How long will a 2020 Acura RDX last?

A 2020 Acura RDX can reasonably be expected to last well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and many examples reach 250,000 miles or more.

In practice, the RDX’s longevity depends on how well it’s cared for, the driving you do, and the climate where you live. Below is a detailed look at what influences its lifespan, what to expect from the powertrain, and how ownership costs factor into long-term reliability.

What determines a vehicle's longevity

Several factors determine how long a 2020 RDX will stay on the road, from routine upkeep to how aggressively you drive it.

Key longevity drivers

• Regular maintenance and thorough service records


• Driving conditions (highway miles vs. city stop-and-go, heavy towing)


• Climate and exposure to road salts, temperature extremes, and humidity


• Quality of parts and adherence to the manufacturer’s service intervals


• Timely repairs and addressing early warning signs promptly

When maintenance is consistent and repairs are performed as recommended, the RDX tends to accumulate high mileage with fewer major failures.

Engine and powertrain durability

The 2020 RDX uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive or SH-AWD. The powertrain is designed for longevity, especially when serviced on schedule and run on appropriate fuel.

What to watch for

• Follow the Maintenance Minder prompts and use the recommended oil and oil-change intervals with full-synthetic oil


• Keep up with transmission fluid changes at the intervals advised by Acura


• Regular cooling system maintenance to prevent overheating and coolant leaks


• Tire care and wheel alignment to reduce drivetrain stress and uneven wear


• Monitor for unusual noises, misfires, or loss of power and address early rather than later

Overall, the drivetrain holds up well with disciplined maintenance. Turbocharged engines can show higher oil consumption if neglected, so staying on top of oil levels and service is especially important for longevity.

Maintenance costs and ownership experience

Ongoing upkeep contributes significantly to the total cost of ownership and long-term reliability. Budgeting for typical routine maintenance helps maximize life expectancy.

Typical upkeep considerations

• Regular oil changes and filter replacements using recommended synthetic oil


• Brake service, including pad and rotor replacement as needed


• Tire replacement and rotation to ensure even wear and optimal handling


• Battery health checks and potential replacement over the life of the vehicle


• Adherence to service intervals for fluids (coolant, transmission, brake, etc.)

Annual maintenance costs for a mid-size luxury SUV like the RDX can vary by region and driving style, but owners typically plan for ongoing service, tire wear, and periodic parts replacement rather than major surprises. Keeping a detailed service history can also support resale value and confidence in long-term reliability.

Real-world ownership: longevity anecdotes

In online forums, owner surveys, and long-term reviews, the 2020 RDX frequently appears as a long-lived choice when properly cared for. Real-world experiences often show:

• Many owners report 150,000–200,000 miles with the original engine and transmission when maintenance is thorough


• Several examples push past 200,000 miles with minimal major issues, especially with diligent oil, filter, and fluid management


• Common concerns, when they arise, tend to be linked to maintenance gaps rather than systemic design flaws


• All-wheel-drive versions may experience additional wear on tires and driveline components due to added mechanical load, but longevity remains solid with care

These patterns align with Honda-based reliability, where careful maintenance and early attention to warning signs tend to yield longer service life.

Is it worth buying a 2020 RDX with longevity in mind?

For buyers prioritizing a premium compact SUV with a track record of solid durability, the 2020 RDX is a plausible long-term option—especially when you verify service history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

• Check maintenance records for timely oil changes, fluid services, and part replacements


• Inspect for signs of turbo-related oil concerns, coolant system issues, and typical wear items


• Review vehicle history for any accident history and recall status

With careful selection and ongoing maintenance, a used 2020 RDX can deliver many years of reliable service and retain value as a well-maintained example.

Summary

The 2020 Acura RDX is built on a durable Honda foundation and offers strong longevity when properly cared for. Expect realistic, real-world lifespans around 200,000 miles or more with consistent maintenance, attentive care of the turbocharged engine, and timely service. While individual results vary based on usage and upkeep, the model generally presents a favorable long-term ownership proposition for buyers who prioritize reliability and a premium driving experience.

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018. 
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about

• 2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks. 
• 2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals. 
• 2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted. 
• 2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering. 
• 2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine. 

What to do if buying used

• Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above. 
• If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. 
• Check for service records and recall history. 

This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024

Are Acuras reliable after 100K miles?

Yes, Acuras are generally very reliable after 100k miles, especially with consistent maintenance, as they are built with quality engineering from their Honda roots. Key to this reliability is following the recommended maintenance schedule, which includes performing major services like transmission fluid changes and, for models with a timing belt, replacing it around the 100k mark. 
Key factors for long-term reliability

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Regular oil changes, fluid replacements, and other services are crucial for longevity. 
• Pay attention to major service intervals: At around 100,000 miles, certain components, like the timing belt in older models, need to be replaced. 
• Transmission fluid is critical: Changing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals is one of the most important aspects of keeping the car running smoothly long-term. 
• Consider the engine: While many Acura engines are very reliable, some J-series engines have a history of oil consumption issues, especially older ones. 
• Potential for issues: As with any car, some issues can arise after 100k miles, such as air conditioning system problems or oil consumption, so it's wise to factor in potential repair costs. 

What drivers say

• Many owners report driving their Acuras for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues if proper maintenance was performed.
• Owners of older models like the TL and MDX often report that the engines remained in good condition even after the transmission began to show wear. 

How many miles can an Acura RDX last?

An Acura RDX can last 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and timing belt replacements. Many owners report their RDXs exceeding 200,000 miles, and the vehicles are known for their reliability due to their durable engines and build quality. 
Factors for longevity

• Regular maintenance: Consistent servicing is crucial. This includes regular oil changes, transmission fluid changes, and coolant flushes.
• Timing belt: A key maintenance item is replacing the timing belt around the 100,000-mile mark to prevent major engine damage.
• Fluid replacement: Regularly replacing brake fluid and power steering fluid (e.g., every 3 years) helps prevent heat-related issues.
• Tire care: Proper tire pressure and rotation are essential for overall vehicle health. 

Common issues at high mileage

• While the RDX is reliable, some owners have reported issues beyond 100,000 miles, such as problems with the AC compressor, power steering, and suspension parts. 
• Transmission issues can occur, although some owners have had entire transmissions replaced under warranty for problems like a faulty solenoid. 

What are the common problems with 2020 RDX?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• In-car Electronics. Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
• Body Hardware.
• Fuel System/Emissions.
• Electrical Accessories.
• Exhaust.
• Paint/Trim.
• Noises/Leaks.
• Transmission Major.