Is the Acura RDX expensive to maintain?

The Acura RDX is generally considered a reliable and affordable luxury SUV to maintain, with average maintenance costs that are lower than many of its competitors in the luxury crossover segment. While the RDX may have higher upfront purchase prices compared to non-luxury brands, its maintenance and repair expenses are generally manageable for most owners.

Maintenance Costs for the Acura RDX

According to industry data, the average annual maintenance cost for an Acura RDX is around $500 to $700. This includes routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections, as well as any minor repairs that may be needed. In comparison, the average annual maintenance cost for luxury SUVs can range from $800 to $1,200 or more.

The RDX's maintenance costs are kept relatively low due to a few key factors:

• Reliable Powertrain: The RDX uses a well-proven turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, which have demonstrated strong durability and require fewer major services compared to more complex powertrains.


• Acura's Reputation for Quality: As a luxury brand under Honda, Acura vehicles are known for their reliability and build quality, which translates to fewer unexpected repairs.li>
  
• Availability of Parts and Service: Acura dealers and independent mechanics are widely available, making it easy to find affordable service and replacement parts for the RDX.

While the RDX may require more frequent maintenance than non-luxury SUVs in some areas, such as more expensive synthetic oil changes, the overall maintenance costs are still quite manageable for most owners.

Factors That Can Affect RDX Maintenance Costs

It's important to note that individual maintenance costs for an Acura RDX can vary depending on a few key factors:

• Driving Habits: More aggressive driving, towing heavy loads, or operating in extreme weather conditions can increase wear and tear on the vehicle, leading to more frequent maintenance and repairs.


• Mileage and Age: As the RDX accumulates higher mileage and gets older, certain components may require replacement, which can increase maintenance costs over time.


• Maintenance History: Owners who strictly follow the recommended maintenance schedule and address issues promptly will typically experience lower long-term costs compared to those who neglect regular servicing.

Overall, the Acura RDX is considered a relatively affordable luxury SUV to maintain, with costs that are lower than many of its competitors in the segment. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, RDX owners can keep their long-term ownership costs manageable.

Is the Acura RDX a reliable car?

The Acura RDX is generally considered a reliable luxury compact SUV with high third-party reliability ratings, although some model years, particularly the 2019 and 2020, have been noted for specific issues. Common concerns include infotainment system lag, and some models have experienced specific problems like panoramic sunroof noise, AC blower motor failure, or transmission issues, though these are often addressed through recalls or are covered by warranty. Overall, the RDX benefits from its high-quality build and strong reputation for dependability.
 
This video discusses the reliability of the Acura RDX and common issues: 1mJustin PritchardYouTube · Feb 15, 2024
Positive aspects of RDX reliability

• High-quality build: The RDX is built with high-quality materials, which contributes to its longevity. 
• Strong reputation: As a luxury brand of Honda, Acuras are known for their reliability, and the RDX generally receives high marks in reliability ratings from sources like RepairPal. 
• Lower ownership costs: The RDX has an average annual repair cost that is lower than average for luxury compact SUVs. 
• Safety ratings: The RDX has received top safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

Potential issues and model-specific concerns

• Model year differences: The 2019 model year, which was a redesign year, had some noted issues with the sunroof, transmission, and other components. 
• Infotainment system: Some owners report lag and latency issues with the infotainment system, although many get used to the touchpad controls over time. 
• Specific component failures: Some owners have reported isolated problems like AC blower motor failure or speaker popping, though sometimes these are addressed by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) or are covered by warranty. 
• Takata air bags: Some older models may be affected by the Takata air bag recall, which requires replacement. 
• Transmission: Some reports mention poor shifting or transmission issues, particularly in some 2019 models, which may require costly repairs outside of warranty. 

What to consider

• Check the VIN: Before purchasing a used RDX, check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for any outstanding recalls, especially the Takata airbag recall. 
• Warranty: Be aware of the warranty coverage on a used RDX. Some issues, like the 2019 sunroof problem, were covered by warranty and may have been fixed by the dealer. 
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to ensuring long-term reliability, as with any vehicle. 
• Model year: Research specific model years, as reliability can vary. Newer models may have addressed some of the issues found in earlier redesigns. 

Is insurance higher on an Acura?

