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VIN REPORT

5J8TB2H27CA0015882012 ACURA RDX

Risk Score
44
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
2 Found
2 campaigns
15
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
14 yrs
Made in UNITED STATES (USA)
C-
Score: 71/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2012 ACURA RDX was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 15 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • Safety Systems is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
  • TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL — inflator can rupture and send metal shrapnel into the cabin. Do NOT drive until repaired.
  • Manufacturer delayed recall by 3.8 years after first complaints — pattern of slow response to known defects
44/100
Moderate Risk
3 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 3 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
Takata airbag recall — risk of shrapnel injury
+18
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts
TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL — Do Not Drive
Campaign: 19V182000

Takata airbag inflators can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin — this defect has caused at least 27 deaths and 400+ injuries worldwide. Do NOT drive this vehicle until this recall is repaired. Contact your dealer immediately.

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
ACURA
Model
RDX
Year
2012
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 2.359737216L 240 hp
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
5
Manufacturer
AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Assembly
MARYSVILLE, OHIO, UNITED STATES (USA)
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
AQuality81/100
Good📍 MARYSVILLE, OHIO

Honda's first and flagship US plant. Produces Accord and Honda Ridgeline.

Awards & Recognition
  • JD Power IQS recognition (multiple years)
Safety
C-
Score: 71/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety21/30
Complaint History30/30
30/100Moderate
  • Airbag system recall
2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Elevated
  • 2 recalls on same component: Safety Systems
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Safety Systems
2 recalls6 complaints
Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls
82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 4 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~168,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 14 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
22 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~93%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

93%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

ACURA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
92%Good

ACURA completes recalls at a good rate (92%), averaging about 16 months to remedy. Most affected vehicles are fixed.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~16 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
16mo
#19V182000
Jun 2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

SummaryHonda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006 MDX, 2007-2016 RDX, 2002-2003 3.2TL, 2004-2006, and 2009-2014 TL, 2010-2013 ZDX and 2001-2007 and 2009 Honda Accord, 2001-2005 Civic, 2003-2005 Civic Hybrid, 2001-2005 Civic GX NGV, 2002-2007 and 2010-2011 CR-V, 2003-2011 Element, 2007 Fit, 2002-2004 Odyssey, 2003-2008 Pilot, and 2006-2014 Ridgeline vehicles. The affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag inflator as part of a previous Takata inflator recall remedy or a replacement driver air bag module containing the same inflator type as a service part. Due to a manufacturing error, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode.
Read full details...
ConsequenceAn explosion of an inflator within the driver frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver, front seat passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Est. Repair Completion~93%

~7% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired

Low Risk

Source: NHTSA published Takata completion data

#16V061000
Mar 2016

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

SummaryHonda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, and Insight, 2009-2013 Fit, 2013-2014 Fit EV, 2007-2014 Ridgeline, 2013-2016 Acura ILX, 2013-2014 Acura ILX Hybrid, 2007-2016 RDX, 2005-2012 Acura RL, 2009-2014 Acura TL, and 2010-2013 Acura ZDX vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
Read full details...
ConsequenceIn the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Est. Repair Completion~93%

~7% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired

Low Risk

Source: NHTSA published Takata completion data

LONG-STANDING OPEN
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
10.2yr open
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
7yr open

⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.

6 yrs ago
06/03/2019
03/02/2016
2 total campaigns
Safety Systems
2
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
2 recalls are over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.
3.8yr
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2012-05-22 · Recall issued: 2016-03-02

First complaint was filed 3.8 years before the recall was issued — manufacturer was aware of this issue for years before acting.

Complaints
Safety Systems
6
Electrical
3
Other
2
Engine/Powertrain
2
Steering
1
Body/Structure
1
2012
1
2014
1
2015
1
2016
7
2017
1
2018
3
2025
1
33% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Accelerating +100%
1
Last 24 months
0
Prior 24 months
15HIGH VOLUME
ODI #11697171ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Acura RDX. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 148,000. However, following an oil change service, it was later discovered that the actual vehicle mileage was 248,553.

