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Acura Rdx Problems

The Acura RDX is a compact luxury crossover that has evolved from a turbocharged niche player to a mainstream competitor. With 4,844 complaints and 4 reported deaths, the RDX has had some problematic years but generally offers Honda-backed reliability. The third generation (2019+) marked a significant redesign with a new turbocharged engine.

4,844
Total Complaints
39
Total Recalls
19
Model Years
4
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2020 2019 2015
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2008 2009 2010

Common Problem Categories

Exterior Lighting 1,140
Unknown Or Other 568
Air Bags 452
Visibility/wiper 428
Engine 390

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 116 1 6 0 Good
2024 26 1 0 2 Good
2023 40 1 0 0 Good
2022 76 1 16 0 Good
2021 270 2 10 0 Average
2020 768 4 20 6 Avoid
2019 998 4 8 0 Avoid
2018 184 1 16 0 Average
2017 200 1 18 4 Average
2016 104 2 10 6 Good
2015 836 3 18 0 Avoid
2014 504 3 6 6 Below Average
2013 340 3 10 12 Average
2012 38 2 0 0 Good
2011 42 2 6 0 Good
2010 52 2 2 8 Good
2009 32 2 2 0 Good
2008 78 2 6 0 Good
2007 140 2 22 2 Average

Acura Rdx Years to Avoid

2019, 2020, 2007. The 2019 model year, despite being a new generation, accumulated significant complaints about infotainment issues, transmission hesitation, and build quality concerns. The original 2007 model year also had turbo and transmission problems. Early adoption of new generations has proven risky.

Best Acura Rdx Years

2024, 2023, 2016, 2017. The 2024 model year benefits from years of refinement to the third-generation platform. The 2016-2017 second-generation models are well-sorted and offer good value used. Acura addressed most early issues by mid-cycle refreshes in each generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Acura RDX reliable?

Generally yes, with caveats about first-year models. The second-generation (2013-2018) proved very reliable. The third-generation (2019+) had early teething problems but has improved significantly. Avoid 2007 and 2019 specifically.

What are common Acura RDX problems?

First-gen models (2007-2012) had turbo failures and transmission issues. Third-gen models (2019+) experienced infotainment bugs, transmission hesitation, and some reports of excessive oil consumption. Most issues are addressed through software updates and TSBs.

How does the RDX compare to competitors?

The RDX offers more engaging driving dynamics than the Lexus NX and better reliability than German competitors. The SH-AWD system is excellent. Trade-offs include a smaller cargo area and the polarizing True Touchpad infotainment interface.