Yes, Acuras can be expensive to insure, as they are generally pricier than the average vehicle due to factors like high-end features, advanced technology, and higher repair costs. However, rates vary significantly depending on the specific model, with some models like the ILX and RDX being cheaper to insure than others, while high-performance models like the NSX are among the most expensive. Ultimately, the cost depends on your personal factors and the insurance company you choose. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle model: The specific model, like the RDX or ILX, plays a large role. A high-performance model will cost more to insure than a basic model. 
• Advanced features: Acuras have advanced safety features and high-end technology, which can lead to higher repair costs and insurance premiums. 
• Repair costs: The cost to repair Acuras after an accident can be higher than for many other vehicles, which also contributes to insurance costs. 
• Your personal profile: Your location, age, driving history, credit score, and the type of coverage you select also heavily influence your rate. 

How to get a lower rate

• Shop around: Compare quotes from multiple insurance companies, as prices can vary significantly. 
• Look for discounts: Ask about discounts for safety features, multi-vehicle policies, or other potential savings. 
• Consider a less expensive model: If you are buying a new Acura, consider a model that is less expensive to insure. 
• Carry appropriate coverage: Since Acuras are luxury vehicles, it is recommended to carry more than the state's minimum coverage for better protection. 

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The 2019 Acura RDX is the model year most frequently cited to avoid due to a high number of owner complaints, especially concerning engine stalling/power loss and infotainment system issues. Other model years to approach with caution are the 2015 and 2018 due to transmission problems, and the 2014 for various electrical and transmission issues. Some owners also reported shattering rear glass on 2019-2022 models, though this seems to be random.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the potential problems with the Acura RDX: 52sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to avoid

• 2019: This model year had the most complaints and was the first year of a new generation, resulting in significant teething issues. 
  • Engine stalling: A major problem reported was the engine stalling at highway speeds or entering "limp mode". 
  • Infotainment system: The infotainment system was prone to freezing and laggy performance. 
  • Other issues: Some owners reported issues with squealing brakes, sunroof leaks, and shattering rear glass. 
• 2015: This model year continued to have problems from previous years and is associated with transmission issues. 
  • Transmission problems: Issues include rough shifting, slipping, and other gear-related failures. 
  • Infotainment system: The infotainment system was also problematic, with freezes and lag. 
  • Electrical and other issues: Owners reported persistent headlight dimming and electrical system glitches. 
• 2018: This model year had some recalls and reported issues, particularly with the transmission. 
  • Transmission problems: Similar to the 2015, issues with rough shifting and slipping were reported. 
  • Engine problems: There were reports of potential engine issues, though they may be less common. 
• 2014: Some owners reported transmission issues and other electrical problems with this model year. 
  • Transmission problems: Rough shifting was a common complaint. 
  • Electrical problems: Issues with malfunctioning dashboard lights and sensors were reported. 
  • Other issues: Sunroof leaks were also an issue in this model year. 

Other considerations

• 2020-2022: While generally more reliable than the 2019, some owners of these models reported issues with the engine's intercooler, which could cause power loss or stalling. This was often covered by a service bulletin and warranty. Shattering rear glass was also randomly reported in this range of years. 
• Takata airbags: Many Acura RDX models, particularly older ones, were subject to a massive recall for faulty Takata airbags. Be sure to check if a specific vehicle's recall has been addressed. 

Are Acura RDX expensive to fix?

No, the Acura RDX is not considered expensive to maintain, especially compared to other luxury SUVs. It has a lower-than-average annual repair cost and high reliability ratings, with repair and maintenance costs over 10 years estimated to be around $10,295, which beats the industry average for its class. While some specific maintenance, like timing belt replacement on older models, can be a significant expense, overall costs are generally low.
 
Maintenance and repair costs

• Annual cost: The average annual cost for repairs and maintenance is around $497, which is lower than the industry average for its segment. 
• 10-year estimate: Over the first 10 years, the estimated total cost for maintenance and repairs is about $10,295, which is significantly less than the industry average for luxury SUVs. 
• Reliability: The Acura RDX has a high reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranking first out of 11 luxury compact SUVs. This is because the frequency and severity of repairs are low. 

Factors to consider

• Model year and technology: Older models (2013-2018) with the V6 engine may have lower long-term costs due to simpler technology, while newer models with the turbo-four and advanced features might be more expensive to repair if a problem occurs. 
• Specific services: Major scheduled maintenance like the timing belt replacement on certain older models can be a significant one-time cost around 105,000 miles or 7 years. 
• Driving habits and location: Your personal driving style and geographic location can influence how quickly parts wear out and the total cost of ownership. 

In summary
While every car requires maintenance, the Acura RDX is generally considered to have low maintenance and repair costs due to its high reliability. It is a more affordable option to own and operate compared to many other luxury vehicles in its class.