2015 Acura RLX

The 2015 Acura RLX is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 272 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. An RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD variant was also available, combining the 3.5-liter V6 with a three-motor hybrid system and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, boosting total system output to 377 horsepower. Owners typically appreciate the RLX for its value compared to European competitors, its quiet cabin, and its reliability. Common complaints often revolve around the somewhat dated infotainment system, the lack of visual excitement in the styling, and the non-availability of all-wheel drive on the standard V6 model.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Variable Timing Control (VTC) Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up, especially in colder weather. This is due to the VTC actuator not holding oil pressure correctly when the engine is off.
  • Solution: Replacing the VTC actuator with an updated part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the rear main seal or valve cover gaskets.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Hybrid

• Electric Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Hybrid system warning lights, reduced power, issues with regenerative braking, or the engine stalling when the electric motor fails.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the exact motor failing. Replacement of the faulty electric motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Flushing the transmission fluid and, if the issue persists, reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM). In severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission (Hybrid Model)

• Clutch Judder/Harsh Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering during initial acceleration or when shifting at low speeds. This is a common issue with dual-clutch transmissions as they age and the clutches wear.
  • Solution: A software update can sometimes improve the issue. In other cases, clutch replacement is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper System Failures (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard indicating a problem with the adaptive dampers, a rough or bouncy ride, and uneven handling.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific damper(s) that have failed. Replacing the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500 per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes.
  • Solution: Performing a hard reset of the system. If the problem continues, a software update or replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw. Could be related to aftermarket accessories, a faulty relay, or a malfunctioning module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture or condensation accumulating inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight assembly and drying it out. Inspecting and resealing the headlight housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per headlight assembly
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Inaccuracies
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate GPS location, routing errors, or outdated map data.
  • Solution: Updating the navigation system software and map data.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Acura RLX presents a mix of potential issues, with the severity and cost varying significantly depending on the specific problem. Engine-related issues, such as VTC actuator rattle and oil leaks, are relatively common and can be moderately expensive to address. Hybrid models may encounter more costly issues related to electric motor malfunctions or the dual-clutch transmission. Electrical problems, particularly those related to the infotainment system, are also relatively frequent. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection to avoid unexpected repair costs.