ODI #11132058EXTERIOR LIGHTING

AMBOS FOCOS DELANTEROS SE OBEDECEN, LAS FECHAS EXACTAS CUANDO LO LLEV AL DEALER PARA GARANTA DE LOS FOCOS NO LA RECUERDO, PERO FUI EN VARIAS OCASIONES. ME INFORMARON QUE LA ESPECIFICACIN DEL FABRICANTE ERAN FOCOS AL AIRE, Y QUE POR ESO SE HUMEDECIAN Y NO TENAN GARANTA, QUE TODOS LOS DE ESE AO VINIERON AS. ME CONFIRM Y NO REGRES PARA ESE PROBLEMA., AUNQUE NO TIENE LGICA, SE COMPRA UN AUTO PARA QUE FUNCIONE TODO NORMAL Y ESTE NO ES EL CASO DE AMBOS FOCOS. AL PASAR EL TIEMPO EL PROBLEMA SE HA AGRAVADO PORQUE SE HUMEDECEN MAS Y AFECTA LA VISIBILIDAD. LLAM NUEVAMENTE AL DEALER PERO ME INFORMARON LO MISMO, LES INFORM QUE FUI EN EL PERIODO DE DE GARANTA Y NO LOS REEMPLAZARON Y AHORA ES PEOR Y QUE NI ES CIERTO QUE TODOS LOS DE MI AO ESTN AS PORQUE LOS QUE HE VISTO QUE ESTN BIEN. AGRADECER PUEDAN V VERIFICAR MI SOLICITUD EN EL DEALER Y RESOLVER EL INCONVENIENTE. GRACIAS

ODI #11124195UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VEHICLE WILL COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING CAUSING THE BRAKES TO LOCK AND CAUSING A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN FOR OTHERS AND THE PERSON DRIVING THE CAR. ONCE THE VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN THE CAR WILL NEED TO BE PUT IN PARK, TURNED OFF AND COMPLETELY RESTARTED AGAIN. THIS INCIDENT HAS HAPPENED TO MY VEHICLE SEVERAL TIMES RANGING IN SPEEDS FROM 0MPH TO 70MPH WHILE DRIVING ON THE EXPRESS WAY. THIS ALWAYS HAPPENS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND STATIONARY AS WELL. IT HAS HAPPENED AT A STOP LIGHT AS WELL AS ON THE HIGHWAY.

ODI #11074082AIR BAGS

TAKATA RECALL. THE DRIVER AIR BAG WAS RECALLED AND REPLACED. WHEN I QUESTIONED WHY THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WAS NOT BEING REPLACED ALSO. THE DEALERSHIP SAID IT WAS NOT BEING RECALLED. I ASKED IF IT WAS A TAKATA AIR BAG. DEALERSHIP WOULD NOT ANSWER. ONLY SAYING IT WAS NOT BEING RECALLED. MY COMPLAINT IS: I DO NOT KNOW IF MY FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG IS SAFE FOR THE RIDERS IN MY CAR.

ODI #11035418POWER TRAIN

I NOTICED VIBRATION WHILE DRIVING IN TOWN AS IF I HAD FLAT TIRES, AND ESPECIALLY WHEN I WAS ACCELERATING. AFTER A WEEK I HAD MY SUV CHECKED AT THE GARAGE. THEY HAD TO REPLACE THE RIGHT AND LEFT LINE AXLE ASSEMBLIES WHICH WAS QUITE EXPENSIVE. THE MECHANICS TOLD ME THAT IT WAS COMPLETELY FINISHED AND FOUND IT HIGHLY UNUSUAL FOR A 2012 ACURA RDX.

