2011
New 2021
Used 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007

Acura RDX Change Vehicle

Unlock Ratings
The well-equipped Acura RDX feels sporty, but its turbocharged four-cylinder engine is less refined than one might expect for the class. Handling is agile, but the ride is stiff. However, the RDX is loaded with high-tech features such as navigation with live traffic data.
Alerts
There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
2011
New 2021
Used 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007

Acura RDX

Reliability
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Owner Satisfaction
See All
Crash and Rollover Tests
IIHS Front Moderate Overlap Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver NA
IIHS Side Crash Good
NHTSA Frontal-Crash, Driver NA
NHTSA Frontal-Crash, Passenger NA
See All

Road Test Results

Performance
Acceleration Acceleration Acceleration tests are conducted on a smooth, flat pavement straightaway at the track. Time, speed, and distance measurements are taken with a precise GPS-based device that’s hooked to a data-logging computer.
0 to 60 mph 0 to 60 mph (sec.) The time in seconds that a vehicle takes to reach 60 mph from a standstill with the engine idling.
Transmission Transmission Transmission performance is determined by shifting smoothness, response, shifter action, and clutch actuation for manual transmissions.
Fuel Economy Fuel Economy We perform our own fuel-economy tests, independent of the government's often-quoted EPA figures and the manufacturers' claims. Using a precise fuel-flow measuring device spliced into the fuel line, we run two separate circuits to represent city and highway consumption.
CR's Overall Mileage CR's Overall Mileage CR's overall mileage is a composite of measured fuel usage on a prescribed city course and highway cruising; and CR's 150-mile test trip of mixed driving, if tested. In recent road tests, we've discontinued the 150-mile trip test.
CR's City Mileage CR's City Mileage Measured fuel usage on a prescribed city course.
CR's Highway Mileage CR's Highway Mileage Measured fuel usage on a prescribed highway cruising.
Annual Fuel Cost Annual Fuel Cost The cost and amount of fuel used in 12,000 miles and is calculated from CR's overall mileage.
Braking Braking The braking rating is a composite of wet and dry stopping distances and pedal feel. Braking distance is from 60 mph, with no wheels locked.
Emergency Handling Emergency Handling Several factors go into the rating, including the avoidance maneuver speed and confidence, as well as how the vehicle behaves when pushed to its limit.
Comfort / Convenience
Ride Ride Our expert judgment of how well the suspension isolates and absorbs road imperfections and how steady it keeps the body on various road surfaces.
Noise Noise Our expert judgment of the vehicle's interior noise level in everyday driving.
Front Seat Comfort Front Seat Comfort Our judgment of how comfortable the front seat is for drivers of various heights.
Rear Seat Comfort Rear Seat Comfort Our judgment of how comfortable the rear seat is for two passengers to sit across.
Interior Fit and Finish Interior Fit and Finish An expert evaluation of the interior quality and craftsmanship.
Trunk/Cargo Area Trunk/Cargo Area Our rating is based on the amount of luggage or cargo space that a vehicle has in the trunk or cargo area.
Emissions
Greenhouse Gas Greenhouse Gas The Greenhouse Gas Rating represents the amount of carbon dioxide the vehicle emits compared to other vehicles of the same model year. This score from the EPA ranges from 1 (worst) to 10 (best).
NA
Smog Rating Smog Rating The Smog Rating represents the amount of health-damaging and smog-forming airborne pollutants the vehicle emits compared to other vehicles of the same model year. This score from the EPA ranges from 1 (worst) to 10 (best).
NA

