2013 ACURA RDX Exterior Lighting Problems

The low beam headlights lights on my 2013 Acura RDX are very dim, and replacing the bulbs does not make any difference. I have read multiple reports that this is a common problem where the reflective material inside the projector style housing breaks down over time, and that the only fix is to replace the entire headlight assembly on both sides. Due to the poor lighting, I have had several near misses with other cars and obstacles that have been hard to see. Compared to other vehicles I have driven over by lifetime, this car really does has a significant safety problem. Headlight assemblies should not degrade this quickly, and replacing them is an expensive repair. I believe that NHTSA should investigate this issue for a potential recall, as not being able to see at night is a major safety issue.

My low beam headlights have diminished in their effectiveness / intensity over time such that I fear driving at night due to possible danger of an accident. If I do have to drive at night, I have to use my high beams...which is also totally unacceptable, and illegal in post places. I have taken the car to the Acura dealership to explain the problem and determine the proper fix. I felt like this should be covered under warranty, since this is a safety issue, no different than safety belts, air bags, etc. The Acura dealership tested the lights and acknowledged the problem, but stated there was no warranty coverage for the issue. The determined fix was to replace both headlight assemblies for a cost of approximately $2500. This is totally unacceptable in my opinion, given this a definite safety issue.

The contact owns a 2013 Acura RDX. While the contact's daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the headlights failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the headlights were dim, causing the visibility to become impaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with failed delaminated headlight housings. The contact was informed that the headlight housings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostic testing. In addition, the contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.

Mileage: 132,000

Have replaced low beam headlight bulbs multiple times within weeks/months of each time for months now. Low beam is so dim that vehicle is unsafe to drive at night without turning on high beams. Something is more wrong than just the bulb. Taken to repair shop each time. Changing bulbs works for a few days then no light happens again. What do I do???

Low beam headlights have begun to dim so much that they are unsafe and ineffective at night. I understand that there may be a reflector problem with the headlights.

Headlights have grown dim. The bulbs have been replaced multiple times to find a bright enough bulb, to no avail. Approximate visual distance at night in unlit areas is less than 25'. This is a safety hazard because this does not allow enough time to avoid impacts.

Low beam headlights are dangerously dim due to the oem headlightbulbs burning the reflector bowls in the projector headlights this is a problem that's been complained about by many many people.

The headlights have gotten progressively and dangerously dimmer over time and it is a known issue according to a local dealer. It's dangerous to drive at night but cost-prohibitive to fix.

My car is undriveable at night due to headlights malfunctioning. They are so dim they barely illuminate a foot in front of the car.

Front low beam headlights are dangerously dim.

Low beam headlight internal reflectors have degraded and light have become very dim. Dangerous to drive at night or in bad weather. aThe car cannot be operated at night. Dealer replacement is $3,000, making the car value negative. The car otherwise is drivable but this defect makes the car unsuitable for use.

In the headlight assembly the main headlight bowls are deteriorated/defective. The amount of light that the regular low beams or high beams provide at night is insufficient. This makes driving at night with the factory assembly lights highly dangerous.

Vehicle headlights on my 2013 Acura RDX Base Model have become progressively dimmer over time to the point that the vehicle is becoming unsafe/undriveable at night and in poor weather. Contacted my local dealer. They acknowledged that this was a known issue. Said the only remedy was to replace the entire headlight unit on both driver and passenger sides. Quoted me $913.99 per unit with labor cost of $305 and tax it would come over $2344 for this "fix".

Headlights failed. Replaced light bulbs several times. The ballasts are not fogged but light is all diffracted. Very unsafe to drive. I have been dealing with the issues for years. I took the car to the dealer and their solution was aftermarket lights!

I purchased the car new and have maintained the vehicle in very condition. What happened is the headlights have gradually become dim as time passed, now they are not effective, creating an unsafe driving condition at night. I spoke with the dealer about this problem and I was informed that this is a common problem for the 2013 Acura RDX. There were no warning lights or maintenance tasks that would prevent this problem. The vehicle is available for inspection.

