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: 2012
After considering a number of different vehicles, I finally narrowed it down to the RDX, the Nissan Murano, and the Audi Q5. Although the Audi was the nicest of the trio, I was concerned about the price and long-term reliability. The Murano was also very nice, but I have heard there have been numerous problems with the CVT transmission. Ultimately, I chose the Acura because it gave me the best value for my money. With their proven reliability, 4-year warranty, and the convenience of getting a loaner in case anything significant is wrong with the car, I felt confident in my decision.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I've been driving this car for a year now and I absolutely love it! I was worried that I would miss my bigger SUV after getting rid of it, but I don't miss it at all. This car is fantastic - it's fun to drive, sporty, and easy to park anywhere. While the MPG could be better, I still manage to get a little over 21 MPG on the highway, so I can't really complain. The navigation system is superior to competitors' systems, as I don't have to be in park to enter a new destination. With the seats folded down, I can fit anything I need to carry. The only drawback is the MPG, but I think a 4 cylinder should do better (even if it drives better than a V6) - that's just my opinion. I just wanted to assure readers that this car is definitely worth the money. I would buy it again!
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Vehicle year: 2023
We purchased a new Acura RDX Advanced in February 2022 and have driven it for 4000 miles, with 25% highway and 75% urban driving. The trip computer shows an impressive 26.2 mpg, achieved through comfortable and normal driving modes. The interior is quiet, the handling is good, and the power is adequate without any rattles, squeaks, or problems. The seats are also much more comfortable for long distance driving than those in an Audi. Although the track pad is not great, we use Apple CarPlay and voice commands without any issues. We previously owned two Audis (2018 Q7 Prestige and 2018 A4 Premium Plus) and wanted to downsize/simplify. We looked at BMW X3 and Q5, but they were too small, Genesis GV70 was too new with non-premium dealerships, Jeep Grand Cherokee had reliability concerns, brand new design, non-premium dealerships despite premium price, and crummy engines/mileage with old V6 or V8. We are extremely happy with our choice so far.
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Vehicle year: 2024
I'm glad I switched from Toyota to Acura because of the RDX's sleek exterior look. However, I did notice that I had to switch to a higher grade of gas (91+) and the mpg on the AWD RDX is not great, especially when I'm on the interstate 90% of the time. Despite this, I find all other aspects of the vehicle to be good. If you're looking for sales or service, I recommend going to Advantage Acura in Naperville instead of McGrath in downtown Chicago.
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Vehicle year: 2013
Your car has great pick up and shifts smoothly, just as I would have expected. I noticed that you mentioned that the voice commands for phone, navigation, audio, etc. are not very user-friendly. I can understand how that can be frustrating. Additionally, I see that you are disappointed in the gas mileage. The sticker states an estimated 20 city and 28 highway, but you only got 17.5 mpg on your first tank of premium fuel with combined 60 miles of highway driving and the rest city. On your second fill up, you traveled to the dealer and back today, approximately 120 miles on the highway, and it shows an average of 23 mpg. I can see why you were expecting better gas mileage, especially since your 2006 Acura TL got 20 city and 28-30 highway consistently. Is there anything else I can help you with?
Are you having problems with your Acura Rdx?
Kirk Braun 2025-11-28
Vehicle year: 2019
I had my dream car for 7 months and then traded it in for something more reliable. When I first purchased the Acura RDX Advance, I was thrilled. Everything seemed to be customized for me, from the memory seats to the technology and safety components. I was in love with my SUV. However, things seemed to go south the longer I owned the vehicle. First, there were constant issues with the Infotainment System. I would exit the vehicle and it wouldn’t turn off. I called the dealership, but they didn't seem to understand the issue. I found a site called AcuraZine which had a workaround for turning off the frozen system so I wouldn’t get a dead battery. So that was the first issue. The second was the constant brake squealing after about 3 or 4 months of ownership. The last, and most terrifying issue was the electronic issue. I was on my way to work, driving about 65 mph, and everything shut off except for the engine. It was pitch black. I was in the middle lane and there was no way to pull over. I safely made it to work. When I placed the vehicle in park all electronics came back on but they were “strobing.” I called the dealership who told me to bring it in ASAP. After an hour they found nothing wrong and sent me on my way. This happened too many times for me to be comfortable with the reliability of the vehicle and the dealership never found any issues so I just traded it in for something more reliable and safe. I really wanted to love this car, but for the price I paid (and the thousands of dollars I lost trading it in) it just wasn’t worth my safety. I hope this helps others.
