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2018 Acura ILX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·36 Critical Recalls
2018 Acura ILX Report

Overall Score

7.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Fuel system issues are the primary concern, with numerous recalls and complaints related to the fuel pump and fuel tank. This can lead to stalling and inaccurate fuel gauge readings.
  • A critical master cylinder recall impacts braking performance, making it essential to verify this repair is completed.
  • Despite a high overall safety score, the sheer volume of recalls indicates potential for future repair costs.
  • The ILX offers good fuel efficiency, but the underlying mechanical concerns may offset long-term value.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Acura ILX

The 2018 Acura ILX offers a mixed ownership proposition. While it boasts a strong overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 from NHTSA and achieves a respectable 29 MPG combined, its reliability is overshadowed by a substantial number of recalls (37) and complaints (22). The dominant issues revolve around the fuel system, including repeated fuel pump failures and potential braking system concerns due to a master cylinder recall. These factors suggest a higher likelihood of future repair needs and associated costs, impacting its long-term value.

Critical Failure Risk

Numerous recalls and complaints point to widespread issues with the fuel pump, including repeated failures and potential fuel tank deformation affecting fuel level readings. This is the most critical and frequently reported problem area for the 2018 ILX.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls37
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

22
Fuel/Propulsion System11
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

6.3/ 10

Practicality

5.8/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize safety ratings and fuel economy.

+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

2018 Acura ILX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Acura ILX.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
29

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System

Most reported

Usage: 11 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 7 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

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
37 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Acura ILX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Acura ILX is 6.3/10. Reliability score is 6.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 37. Owner complaints: 22.

How practical is the 2018 Acura ILX for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.8/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Acura ILX is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 6.0/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Acura ILX?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1000).

What engine is in the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2018 Acura ILX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura ILX, transmission is Automatic (AM-S8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 ILX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

9 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Acura ILX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura ILX, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura ILX, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Acura ILX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura ILX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

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

Is the 2018 Acura ILX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2018 Acura ILX offers a premium feel but is not a prime candidate for aggressive engine tuning. Its 2.

What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (11 reports, 50% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Acura ILX?▾

This model year has 37 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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