Acura RDX Years To Avoid & Best Years [2025]

Acura’s RDX SUV has earned high marks from government crash tests. But to truly make an informed decision about this model year RDX SUV purchase decision it’s essential to look beyond its model year alone and consider additional factors beyond just its year.

Examining complaints against particular models can help identify those that are likely to present issues, enabling you to make an informed buying decision. Find out which Acura RDX years should be avoided to safeguard your investment.

Acura RDX Years to Avoid

Here’s the breakdown of Acura RDX years to avoid which should be avoided to prevent long-term issues.

2007-2009 Acura RDX

Acura RDX cars are well-regarded for their reliability and luxurious features, but as with any car, they do have some drawbacks that should be noted when making a purchase decision. The first-generation RDX suffered from airbag failures, high maintenance costs, and other problems which should help buyers identify possible purchases more easily. Understanding these potential problems will enable buyers to avoid these potential pitfalls when making their choice.

Shopping for used cars needn’t be an intimidating process; by taking time to assess mechanical issues, conduct thorough inspections, and review vehicle history reports you can successfully avoid potentially problematic models and ensure a successful purchase experience.

Acura RDX years differ, so here is a list of years to avoid that will help make a more informed decision and save money over time. By following these tips, you should find your ideal used Acura RDX quickly! Good luck!

Frequently reported issues

• Turbocharger failures
• Excessive oil consumption
• Engine misfires and stalling
• Transmission troubles
• Premature brake wear

Acura RDX years to avoid: 2010-2011 Model Years

After the disappointing first RDX was released, Acura took time off before unveiling their second generation SUV based on MDX luxury compact crossover design and format. While Acura’s second-generation RDX proved itself superior to its predecessors in terms of aesthetic, performance, and customer reviews; competition from Lexus NX and BMW X3 was still intense and it did not become an effective luxury small SUV competitor.

The 2010 Acura RDX pre-facelift seemed promising at first, with its V6 engine and technological improvements. Unfortunately, multiple complaints and recalls led to its owners finding it difficult to enjoy this SUV; most notably with transmission problems that slipped, jerked, and shuddered, along with dimming headlights making driving at night frustrating for many owners. 

These issues led to lower reliability scores and less than desirable owner satisfaction ratings that should make you avoid buying an RDX of 2010. If quality and reliability are key for you then later model years may offer better options such as reliability scores of over 90% or so for example.

Frequently reported issues

• Transmission issues
• Electrical problems
• Engine oil leaks
• Power steering issues
• Turbocharger failures

2015 Acura RDX

Another model of Acura RDX years to avoid is 2015 which is highlighted for having major complaints by the users. Acura’s RDX SUV is an impressive luxury model, boasting powerful performance, a comfortable interior, and a user-friendly interface. Additionally, the Acura RDX features unique to its premium brand offerings that other premium vehicles don’t provide and makes for a great family vehicle with excellent fuel economy and safety features.

Unfortunately, this model can present owners with some dissatisfying issues that can be particularly aggravating; these include a jerky ride quality and transmission problems as well as headlight issues which detract from the overall driving experience and make this SUV less appealing to potential buyers.

Acura has taken steps to address these problems with recalls and other measures, so if you’re in the market for an Acura RDX be sure to avoid these problematic years to enjoy a smoother ownership experience and secure better pricing for your vehicle. Acura’s third-generation RDX stands out as an outstanding model that redeems it from critics while providing an exhilarating luxury ride experience.

Frequently reported issues

• Airbag issues and recalls
• Electrical wiring defects
• Fuel pump overheating
• Persistent headlight dimming
• Transmission and engine failures

Acura RDX years to avoid: 2019-2020 Model Years

Acura RDX SUVs are typically built to last, with proper care and maintenance ensuring maximum enjoyment and value over their lifespan. However, some RDX models may experience issues that impede this experience or compromise its overall value, diminishing both enjoyment and its overall value.

The 2025 Acura RDX marks a new chapter for Acura crossovers, offering improved standard tech (wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Amazon Alexa support), improved fuel economy, responsive infotainment system features, as well as its agile handling, SH-AWD performance capabilities, and strong safety features. Shoppers also can enjoy its agile handling, robust safety features, nimble handling characteristics,s, and better fuel economy. 

However, selecting an RDX that suits your needs requires more than year-specific data. A comprehensive physical inspection and examination of vehicle history reports will enable you to find the most appropriate model within your budget. An understanding of these factors will enable you to avoid those years that have had poor reviews on car review sites – saving you hassles associated with an unpleasant driving experience.

