Is ILX a reliable car?

Yes. The Acura ILX is generally reliable for a compact-luxury sedan, thanks to Honda-based engineering, though reliability varies by year and how well the car has been maintained.

Reliability at a glance

The ILX traces its roots to Honda engineering and shares many components with the Civic under the skin. Produced from 2013 through the 2020 model year, it offered a balance of efficiency, refinement, and value before Acura discontinued it in favor of the TLX. As a discontinued model, reliability today hinges on the individual vehicle's maintenance history and the availability of parts and service from Acura dealers. Here’s what matters most when assessing its reliability.

Model-year highlights

Here are the main reliability factors to consider when evaluating an ILX.

• Honda-origin engineering: many core drivetrain and mechanical parts are shared with the well-regarded Civic, contributing to long-term durability.


• Maintenance and ownership costs: routine services are generally moderate for a luxury compact, but premium-priced parts can add up as the car ages.


• Model-year variation: improvements over years sometimes addressed early quirks, so reliability can vary between 2013–2020 models.


• Electronics and infotainment: some owners report issues with display screens, sensors, or software; these tend to be less frequent on well-maintained examples.


• Resale and parts availability: being discontinued means fewer new options, but Honda/Acura networks support older vehicles with parts and service; used-market pricing reflects age and mileage.

In summary, the ILX’s reliability rests on its Honda foundation, balanced by the usual age-related wear and potential year-to-year variances. A well-maintained, lower-mileage example tends to perform reliably for daily driving.

What to check when buying a used ILX

Before you inspect or take a test drive, use this checklist to gauge reliability and condition in a used ILX.

Inspection checklist

Careful pre-purchase checks can help you identify potential reliability traps and find a solid example.

• Complete service history: verify regular oil changes, fluid replacements, timing chain/drive belt status (if applicable), and major maintenance milestones (e.g., water pump, brake service).


• Recall and campaign status: confirm all campaigns have been addressed; check the VIN against recall databases (NHTSA/Acura).


• Transmission and drivetrain behavior: test for smooth shifts, hesitation, or unusual noises; ensure no clunks when engaging gears or during acceleration.


• Infotainment and electronics: verify the touchscreen, Bluetooth, navigation, and USB functionality without freezes or resets.


• Brakes, tires, suspension: inspect for even wear, responsive braking, and a smooth ride; note any abnormal noise or steering play.


• Exterior and interior wear: check for rust, leaks, water intrusion, worn upholstery, and interior trim integrity; these can signal broader maintenance patterns or accidents.


• Ownership costs: consider insurance, fuel economy, and projected maintenance costs as the car ages; cheaper upfront price can be offset by higher long-term costs if maintenance issues arise.

With careful due diligence, a used ILX can deliver dependable daily transportation at a reasonable total cost of ownership.

Summary

The Acura ILX can be a reliable choice among compact-luxury sedans, benefiting from Honda’s engineering philosophy and robust service networks. As a discontinued model, reliability largely depends on maintenance history and model-year specifics. For buyers, focusing on a well-documented service history, a clean recall record, and a thorough inspection will yield the best long-term reliability prospects.

Is the Acura ILX dependable?

The Acura ILX is considered a reliable car, with high reliability ratings from sources like RepairPal (4.54.54.5 out of 555) and U.S. News & World Report. Its reliability is often attributed to its Honda-derived engine, which is known for durability, and it benefits from Acura's standard warranty, which includes a four-year/50,000-mile basic and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. While generally solid, some common issues reported include battery drain, quick wear on original tires, and potential transmission concerns, so it's important to check the vehicle's maintenance history before purchasing.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Acura ILX A-Spec: 59sPreston SarloYouTube · Mar 17, 2024
Positive aspects

• High reliability ratings: The ILX consistently receives high reliability scores from various sources, with RepairPal rating it 4.54.54.5 out of 555 and U.S. News & World Report giving it a "Great" score (82 out of 100). 
• Durable engine: The ILX uses a well-regarded Honda-derived engine that many owners report as being very reliable, especially with proper maintenance. 
• Good ownership costs: RepairPal notes the ILX has an excellent ownership cost breakdown due to low repair frequency and severity. 
• Strong warranty: Acura's warranty coverage, including a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, provides additional peace of mind. 
• Popular used market: The combination of reliability and price makes used ILXs a popular and fast-selling choice. 

Potential concerns

• Battery issues: Some owners have reported a tendency for batteries to drain more quickly than expected. 
• Tire wear: The original tires that came with the ILX have been noted as wearing out faster than average. 
• Transmission: While generally good, some owners have reported that the transmission may need service or have issues, so it is advisable to have it checked by a professional. 

This video provides a review of the 2022 Acura ILX: 56sCool car Crap carYouTube · Feb 24, 2024
Tips for buyers

• Check maintenance records: To ensure you get a reliable vehicle, review the maintenance history, especially focusing on oil changes and transmission fluid changes.
• Inspect the battery: Have the battery checked to ensure it's in good condition.
• Consider the tires: Look for a vehicle that has already had its original tires replaced with a better quality set. 

What are the most reliable years for Acura ILX?

Buy: 2016 Acura ILX
Furthermore, this is the most reliable Acura ILX year due to fewer complaints and known significant issues. The 2016 Acura ILX received only 36 complaints and four recalls, per NHTSA. Perhaps its most notable issue is about the service brakes.

What year to stay away from Acura ILX?

However, some years are best avoided due to reliability concerns, and they are:

• 2013 Acura ILX.
• 2014 Acura ILX.
• 2016 Acura ILX.

What is the life expectancy of an Acura ILX?

An Acura ILX can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, with some owners reaching over 400,000 miles, especially if the "bulletproof" 2.4L engine is well-maintained. With a strong reputation for reliability, longevity depends heavily on consistent, quality maintenance, such as using the correct oil, premium gas, and adhering to the service schedule. 
Factors affecting the ILX's lifespan

• Maintenance is key: Consistent and proper maintenance is the most significant factor in how long an ILX will last. 
• Engine durability: The ILX's 2.4L K24 engine is known for being very robust and reliable, with many owners reporting high mileage with proper care. 
• Owner-reported longevity: Some owners have reported hitting 200,000 miles with no major issues, and others have reached 500,000 miles. 
• Specific part care: Keeping up with scheduled maintenance, like replacing the timing chain and water pump, is crucial for longevity. 
• Fuel and oil type: Using the recommended 0W-20 full synthetic oil and premium gasoline can help the engine last longer. 

Things to consider

• While the engine is reliable, other components may require more attention as the car ages, especially after hitting high mileage (150,000+ miles). 
• The ILX is a reliable car, but it's still a machine and requires the owner's diligence to ensure it lasts as long as possible.