Last updated on October 4th, 2023 at 11:06 am
The RDX is a compact-size luxury crossover SUV that holds the highest spot as Acura’s best-selling model.
The Acura RDX production started in 2006, and it came out in early 2007 by the manufacturer Acura.
If you consider the RDX as your next car, you might wonder about Acura RDX Reliability and its average lifespan.
How Many Miles Should You Expect from the Acura RDX?
The Acura RDX is a reliable SUV that can last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles with conservative driving and regular maintenance.
If you drive your RDX on average of 15,000 miles per year, then you can expect the RDX to last for about 15 to 20 years before breaking down.
Design and build quality have a pivotal role in the car’s lifespan, but it is also dependent on the owner’s usage.
Acura RDX Reliability: Are Acura RDX Cars Reliable?
Honda has been known for producing long-lasting cars, and the RDX is no exception. The RDX was also featured in Forbes’s list of 10 vehicles to run more than 250,000 miles.
Kelly Blue Book awarded the RDX 4.1 out of 5 in terms of reliability, based on 55 consumer reviews.
RepairPal gave the Acura RDX a Reliability Rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranking it 1st among 11 other luxury compact SUVs.
Reliability Compared to Other SUVs
Models | Reliability |
| Acura RDX | 4.5/5 |
Infiniti EX35 | 4/5 |
| Lexus NX200t | 4/5 |
Volvo XC60 | 4/5 |
| BMW X1 | 3.5/5 |
Lincoln MKC | 3.5/5 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLK350 | 3.5/5 |
BMW X3 | 2.5/5 |
| Average Luxury Compact SUV | 3.5/5 |
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Does the Acura RDX Last Long Compare to Similar Other Models?
Here, we will talk about the longevity of Acura RDX compared to vehicles of its category.
Acura RDX vs. BMW X3
The latest generation of BMW X3 is one of the best-selling luxury compact SUVs, which offers a comfortable driving experience and various high-tech features.
The average mileage expected from a BMW X3 is 150,000 to 200,000 miles before breaking down and therefore has a lower expected lifespan than RDX.
The annual maintenance cost for Acura RDX is $497, which is almost half the service cost for BMW X3, $1034 per year.
RepairPal rates the BMW X3 2.5 out of 5 for reliability which looks pale compared to the RDX’s 4.5-star rating.
According to J.D. Power, BMW X3 scores 80 out of 100 for quality and reliability, whereas the Acura RDX scores 76 out of 100.
Judging for reliability and cost of maintenance, the RDX is a winner in this competition.
Acura RDX vs. Lexus NX
The Lexus NX is a luxury compact SUV from the rival Japanese automaker Lexus and comes with significant equipment levels, distinctive styling, and a classy cabin.
A well-kept NX can be expected to last for about 250,000 to 300,000 miles, similar to the Acura RDX.
The RDX is much cheaper to maintain, costing $497 annually, whereas the NX costs $690.
As per RepairPal, RDX tops over NX with a Reliability score of 4.5 out of 5, while NX gets 4 out of 5.
J.D. Power scores the Lexus NX 82 out of 100, and RDX receives 76 out of 100 for quality and reliability.
For reliability, the NX is ranked in 2nd place, outpointed only by the RDX, which takes first place.
Acura RDX vs. Audi Q5
The Q5 is a best-selling vehicle of Audi’s German luxury brand, which offers an upscale look and many high-end features.
The Audi Q5 is expected to last 150,000 to 200,000 miles before needing expensive repairs, which is less than the expected mileage from RDX, 250,000 to 300,000 miles.
The cost of ownership for the Audi Q5 is estimated to be $928 on average and for the Acura RDX is $497 annually.
RepairPal rates the Acura RDX 4.5 out of 5, and Audi Q5 gets 3 out of 5, a below-average rating in terms of reliability.
According to J.D. Power, the RDX gets 76 out of 100, and Q5 scores 71 out of 100 for quality and reliability.
The Acura RDX has a clear advantage in terms of reliability and maintenance.
