The 2019 Acura RDX lasts around 150,000 miles with some engine and brake issues reported. At $25,200 to $34,999, it’s less expensive than some competitors, but still a bad choice when you may wind up spending thousands to fix engine problems.
Is the 2019 Acura RDX a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2019 is a bad year for the Acura RDX since it has more mechanical problems than any other year. Owner reviews complain about the engine stalling, stereo system issues, along with some rare oil leaks.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are good for a luxury SUV in its price range, the seats are comfortable on long trips, cargo space is also excellent.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are some engine problems reported from 2019 RDX owners, which can be expensive to fix. Models from 2013–2018 are good, as are models from 2020 to 2022, the 2019 version is the only bad year.
- Performance 8/10 – Performance is good from the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine which has more power than a lot of the other small SUVs on the market.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2019 RDX is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, along with a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include a head-up display and parking sensors.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 24 MPG giving 410 miles of range out of the 17.1 gallon tank. Gas costs are $12 higher than average at $244 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2019 Acura RDX is cheaper than some other luxury SUVs, although some mechanical problems lower its overall value score as it ages.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Acura RDX?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Acura RDX offers a modern inferior paired with agile handling, but it only gets average owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the RDX at 3.3/5, enjoying the responsive steering, but doesn’t like that there’s only one engine choice available.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the 2019 RDX a 4/5, praising the advanced safety features, but owners don’t like the light brake pedal feel.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Acura RDX Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Acura RDX include the engine going into limp mode, excessive brake noise, along with the stereo system freezing. Overall, these issues are worse than some other compact luxury SUVs on the market, although repair costs are not as high as some competitors.
The engine going into limp mode is the most serious complaint from 2019 Acura RDX owners, showing up at around 2,500 miles. Usually limp mode is caused by computer issues, but can also be a sign of mechanical problems with the engine. The first thing to do is turn the vehicle on and off to see if it fixes it. If it does not, then you will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to diagnose the source of the problem, which can range from software updates to damaged sensors. Fixing it can cost $100 to $650.
Excessive brake noise is another problem mentioned by 2019 RDX owners, showing up at around 10,000 miles. The front brake pads tend to wear down quicker than on some other SUVs, leading to more metal-on-metal noise. Replacing the brake pads costs around $250, while new rotors are an additional $550.
The stereo system freezing has also been reported on the 2019 RDX within the first 1,000 miles. Software problems usually cause the stereo to freeze up. Most dealerships will install the latest stereo system software updates for free, while others charge around $50 for labor.
There are three recalls on the 2019 RDX, which is similar to other small SUVs on the market. The most serious two recalls cover the fuel pump, which may fail. Acura will replace the fuel pump on affected models for free. The other recall covers the seat belt buckle, which Acura will also replace.
How Long Will the 2019 Acura RDX Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Acura RDX can last around 150,000 miles, which is shorter than other luxury SUVs like the Lexus NX. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $427 per year.
As a used 2019 RDX reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the serpentine belt for $150, windshield wiper motor costing $266, along with the timing chain tensioner which costs $500.
Yes. I do not have any problem with my vehicle. It is performing very well to me. It has served its purpose well.
Yes it is reliable the warranty is great and my insurance helps but it is very good and smooth and amazing.
Very reliable and safe car. We have driven it to multiple cities and have never had any issues with it. Some problems with Apple Carplay.
Yes it is extremely reliable and fun to drive. I have not had any problems to date. There are many new features that enhance performance, safety and reliability.
So far I don't have any problem with my vehicle. It performs well and is reliable to their promise. The vehicle is highly recommendable to others.
How Is the Technology?
Standard entertainment technology is very good with a relatively large 10.2-inch central display featuring Acura’s true touchpad interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include navigation, and more powerful 12 or 16-speaker stereo systems.
Safety technology across all models is great, offering:
- Rearview camera
- Forward collision warning
- Lane keep assist
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive Cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Road departure mitigation
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Head-up display
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Blind spot monitoring
Is the 2019 Acura RDX a Good Value?
No, the 2019 Acura RDX is not a good value since it has more problems than other compact SUVs on the market. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $25,200 to $34,999, making it less than a BMW X3 or Audi Q5. When new, the price range was $37,400 to $47,500. Depreciation is similar to some other luxury SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Acura RDX?
There are four versions of the Acura RDX offered, from the entry-level Base through to the more well-equipped Advance package. The RDX comes standard with front-wheel drive, while Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is available as an optional upgrade.
