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2013 Acura ILX Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·3 Critical Recalls
2013 Acura ILX Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Airbag issues are the most prominent concern, with a high number of complaints and recalls related to inflator modules. Verify all airbag recalls have been addressed.
  • The electrical system is another weak point, with owners reporting battery drain and intermittent malfunctions. Expect potential diagnostic and repair expenses.
  • Powertrain complaints include hesitation and loss of power, suggesting potential long-term durability concerns.
  • With a below-average reliability verdict, thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable, focusing on the primary risk areas.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Acura ILX

The 2013 Acura ILX presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts excellent safety ratings, its reliability is a significant concern, marked by a substantial number of recalls and complaints. Potential buyers should be aware of issues with airbags, the electrical system, and the powertrain. Given the 19 recalls, potential repair costs associated with underlying issues should be factored into ownership. The ILX offers respectable fuel economy for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls and numerous complaints regarding non-deployment or malfunctions of the driver-side frontal airbag inflator module. Potential for rupture with metal fragments.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls19
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

82
Air Bags24
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy shoppers who prioritize safety ratings and fuel efficiency, and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections and potentially absorb repair costs for known issues.

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those unwilling to invest in thorough inspections and potential repairs.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Acura ILX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Acura ILX.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 24 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 11 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

Est. shop cost: $50 - $100

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
19 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Acura ILX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Acura ILX is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 19. Owner complaints: 82.

How practical is the 2013 Acura ILX for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Acura ILX is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Acura ILX?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (estimated cost Min: Free (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2013 Acura ILX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Acura ILX, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 ILX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Acura ILX, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Acura ILX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Acura ILX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2013 Acura ILX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2013 Acura ILX is an entry-level luxury sedan prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency. Popular platforms: Honda Civic (shares some components).

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (24 reports, 29.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Acura ILX?▾

This model year has 19 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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