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2016 Acura ILX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·38 Critical Recalls
2016 Acura ILX Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant safety concerns exist, with airbags and service brakes being the most frequently reported issues.
  • A high number of recalls (39) indicates potential underlying manufacturing or component quality issues.
  • The vehicle's reliability is rated as 'Below Average', necessitating careful inspection before purchase.
  • Despite safety concerns, it holds a strong overall NHTSA safety rating of 5 stars.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Acura ILX

The 2016 Acura ILX, a front-wheel-drive sedan, offers a premium feel but is overshadowed by a substantial number of recalls and owner complaints. With 39 recalls and 66 complaints logged, issues with airbags and service brakes are particularly prevalent. While it achieves a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, potential buyers must be aware of the documented reliability concerns and potential repair costs associated with its 39 recalls.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints and recalls indicate potential issues with brake pads, rotors, or the master cylinder. Some owners report recurring squeal after repairs.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls39
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

66
Air Bags14
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
29
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
35
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.2/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing a premium badge over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Acura ILX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Acura ILX.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (AM8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 14 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 10 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

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
39 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Acura ILX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Acura ILX is 6.2/10. Reliability score is 6.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 39. Owner complaints: 66.

How practical is the 2016 Acura ILX for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Acura ILX is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Acura ILX?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Pads and Rotors (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2016 Acura ILX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Acura ILX, transmission is Automatic (AM8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 ILX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

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

What body style is the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Acura ILX, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Acura ILX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Acura ILX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

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

Is the 2016 Acura ILX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2016 Acura ILX, powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, presents a moderate tuning platfo... Popular platforms: Acura ILX.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (14 reports, 21.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

This model year has 39 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Acura ILX?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda Civic and 2016 Mazda CX-3.

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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