My 2013 Acura RDX headlights are so dim and it is very dangerous for me to drive at night. This is worse when raining or street lights aren't available. It seems to be a known issue that these cars are equipped with unsafe low-beam headlights that gradually dim over time. This is a huge safety risk, even more so for families with young kids. Why were these not raised earlier and why are these cars not recalled for the fix? Please take necessary and immediate action so lives are not lost over this. Thank you very much for your time and consideration of this matter.

After 10 years, the low beam headlights have become very dim to the point that it’s difficult and unsafe for myself and other drivers for me to drive this car at night, especially in the fog or rain. Apparently this won’t be fixed by simply replacing the bulbs and will be a costly repair at no fault of the owners. I agree with many others that this needs to be a recall fix.

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.

Over the last few years or so, the low beam headlights have provided less and less illumination of the road when driving at night. I have purchased and installed a variety of different new bulbs in attempts to rectify the problem and have tried adjusting the set of the beam, all to no avail. At this point the low beams provide dangerously little illumination on the road in front of the vehicle and the only reasonable way to drive is with the high beams on. I have searched online forums and it seems that the reflector dish in the headlight assembly delaminates over time to the point that it no longer directs the light of the bulb forward in front of the car. I called the Acura dealership in Annapolis, MD and was told that the forums are correct and the headlight housing is failed. The only thing they could do for it was to replace the entire housing at a cost of $2,300 ($1,000 for each headlight and $300 for the labor) with another OEM housing, which has not been modified or upgraded from the original and would therefore have the same problem. Acura would not bear any of the cost of this replacement. The original headlight housings are still in hand and available for inspection upon request. The dealer did not need to inspect the parts, they were already aware of the problem, so yes, it has been reproduced and confirmed by the dealer. There is no warning light or message associated with the problem, just a progressing failure to illuminate the road. The safety of the driver, occupants, and others on the road, is put at risk by the inability to see ahead of the vehicle and the consequent need to drive with the high beams on. The date provided below is the date of the filing of this report, but the failure has been progressive and did not occur on a specific date.

Low beam headlights gradually became dim to the point of not illuminating the road. Replacement halogen bulbs made no difference. The reflective coating inside the low beam projector housing delaminates to the point that no light illuminates the road. You literally have to drive with high beams on as those are in another housing. Acura dealer said only solution was to replace the entire headlight unit. I spent about $500 on replacement headlight housing from eBay and paid a body shop to install them. Acura refuses to recall the 2013-2014-2015 RDX that all have this same issue.

My car headlights are very dim and can't see road well at night-other cars have trouble seeing me. This has slowly happened over time. My mechanic replaced headlight bulbs still a problem and he says the reflectors are bad so I have ordered new headlights. I went online and found this has been a problem for many Acura RDX owners, Acura is aware but hasn't sought a recall to fix situation. However, Acura had same problem on another model (TLX I believe) and did recall and fix problem. This is a safety hazard and almost had head on collision multiple times in the last few years so try not to drive at night which is unrealistic. Other issues are had to replace side passenger mirror which spontaneously melted and cracked, car is garage kept. Similar melting of plastic back side area of car on drivers side, others online report similar problems for my year and color car, Acura won't do anything about it

Low beam lighting failures due to the reflective property breakdown

There hasn't been a specific incident at this point. I am reporting what appears to be a manufacturing defect with the headlamps on my 2013 Acura RDX. I have owned this car for approximately 9 years and recently (past 6-12 months) noticed having difficulty seeing the road at night. Even worse seeing the road at night when raining. I took this vehicle to my personal mechanic and he suggested that the reflective coating inside the light seems to have dulled or has become corroded. He suggested this should not happen and wondered if Acura was aware of it. I did a brief google search and quickly found I was not the only one who had experienced this issue. I called Acura and opened a case file to see if they were aware or if there was something they could do. Then took to a Acura dealer to have them investigate. The dealer has agreed the reflective coating inside the light was no longer working as intended and may be the cause of the dim lights. They contacted Acura about this and Acura said they would only pay for half because the car was 11 yrs old. I suggested this didn't seem equitable since this definitely a safety issue that is not related to normal maintenance and there was literally nothing I could have done to prevent this. So in my opinion they acknowledged there is a manufacturing defect and refuse to own the problem. I don't believe it's reasonable to expect to have to replace the entire light assembly of a vehicle during the life of that vehicle to keep the lights working properly. Certainly not on a car that is just over 10 years old.