Comparison Chart
| Car Models | Acura RDX | BMW X3 | Lexus NX | Audi Q5 |
| Expected Mileage | 250,000 to 300,000 miles | 150,000 to 200,000 miles | 250,000 to 300,000 miles | 150,000 to 200,000 miles |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $497 | $1034 | $690 | $928 |
RepairPal Ratings | 4.5/5 | 2.5/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| J.D. Power Scores | 76/100 | 80/100 | 82/100 | 71/100 |
Price Range | Starts from $39,300 | Starts from $43,000 | Starts from $40,000 | Starts from $53,900 |
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Thoughts on High-Mileage Acura RDX
An Acura RDX with more than 120,000 miles on the clock is considered high-mileage and sometimes a risky investment.
Purchasing a pre-owned RDX with more than 120,000 miles does not necessarily mean a bad outcome, but it is essential to scrutinize the car before finalizing the purchase.
Check the car’s maintenance history and have it checked by a mechanic to look for any signs of damages.
Best and Worst Years for the Acura RDX
The Acura RDX has been in the market for some time now and it has had its fair share of good and bad years.
Best Years
2009 and 2021 are the model years with the least number of complaints.
The 2021 RDX model features the latest safety and up-to-date tech, including a 10.2-inch touch screen display as standard.
The 2010 Acura RDX is ranked as the best-used compact luxury SUV along with 57 compact SUVs.
Worst Years
The 2015 RDX model features soy-based insulation to be environmental-friendly, but this attracts hungry vermin and costs customers up to $2000 to repair.
The 2019 model of Acura RDX has the most issues regarding loss of power while accelerating, followed by stalling problems.
2016 RDX had brake issues, and 2012 RDX had troubles with cracked axles.
Acura RDX Model Years and Reliability Ratings
| Acura RDX Model Years | Reliability Ratings |
| 2007 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.7/5 |
2008 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.6/5 |
| 2009 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.4/5 |
2010 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.5/5 |
2011 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.7/5 |
2012 Acura RDX Reliability | 3.8/5 |
| 2013 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.2/5 |
2014 Acura RDX Reliability | 3.9/5 |
| 2015 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.2/5 |
2016 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.2/5 |
| 2017 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.3/5 |
2018 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.5/5 |
| 2019 Acura RDX Reliability | 3.4/5 |
2020 Acura RDX Reliability | 4.1/5 |
| 2021 Acura RDX Reliability | 3.9/5 |
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Is the Acura RDX Expensive to Maintain?
The RDX is one of the lesser expensive luxury SUVs to maintain, with a cost of only $497 per year.
After about 5-year, you can expect to spend only about $2,485 on the RDX.
| Acura RDX Parts Replacement/Repair | Cost |
AC Condenser Replacement | $397-$488 |
AC Evaporator Replacement | $704-$846 |
| Air Conditioning Condenser Fan Motor Replacement | $172-$201 |
Air Conditioning Receiver Drier Assembly Replacement | $277-$352 |
| AC Compressor Replacement | $1182-$1339 |
Serpentine Belt Replacement | $124-$148 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Line Replacement | $394-$443 |
AC Recharge | $154-$194 |
How Long Does the Acura RDX Tires Last?
The Acura RDX’s tires can be expected to last anywhere between 50,000 to 70,000 miles or up to 3 to 5 years.
Rotating the tires every 5,000 miles prevents uneven wear and tear and helps get the most life out of them.
Check the car tire pressure every couple of weeks as deflated tires result in uneven and excessive wearing.
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How Long Does the Acura RDX Transmission Last?
The transmission system of the Acura RDX easily lasts at least 150,000 miles and, on average, up to 250,000 to 300,000 miles.
Acura recommends changing the oil and filtering every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil.
The Acura RDX might have some transmission issues, so taking extra care of the transmission system should be a top priority.
How Long Does the Acura RDX Brake Pads Last?
Brake pads for the Acura RDX should last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles.
Front brake pads wear out much swifter than the rear ones, so changing all four at once is unnecessary.
Driving smoothly and avoiding hard brakes will get the most life from your car brake pads.
Tips to Increase the Lifespan of Your Acura RDX
- Apply for ceramic coating or paint protection.
- Wash the vehicle often and mostly during dry weather.
- Keep the vehicle inside a garage for the most time.
- Drive smoothly and avoid harsh braking or acceleration.
- Keep the car modifications at a minimum.
- Keep up-to-date with factory-recommended maintenance.
- Use good quality parts and fluids.
- Regularly check fluids and tire pressure.
The Acura RDX is a good car with many features and high-reliability ratings. We hope this article has helped you with questions regarding an Acura RDX.
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