What is the maintenance schedule for an Acura RDX?
In short, the Acura RDX maintenance schedule is driven by Acura’s Maintenance Minder system. Oil changes and tire rotations are typically advised every 7,500 miles (or 12 months), with additional services triggered by Minder reminders. Exact items and timing can vary by model year and driving conditions, so always refer to the vehicle’s display and the owner’s manual for the precise plan.
Baseline routine maintenance (every 7,500 miles)
The following tasks are commonly performed on the standard 7,500-mile maintenance cycle. The Maintenance Minder in your RDX will indicate which items are required based on how you drive.
- Engine oil and oil filter replacement
- Tire rotation and balance check
- Comprehensive brake system inspection (pads, rotors, lines)
- Fluid level checks and top-offs as needed (coolant, brake fluid, transmission/power steering, windshield washer)
- Multi-point vehicle inspection (belts, hoses, lights, exhaust, suspension, steering components)
- Wiper blades and battery condition check
These routine items help maintain engine performance, safety, and reliability between longer, more involved services. The Minder system may accelerate or delay some tasks based on driving conditions and usage.
Longer-term maintenance milestones (approximate, Minder-driven)
As the vehicle accumulates miles, Acura’s Maintenance Minder may call for more extensive services at longer intervals. The exact timing and items depend on your model year, engine variant, and the Minder codes displayed in the dash. The following milestones are commonly recommended across many RDX models, but always verify with the Minder screen and your owner's manual.
- Engine air filter replacement: typically around 15,000–30,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and Minder codes.
- Cabin air filter replacement: commonly around 30,000 miles, with more frequent changes in dusty or high-pollen environments.
- Brake fluid replacement: commonly every 3 years (schedule may vary by region and driving style).
- Coolant/antifreeze replacement: often scheduled every 5–10 years or as indicated by the Minder/service guide, depending on model year and coolant type.
- Spark plug replacement: most modern RDX engines target around 100,000–120,000 miles, depending on engine version; check Minder and service intervals for your specific model.
- Serpentine/drive belt inspection and replacement: based on wear and model year, typically around 60,000–100,000 miles if applicable.
- Transmission service: transmission fluid inspection and replacement if required by Minder or by the particular transmission design in your RDX; some newer models schedule fluid changes less frequently, while others specify intervals such as 60,000–100,000 miles.
Because the RDX uses a smart maintenance minder, a significant portion of longer-term maintenance is prompted by driving data rather than fixed mile markers. Always follow the Minder codes shown on the instrument cluster and consult the owner’s manual or your dealership for model-year-specific guidance.
Summary
The Acura RDX maintenance schedule emphasizes proactive oil changes and tire care every 7,500 miles (12 months) plus routine inspections, with more substantial items triggered by the Maintenance Minder system. Expect engine air and cabin air filter changes, fluid flushes, spark plug replacement, and other items at longer intervals, all guided by the Minder readings and your specific RDX model year. For the most accurate plan, rely on the in-vehicle Minder, your manual, and a trusted Acura service professional.