ODI #10897070AIR BAGS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS) WAS ISSUED IN FEBRUARY OF 2016. AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE STILL NOT AVAILABLE AND NO ESTIMATED TIME FOR RECEIVING THE PARTS COULD BE GIVEN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

ODI #10894504AIR BAGS

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

ODI #10888250AIR BAGS

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE....UPDATED 10/11/16 *BF *CN

ODI #10877082AIR BAGS

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA RDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V061000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

ODI #10851890AIR BAGS

TAKATA RECALL I RECEIVED A LETTER DATED MARCH 2016 NOTIFYING ME OF THE RECALL, AND WHEN I CONTACTED MY DEALER, THIS WAS HIS RESPONSE: KRISTEN, I UNDERSTAND YOUR SITUATION. MANY PEOPLE ARE GOING THROUGH THE SAME SITUATION. UNFORTUNATELY THERE IS NOT A REMEDY. YOU HAVE OPTIONS. ACURA IS ALLOWING US TO TAKE THESE CARS IN ON TRADE IN FOR ANOTHER VEHICLE IF YOU DON'T FEEL SAFE. WOULD BE HAPPY TO HELP YOU WITH THAT PROCESS. BESIDES THAT DRIVE IT AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE. I KNOW THAT NOT WHAT YOU WANT TO HEAR. THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN BE DONE AT THIS TIME. THANKS, NOT ONLY IS THIS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE, BUT ALSO OUTRAGEOUS! YOU'RE TELLING ME MY VEHICLE COULD UNEXPECTEDLY KILL ME AND MY PASSENGERS, BUT NOTHING IS TO BE DONE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS - UNLESS, OF COURSE, I WANT TO BUY A NEW CAR FROM YOU?! PLEASE INFORM ME OF WHAT MY RECOURSE CAN BE, SO I CAN KEEP MY FAMILY SAFE.

ODI #10836547STEERING,POWER TRAIN

WITHIN THE FIRST 2 YEARS AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC NOTICED MY RACK AND PINION WAS LEAKING. THE ACURA DEALER REPLACED THE RACK AND PINION UNDER WARRANTY 28,782.00 MMI MAY 16, 2014. I WAS EXPERIENCING VIBRATION ESPECIALLY AT SPEEDS OF 60-65. IT KEPT GETTING WORSE I THOUGHT IT WAS THE ROAD, TIRES OUT OF BALANCE, WHEELS OUT OF BALANCE? I GOT NEW TIRES, BALANCED. IT CONTINUED. I READ ABOUT COMPLAINTS WITH THE AXLE AND SIMILAR SYMPTOMS IN OTHER ACURA SEDAN MODELS, NOT THE RDX. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THE AXLE DID NEED TO REPLACED AT 46,306.00 MILES 11/30/15. IT WAS ON BACK ORDER FOR OVER A MONTH. I WAS DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT FEBRUARY 8, 2016 AND HEARD A TERRIBLE LOUD GRINDING NOISE TURNING THE WHEEL. I PUT IT IN PARK AND IT STOPPED THEN I PROCEEDED AGAIN AND IT HAPPENED AFTER MOVING A FEW YARDS. I TRIED TO PULL TO A SAFE OUT OF THE WAY SPOT AND THE NOISE CAME AGAIN AND THIS TIME JUST WHEN PUTTING IT IN DRIVE THE TERRIBLE LOUD GRINDING TYPE NOISE CAME. I THOUGHT THE ENGINE WAS GOING TO FAIL. I STOPPED WHERE I WAS AND CALLED AAA FOR A TOW. IT WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE AXLE HAD BROKEN INSIDE ON A PIECE ON THE LEFT SIDE. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE IE, I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING ETC... THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID MAYBE THE PART WAS DEFECTIVE, HE DID NOT SEE ANY DAMAGE. HE HAD ONE IN STOCK AND WAS ABLE TO REPLACE IT RIGHT AWAY. THERE IS STILL A CREAKING NOISE WHEN I TURN THE WHEEL ESPECIALLY TO THE RIGHT OR WHEN I STEP ON THE BREAKS THE FRONT END MAKES NOISE SEEMS LIKE IT NEEDS LUBRICATION OR SOMETHING. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR. THE ACURA CORPORATION WILL NOT ADMIT THE PART WAS DEFECTIVE THEY WANT ME TO TAKE IT TO A DEALER TO HAVE IT EVALUATED. (DID THAT) TONY THE DISTRICT CASE MANAGER SAID THEY CAN ONLY TAKE CARE OF THINGS THAT ARE UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY WILL NOT BUY BACK THIS CAR SO THAT I CAN PURCHASE A SAFE CAR. I WILL BE SEEKING ARBITRATION.