Reuben Jast 2025-11-23
Vehicle year: 2008
I had my car for 8 months and it drove wonderfully. However, when it snowed, I experienced some issues with the brakes. Unfortunately, this led to me missing stop signs and traffic lights, and eventually, I was involved in a car accident. I took my car to the dealership and expressed my concerns, but they informed me that some people have had similar issues and there wasn't much they could do. I also filed a complaint with the corporate office, but they didn't seem to take the matter seriously. I would advise caution when purchasing this vehicle, as not all cars are tested for snow, rain, and gravel. This is a serious matter that could potentially be life-threatening for both you and others on the road. I am currently in the process of a lawsuit with Acura. Best of luck to everyone!
Aiden Gulgowski 2025-11-18
Vehicle year: 2018
I recently leased the 2018 RDX and while it has some nice touches and a different grill, I found it to be lacking in comparison to other luxury brands. Although the price was more affordable than a similarly equipped Audi Q5, the difference in interior materials, engineering, and overall luxury was noticeable. Unfortunately, the assembly quality was not up to par with uneven gaps in exterior panels and visible bolts and screws. Additionally, my dealership experience was not ideal as the RDX was not prepped correctly and I did not receive a full tank of gas. Despite these issues, I will continue to drive the RDX but will likely consider other luxury brands for my next vehicle. I did experience some issues with the vehicle over time, such as squeaks, rattles, and buzzing, as well as an uncomfortable seat. Ultimately, I decided to end my lease early. While Acura may aspire to premium status, I will be exploring other options in the future.The Acura RDX is priced like a Lexus, but its materials, assembly, fit and finish, and technology are only on par with a Honda. In fact, my wife's Hyundai Elantra is a better vehicle than the RDX.
Marcelino Bednar 2025-11-10
Vehicle year: 2021
I recently fell for a sales tactic and impulsively traded in my 2014 RDX for a 2021 RDX. Although I don't regret my purchase entirely, there are some features that are quite frustrating. When I bought my 2014, I was aware of some negative reviews and even had a friend who owned the same car and didn't like it at all. However, I still decided to buy it and ended up loving it for many years. It was reliable, had relatively low ownership costs, and I was able to trade it in for a great value with over 105K miles. I read many reviews for the 2021 model, some positive and some negative. While I love the V6, I'm still getting used to the 4CYL. The one thing that I absolutely hate is the TouchPad. I really, really hate it. It's just not as responsive as it should be. I understand that technology features can be quirky - we also have a 2022 XC60 and that's frustrating & quirky too. However, considering the number of drivers who have complained about the TouchPad, I think Acura should troubleshoot, fix, and push an update to the car. I almost side-swiped a car while trying to navigate my Android Auto to change a song. It was totally my fault, certainly not Acura's fault, but still very frustrating. I told my husband that if there is one thing that would make me trade this car in, it's the TouchPad.
Llewellyn Yost 2025-11-09
Vehicle year: 2018
Congratulations on your purchase of the 2018 RDX Advance Package! We appreciate your feedback and would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused by the exterior side mirrors. We will certainly take your comments into consideration as we continue to improve our vehicles. We understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to interior appointments and ride comfort, but we hope that you are still able to enjoy the many other features and benefits of the RDX. Thank you for choosing Acura!