Acura began manufacturing its smallest crossover, the RDX, in 2007. There are turbocharged four-cylinder engines as well as naturally aspirated V6 engines available in the latest RDX. After a mild update to the 2025 RDX, used RDXs may become more appealing since their price has risen to $45,000. Since the RDX is based on the Honda CR-V’s platform, its reliability is well known, but that doesn’t mean all RDXs are the same. Based on our reliability research, there are some Acura RDX years avoid.
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Information about the Acura RDX
When the Acura RDX was released in 2007, it had 260 pound-feet of torque, 240 horsepower, and a turbocharged 2.3L inline-4 engine. In 2010, the base trim will come with front-wheel drive (FWD). As a whole, this generation of RDX can be credited with RDX’s success in its first three years.
In 2013, the RDX grew two inches and was equipped with a high-revving 3.5L V6 engine instead of a turbocharger. There were also 273 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque, replacing the previous generation’s five-speed transmission. V6 models were able to achieve 23 mpg combined with cylinder deactivation technology, which improved fuel economy. As part of the 2016 facelift, some power improvements and new driver assistance features were introduced.
An updated Acura RDX is being developed, and it should be launched in 2019. Powered by an inline-4 turbocharged 2.0L engine, it is capable of producing 272 horsepower and 280 pounds-feet of torque. In automatic transmissions, the front wheels are driven or all four wheels are driven. There is an A-Spec model in the third-generation RDX, which is six inches longer and four inches wider than its predecessor, as well as a Sport trim level. In 2025, the Acura RDX begins at $44,700 for the SH-AWD-equipped version.
| Here are the key specifications and generational differences of the Acura RDX | ||||
| Generation | Model Years | Engine Options | Transmission | Key Features |
| 1st Gen | 2007 – 2012 | 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 | 5-Speed Automatic | When the Acura RDX debuted, it had a single powertrain and standard all-wheel drive |
| 2nd Gen | 2013-2018 | 3.5L V6 | 6-Speed Automatic | A new V6 powered the second-generation RDX |
| 3rd Gen | 2019 – Now | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 | 10-Speed Automatic | RDX’s four-cylinder engine has been boosted and auto transmission has been upgraded. |
RDX Best Years
A combination of owner-reported and NHTSA data on Acura RDX reliability reveals an interesting pattern when it comes to the best years from which the vehicle can be purchased. All three of the most reliable models are first-generation models. It is reasonable to assume that a new winner may emerge since only limited data is available for the 2021 RDX and newer. That means that for now, anyone interested in buying a used Acura RDX should wait until at least 2012.
1st Generation: 2011 Acura RDX
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and CarComplaints.com report that only five owners have reported problems with the 2011 Acura RDX. Takata’s airbag fiasco resulted in ten NHTSA complaints for Acura. In 2011, the 2011 RDX was also recalled after malfunctioning airbags.
One RDX owner had to make a costly repair when the turbocharger on his vehicle developed a problem at 105,000 miles. Besides that, the car rattled, we got intermittent brake warnings, and the windows rattled. It also holds a J.D. Power Soap seal of approval. According to the 2011 Acura RDX reliability rating, it received 86 out of 100 points.
1st Generation: 2012 Acura RDX
Acura’s first-generation RDX earned another Great reliability rating in its final year of production, according to J.D. The company also rated the RDX’s reliability as excellent. Approximately half of the 14 owners who complained to NHTSA about Takata airbags reported two defective models.
According to Car Complaints, 2012 RDX owners only had two complaints. That owner’s noises were later linked to cracked axle shafts. It costs around $3,000 to fix this problem on the 2012 RDX, but it remains a reliable vehicle.
1st Generation: 2009 Acura RDX
Based on reliability, we recommend the 2009 Acura RDX. Despite not making J.D. Power’s Great category for reliability, the 2009 RDX only registered a single owner Despite not making J.D. Despite not making J.D. Despite not making J.D. Power’s Great category for reliability, only one owner complained about the 2009 RDX on CarComplaints. A shuddering HVAC system that needs a new relay isn’t likely to affect reliability significantly since the cause is relatively benign.
Aside from the two recalls issued during that year, nine of the fourteen complaints at the NHTSA were related to Takata’s airbags.
Acura RDX Years to Avoid
It is best not to buy two Acura RDX model years at the same time as you should try to avoid buying the most reliable Acura RDX model year. It is common for both of these models, regardless of their age, to experience unexpected stalls and run-ins with Limp Mode. There have been RDX vehicle recalls related to this defect, and a class-action lawsuit has been filed by a group of owners as a result.
2nd Generation: 2016 Acura RDX
CarComplaints.com reports the 2016 RDX is the worst model year of all, partly because of the high number of complaints at lower mileages. This stinker wouldn’t be near the bottom, but it’s definitely close. There were 10 brake squeal complaints out of 20 reported to Car Complaints concerning the 2016 RDX. In spite of numerous visits to the dealership, the problem had not been resolved.
A reliability viewpoint may be more important when considering complaints about “hesitation under acceleration”. There are 33 complaints at the NHTSA related to engines and fuel systems, but 10 are related to engine and fuel system problems. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that these 10 issues are mainly related to the 2016 RDX’s sudden death and Limp Mode problems. An engine caught fire spontaneously after being owned by a second owner.
3rd Generation: 2019 Acura RDX
Acura’s 2019 RDX holds the dubious distinction of being the least reliable brand of all time in terms of reliability. First-year models aren’t uncommon to encounter reliability issues, but the fourth-generation RDX is particularly problematic. In 2019, the NHTSA received complaints concerning 282 RDXs. There are 76 complaints relating to engine stalling at highway speeds, going into ‘Limp Mode’, or losing power suddenly.
Three of the NHTSA’s four recalls on the 2019 RDX were due to faulty fuel pumps. Several complaints were also received regarding this engine issue, including 12 Car Complaints. A final The older Acura RDXs, however, may be a good investment since they are the most reliable.. Power reliability rating of any RDX model from 2007 to 2025. Ratings of 66 out of 100 indicate that it is the least reliable.
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Final Thoughts
It would be a mistake for Acura RDX buyers to let a few bad model years steer them away from purchasing a new or used vehicle. Avoiding examples of vehicles is always advisable. In 2024, Acura is rated third for reliability behind parent company Honda, so you know the brand is committed to building quality cars.
Avoid RDXs that have engine stalling issues. You might find a very reliable Acura RDX for not a lot of money, however, as some of the oldest Acura RDXs are also the most reliable.