A few years ago I began to notice the lack of visibility when I would drive at night. I had my headlight bulbs replaced thinking it was a simple maintenance issue. After spending the money the lights did not get any better. They have only gotten worse over the year and now its so bad when i drive its a hazard. In speaking to Acura they have stated that this is a known issue and its the entire head light component that must be replaced not just the bulbs. That cost would be upwards of $2,000 just for the parts! I can not afford to purchase this and I dont think this falls under normal wear and tear maintenance. I am a very responsible car owner and have always kept records of my car service that I will attach for documentation.

The low beam headlights are so dim I cannot see the road driving at night. I tried replacing the light bulbs with new lights and it still does not improve the visibility. I contacted Acura and it is a known issue with the headlight housing and assembly but they don't want to pay for it. The headlight assembly replacement cost for both sides will be about $3,000. Acura should be responsible for continuing to let drivers drive at night in such dangerous condition that poses significant threat to the driver themselves as well as other drivers and people on the road at night. NHTSA, I hope you can please help us!!

The low beam headlights have dimmed. It is unsafe to drive this vehicle at night and especially if it is raining. The problem is that the low-beam reflector oxidizes over time, and it is not reflecting the light from the bulb. Brighter bulbs or cleaning the lenses is not going to solve the issue. I talked to a dealer and he mentioned it is a known issue, but Acura is not covering any expenses for the fix, which is replacing the entire headlight assembly. That is the only solution. The repair cost is upwards of a thousand dollars. Also worthy of note - a law firm is considering filing a class action lawsuit related to this issue.

Just purchased vehicle not too long ago and noticed light was dim. From researching online, many people have the same issue. Headlight projector is ruined from halogen. Low beam is very dim and hard to see at night.

Exterior Lighting. Low beam headlights/assy. are too dim. Due to the flawed design the reflective film backing material inside the projector lens for the low beam, the headlights delaminates. This is in the projector/reflective and has nothing to do with the bulbs, which have been replaced multiple times. It is so dim that I did run off of the road into a ditch, but due to the low speed, there was no injury or damage. People flash me that the lights are not on, but they are and I have to drive with the high beams on to be able to see the road. Acura may have skated out of recalling this vehicle with the same headlamp assy, but when I get into an accident due to these dim headlights, I will first sue Acura as this is a cut and dry case of not wanting to pay to replace an obvious safety risk. Reminds me of that movie about the gas tanks exploding. The vehicle no longer conforms to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108. Please investigate. The same headlamp assy. was recalled on another vehicle series, and I do not understand why Acura would make a customer pay over 2K for replacements, plus installation fees. The RDX model should have been included in this recall. [XXX] There are now 47 complaints with mine. 46 Complaint(s) February 10, 2024 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11571216 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING January 6, 2024 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11563964 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING December 26, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11561892 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING November 14, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11555054 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING November 13, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11554972 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING October 15, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11550036 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING September 26, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11546625 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING September 25, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11546298 Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING September 21, 2023 NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11545835 Component INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The headlights have become too dim to drive safely at night. While researching the problem on-line, I see this is a known problem caused by the reflective material inside the headlamp assembly delaminating or discoloring. Although a known safety problem, Acura has not issued a needed recall to correct the problem.

The projection paint has worn off from halogen bulb resulting in dangerously low and dim lighting for low beams.

Headlights are dimming

The headlights are dim. I believe the projector has been burned by the halogen bulb. It is a common issue with the halogen-equipped RDX. It is a safety issue at night. Replacing the bulb does not fix the issue.

