2011 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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Common 2011 Acura Rdx problems
The Acura RDX, a luxury midsize SUV, is known for its reliability and relatively cheap repair and maintenance costs. However, it is not without its common problems, which can lead to costly repairs if left unattended.
One of the most reported issues with the 2011 Acura RDX is a transfer case problem, which can cause a rotary noise coming from under the car, a slight jerk on highway speeds, and a loud clunk noise when reversing or driving forward.
Another issue that has been reported is squealing brakes, which is the worst problem category for the Acura RDX overall.
The 2015 model year of the Acura RDX also has soy-based insulation on the electrical wiring, which is better for the environment but has been known to attract animals into the undercarriage, which can end up costing owners around $2000 to fix.
The 2019 model year of the Acura RDX has garnered the most complaints, with the majority of them citing “engine stall” as the primary issue.
In summary, while the Acura RDX is a reliable luxury midsize SUV, it is not without its common problems, which can lead to costly repairs if left unattended. These issues include transfer case problems, squealing brakes, soy-based insulation on the electrical wiring, airbag failure and recalls, maintenance costs, electrical wiring, navigation errors, fuel pump overheating, engine reliability woes, electrical system problems, service brake issues, and fuel system malfunctions.
What is the common problem of Acura RDX?
Drivers praise the Acura RDX over its relatively cheap repair and maintenance costs, as it seldom develops engine issues. However, the Acura RDX is not perfect, and many drivers have complained about squealing brakes, dangerous air bags, and poor acceleration.
How many miles will a 2011 Acura RDX last?
The Japanese carmaker is known for its dependability, and more often than not, the RDX is no exception. There are plenty of favorable owner testimonials, and it even has a spot on Forbes' list of 10 vehicles that can run reasonably beyond 250,000 miles.
Are Acura RDX expensive to maintain?
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. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Is the Acura RDX a good reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 80.0/100
The 2024 Acura RDX has a predicted reliability score of 80 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
2011 Acura Rdx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Rdx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Acura Rdx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2011 Acura Rdx complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Acura Rdx.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
- VIN: 5J8TB2H20BA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: Turbo went out at 109230 miles. No warning lamps or anything prior. Unknown on other questions. Just know mil had a turbo go out and ended up being apart of recall
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-15
- VIN: 5J8TB2H21BA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CONDENSATION FORMS INSIDE THE HEADLIGHTS CAUSING THE LIGHTS NOT TO WORK.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-03
- VIN: 5J8TB1H21BA
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER LEVER FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF GEARS AND THE KEY FAILED TO RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHIFTER CABLE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OF THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 79,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-18
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (HONDA OF BAY COUNTY LOCATED AT 3601 E 15TH ST PANAMA CITY, FL 32404) WHO STATED THAT AUTHORIZATION WAS NEEDED TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND OPENED CASE NUMBER: 05970305. NO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-01
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: 4141
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-07
- VIN: 5J8TB2H56BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED NUMEROUS TIMES TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR, BUT THEY WERE UNRESPONSIVE. THE DEALER FAILED TO RESPOND IN A REASONABLE TIMEFRAME. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5J8TB2H29BA
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE MAKING A TURN AT AN EXTREMELY LOW SPEED WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT DROVE OVER A CURB AND CRASHED INTO AN EMBANKMENT AS THE VEHICLE TILTED TO THE RIGHT SIDE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO REVV AFTER IT WAS SHIFTED INTO THE PARK AND NEUTRAL POSITION. THE VEHICLE STOPPED REVVING AFTER THE IT WAS SHUT OFF. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACTS RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,100.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-20
- VIN: 5J8TB2H26BA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: LOW GROWL, OR VIBRATION/SHUDDER STARTING AROUND 40-50 MPH AND CONTINUES IF YOU GO FASTER OR ACCELERATE QUICKLY. ALREADY CHANGED 2 AXLES AND HAD MOUNTS CHECK AND MULTIPLE ALLIGNMENTS. ALL OPEN SOURCE AND FORUM RESEARCH POINT VERY HEAVILY TO TORQUE CONVERTER AND POWERPOINT CONTROL MODULE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-09
- VIN: 5J8TB1H28BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REMEDY WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: 5J8TB1H54BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL- I HAVE CONTACTED DEALERSHIP SEVERAL TIMES OVER SEVEN MONTHS - THEY DONT HAVE PARTS TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM. THIS IS A SEVERE SAFETY ISSUE THAT DEMANDS REAL DATES FOR REPAIR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-03
- VIN: 5J8TB2H58BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-17
- VIN: 5J8TB2H57BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL I HAVE CONTACTED DEALERSHIP TWICE AND THEY KEEP TELLING ME THEY DONT HAVE PARTS TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM. CONTACTED IN APRIL 2016 AND AUGUST 2016. IS THIS A SAFTEY ISSUE FRO MY WIFE WHILE DRIVING THIS CAR?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-16
- VIN: 5J8TB1H52BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE FOR MY CAR AIRBAGS IN MARCH OF 2016. I HAVE CONTACTED MY DEALER SEVERAL TIME TO ASK FOR THE REPLACEMENT REQUIRED BY THIS RECALL AND STILL HAVE HAD NO RESPONSE. MEANWHILE, MY FAMILY AND I ARE DRIVING IN WHAT COULD BE A DANGEROUS VEHICLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-12
- VIN: 5J8TB1H52BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
- VIN: 5J8TB1H59BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2011 ACURA RDX. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO REPLACEMENT PARTS NOT AVAILABLE TO REPAIR DEFECTIVE AIRBAG RECALL. *SMD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-31
- VIN: 5J8TB1H53BA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT FLICKERS GOES ON FOR SOME TIME, THEN TURNS OFF BY ITSELF AFTER TURN LIGHT BACK OFF AND TURNING BACK ON THEY DO THE SAME THING OVER AGAIN SAFETY ISSUE AT NIGHT STATIONARY AND IN MOTION
2011 Acura Rdx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2011 Acura Rdx.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
- Consequence: An explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began April 10, 2019. Honda owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is O41. Acura owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is U40.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 2017. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JY0, JY1, and JY2.
