2019 Acura RDX

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2019 Acura RDX, categorized by system and component.

The 2019 Acura RDX represents a significant redesign for Acura’s compact luxury SUV. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is an available option. People often praise the RDX for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and value for money. Common complaints revolve around the sometimes clunky infotainment system and the lack of a more powerful engine option.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (K20C4)

• Turbocharger Failure/Wastegate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light. Can be related to wastegate actuator malfunction or turbocharger bearing failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger or repair/replacement of the wastegate actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (Turbocharger replacement), $300 - $800 (Wastegate Actuator)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, difficulty starting, fuel smell, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per injector
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak From Cylinder Head
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, coolant smell, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head gasket or cylinder head replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (Honda/Acura Branded)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears, hesitation when accelerating, especially from a stop, clunking noises during gear changes.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid change, or in some cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (Software Update), $150 - $300 (Fluid Change), $800-$2000 (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, inability to shift, loud clunking noises, complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Complete transmission replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the bushing and labor involved)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, lags significantly, or randomly reboots. Can affect navigation, audio, and climate control.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the infotainment unit in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update, if available), $1,000 - $2,000+ (Infotainment Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• False Activations of Safety Systems
  • Description/Symptoms: False warnings or activations of systems such as lane departure warning, collision mitigation braking, or blind spot monitoring.
  • Solution: Recalibration of sensors, replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Calibration), $300 - $1000+ (Sensor Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch/tailgate is not flush with the body when closed, difficult to close, unusual wind noise.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the hatch alignment, replacement of weather stripping.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises from Dashboard/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Securing loose trim pieces, adding sound deadening material. (Often difficult to pinpoint and fix permanently).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the source and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, water leaks, or difficulty opening/closing.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, weather stripping replacement, track cleaning/lubrication.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Acura RDX, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. The infotainment system problems and transmission issues are potentially the most serious and costly. Engine issues like coolant leaks are less common but can be very expensive to address. While most issues are not considered safety related, false activation of the safety systems could startle the driver. Regular maintenance and addressing concerns promptly can help mitigate potential problems.