ODI #10818539STEERING

MY VEHICLE HAS ONLY 50K MILES. WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY I NOTICED A SOUND WHEN MOVING THE STEERING WHEEL. WHEN I EXITED THE ROAD THE WHEEL WAS MORE DIFFICULT TO TURN AND THE SOUND INCREASED. MY VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A GARAGE AND I WAS TOLD THAT I NEEDED A COSTLY REPLACEMENT OF TH RACK-N-PINION.

ODI #10671263UNKNOWN OR OTHER

DEC. 23 2014: MY HUSBAND AND I WERE TRAVELING DOWN HIGHWAY GA400 AT APPROX. 60 MPH. ALL WINDOWS WERE CLOSED, THE SUNROOF & SUNROOF SHADE WERE CLOSED. APPROX. OUTSIDE TEMP WAS 45F, CLOUDY DAY, INSIDE VEHICLE TEMP WAS APPROX. 70F. THERE WERE NO CARS OR OBJECTS DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY. SUDDENLY, WE HEARD A LOUD POP THAT SEEMED TO COME FROM THE ROOF OF THE CAR. SINCE WE DID NOT SEE ANYTHING MAKE CONTACT WITH THE ROOF OF THE CAR, WE DIDN'T INVESTIGATE FURTHER. JAN. 4, 2015: AGAIN TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY ABOUT 70MPH, WE HEARD A NOISE FROM THE SUNROOF. APPARENTLY PIECES OF GLASS FLYING OFF THE TOP OF THE ROOF. AFTER, WE HEARD THE FAINT SOUND OF OUTSIDE AIR COMING FROM SUNROOF. THE PASSENGER OPENED THE SUNROOF SHADE JUST ENOUGH TO IMMEDIATELY SEE THAT THE ENTIRE SUNROOF GLASS WAS SHATTERED (PARTIALLY INTACT, BUT COMPLETELY SHATTERED). WITHIN THREE MINUTES WHEN A SAFE PLACE WAS REACHED, THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO EXAMINE FROM OUTSIDE. DRIVER GOT OUT OF THE CAR, AND SAW THAT THE GLASS SUNROOF WAS BUCKLED UPWARDS (AS THOUGH IT HAD POPPED FROM THE INSIDE), WITH A HOLE IN THE CENTER APPROXIMATELY 6 INCHES IN DIAMETER. THE GLASS WAS NOT BROKEN IN ANY PATTERN WHICH INDICATED AN OBJECT FROM OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE HAD HIT IT. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE ANYWHERE ELSE ON THE ROOF OF THE VEHICLE OF ANY INCIDENT. IT WAS CLEAR THAT THE GLASS HAD POPPED, POTENTIALLY DUE TO INCORRECT PRESSURE INSIDE THE VEHICLE, FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THESE FACTORS LEAD US TO BELIEVE THE INCIDENT IS A VEHICLE SAFETY ISSUE, AT THE FAULT OF THE MANUFACTURER. WE CONTACTED ACURA CORPORATE TO FILE A REPORT JAN 8, 2015.