Base is the well-equipped entry-level model with:
- 19-inch wheels
- LED headlights
- Panoramic sunroof
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power liftgate
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Heated front seats
- Simulated leather upholstery
- 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats
- AcuraWatch suite of driver aids
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Infotainment system with:
- True Touchpad Interface
- 2-inch central display
- Two USB ports
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- 9-speaker sound system with satellite radio
Technology has more upgrades such as:
- Navigation
- Parking sensors
- Leather upholstery
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Two rear-seat USB ports
- Upgraded 12-speaker sound system
A-Spec adds sportier features with:
- 20-inch wheels with wider tires
- Blacked-out trim inside and out
- Unique cabin treatment
- Same suspension as lesser RDXs
- 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system
- Ventilated seats
Advance is the flagship model with:
- Acoustic front door glass
- Thicker carpet for quieter interior
- Adaptive suspension dampers
- Hands-free liftgate
- Upgraded power-adjustable front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Customizable head-up display
- Heated rear seats
- ELS stereo from the A-Spec
- Ventilated seats from the A-Spec
What Engines Come In the Acura RDX?
The RDX is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates an impressive 272 horsepower at up to 24 MPG. This engine is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission which provides smooth and timely shifts. Performance-wise, the RDX can sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in roughly 6.6 seconds, offering a quick driving experience for a small SUV.
What Colors Does the Acura RDX Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Acura RDX?
The 2019 Acura RDX stands out in the luxury compact SUV segment for its emphasis on comfort and a plush riding experience. The interior boasts high-quality materials throughout, giving it a premium and sophisticated feel. Passengers are treated to spacious and supportive seats, which are especially beneficial on longer journeys. The front seats, often available with heating, ventilation, and power-adjustable features, ensure tailored comfort for diverse body types.
Furthermore, the cabin is impressively quiet, thanks to effective sound insulation and active noise cancellation, which minimizes road and wind noise, enhancing the overall driving and riding experience. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between sportiness and comfort, making sure that the vehicle remains stable and composed, even on rough terrains. Ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers further elevate the sense of space and ease. Added to this, the dual-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, and top-notch infotainment system all contribute to making journeys in the RDX both relaxing and enjoyable. The 2019 Acura RDX is a testament to luxury, combining comfort and functionality seamlessly.
How Much Storage Space Does the Acura RDX Have?
The 2019 Acura RDX offers a generous amount of storage space that suits a variety of needs, particularly for those who lead an active lifestyle or frequently travel. The RDX provides around 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. With this space, one can comfortably stow multiple suitcases, a stroller, or even some sports equipment such as golf clubs.
For even larger hauling needs, when the second-row seats are folded down, that space expands to roughly 58.9 cubic feet, making it suitable for larger items like a bicycle or furniture. Additionally, the Acura RDX boasts an array of smaller interior storage solutions. There are convenient door pockets, a spacious glove compartment, and a center console that can hold smaller items like smartphones, wallets, and drinks, guaranteeing that everything has its place and is within easy reach. This combination of space and convenience makes the RDX a competitive choice for those in the market for a luxury compact SUV.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Acura RDX was introduced for the 2019 model year.
2015: No major updates from earlier years.
2016: Redesigned front grille with new headlights, a new touchscreen, along with additional safety technology features.
2017: Has the same features found on the 2016 model.
2018: No changes from earlier years.
2019: Fully redesigned for the third generation with new engines, technology, and exterior styling.
2020: No changes from last year’s full redesign.
2021: New PMC limited-edition model introduced.
How Does the Acura RDX Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Acura RDX is a bad compact SUV since it has more complaints from owners than other years, making it one that buyers should avoid in favor of something newer.
The Acura MDX is a larger SUV offered by Acura which can be found for about $3,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Acura MDX, while the Acura RDX offers a sportier driving experience. We recommend the Acura MDX since it has fewer complaints from owners for the 2019 model year.
The Lexus NX is a popular competitor, which is available for around $2,000 more. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Lexus NX, while the Acura RDX has a more powerful engine. We recommend the Lexus NX since there are less mechanical issues reported by owners.
Do Owners Recommend the Acura RDX?
Yes. It performs well. The vehicle itself is remarkable. Something that you can recommend to your friends and family.
Yes very smooth feeling I like how it almost glides over the ground when I am driving it looks amazing and chique everything is amazing I love it.
Yes, I love the way it drives and the technology features it has, especially lane assist. The only thing I struggle with at times is the Apple Car Play.
Yes. It is sturdy, drives and handles well and has very pleasing interior and exterior details. This is my fourth Acura and have experienced no issues.
Yes, definitely! It is a good car for your everyday transportation. Good quality and engine is great. Overall, the car is superb.