Last updated: 2026-04-20

2020 Acura RDX Reliability Report
The 2020 Acura RDX scores 67/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 327 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
4
Complaints
327
Complaint Rate
61.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$497
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,900–$3,000
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (63)
- ENGINE (29)
- STRUCTURE (24)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is year 2 of the Third generation (TC1/2).
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2022.
- 3rd generation RDX (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2019 (redesign year) vs 2020+ pricing and recalls.
2019: Third generation (TC1/2) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: This Model Year
2020 is year 2 of the Third generation (TC1/2).
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2020 Acura RDX?
At 67/100, the 2020 Acura RDX lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 is year 2 of the Third generation (TC1/2).
Its complaint rate of 61.9 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 21.2. The most common reports involve unknown or other (89).
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to unknown or other (89). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2021 Acura RDX, which scored 10 points higher. See also the 2019 Acura RDX for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$362 cheaper to maintain than avg luxury compact SUVs
- +Low major repair risk (6%)
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (89 complaints)
Compare 2020 Acura RDX With

2020 Audi Q3
Reliability: 69/100

2020 BMW X1
Reliability: 74/100

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC
Reliability: 64/100

2020 Lexus NX
Reliability: 82/100

2020 Volvo XC60
Reliability: 75/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (89)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (63)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2020 Acura RDX. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
61.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 21.2
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
1
Fires
4
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Acura RDX Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Acura RDX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
Consequence
An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, October 18, 2024, and August 2025. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
SEAT BELTS
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2020 CR-V, 2018-2019 Accord and Accord Hybrid, 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019 Insight, and 2019-2020 Acura RDX vehicles. A manufacturing issue with the front seat belts may cause the seat belt buckle channel to interfere with the release button, preventing the seat belt buckle from latching.
Consequence
An unlatched seat belt cannot properly restrain the seat occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the driver and front passenger seat belt buckle release buttons or the buckle assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are NDA, QDB, BDC, MDD, LD9. TDF, FDG, ODH, YDI, ZDE.
Buying a used 2020 Acura RDX? Check its history first
Every 2020 Acura RDX has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2020 Acura RDX NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.5%
Safety Technologies
Acura RDXRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$497
vs $859 avg for luxury compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
6%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
23–24 MPG
Running cost: $3,400–$3,500/yr
Fuel + repair
21–22 city / 26–28 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RDX FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 22 | 28 | 24 | $2,900 |
| RDX FWD A-SPEC 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 22 | 27 | 24 | $2,900 |
| RDX AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 21 | 27 | 23 | $3,000 |
| RDX AWD A-SPEC 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 21 | 26 | 23 | $3,000 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Acura RDX.
Test rear windshield for spontaneous shattering by inspecting for any existing cracks or weaknesses
Check for engine power loss during acceleration, especially in wet conditions
Inspect brakes for grinding or squealing noises during initial use
Verify the infotainment system functions without freezing or errors
Ensure all recall repairs, particularly for the fuel system, have been completed
Test vehicle acceleration and deceleration for any unexpected limp mode activation
2020 Acura RDX Common Problems by Component
327 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
89 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report spontaneous shattering of the rear windshield, often while the vehicle is parked or shortly after entering the car. Complaints describe the glass breaking without any apparent external force, sometimes accompanied by a loud noise. Incidents occur in various settings, including garages and parking lots, and are noted to happen even when the car is off or idling. Many reports indicate that this issue is known to Acura, with references to a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 22-014), yet owners often face out-of-pocket repair costs. Although no crashes or injuries are reported, the sudden nature of the shattering poses potential safety risks, especially if it occurs while driving.
VISIBILITY/WIPER
63 complaintsOwners report frequent incidents of the rear windshield shattering spontaneously in the 2020 Acura RDX, often without any external impact or warning signs. Complaints commonly describe the glass breaking while the vehicle is parked or upon using the rear defroster, particularly in colder temperatures. Some reports indicate that the issue occurs even when the vehicle is stationary, with mileage not always specified, but several mention occurrences around or after the warranty period. Safety implications include potential visibility obstruction and unsecured vehicles, though no crashes or injuries are reported. Prospective buyers should be aware of this recurring issue, especially since some owners note a Technical Service Bulletin has been issued, yet repairs may not be fully covered if the vehicle is out of warranty.
ENGINE
29 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report issues with the engine losing power, particularly during acceleration, often accompanied by a flashing check engine light. This problem is commonly noted in rainy conditions and can result in the vehicle entering "limp mode," significantly reducing speed and requiring a restart to resolve temporarily. Many complaints indicate this issue occurs at various mileages, with some reports as early as 5,300 miles and others at higher mileages near 92,000. Safety implications include potential risks of accidents due to sudden deceleration in traffic, though no crashes are explicitly reported. Additionally, some owners mention repeated head gasket failures and challenges with obtaining necessary recall parts, adding to maintenance concerns for potential buyers.
