2020 Acura ILX

The 2020 Acura ILX is a compact luxury sedan powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine producing 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It’s only available with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the ILX for its sporty handling, comfortable interior, and generous standard features. Common complaints include the dated infotainment system, firm ride, and lack of engine options.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 (K24W7)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled changes.
  • Solution: Performing an oil consumption test to determine the rate of consumption. Possible solutions range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idling
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rough idling, especially during cold starts. This can sometimes be accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or cleaning the fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Jerky Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or jerky shifting, particularly at lower speeds or during initial acceleration. This can also be described as “clunking”.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) to improve shift quality. In more severe cases, replacement of the clutch pack or valve body may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $2000+ (Clutch Pack/Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing worn or damaged rear shock absorbers, stabilizer bar links, or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software update to the infotainment system. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1000+ (Infotainment Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, resulting in difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing a faulty battery. Checking for parasitic draws from aftermarket accessories or malfunctioning electronic components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture or condensation buildup inside the headlight lenses.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or resealing the existing unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000 per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises coming from the sunroof area, especially when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Adjusting or lubricating the sunroof mechanism. Replacing worn or damaged sunroof seals or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Acura ILX, while generally reliable, has a few potential issues to be aware of. The transmission, particularly the dual-clutch, can experience issues ranging from harsh shifting to outright failure. Some owners have also reported excessive oil consumption and electrical problems with the infotainment system. While most of these issues are not catastrophic, repairs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, especially if the transmission needs replacement. It’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed to assess the condition of the transmission, engine, and other potential problem areas before buying a used 2020 Acura ILX.