Last updated: 2026-04-20
2023 Acura RDX Reliability Report
The 2023 Acura RDX scores 82/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 1 recall and 16 owner complaints.
Recalls
1
Complaints
16
Complaint Rate
4.1per 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
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- ENGINE (3)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
- POWER TRAIN (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the Third generation (TC1/2).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 1 year after the last refresh (2022).
- 3rd generation RDX (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2019: Third generation (TC1/2) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is the last model year of the Third generation (TC1/2).
Should You Buy the 2023 Acura RDX?
The 2023 Acura RDX earns an Excellent 82/100 reliability score. 2023 is the last model year of the Third generation (TC1/2).
At 4.1 per 10,000 vehicles sold, its complaint rate sits below the SUV segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.
Compared to the 2024 Acura RDX, which scored the same. See also the 2021 Acura RDX for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +$362 cheaper to maintain than avg luxury compact SUVs
- +Low major repair risk (6%)
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (3 complaints)
- −Engine power loss reported at 10,000–11,000 miles
Compare 2023 Acura RDX With
2023 Audi Q3
Reliability: 74/100
2023 BMW X1
Reliability: 64/100
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC
Reliability: 67/100
2023 Lexus NX
Reliability: 77/100
2023 Volvo XC60
Reliability: 74/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
- ENGINE (3)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2023 Acura RDX carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
4.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 12.1
Safety Incidents
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Acura RDX Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2023 Acura RDX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Civic, Acura RDX, Acura Integra, and 2022 Honda Accord vehicles. A ball valve in the vehicle stability assist (VSA) modulator may leak brake fluid, which can result in unintended vehicle movement when the brake hold feature is engaged or an unexpected increase in brake pedal travel.
Consequence
Unintended vehicle movement or an unexpected increase in brake pedal travel can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the VSA modulator, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 24, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are OEJ, XEK, AEY, XEX and OEW.
Buying a used 2023 Acura RDX? Check its history first
Every 2023 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
2023 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 2023 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 2023 Acura RDX.
Test infotainment system for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity issues
Inspect rear windshield and sunroof for signs of stress or potential shattering
Verify liftgate operation for proper resistance detection and reversal
Check for any signs of power train leaks, especially around the transfer case
Ensure Forward Collision Avoidance system operates correctly without false activations
Confirm engine performance under acceleration to detect any power loss or limp mode
2023 Acura RDX Common Problems by Component
16 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Acura RDX report issues with the rear windshield unexpectedly shattering, with two complaints specifically describing the rear glass as exploding or blowing away while backing up. Another issue involves the vehicle starting and being driven without the key fob inside, which is contrary to the expected behavior of the vehicle's security system. This incident occurred after an annual check-up, but no specific mileage is noted. These issues do not directly mention crashes or injuries but highlight potential safety and convenience concerns for users.
ENGINE
3 complaintsOwners report experiencing engine power loss in the 2023 Acura RDX, often accompanied by a flashing check engine light. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle entering limp mode, limiting speed to around 40-60 mph, which poses a safety risk in high-speed traffic situations. These issues are noted at approximately 10,000 miles, and in one case, the problem was potentially linked to water intrusion during heavy rain. The inability of dealerships to replicate or diagnose the problem due to a lack of permanent error codes is also a common theme, leaving the issue unresolved and potentially recurring. Additionally, one owner mentions an intermittent brake failure warning, though it appears unrelated to the engine issues.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system, particularly when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Common symptoms include the screen going blank, disconnecting, and requiring lengthy reconnection times, which are often triggered by phone calls or satellite communications. These issues can pose safety risks, especially when navigation is interrupted during driving. Complaints frequently mention that dealerships acknowledge the problem, but no permanent fix is available, with some suggesting a potential software update in the future. Owners have experienced these issues at various times, with no specific mileage range identified, and some have noted that the problem may also lead to battery drainage and starting issues.
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the power train of the 2023 Acura RDX, specifically related to the transfer case and differential service. One complaint describes a defective transfer case that leaks, with the manufacturer stating this is normal for the AWD system, leading to potential damage. Another owner mentions being charged for differential service at 10,771 miles, which they believe should be covered under warranty, indicating this maintenance was prompted by a "sub code 6" on the maintenance minder. These complaints suggest concerns about unexpected maintenance costs and possible warranty coverage disputes, but do not mention any safety implications such as crashes or loss of control. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues when considering this vehicle.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Acura RDX report issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, specifically with the Emergency Automatic Braking feature activating unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention that the system engages without warning while driving at speeds around 35 to 70 MPH, causing the vehicle to brake independently. The incidents occur at mileage points approximately between 2,000 and 7,888 miles. While no crashes or injuries are reported, owners describe abrupt braking that could potentially lead to loss of control. These patterns suggest that potential buyers should be aware of the braking system’s unexpected activation during normal driving conditions.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Acura RDX report issues with the vehicle's liftgate and rear hatch window. One owner describes the liftgate failing to stop and reverse when encountering resistance, even when significant pressure is applied, posing a potential safety risk. Another owner notes the rear hatch window spontaneously shattering while the vehicle was parked, with no apparent cause. These issues occur shortly after purchase, with one incident happening just over a month after acquisition. Safety is a concern, particularly with the liftgate's failure to reverse and the unexpected shattering of the rear window, which could lead to injury if occupants were present.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintI am leasing the ACURA RDX 2023 . Currently mileage in 11444. This car start has oxidized on right side of headlight 4 months ago. I came to service in NIELLO ACURA. They called Acura factory service . It is not under warranty. They can’t do anything for my car. I only had this car 1 years . This is total defective .
When Do 2023 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).
2024
2023
(Current Model)
2025
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 2023 Acura RDX reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Acura RDX?
How many recalls does the 2023 Acura RDX have?
Is the 2023 Acura RDX expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 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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