2007 Acura RDX

The 2007 Acura RDX marked Acura’s entry into the compact luxury SUV market. It was exclusively offered with a 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 engine, producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the RDX for its sporty handling, responsive engine, and Acura’s reliability. However, some common complaints included turbo lag, relatively stiff ride, and the lack of a V6 engine option for smoother power delivery.

Engine

2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 (K23A1)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. Ensure proper oil changes with the correct viscosity synthetic oil to prevent oil starvation and premature turbo wear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. This can indicate stretched timing chain or worn tensioner. If left unaddressed, can lead to engine damage.
  • Solution: Timing chain replacement, along with associated guides and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported that their vehicles consume more than the normal amount of engine oil.
  • Solution: Inspect for oil leaks. A leak-down test can determine if there is a ring issue. If the rings are an issue, the engine will require an overhaul.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ for an oil leak. $2,000+ for an engine overhaul.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifting, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear, or slipping during acceleration. Can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush using only genuine Acura ATF-Z1 fluid, followed by a relearn procedure. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush; $800 - $1,500+ for valve body replacement; $2,500 - $4,000+ for transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, bouncy ride, visible oil leakage from the shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers. It’s recommended to replace them in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noise coming from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System/Infotainment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, or complete failure of the navigation/infotainment system.
  • Solution: Try a system reset. Software updates may be available, but if the issue persists, the unit might need repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for diagnostic and software update; $500 - $1,500+ for repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly, erratically, or not moving at all. Grinding noise when operating the window.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof is stuck and won’t open or close properly. Unusual noises when operating the sunroof.
  • Solution: Inspect for debris in the sunroof tracks and lubricate them. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, the sunroof motor or regulator may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200 for cleaning and lubrication; $300-$800+ for motor or regulator replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver Information Display (DID) Pixelation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of pixels or complete failure of the display screen within the instrument cluster, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster or repair of the display screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for repair; $800 - $1,500+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Acura RDX, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. The most prevalent issues relate to the engine’s turbocharger, timing chain, and oil consumption, and the transmission’s shifting behavior. These can range in severity and cost, with turbocharger and transmission problems potentially being the most expensive to address. Suspension and electrical issues are also present, but tend to be less critical. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.