At approximately 76k I started noticing that my low beam headlights were very dim at night and was having a hard time seeing the street/lines and signs while driving. The distance I should have been able to see was declining. It continued to decline over time, and now at 80k literally the only light my vehicle is projecting at night is the front running lights, so I cannot see barely more that 5 feet in front of me while driving. I have changed bulbs 3 times, each time to progressively brighter bulbs, most recently to LED, and it has not improved. I've researched this issue, and apparently I am not the only one who has this issue, and it appears the projector housing coating has burned out. This was an issue on the MDX as well, and they had a recall. Why has this not been addressed for the RDX?

The HID headlights on this car degrade and fail to produce sufficient light. The reflectors lose their coating. This is a widely known issue [XXX] I have discussed this with my mechanic. The headlights are so dim as to be unsafe. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The headlights begin to dim in December 2020. I finally had to replace headlamp unit: replace both leadlight assemblies on 12 March 2021 due to reflective chrome paint has worn/burnt away. Repairs costed $3,546.20. It is 15 October 2023 and the headlights are beginning to dim-out again. The Acura Dealership inspected my vehicle on 14 October 2023 and indicated that the headlamp unit need replacing, again.

HEADLIGHTS ARE VERY DIM. At night, it is very hard to see the road unless I put the high beamers on. I've inquired about this with the dealership and shared my concerned on how this is a safety issue and front lights arent bright enough. the response "we are aware, it is common in that year and model but nothing we can do." then proceeded to state it would cost $2k to replace. This clearly is a manufacturing issue with Acura and should have been addressed during quality control or something. At this point, I dont feel comfortable driving my car in the evening and it is unfair. It is a risk and safety concern for me, as the driver, and others on the road. If Acura is aware, why arent they fixing the issue? Definitely not a consumer problem.

The low beam headlights degraded very quickly and doesn't throw much light. The problem seems to be with the projector headlight housing

The headlights are soo dim that you cannot see anything at all at nighttime unless you drive with the brights on. The headlight bulbs blow out super fast, within a few months, and need to constantly be replaced over and over again. Even brand new headlights you cannot see at night.

I, along with many others according to the internet, am experiencing very low, unsafe visibility at night due to poor low beam performance. New bulbs make no difference and most of the time the vehicle must be operated using the high beams, which is a safety issue for other drivers.

My exterior headlights have dimmed over time and are now DANGEROUSLY low. This is a known issue with 2013 Acura RDXs that cannot be fixed without completely replacing the lights for about $2,000. This is a safety issue.

I, along with many others according to the internet, am experiencing very low, unsafe visibility at night due to poor low beam performance. New bulbs make no difference and most of the time the vehicle must be operated using the high beams, which is a safety issue for other drivers.

Hello, The projectors on the inside of the headlights on my 2013 Acura RDX have failed, creating a VERY dangerous condition in which the low beam headlights are extremely dim. It is to the point in which driving at night is dangerous, and no longer emits enough light to be considered legal by state and federal guidelines. This is occurring on both the driver side and passenger side headlights. The exterior lens on the headlights is completely clear. It would appear that I'm not alone, as a Google search reveals SEVERAL other drivers with 2013/14/15 RDX's that have extremely dim headlights as a result of projector failure. In addition, Honda recalled approximately 14,000 model year 2013 and 2014 Acura ILX's for this exact same issue. Source: https://hondanews.com/en-US/releases/statement-by-acura-regarding-headlight-recall-2013-2014-acura-ilx This vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

Low beam headlights are so dim. I cannot drive at night. I’ve had the bulbs replaced twice and within a month they are Still too dim to safely drive at night, particularly in the rain. I live in the PNW and that means half the year I can’t safely drive at night. It’s very dangerous and other drivers tell me they can’t see me. I’m over 55 and very concerned, and the cost to replace the headlight assemblies is nearly $2000 which is almost 3x the value of the car! Acura recalled 2013 ILX for same issue why not RDX?

