereo, and dual climate settings. The dashboard is also user-friendly and easy to navigate. The fold-down seats in the back are also a great feature, making the entire rear a flat surface. Your black model with tinted windows sounds very stylish! It's great to hear that you're keeping up with regular maintenance checks and inspections to ensure that your RDX continues to run smoothly. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2009
I absolutely love Acuras because of the incredible value they offer. The high-tech features are top-notch and come at a very reasonable price. The car is incredibly responsive and quick, and I'm currently getting 21 MPG. It's important to note that this is not a luxury sedan, but rather a fantastic 4WD SUV with luxurious features and the best handling of any SUV I've driven. It's hard to believe that anyone could be getting as low as 14 mpg unless they are driving very aggressively.
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Vehicle year: 2024
Quietness on the highway is fantastic, the power is impressive, the comfort is top-notch, and the gadgets are amazing. You really can't ask for more in a new car!
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Vehicle year: 2022
I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your RDX after 4 months of ownership! It sounds like you did your research and test drove some great European models, but ultimately found the Acura to be the most engaging to drive. While the track pad may take some getting used to, it's great to hear that it's become easy to use and less distracting than a full touch screen. It's also impressive that you're getting about 25 MPG in mixed driving in Normal mode. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2017
My wife and I were in search of a small, luxury SUV and we finally decided on the 2017 Acura RDX AWD base model. We are pleased with our choice as it is a solid SUV with nice features, especially for a base model. We have not experienced any squeaks or rattles and the initial gas mileage of 25 mpg was impressive, even though it has dropped to a still respectable 23 mpg due to the cold weather. I particularly appreciate the variable cylinder management that shuts off 3 cylinders during low output conditions, which is such a smooth process that you don't even notice it happening. Although the technology interfaces are not as advanced as those in other upper-end vehicles, the buttons and knobs are nicely laid out. However, I do wish that the fan speed was controlled by a knob instead of buttons. Unfortunately, the radio does not stay on after the car shuts off. The seats are comfortable, but the leatherette surfaces are more like plastic than leather. The heated seats warm up quickly, but I do miss having a heated steering wheel. The elevated rear seats are a nice touch with plenty of legroom and the visibility out of the rear and side windows is great. The 19.5 gallon gas tank could be larger, but we are happy that the AWD version comes with a spare tire instead of a tire repair kit. The headlights look and function great. Overall, we are very happy with the vehicle. Although it may not necessarily have the feel of a luxury vehicle, we do not feel that we paid a luxury price for it either.
Are you having problems with your Acura Rdx?
Jakob Osinski 2025-07-27
Vehicle year: 2022
I have been an owner of a 2021 RDX A-Spec w/ SH-AWD for 9 months and have driven it for 10k miles. While I have encountered a few issues, overall it has been a great experience. One issue I have faced is with the brakes squeaking and grinding since the 2nd week of ownership. Despite numerous trips to the dealer, the issue has not been resolved yet. However, I have been informed that Acura is working on a fix for the 2021 models. Another issue I have faced is with the Carplay integration, which can be a bit glitchy and difficult to use while driving. The sloped roof also limits the rear storage space, which can be a bit inconvenient. Additionally, the towing capacity and hitch size are not as competitive as some of the other models in the market. However, the car handles great through the curves and the subfloor storage in the trunk is a nice touch. Overall, I would recommend the Audi over the Acura unless speed through the hills is your top priority.
Grant Auer 2025-07-24
Vehicle year: 2020
There is currently a class action lawsuit against Acura for the 2020 RDX. My car has only done 5,000 miles and unfortunately, since the very first day I drove it, every few weeks I turn on the car and it acts like it’s a frozen computer. The display shows a constant circle in motion that never stops until you turn the car off and then back on again. Recently, while on vacation, we received alerts for every system. Emissions, brakes, cruise control, etc, warning us of high speeds and acceleration. This happened as soon as we turned the car on after it had been driven the day before with no issues and was parked in a garage. My husband backed up the car thinking it was some kind of fluke and the car would not accelerate at all. We had to tow the car to the dealership as it was undriveable. Unfortunately, when it got there, they cleared the sensors and because they did not come on immediately, there was nothing they could do. It appears that there are some major issues with the sensors based on this class action lawsuit. Even with the notifications coming back on, repairs have not been successful in preventing drivers from filing this lawsuit due to their car coming to a complete stop while driving because the sensor on the transmission failed, etc. This is extremely dangerous and I am beyond afraid to drive my brand new car. I hope that Acura will take responsibility for this issue and take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of their customers.
Wade Mueller 2025-07-19
Vehicle year: 2019
Looks like I’m not the only one who sensed rough transmission transition at low speed. I believe 2019 RDX has a serious transmission problem. I have a base model. The problem that I noticed is that when leaving my place in the morning with the temperature gauge stuck at the lowest position, the vehicle jerks when switching the gear to upper ones at low speed. As the temperature gauge bar appears as it’s warmed up, the abrupt transition of transmission becomes smoother. I tried warming up for 5 minutes before leaving and the problem was less severe. So this vehicle requires warming up as most of vehicles in 80s or 90s did. But remember you're buying a so-called luxury vehicle paying more than 40 grand in 2019. This is really hard to reproduce at dealer because by the time I arrive at dealer, the vehicle is already warmed up. People complained a lot about hard control of electronic system, but I don’t, it’s a matter of time to get used to it. Another issue is this 2019 RDX is gas greedy, usually I can get a little less than 23 mile/gallon but it requires 92 octane recommended. When I'm spending more money for high-end version and more gas with higher priced octane gas, at least I didn't expect rattling or jerking of rough transmission transition.
Camden Kuphal 2025-07-18
Vehicle year: 2019
I really enjoy driving the RDX, but I want to make you aware of an issue that I have experienced twice in the 8 months that I have owned it. When accelerating hard, the engine may stall or lose power, which can be dangerous when driving on the interstate. Although Acura and the dealership have not acknowledged the issue, I hope it will be resolved soon. Additionally, while CarPlay is not perfect and sometimes disconnects within the first few minutes of use, it works well when it stays connected. Overall, I am happy with the RDX, despite its thirst for fuel. The push button shifter and touch pad are not a problem for me, but I do wish navigating CarPlay was easier.
Curt Beer 2025-07-14
Vehicle year: 2020
I am almost at the end of my first year of ownership and have driven 10k miles. I must say, this vehicle drives wonderfully and handles well. The cabin is very comfortable and the cargo area is generous. Visibility is also very good. Plenty of tech is included, but unfortunately, the touch pad controller is not only annoying, but it's just silly! I hope Acura can improve this in the future. Another issue is fuel efficiency, which is not great. I get 19-19.5 mpg around town in COMFORT mode, and 25 mpg on the highway when I drive carefully. Compared to my previous Audi with a 3.0L supercharged engine, which gave me 23-24 mpg around town and a whopping 34 mpg on the highway, there's definitely room for improvement. Lastly, I have some concerns about the brakes. Shortly after purchasing, I heard a grinding noise in the front end as I came to a stop in mildly damp conditions and cool temperatures. I returned to Acura and was told there was nothing wrong. The noise continued, and then I was told that it was the composition of the pads which were supposedly new, and the Acura was working on a