How many miles can an Acura RDX last?

In practice, a well-maintained Acura RDX can surpass 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting 250,000 miles or more and some exceeding 300,000 with diligent care.

The longevity of the RDX depends on how you maintain the vehicle, the conditions in which you drive, and how you address wear as it accumulates. The compact luxury SUV built on Honda engineering is known for reliability, but mileage is never guaranteed and varies by usage and upkeep.

Factors that influence how long an RDX lasts

Several elements determine whether an RDX will cross high-mileage milestones. The list below outlines the core drivers of longevity.

• Regular, timely maintenance according to Acura’s schedule (oil changes with synthetic oil, fluid checks, belts/hoses when needed).


• Driving conditions and usage patterns (long highway trips tend to be gentler on the engine; frequent short trips and heavy city driving can wear components faster).


• Climate and storage (extreme heat or cold, exposure to road salt, and infrequent washing can affect corrosion and wear).


• Quality of parts and fluids used (dealer-supplied parts or high-quality aftermarket equivalents that meet OEM specs).


• Transmission and drivetrain care (following recommended service intervals for transmission fluid and coolant).


• Maintenance history and prior accidents or mechanical issues (unresolved problems can reduce lifespan).

Ultimately, a disciplined maintenance routine paired with mindful driving is the strongest predictor of lasting mileage for an RDX.

Engine and drivetrain considerations

As a turbocharged, modern Honda-based engine, longevity depends on proper oil maintenance, turbo cooling, and following service intervals. The RDX benefits from a timing chain design in its current generations, which reduces belt-related failures, but high-mileage results still hinge on consistent care and timely part replacements.

Maintenance history and owner diligence

Service history is a strong predictor of longevity. Vehicles with complete records of regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely replacements tend to perform better over time than those with gaps in service.

Realistic mileage ranges for today’s RDX

Based on owner reports, reviews, and typical service intervals, here are the mileage expectations for a well-kept RDX today.

• 200,000 miles or more: A common benchmark for well-maintained examples with routine service.


• 250,000 miles: A solid milestone for many owners who stay current on maintenance and use high-quality parts.


• 300,000 miles or more: Achieved by a minority of owners who practice strict maintenance, careful driving, and proactive repairs when needed.

Note that these ranges assume consistency in maintenance and normal driving conditions. Real-world results vary by region and individual vehicle history.

Maintenance practices that help maximize life

To push the RDX toward higher mileages, follow these core maintenance practices.

• Adhere to the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, including synthetic oil changes and following recommended intervals for fluids and filters.


• Replace the air filter, cabin filter, and spark plugs per the recommended intervals (spark plugs around 100,000 miles is common for many Honda/Acura engines).


• Schedule transmission fluid changes and coolant flushes as recommended by Acura, and avoid harsh driving that strains the drivetrain.


• Keep tires balanced and rotated every 5,000–7,000 miles to reduce wear and improve handling and fuel economy.


• Inspect and replace worn components promptly (brakes, suspension, hoses) to prevent cascading damage.

Following these practices gives the RDX the best chance of reaching the higher end of mileage milestones.

What experts and owners say

Automotive outlets and owner communities frequently highlight the RDX’s reliability within the competitive compact-luxury SUV category. With solid engineering, straightforward maintenance, and careful ownership, many report long lifespans that align with or exceed rivals in the segment.

Summary

The Acura RDX can last for many years and miles when cared for properly. A realistic expectation is 200,000 miles or more, with 250,000 miles not uncommon for well-maintained units, and reaching 300,000 miles is possible for a few dedicated owners. The key to maximizing longevity lies in sticking to a thoughtful maintenance schedule, using quality parts and fluids, and driving in a way that minimizes unnecessary stress on the engine and drivetrain. Regular checkups and prompt repairs when issues arise are essential to achieving a long, reliable life for your RDX.

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

What is considered high mileage for an Acura?

High mileage for an Acura is 150,000+ miles, but they can still be reliable beyond that with regular maintenance.

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. 

What year is the Acura RDX most reliable?

The most reliable Acura RDX years are 2011, 2013–2018, and 2020 onwards. The 2011 model has a strong reputation for dependability and a high J.D. Power score, while the 2013–2018 models are praised for owner satisfaction and performance. Recent models from 2020 onward also have excellent reliability ratings, though some 2019–2022 models had issues with shattering rear glass.
 
Most reliable model years

• 2011: This model stands out in the first generation with very few owner-reported issues and a high J.D. Power reliability score. 
• 2013–2018: The second generation, which started with the 2013 model year, is highly regarded for its reliability. The V6 engine is considered very dependable, and these years generally have high owner satisfaction ratings. 
• 2020 and newer: Since the 2020 model year, the RDX has received excellent reliability ratings. For example, the 2023–2025 models have the best consistency for their generation so far, according to Top Speed. The 2024 model is also expected to be more reliable than the average new car, notes Consumer Reports. 

What to consider for other model years

• 2019: While a major redesign occurred, the 2019 model year and some subsequent years (up to 2022) had issues with rear glass shattering, although this was often covered by insurance, according to Reddit users. 
• First Generation (non-2011) models: The first generation, specifically the years with a turbo engine, is generally reliable, but it is advisable to look for the 2011 model, which had the fewest issues, according to CarComplaints.com.