The low beam lamps have become very dim. I replaced with new lamps, but no improvement. After having the bulbs replaced and outside lamp assembly polished I discovered the projector lens itself that the lamps are inserted into have become clouded, similar to having cataracts. On social media I have learned this is a problem shared by many owners. One night after returning home from work I was stopped by a deputy sheriff because he noticed I had my bright lights on too long and that my low beams were too dim. I explained the issue to him and what I was in the process of doing so he let me go. So next day I contacted the dealership and Acura too about this issue. Being denied any satisfaction to remedy the issue I found it necessary to search for and then purchase out of pocket new after market headlight assemblies. The dealership quoted me well over $1,400 to purchase and install. I went to a local auto/body shop and got it done for just under $600.00. I also purchased fog light assemblies to be added to the vehicle while the headlight assemblies were being installed. Total out of pocket was just over $900.

Headlights are very dim. Because of dimness of my headlights, others car were not able to see me and came in front of me, the lights are so dim that I can’t see at night, rain, snow and just simply can’t see the line. I’m going to take my car into to dealership to formally get diagnosed but apparently his is ongoing problem on this models

The contact owns a 2013 Acura RDX. The contact stated while driving at night at an undisclosed speed, the headlight bulbs illumination was extremely dim. The contact stated that the brightness of the headlight bulbs was not adequate for driving. The contact stated that after the second replacement of the headlight bulbs, the front passenger’s side headlight was dimmer than the driver’s side headlight. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed, and the mechanic determined that the daytime running light on the front passenger’s side of the vehicle needed to be replaced. The contact stated the headlights had been replaced twice. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that she was responsible for replacing the headlamps out of pocket. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Mileage: 100,000

Headlight housing has failed to where lights are so dim, the vehicle has become too unsafe to drive at night unless using high beams. This problem for my vehicle is known by Acura, with their only solution being to replace the entire headlight housing. Replacing the bulbs is not the issued. There is a manufacturing defect on the reflective coating for the light housing which deteriorates over time causing extremely dim headlights. Problem was first observed 2-3 years ago but dimming of lights have been happening over time.

Got a problem with dim headlights in my Acura RDX change the bulb and still not working properly. I can’t see at night. Dim headlights present a significant safety issue for drivers and pedestrians,

The OEM headlights assembly dims and overheat over prolonged use. The metal liner inside the headlights melts using a halogen bulb and overtime the liners reflective function goes away and produces a dim light beam. The light is no longer bright enough to drive in dark conditions. And it is hard for oncoming traffic to notice the lights.

The headlights are dangerously dim and getting worse. Replacing bulbs does not improve the situation. I've had two close calls where I didn't see pedestrians due to the poor light output.

The headlight projectors (not the bulbs) clouded and dimmed the lights over time, to the point where it became unsafe to drive at night, and I had to replace the headlight assemblies with new ones. Putting brighter bulbs in the headlight assemblies did not help. There is no warning indicator for this failure, and there is no exact date of the "incident." In fact, it occurred gradually over time, and at first I thought it was my eyes and night driving. My dealer, Criswell Acura of Annapolis MD during a phone call has acknowledged and confirmed this problem with several model year RDX's, and referred me to the national Acura customer service, who said there was nothing that they would do. I have seen in several online forums that this is a common problem among 2013-2016 RDX's.. I recently replaced the headlights with aftermarket replacements at a cost of about $1,000 installed, which was about half the price of OEM replacement parts, before installation. I kept the old, defective OEM headlights, and have them available for inspection.

The low beam headlights on our Acura RDX are so dim that they cannot be used at night and we are forced to drive with high beams on for safety.

Halogen headlights are dangerously dim. You almost cannot tell they are even on. We’ve had this car for years and we won’t drive it at night. According to a lot of other owners - they have the same problem. Dealer confirmed it is a known problem but the only way to fix it is to replace the entire housing at $3,000.

The contact owns a 2013 Acura RDX. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the low-beam headlights failed to function correctly. The contact replaced the light bulbs, but the failure persisted. The dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that there was no recall on the VIN for the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 150,000. The consumer purchased new headlights and stated a tremendous difference.