ODI #10576642ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

WHILE COMING TO A STOP AT A BUSY INTERSECTION, THE ENGINE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED UP TO 5,000 TO 6,000 RPM WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND THE TRANSMISSION IN DRIVE. THE BRAKE WAS NOT HOLDING AND I STARTED MOVING CLOSER TO THE CAR STOPPED FOR THE RED LIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. I THEN PUT THE TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL WHILE THE ENGINE WAS STILL AT 5,000 RPM AND GETTING FASTER. FINALLY, THE ENGINE CAME DOWN TO ABOUT 1,000 RPM AND I CONTINUED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION ON THE GREEN LIGHT AFTER PLACING THE CAR IN DRIVE. I DROVE TO WORK AND CALLED THE ACURA DEALER THAT I PURCHASED THIS "CERTIFIED USED CAR" FROM AND THEY CAME TO MY WORK AND HAULED THE ACURA RDX TO THE DEALER LOCATION. THEY INFORMED ME THAT A "SPECIAL ACURA INVESTIGATING TEAM" WILL COME AND LOOK AT THE CAR ON TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2014. THIS IS MY WIFE'S CAR I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF SHE WAS DRIVING. THIS INSTANT ACCELERATION, WITHOUT PLACING THE CAR IN NEUTRAL, WOULD HAVE PUSHED THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME AND MYSELF DIRECTLY INTO A BUSY INTERSECTION WITHOUT STOPPING UNTIL THE ENGINE QUIT! THIS FAILURE COULD RESULT IN A VERY TRAGIC ACCIDENT. I AND ESPECIALLY MY WIFE ARE VERY VERY CONCERNED WITH WHAT CAUSED THIS PROBLEM AND WE ARE AWAITING WORD FROM THE ACURA DEALER SPECIFIC TO WHAT THEY FOUND DURING THEIR INVESTIGATION. MY WIFE DOES NOT WANT TO DRIVE THIS CAR IF THEY INDICATE THEY CAN NOT FIND OUT WHAT CAUSED THE CAR TO SUDDENLY ACCELERATE. THIS COULD HAPPEN TO ANYONE DRIVING THIS CAR AND NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED ASAP SO NO ONE WILL SUFFER. WE WERE VERY LUCKY THIS TIME.

ODI #10459314STRUCTURE,ENGINE

1. NOTICED VEHICLE LEAKING OIL AT FRONT OF ENGINE BLOCK. DEALER INSPECTED AND AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS IDENTIFIED A CASTING/MANUFACTURING DEFECT IN RIGHT FRONT TOP OF ENGINE BLOCK (NOTCH) THAT WAS CAUSING OIL LEAK. 2. SEVERAL DAYS LATER ON MAY 21ST FOR NO APPARENT REASON, MOONROOF IMPLODED. *TT

Annual complaints and reliability score for ACURA RDX — recall years marked in red
0470501002019201620122014201620182020202220242026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 15 total NHTSA complaints filed over 7 years, with the worst year being 2016 (7 complaints).

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 99/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

The red dashed lines mark recall issuance — the first recall came 4 years after owners began filing complaints, a lag that indicates the manufacturer was slow to formally acknowledge these problems.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$49,614
~$827/mo over 5 yrs
$0.3/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$21,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$6,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $49,614 (~$827/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
2 recalls over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$800
Total recommended deduction−$1,800
1 critical inspection item must be resolved before purchase. Do not skip these checks.
CRITICAL
Verify Takata airbag recall has been completed
Takata inflators can rupture and send shrapnel into the cabin — fatalities have occurred. Confirm repair with NHTSA VIN lookup before purchase.
HIGH
Verify recall AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling specific 2003 Acura 3.2CL, 2013-2016 ILX, 2013-2014 ILX Hybrid, 2003-2006
HIGH
Verify recall AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 Honda CR-V, 2011-2015 CR-Z, 2010-2014 FCX, an
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$1,810–$2,310/yr
~$151–$193/mo
Liability Only
$590–$750/yr
~$49–$63/mo
Category: Near-Luxury
14-year-old vehicle: −18% (depreciated ACV lowers full-coverage cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VIN5J8TB2H27CA001588
Model Year2012
MakeACURA
ModelRDX
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Doors5
Drive Type4x2
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)2.359737216
Horsepower240

Manufacturer

ManufacturerAMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Assembly CityMARYSVILLE
Assembly CountryUNITED STATES (USA)

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)5J8
Check Digit (Char 9)7
Model Year Code (Char 10)C
Plant Code (Char 11)A
Sequence (Chars 12–17)001588

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count15
5
1
J
2
8
3
T
4
B
5
2
6
H
7
2
8
7
9
C
10
A
11
0
12
0
13
1
14
5
15
8
16
8
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
5
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
J
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
8
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
TB2H2
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
7
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
C
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
A
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
001588
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
United States
From VIN position 1 (5)
Model Year Character
"C" → 2012
Could also be 1982
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/24/2026, 7:50:28 AM.