Owner Reports

Worse Better
Reliability History Reliability History The reliability charts are based on responses on hundreds of thousands of vehicles from our latest Annual Auto Survey. Consumer Reports subscribers reported on any serious problems they had with their vehicles during the past 12 months that they considered serious because of cost, failure, safety, or downtime, in any of the trouble spots included in the table below. The results are presented relative to the average model that year. Extra weight is given to the more serious areas such as major engine or transmission problems. Based on this data and further analysis, we predict reliability for the latest year. N/A indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
NA
2008
NA
2009
NA
2010
NA
2011
2012
NA
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
Reliability Trouble Spots
Engine Major Engine Major Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.
NA
Engine Minor Engine Minor Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.
NA
Engine Cooling Engine Cooling Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.
NA
Transmission Major Transmission Major Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.
NA
Transmission Minor Transmission Minor Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission.
NA
Drive System Drive System Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.
NA
View all Reliability
Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction To learn about satisfaction, CR has collected survey data from our annual survey on more than half a million vehicles. Our subscribers provide great insights into their satisfaction by answering one simple question: If they had it to do all over again, would they definitely buy or lease the same model? In addition, respondents also rate their cars in six categories: driving experience, comfort, value, styling, audio, and climate systems. N/A indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
NA
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
Driving Experience Driving Experience Includes acceleration and handling
Comfort Comfort Includes seats, climate control, noise, and ride
Value Value Did you get what you wanted relative to the price you paid?
Styling Styling How it looks inside and out
View all Owner Satisfaction
Safety Equipment
ABS and ESC standard. Side and head protection air bags standard. FCW and AEB standard from 2019.
Road Test

The well-equipped Acura RDX feels sporty, but its turbocharged four-cylinder engine is less refined than one might expect for the class. Handling is agile, but the ride is stiff. However, the RDX is loaded with high-tech features such as navigation with live traffic data.

Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
AWD , Front
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Body Styles
4-door SUV
Transmissions Available
  • 5-speed Automatic
Engines Available
  • 2.3-liter 4 turbo (240 hp)

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2011 Acura RDX owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Climate System

Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure.

What Owners Say

A/C compressor

"It appears to have failed this week and us in the shop toda"

Anonymous, MA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Compressor stopped working. Had to be replaced."

Anonymous, AZ (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The issue was at 94,000 miles and Acura covered under warranty"

Jim T., FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Same thing as previous response. I don't know where the problem is in the car. But A/C not working and air flow weak"

Anonymous, CA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The air-conditioning in this vehicle has been terrible. Replaced completely 3 times. Totally unreliable whether it will work throughout the summer"

Anonymous, MD (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Had to be replaced"

Anonymous, (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Compressor failed and was replaced ($2200 expense)."

Anonymous, (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Needed to replace compressor and additional A/C components"

Anonymous, (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Automatic climate control

"This has been a problem area since we purchased the car and the dealer was never able to resolve. Sometimes the climate control simply doesn't work and produce cold air regardless if it's in automatic or manual mode. And then after a while it starts working again. And in all honesty the manual mode seems to work better than automatic."

Anonymous, WA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The cabin temperatures were not consistent with temperature settings when the system was in "Auto" mode. We had noticed that the outside temperature sensor was either not working or not reading correctly.The dealership replaced the sensor under war"

Anonymous, MB (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"It has not been repaired yet. It doesn't have strong air flow and the air is not cold. It had similar problem when car was first purchased by us and was repaired at dealer. We don't know exactly what the issue is this time"

Anonymous, CA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Automatic climate control settings don't always work. Appears to be an intermittent issue"

Anonymous, WA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
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Body Integrity

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Squeaks or rattles

"Rattles in the glove box area which required all new insulation, and rattles in the dashboard from the gauges"

Natasha K., OR (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"needed new barribgs"

Anonymous, NY (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"I think this has more to do with the vehicles ride which has always been on the stiff side, and combine that with our areas horrible roads and that's a recipe for the squeaks and rattles that have gotten worse with time."

Anonymous, WA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"We have had many issues with rattles and have had it to the dealer many times. They can never fix it. Noise is coming from the back tailgate area. Once the extended warranty went out, we gave up and are going to sell the vehicle."

Anonymous, AZ (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Both were rattles, one was a suspension component that had broken, the other we've been unable to isolate as of yet. But it is going to the repair shop soon and they'll be looking into it"

Anonymous, WA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Squeaks in the front dash and glove box. Acura re-insulated the entire front dash"

Natasha K., OR (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Always from some location inside the car"

Kenny R., FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The glove box rattled and the dealer told me it couldn't be repaired but had to be replaced at a cost of $550 as it was off warranty! I went wild and complained loudly. They finally agreed to comp most of the repair cost but it still cost me $50"

Anonymous, CT (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
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Electric System

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure.