Mileage: 150,000

A low-beam headlight is too dim to drive at night, especially during rain

The headlights are extremely dim making it very difficult to see at night. The bulbs have been replaced and are still very dim. They are available for inspection upon request. There were no messages regarding any failure. And it first was noticed upon purchasing the car and driving it at night.

Exterior Lighting. Low beam headlights are too dim. Due to the flawed design the reflective film backing material inside the low beam headlights delaminates. The vehicle no longer conforms to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108. Please investigate.

Headlights are too dim to drive safely at night.

The contact owns a 2013 Acura RDX. The contact stated while driving at various speeds at night, the low beam headlights were significantly dim, affecting the visibility of the roadway and the side of the roadway. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed but no issues were found. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Mileage: 125,000

The low beam headlights are very dim. Researching on the internet this is a known issue with this model from 2013-2015, but there is no recall for this obvious safety issue. My dealer states they cannot do anything about it without recall, and it is very expensive to replace the entire headlight assembly. Apparently the low beam reflector oxidizes over time. I am afraid to drive this vehicle at night.

The low beam headlights are so dim that night time driving is dangerous. The car has approximately 150K miles on it. I have tried changing bulbs thinking they were just getting old and it did not improve visibility. I have seen other complaints about this for the RDX 2013, '14, & '15 online so it is definitely a known issue. Acura needs to recall these vehicles and replace the headlight assembly with ones that work.

The headlights are very dim to the point where I cannot see at night! It is very u safe driving this vehicle at night times due to the nonfunctioning headlight. I have been driving with my high beams just so I can see. It is sad when the high beams look like normal headlights! How and why Acura was allowed to produce and sell these vehicles is beyond me! Let alone pass any type of safety inspection! This is unsafe and hazardous when the driver cannot see the roads!

Low beams (both) became so dim as to be unsafe to drive at night due to reflector becoming very clouded. Many other owners have reported the same issue. FYI: low beam bulbs are good, high beam lights are fine, car has only 75k miles and is seldom driven at night

The headlights are extremely dim. I have replaced the bulbs 2x. After looking on line, see that owners of 2013 - 2015 Acuras report this dangerous problem - can’t see clearly at night and especially in the rain. Called Acura - they said no recall. From the hundreds of posts it is a visibility/safety problem. Has gotten worse over time.

Headlights seem to be defective. So dim, you cannot see at night. This has been a problem with several years of RDX from what I am reading.

We purchased our 2013 Acura RDX new and have owned it since. After about 2 years, I noticed that the Low Beam lighting was not as bright as it use to be (it never seemed exceptionally bright in the first place). Over the next few years, it appeared to be getting worse. I replaced the bulbs with the appropriate aftermarket, higher lumen rated halogen bulbs, that improved it a little bit, but not very much. The low beam lighting was much worse than my 2004 Acura TL at time. I have also read the reports from other owners and my mechanic also received similar complaints from RDX customers. I am taking my car in today to have the headlight assemblies replaced and installing aftermarket halogen bulbs ($>1,000) to hopefully improve exterior lighting so we can drive the car safely at night. Note, we have not taken our 2013 Acura RDX out at night in over 5 years as it's just not safe.

Headlights are very dim and make it extremely difficult to drive in the dark. Can barely see a few feet in front. Auto shops have commented how dim the lights are and have changed to the brightest bulbs and still there is no change. This makes driving conditions dangerous

The low beam headlights on my 2013 Acura RDX have become so dim that it is dangerous to drive the vehicle at night. I am the original owner. The vehicle has been driven approximately 70,000 miles, has never been in an accident and is in excellent condition otherwise. A Honda dealership recently diagnosed the problem and advised that the headlight assemblies would need to be replaced at a cost of > $2,000. Other owners of this vehicle have reported experiencing the same problem on car forums and in reports to the NHTSA and identified the cause as deterioration of the reflective lining of the projector lens. This is a serious safety issue that the manufacturer should be held responsible for addressing.

Low beam headlights have gotten so weak it is dangerous to drive after dark. Lights are working, but ouput from the lamp is greatly diminished. This is NOT involving the clear exterior cover to the headlights. Dealership service department confirmed lights working and recommends replacement of both side headlight assemblies, at cost of $2,000 plus.