STRUCTURE (24 complaints)
STRUCTURE
24 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report issues with the rear window shattering spontaneously, often without any external impact or warning. Many complaints describe the rear window shattering while the vehicle is parked or shortly after using the rear defroster, with some incidents linked to cold weather conditions. In addition to the rear window, there are also mentions of sunroof-related noises and malfunctioning, such as popping sounds and failure to close properly. Safety implications include reports of sharp glass debris inside the vehicle, with one injury reported during cleanup. These issues appear to occur regardless of mileage or specific timelines, suggesting potential manufacturing or design concerns.
POWER TRAIN (21 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
21 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report issues with sudden loss of power and the vehicle entering "limp mode," often accompanied by a flashing check engine light. These incidents typically occur during acceleration, such as merging onto highways or overtaking, and are sometimes linked to wet weather conditions. Complaints commonly mention the need to restart the vehicle to regain normal function, with some reports indicating occurrences at mileages as low as 1,390. Safety implications are evident, with one crash resulting in two injuries and multiple instances of near-miss situations due to the sudden deceleration. Buyers should be aware of these recurring powertrain issues, particularly in vehicles with mileage around 5,000 to 40,000 miles.
SERVICE BRAKES (20 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
20 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report issues with the vehicle's braking system, with common complaints involving loud squealing or grinding noises from the brakes, often at low speeds or during initial use after the vehicle has been parked. These symptoms typically appear within the first few thousand miles, with many owners experiencing recurring issues even after brake pads and rotors are replaced. Some reports also mention unintended braking activation without driver input, posing potential safety risks, particularly in traffic or at highway speeds. Buyers considering a used 2020 Acura RDX should be aware of these recurring brake noise and performance issues, as well as the reports of sudden braking, which may affect vehicle safety and reliability.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
18 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report issues with the electrical system, including unexpected stalling, loss of power, and malfunctioning infotainment systems. Symptoms often described include the vehicle entering "limp mode," flashing engine lights, and complete electrical shutdowns, sometimes accompanied by flickering lights and unresponsive electronics. Complaints often mention these issues occurring at various mileages, with some incidents leading to dangerous situations such as loss of power on highways. One report involves a fire originating from the dashboard, highlighting potential safety risks. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported electrical issues, which may impact vehicle reliability and safety.
FUEL SYSTEM (16 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
16 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX frequently report issues related to a fuel system recall, specifically citing delays in obtaining parts for necessary repairs. Complaints commonly mention a "parts distribution disconnect," indicating that parts for the recall are unavailable, which has led to frustration over extended repair timelines. Some owners describe symptoms such as difficulty starting the vehicle, stalling while driving, and illuminated warning lights, with these issues occurring around 20,000 to 58,000 miles. While most complaints do not report immediate failures, a few instances of stalling could imply potential safety concerns. This context is relevant for used car buyers considering the 2020 Acura RDX, especially regarding potential wait times for recall repairs.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (9 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
9 complaintsOwners report that the 2020 Acura RDX frequently experiences sudden loss of power, particularly during acceleration on highways or in rainy conditions. Common symptoms include the vehicle decelerating unexpectedly, the check engine light flashing, and entering a "limp mode" where acceleration is severely limited. These issues are often resolved temporarily by turning the car off and back on. Complaints typically occur around mileage as low as 2,800 to about 7,300 miles. Safety implications are noted, as several owners describe the vehicle slowing in high-speed traffic without warning, creating hazardous situations. These problems are linked to moisture entering the turbocharger intercooler system, as indicated by multiple reports and service interventions.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Acura RDX report issues related to steering and vehicle control, with some incidents involving unintended acceleration and deceleration. One complaint details a crash where the vehicle suddenly jerked right and accelerated without driver input, leading to a collision. Another owner describes an incident where the engine shuttered and lost power on the highway, which temporarily resolved after restarting the car. Electrical system failures are also noted, with reports of sporadic loss of control. These issues are reported at mileage under 50,000, with significant safety implications, including crashes and potential loss of vehicle control.
When Do 2020 Acura RDX Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Acura RDX Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Acura RDX Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Acura RDX year is 2024 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (82/100) and 2025 (81/100).
Acura RDX Years to Avoid
The worst Acura RDX year is 2019 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to unknown or other (116) issues.
Acura RDX Reliability Score Trend
Acura RDX reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 81/100 compared to 71/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 81/100 | Excellent |
Acura RDX Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Acura RDX reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Acura RDX?
How many recalls does the 2020 Acura RDX have?
Is the 2020 Acura RDX expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Acura RDX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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