Best and worst Acura RDX years — which to avoid

The Acura RDX makes one of the best bargains on the used car market in the compact SUV class, but that can’t be said for every model year of the car. There have been some pretty bad Acura RDX years to avoid due to the repetitive issues that plagued the models.

We’ll focus on those issues in this guide as our team strives to explain the differences between the good and the bad years of the RDX through official NHTSA submissions, recalls, and safety ratings to determine which years are your best picks.

Why you can trust REREV’s advice on which car model years to avoid: Our car experts look at official data, ask real drivers what they think, and talk to experienced mechanics to make sure our list is useful. This reliable info can make buying a car easier for you. Want to know how we do it? Find out more about our research methodology.

How we rated the best and worst Acura RDX years

Before we get to the point, we have to provide you with an overview of our Acura RDX rating methodology. We used trustworthy sources to obtain information on the RDX complaints, official recalls scheduled by the manufacturer, and real-life driver experiences through Acura RDX reviews.

We compiled all these and compared the reports from prominent automotive review sites like Edmunds, KBB, and CR to give you an accurate depiction of each model year’s reliability:

Most common Acura RDX problems

It is common for a car to develop problems at some time. It helps to research a vehicle before purchase to know what issues to expect.

With such information, you can plan your maintenance routine to prevent some of these problems from happening. Here are the common issues you can expect to encounter on an Acura RDX.

1. Failing turbocharger

The first-generation models of RDX gave off more check engine warning lights as they got older. The cause of the warning light is often attributed to turbocharger failure. Other times, the external turbo actuator fails, causing a reduction in fuel efficiency and power.

Replacing the entire turbo costs over $1,000. If only the actuator needs a replacement, you can swap your old actuator from a used turbo unit for a working one.

2. Limp Mode problem

Some drivers complained about the RDX suddenly entering ‘Limp Mode’ when accelerating at freeway speeds. The issue is more common in rainy weather or high humidity. Restarting the vehicle is all the fix required for this issue.

The terrible part about this problem is that anything can happen when it strikes. Drivers have been known to crash their cars or get into accidents when the Limp Mode suddenly activates.

To address the issue, Acura issued a technical service bulletin (TBS) that gave relevant information on the problem. If you own a 2019 or 2020 RDX, you should be extra careful, as they are the most prone to this issue.

3. Dim headlights

Poor visibility is expected on the RDX due to dimming headlights. Drivers have reported having bare scrapes with accidents and crashes because they could not see correctly using the low beams.

You only have to worry about this problem if your RDX comes with halogen headlights. The reflective material inside the headlight assembly usually wears out, significantly reducing its light output.

The problem will persist even after drivers replace the old bulbs with more powerful units. Attempting to replace the halogen bulbs with brighter HID or LED bulbs is not recommended, as the headlight assembly is not made for these bulbs. Sure, these types of headlights are much more powerful than halogen, but it’s not advised to tamper with factory-set lights.

The best solution to this problem is replacing the entire headlight assembly with any other type. You can also upgrade the assembly to accommodate HID or LED headlights. Still, you must ensure that the assembly is done correctly and that the electrical components are complete and suitable.

It is best to have a professional handle this issue, so you get a comprehensive upgrade or replacement.

4. Squeaking brake noises

Many Acura RDX drivers complained about their brakes making squeaking noises even when they are relatively new and cruising at low speed. It is a commonly reported problem and is most prevalent in the 2016 model.

For regular vehicles, brake squeaking noise is usually caused by worn brake parts or excess dust or rust on the rotors. But since this issue occurs in RDXs that are relatively new, worn brake parts cannot be the cause. Either the brake system has a component design issue, manufacturing defect, installation error, or all three.

Responding to the issue, Acura released a TSB that required dealers to replace the front and rear brake pads and discs of the third-generation RDX. The design and manufacturing plans for the offending parts were updated to ensure other models, after those of the third generation, did not have this problem by default.

Worst Acura RDX years to avoid

Some models of the Acura RDX deliver more problems than good stuff, so what are the worst Acura RDXZ years? The worst Acura RDX years are 2015 and 2019, but you should also avoid the following models:

• 2007
• 2008
• 2009
• 2010
• 2015
• 2019

We’ll thoroughly explain the reasons behind these years making it to the banned list and let you know about the problems they each have below.

First-generation RDX (2007-2009 model years)

The first-generation Acura RDX started on a rough footing. Its models had airbag failures and high maintenance costs.

On the brighter side, models of this generation are best known for their luxurious features and style. The airbag issue essentially compromised the vehicle’s safety, making it one RDX you should avoid. The only safe model of this generation is that of 2012.

Second-generation RDX (2015-2016 model years)

The 2015 RDX is best known as an animal attractor. It had soy-based insulation on the electrical wiring, which often attracted animals into the undercarriage for warmth. Drivers have had to pay about $2,000 to fix the problems these animals bring with them.

Like the first-generation RDX, the 2015 RDX had an issue with its airbags. They were prone to exploding after exposure to heat and humidity. Other problems on the 2015 RDX include fuel pump, navigation, and engine problems, as well as dim headlights problems.

On the other hand, the 2016 model had fewer problems than the 2015 model. However, its significant complaints centered on a severe issue – defective brakes. Brake problems are not ones to be taken lightly. It is best to avoid the 2016 model so you avoid becoming an unfortunate driver suffering from consistent brake problems.

Third-generation RDX (2019 model year)

The 2019 Acura RDX is the model with the highest number of complaints on the production line. The complaints mostly centered on stalling engines, airbag problems, power loss, entertainment system failure, and other general complaints.

It scored low on the reliability scale and was a safety hazard.

What are the best Acura RDX years to buy?

If you wish to get the most out of an Acura RDX, these are the RDX models you should consider during your purchase.

• 2010
• 2012
• 2013
• 2014
• 2017
• 2018
• 2020

Recent models come with modern innovations crafted to increase safety and promote quality driver experience. If you want to buy a used RDX, consider the 2010 model, which offers superior handling and the correct dose of luxury.

2010 Acura RDX

The 2010 Acura RDX featured a lot fewer issues when compared with model years from 2007 to 2009 which were pretty bad. It didn’t have any issues with the failing turbocharger, nor did it struggle with transmission or engine for that matter.

In fact, it was the best-rated RDX of its time and it still is more than decent on today’s market compared with newer models. Plus, it received positive feedback from basically every driver you can find, which along with a low number of NHTSA complaints serves as a testament to its quality.

Is the Acura RDX worth buying?

The Acura RDX is not only fun to use and efficient but also affordable. The compact SUV has excellent handling and an interior finish of excellent quality. The RDX would last 250,000 miles on average with the proper care and maintenance.

If you consider cars an investment, the RDX is a fair one. Recent models hold their value better than older models and have a better market demand in the resale market.

Our analysis like Audi Q5 years to avoid, and BMW X3 years to avoid highlights the model years that stand out for their exceptional performance, comfort, and reliability, as well as pointing out those that may not live up to the standards expected of these prestigious brands.