I purchased this vehicle used last April, 2020. Six months ago, I noticed while driving at the night that it seemed as if my headlights were not on. I even pulled over at one point to see if they WERE! I purchased a commercial lens cleaning kit to see if it helped the illumination. It did not. I purchased new bulbs with a higher lumen rating than the OEM bulbs. No change. I have spoken with a master mechanic and a parts supplier. They could offer no solutions. I have read several blogs that all have the same theme: the Acura RDX models from 2013-2015 all have terrible headlight components that truly compromise driving at night and could very possibly be a significant contribution to an accident. According to Acura, they don't regard this issue as a problem they should address and the dealers want a small fortune to replace the entire headlight assembly. To do the replacement myself would still cost between $500-$700. For the reputation of the brand and the price I paid - even for a USED vehicle - it seems unconscionable that Acura will take zero responsibility for inherently flawed components and design. It's all about the money...

Very poor visibility from low beam lights. The daytime running lights are brighter than my low beams. Had bulbs replaced with upgraded bulbs still unable to drive this vehicle at night. I'm the original owner purchased new no accidents. Acura has a recall or warranty enhancement for other models with the same problems. I was told by the dealer only way to correct my issues is by replacing the headlight assembly. Very disappointed with my last 2 Acura vehicles. Acura should have kept making the vehicles in Japan.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Headlight Assembly. Yes, it is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Visibility at night is significantly diminished. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. Car engine and body is in great shape. It is well maintained with approximately 101,019 miles. The low beam headlights have dimmed to the point the vehicle is almost undrivable at night. This is a well documented problem with other Acura RDX owners with the same model year. The manufacturer will not fix the issue and is recommending a replacement of the entire headlight assembly which is >$2,000. This is not a wear and tear item. I've never had to replace this type of equipment on any vehicle I've owned.

The headlights have become so dim that driving at night is unsafe. Replacing bulbs does not fix the problem. This is a design defect and is very unsafe.

The front headlights have failed and now hardly illuminate the roadway at night. I brought the vehicle to the dealer and they polished the outside housing of the headlamp assembly, but that failed to remedy the problem. I brought the vehicle to a local repair shop, and they report this is a common problem with Acuras and they state that the entire headlight assembly needs to be replaced. The headlights are available to be inspected on request. Without adequate headlight illumination, this puts the operator, passengers and pedestrians at risk as they cannot be seen at night.

Headlights (low beams) are way too dim making driving in the dark impossible. Replacing bulbs and aligning lights did not correct problem. Driver in another car said headlights were barely visible on their end.

Headlights are very dim. Sometimes need to use high beams to see at night. From what I read on line, it is a common problem with the headlight housing on 2013-2015 Acura RDX. This is a serious safety risk and Acura should repair. I purchased the car used about 2 years ago and the problem has gotten worse

The low-beam headlights are so dim at night that it is extremely dangerous to drive. One can only see several feet in front of the car. I understand other years of Acura RDX's have a defect, and were subject to a recall, involving the reflective material in the headlight assembly. That material would degrade over time, making the lights dim. I have replaced the bulbs themselves, but that has not improved the situation.

the front low beam headlights are extremely dim. Can typically only see approximately 30 feet in front while driving. Any speed in excess of 25mph is dangerous. High beams work fine. there are no fog lights on this vehicle.

The reflective surface inside the headlight assemblies has delaminated. This effectively makes the headlights useless and creates a very unsafe driving condition at night. I reported the issue to Acura's national customer service number but they did nothing but record the call. This is a known issue with Acura as they have done recalls on other year and model combinations. This is clearly a very serious latent manufacturing and safety issue that needs immediate attention. A simple Google search will reveal many owners talkin about this on internet forums.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE AT NIGHT, THE LOW-BEAM HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO PROPERLY ILLUMINATE THE ROADWAY AND WAS EXTREMELY DIM CAUSING A VISIBILITY HAZARD TO THE DRIVER. THE LIGHT BULBS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE PRIORITY ACURA LOCATED AT 1701 S MILITARY HWY, CHESAPEAKE, VA 23320 WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY REFLECTOR WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE HOWEVER, NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,000.

