2021 Acura ILX Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2021 Acura ILX has a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating strong crash protection.
- Expect good fuel efficiency with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG.
- The primary ownership concern involves airbag deployment without impact and subsequent part unavailability.
- Other reported issues include electrical system glitches and occasional powertrain anomalies.
2021 Acura ILX
The 2021 Acura ILX offers a premium feel in a compact sedan package, driven by a capable 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It prioritizes comfort and a refined interior over outright sportiness, making it a competent daily driver. Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 24 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. Safety is a strong suit, with an overall 5-star NHTSA rating. However, potential buyers should be aware of reported issues, particularly concerning the airbag system and electrical components.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints indicate instances of airbag deployment without impact, and subsequent unavailability of replacement parts after an accident. This poses a significant safety risk.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient compact sedan with a premium interior.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers expecting a sporty driving experience or robust performance.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Acura ILX Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Acura ILX.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (AM-S8)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 28
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 1 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter)
Est. shop cost: $150 - $250
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Acura ILX reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Acura ILX is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 13.
How practical is the 2021 Acura ILX for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Acura ILX?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Acura ILX is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Acura ILX?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement (