2017 Acura RDX

The 2017 Acura RDX is a popular luxury compact SUV known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. It comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 279 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the RDX for its value proposition compared to competitors and its strong performance. Common dislikes often involve the somewhat dated infotainment system and the lack of a hybrid powertrain option at the time.

Engine

3.5L V6

• VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues related to the VCM system, which deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy. This can lead to excessive oil consumption, rough idling, and vibrations.
  • Solution: Addressing VCM issues can involve replacing faulty VCM solenoids, installing a VCM disabler device (which prevents the VCM system from activating), or in severe cases, replacing piston rings to address oil consumption.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Main Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks coming from the rear main seal between the engine and transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear main seal, necessitating removal of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This is often more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Solutions can include performing a transmission fluid flush, replacing the transmission fluid pressure switches, or in more severe cases, replacing the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1200+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid from the struts and shocks, leading to a bouncy ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain issues, especially in colder climates. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing parasitic draws, replacing the battery with a higher-capacity unit, or checking the alternator’s charging performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can occasionally freeze, lag, or become unresponsive, requiring a restart.
  • Solution: Updating the software for the infotainment system, or in severe cases, replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Updates) - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly, resealing the headlight assembly, or drilling small drain holes to allow moisture to escape.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, or making excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Lubricating sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, or realigning the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2017 Acura RDX is a generally reliable vehicle. The most common issues involve the engine’s VCM system and the 6-speed transmission, which can lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Electrical issues, especially battery drain, and infotainment system glitches are also reported. While the RDX isn’t plagued by widespread, severe problems, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and check for them during a pre-purchase inspection. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, so knowing what to look for can help in making an informed buying decision.