Mileage: 76,000

IT IS A COMMONLY KNOWN (WITH CONSUMERS) PROBLEM, THAT MANUFACTURERS CHOOSE TO IGNORE. I HAVE A 2013 ACURA RDX, THAT I BOUGHT NEW IN DECEMBER 2012. THE VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN IN ANY TYPE OF ACCIDENT. THE VEHICLE HAS ALWAYS BEEN MAINTAINED BY MYSELF, OR AN ACURA/HONDA DEALERSHIP. MY PROBLEM ARE THE HEADLIGHTS. I CAN NOT SEE MUCH WITH THEM ANYMORE. I HAVE NEVER PUT ANY AFTERMARKET LED TYPE OR OTHER BULBS, NOR HAVE THEY EVER BEEN ALTERED IN ANY WAY. I REPLACED THE BULBS (WITH OEM STYLE) THINKING IT WAS THE BULBS THEMSELVES, WITH THE SAME RESULTS. IN ANY INCLEMENT WEATHER, ESPECIALLY RAIN, OR WITH ONCOMING TRAFFIC, I SEE LESS. I UNDERSTAND ONCOMING TRAFFIC WILL LESSEN WHAT A DRIVER SEES, BUT THIS IS BEYOND NORMAL. THE LENSES ON MY VEHICLE ARE ALSO CLEAR (NOT YELLOW FROM YEARS OF SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE). THE VEHICLE IS ALWAYS GARAGE-KEPT, WHEN AT HOME. FROM MY RESEARCH, THE HEADLIGHT REFLECTORS INSIDE THE HOUSING, DETERIORATE. THIS CAUSES VERY LITTLE LIGHT TO REFLECT IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. IF THIS IS CONSIDERED "WEAR AND TEAR", I WOULD FIX THIS ISSUE MYSELF. BUT TO ME, I FEEL THAT THIS A TERRIBLE DESIGN, THAT ACURA SHOULD FIX. MY INABILITY TO SEE WHILE DRIVING, IS A HAZARD. I CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN MY VEHICLE AS REQUIRED. I HAVE A DIFFERENT VEHICLE THAT WAS BOUGHT NEW, IN 2003 AND NOW HAS 230K MILES, NO PROBLEMS. I MAINTAIN MY VEHICLES WELL! I DON'T FEEL THAT I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY SEVERAL THOUSANDS TO HAVE THE HEADLIGHTS FIXED ON MY ACURA, OR TO TRADE THE ACURA IN, AS A REASON TO GET RID OF A KNOWN ISSUE. I HAVE INVESTED IN THE ACURA, TO KEEP IT RUNNING AT ITS BEST. WHEN I BOUGHT THE ACURA, MY PLAN WAS TO KEEP IT FOR 15 YEARS OR MORE, IF POSSIBLE. I AM DOING MY PART, AS MUCH AS I CAN. I REACHED OUT TO ACURA, WITH NO HELP. MY ONLY HOPE, IS THAT THIS ISSUE IS INVESTIGATED, AND FOR ACURA TO HELP ME WITH THIS SAFETY DESIGN FLAW. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE GABRIEL COLO

Mileage: 150,000

BOTH HEADLIGHTS ARE TOO DIM TO SAFELY DRIVE AT NIGHT. I WAS PULLED OVER BY A STATE TROOPER FOR NOT HAVING MY LIGHTS ON WHEN THEY WERE ACTUALLY ON. ACURA HAS A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE ON THE 2014 ILX. THE 2013 RDX SHOULD ALSO BE INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL.

Mileage: 102,000

EVEN AFTER REPLACEMENT THE HEADLIGHTS ARE DANGEROUSLY DIM. IT APPEARS THAT THE PROJECTORS ARE BLOCKING THE LIGHT.

Mileage: 95,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000.

Mileage: 22,000