Frequently reported issues

• Braking failures
• Fuel pump issues
• Infotainment malfunctions
• Turbocharger problems
• Rear window shattering

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Most Reliable Years of Acura RDX

After understanding the Acura RDX years to avoid and taking a deep look at them, we’re moving forward to take a look at the Acura RDX’s best years. The Acura RDX is a small luxury crossover vehicle with competent handling dynamics and an impressive list of features. Buyers love its quiet composure and premium interior; however, some remain unhappy about hard shifts and clunking noises from its transmission system.

We suggest the third generation, as it is less expensive than rival models like BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC-Class and comes equipped with standard AcuraWatch safety features. Here’s the breakdown of the Acura RDX best years that you can consider buying in 2025.

• 2012
• 2016
• 2017
• 2018
• 2021
• 2022

2012 Acura RDX

The Acura RDX SUV is an impressive SUV equipped with an outstanding powertrain, a user-friendly interface, and advanced safety features that can increase driver confidence while helping prevent accidents on the road. Unfortunately, like any vehicle, it does experience some issues like transmission problems, clunking noises, dim headlights, or transmission failure.

The RDX may not be perfect, but it does have an outstanding reliability record. With its high customer satisfaction scores and comprehensive warranty coverage it makes an ideal purchase choice. Furthermore, its expected reliability score of 80 out of 100 gives buyers an indication of quality and durability.

2016 Acura RDX

The 2016 Acura RDX SUV stands out as being highly reliable, receiving few major complaints, and benefiting from an updated design as well as advanced safety tech features.

Acura launched the RDX as an impressive technological marvel with a turbocharged engine and advanced all-wheel drive system, but its owners didn’t respond as anticipated.

The 2013 Acura RDX was plagued with transmission problems that left drivers dissatisfied, with frequent complaints including stalling and loss of power when accelerating. These issues prevented it from earning an excellent reliability score from Consumer Reports.

2017 Acura RDX

Acura’s RDX SUV offers an enjoyable luxury driving experience. However, when selecting one for purchase it’s important to select a year with minimal customer complaints regarding power loss when accelerating and issues with infotainment systems.

Acura introduced upgraded interior materials and ergonomics on their 2017 RDX, as well as an intuitive infotainment system. While problems like transmission jerkiness or hard shifts persisted, they were less severe than in previous years – making the 2017 RDX an excellent value luxury SUV option.

2018 Acura RDX

Acura RDXs have earned themselves a strong reputation over time despite some occasional issues that compromise reliability, such as transmission problems, clunking shock absorbers, and dim headlights. Unfortunately for certain owners, however, certain models continue to experience problems like these, and many are left dissatisfied. 

The 2018 Acura RDX does not experience these issues and has received excellent ratings in reliability from customers and critics alike. Additionally, it aced five Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests and includes collision mitigation braking as part of the AcuraWatch Plus package; plus it delivers comfortable rides and durable experiences for drivers – making this car an excellent option for buyers searching for reliable SUVs.

2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX is no longer an underachiever in its premium compact crossover SUV class, providing value, great safety features, and an engaging yet relaxed driving experience.

Your turbocharged engine provides ample power at low revs to quickly accelerate away from stoplights, while its transmission seamlessly selects the best gear for each situation. And its brakes give you plenty of confidence on every road journey.

The RDX’s infotainment system features a 10.2-inch center screen operated with a touchpad on the console, making for an intuitive experience that takes some practice to fully master. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities come standard.

Acura provides its RDX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and six years of 70,000-mile powertrain coverage, in addition to its impressive roadside assistance plan.

2022 Acura RDX

The 2022 Acura RDX is almost identical to its predecessor, earning Top Safety Pick+ status from IIHS crash testing and receiving high marks from this organization for the collision avoidance features available.

Acura implemented numerous changes for the model year to enhance the premium feel of its cabin, including more sound-deadening material – including acoustic glass – and thicker carpet padding as part of the Tech package.

Even with its minor updates, the RDX remains an enjoyable drive. Front seats are supportive while its rear legroom is expansive for a compact SUV. Its infotainment system is straightforward but its touchpad controls may prove unwieldy for some drivers.

FAQs about Acura RDX Years To Avoid

1. Which Acura RDX years to avoid due to reliability issues?

Avoid the 2007–2009, 2010–2011, 2015, and 2019–2020 models due to common issues like transmission problems and turbocharger failures.

2. What are the most common issues reported with Acura RDX SUVs?

Common issues include transmission problems, turbocharger failures, electrical defects, excessive oil consumption, and airbag recalls.

3. What are the most reliable Acura RDX model years?

The 2012, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2022 models are considered the most reliable.

4. How can I avoid purchasing a problematic Acura RDX?

Review the vehicle history, check for recalls, inspect the car, and avoid known problematic years.

5. What makes the Acura RDX stand out as a luxury compact SUV?

The RDX is praised for its performance, comfort, safety features, and advanced tech, especially in newer models like the 2021 and 2022.