Negative 2011 Acura Rdx car reviews
Positive 2011 Acura Rdx car reviews
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I'm so excited to share that I've finally found the perfect compact crossover SUV! The Acura RDX has everything I need for my daily big city commute - superb acceleration, smooth handling, and great gas mileage. Plus, the seats are so wide and welcoming, perfect for my 50+ year old body. What's even better is that the RDX is a fantastic value compared to other luxury SUVs. It has all the features I wanted and costs 10-15% less than other SUVs I considered. And when I sit in it, I can really feel the high quality that Acura delivers. I highly recommend the Acura RDX to anyone looking for luxury, comfort, and drivability at a reasonable price!
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This is my 3rd SUV. I've previously owned a Morono and a Pathfinder. The power is great and the handling is car-like. I can't believe how quiet this 4-cylinder engine is. The only drawbacks are the poor gas mileage and the requirement for high-test fuel.
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This is actually my second Acura, with the MDX being the first. I have to say, out of all the small SUVs on the market, this one is definitely the best. I've looked at BMW, VW, Audi, and others, but this one takes the cake. It has plenty of space, unless you're looking for a troop transport, of course.
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I have only had this vehicle for two weeks but I have enjoyed it very much. It's really fun to drive and has the power I need when merging onto the highway. I love when the turbo kicks in! However, I'm not very pleased with the road noise and the fact that you feel every bump. My wife and I both agree on this. While you can get used to the road noise, the bumps are another thing.
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Congratulations on your new 2011 RDX with only 25,500 miles! It looks like it's in great condition. The turbo power and super handling make it feel like a sports car, while still being practical for carrying your family and cargo. It's important to use the best gas, but it's definitely worth it. The interior is spacious, even for someone who is 6'2
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Acura Rdx problems:
2011 Acura RDX Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
2011 Acura RDX vehicles have 2 known recalls. The most common recall is: Driver's Frontal Air Bag Inflator Ruptures And Sprays Metal Fragments. Driver's Frontal ...
First Gen RDX 2.4L turbo engine with sh-awd reliability : r/Acura
Aug 14, 2020 ... Im interested in a 2011 rdx with about 95,000 miles. Hows the reliability and what common problems do they have? I know many honda products ...
2011 Acura RDX Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2011 Acura RDX? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2011 drivetrain issues - AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast Community
Mar 27, 2016 ... ... problems with their RDX. I drive a 2011 Acura RDX 2WD. Bought it certified preowned in 2013 after a lease was turned in with 24k miles. Over ...
The Most Common 2011 Acura RDX Problems | GetJerry.com
Jan 30, 2024 ... The most serious problem for the 2011 Acura RDX is its airbags, which have seen two different recalls because the inflator can explode, sending ...
Other years of Acura Rdx
Are you having problems with your 2011 Acura Rdx?
Theodore Jerde 2024-11-04
The 2010 RDX drives exceptionally well, particularly in snowy conditions. Despite my previous love for this car, I have unfortunately had to make several warranty repairs, including replacing four batteries, the auto start, the air compressor relay switch, the alternator, and the windshield wiper switch. Despite these issues, I can confidently say that I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with this Acura.
Korey Stiedemann 2024-06-15
The car is unreliable and poorly manufactured. The 'leather interior' is not genuine leather and the instrumentation does not provide details on issues such as battery charging until it is too late. The ride is uncomfortable and the car consumes a lot of fuel. Overall, the craftsmanship of the car is subpar. Based on my experience, I would not consider purchasing an Acura again, unless it is directly imported from Japan.
Brett Kulas 2024-05-10
I bought this car due to cash for clunkers. Although I think I would have liked this car better had I not driven or known about the Tiguan (which unfortunately had no inventory available). I did notice that there are no rear air vents, the back seats don't move, the sunroof is weak, and there are virtually no power outlets (only 1). Luxury is a far reach for this car, as all the thought was put into technology rather than making the vehicle functional. However, the vehicle does drive smoothly and has great control. The cabin noise is a bit of a downside, but overall it's a decent car.
Arely Hansen 2024-04-21
The RDX was convenient for the extra cargo space, but there were two things that really bugged me. Firstly, there was no storage space in the cabin, which made it difficult to store anything out of sight in the cargo compartment. I wish they had put more little cubbies to store stuff in. Secondly, the cabin noise when driving down the street was quite noticeable and it drove me nuts! As a luxury car owner, I had previously owned a BMW, and in comparison, I missed my BMW every day. Although the surround sound and technology were nice, I don't think the RDX was worth the almost 40K I paid for it brand new. Overall, it gets a partial substandard review due to its lack of practicality.
Ricardo Harvey 2024-03-17
We bought this car to downsize from our Volvo XC90 - and be more 'green'. However, we have found that the mileage is not much better and the cabin and trunk are quite small. While the car may look big, it doesn't hold much. It may not be the best choice for families, but it could be a good option for young couples who don't drive far or carry much and don't mind the road noise.