What Owners Say

Headlights

"The headlight has a leak, no damage to it, just a leak and now foggy lens"

David C., AZ (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Moisture was collecting inside the headlight"

Anonymous, FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Keyless entry

"Very difficult to pair even with Acura Service Techs assisting"

Anonymous, FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Remote engine starter

"During extended rain or snow, the interior and exterior lights will flicker. The door locks will also cycle. This has been an ongoing problem that appears to be either the alarm or remote start system. Acura hasn't fixed it yet"

Stefen M., PA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Tire pressure monitor

"Tire Pressure Monitor genrally comes on after 30+ minutes of driving but with no actual error in Tire Pressure"

Anonymous, FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Warning lights

"a squirrel chewed on the engine electrical wiring"

Anonymous, MD (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Load more

In-car Electronics

CD or DVD players, radio, speakers, GPS, communication system (e.g., OnStar), display screen freezes or goes blank, phone pairing (e.g. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors.

What Owners Say

Display screen goes blank

"gps locked up - replaced by acura under warranty"

Anonymous, CA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
In-dash navigation system (GPS)

"Apparently a common issue, the DVD player for the Nav system died, rendering the display useless for both Navigation and all other inputs (stereo controls, etc). At $500+ for a refurbished player, we are not fixing it"

David M., NJ (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

"Handsfree link used too much energy and drained the car battery"

Anonymous, MD (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Since this car is now 4 years old it seems that sometimes the bluetooth shows on dash but does not connect. At times the buttons to advance song on iTunes does not work. When I hook up to USB it corrects itself"

Cynthia W., FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Speakers

"A simple fix...the drivers side tweeter housing on the windshield column popped out, Dealer replaced this under warranty"

Anonymous, MB (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Voice control commands

"computer does not understand my commands. In calling with Handsfree Link I ask to speak to a name and it comes back wrong"

Cynthia W., FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
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Brakes

Antilock system (ABS), parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, brake failure or wear.

What Owners Say

Calipers

"The caliper became locked due to debris -,leaves stuck and I thought the warranty should cover it as I had no control over normal road conditions"

Anonymous, MA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Normal routine brake wear

"The brakes were the original ones that came with the vehicle. They were wearing down, and I had them replaced before I had any major problems."

Anonymous, (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Rotors

"Rotors badly warped at 45000 miles"

Anonymous, OH (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Squeaking

"rust damage"

Anonymous, CO (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Brake line problem"

Anonymous, (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Load more

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.

What Owners Say

CV joint

"Joints worn causing shuddering under accelerating"

Anonymous, PA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Driveshaft or axle

"Rear wheel bearing had to be replaced"

Anonymous, SK (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Vibration at 40KM/h. Dealer reported that drive shaft required replacement under extended warranty"

Simon V., ON (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"I had to have new front axles or at least that’s what the repair shop said. Also a new alternator, which I couldn’t determine how to mark in your lists."

Anonymous, AZ (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Electrical failure

"Had to replace alternator."

Anonymous, SC (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Load more

Suspension

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

What Owners Say

Power steering pumps and hoses

"Power steering pump went bad and needed to be replaced"

Anonymous, CT (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

"leaking fluid, Acura dealer recommended to replace. Was fairly expensive for a car with only 60K miles"

David P., TX (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"Leak in rack....had to be replaced."

William H., FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Steering wheel vibration

"Bad front axles; replaced them twice"

Anonymous, MA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Load more

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling), loose interior and exterior trim or moldings, rust.

What Owners Say

Loose exterior trim or moldings

"Window molding had to be replaced"

Karen B., CA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Loose interior trim or moldings

"Seals on rear doors come loose frequently"

Anonymous, BC (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

"A spot on the front quarter panel developed with a spider web looking pattern"

Anonymous, FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

"The trim paint has completely faded"

Anonymous, FL (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Load more

Body Hardware

Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top.

What Owners Say

Seat controls - temperature

"The back rt seat back heats up even though it isn't on."

Anonymous, NE (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
Windows

"Sometimes the windows roll down when they haven't been activated."

Anonymous, NE (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Transmission Minor

Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission.

What Owners Say

Transmission sensor or solenoid

"I felt it was premature to have a Transmission solenoid fail on a car that at the time had under 65k miles on it"

Anonymous, WA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Power Equipment

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system

What Owners Say

Starter

"Starter had trouble engaging properly."

Anonymous, MA (2011 Acura RDX None 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks.

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.

Fuel System

Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation.

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