2016 Acura RLX
2016 Acura RLX
Overview
The 2016 Acura RLX is a luxury sedan that aimed to blend performance with advanced technology. It was offered with a sophisticated hybrid powertrain and a standard V6 engine, providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. As a luxury vehicle, the RLX typically features premium materials and a host of electronic amenities. Reliability for the 2016 model year is generally considered good, with owners reporting fewer significant mechanical issues compared to some competitors. However, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians, particularly concerning its complex hybrid system and certain electronic features.
Engine
3.5L V6 (Standard)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
3.5L V6 + 3 Electric Motors (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD)
Hybrid System Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Warning lights, reduced power, unusual noises from the hybrid system.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of hybrid battery, power control unit, or electric motor components.
- Cost: $1,500 - $5,000+
12V Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, battery warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of the 12V auxiliary battery.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Standard)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD)
Hesitation or Jerking
- Symptoms: Slight hesitation during acceleration or occasional jerky shifts.
- Solution: Software updates or recalibration of the transmission control module.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing or Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes, or reboots unexpectedly.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $2,000+
Keyless Access System
Door Handle Sensors
- Symptoms: Difficulty unlocking or locking doors via the handle sensors.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of faulty door handle sensor modules.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Exterior
LED Headlights
Condensation
- Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside headlight housings.
- Solution: Sealing of headlight assembly or replacement.
- Cost: $400 - $1,000+
Interior
Climate Control System
AC Performance
- Symptoms: Reduced cooling efficiency or intermittent operation.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of refrigerant leaks, compressor issues, or control module faults.
- Cost: $300 - $1,200
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Acura RLX generally exhibits good reliability, particularly with its standard V6 engine and transmission. The primary areas of concern tend to be associated with the more complex Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain, where issues with the hybrid system components or the dual-clutch transmission can arise. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches and keyless entry sensor problems, are also noted. Exterior issues like headlight condensation and interior concerns with the climate control system are less common but have been reported. Overall, the RLX is a dependable luxury sedan, but potential buyers should be aware of the specific complexities of the hybrid variant and its associated repair costs.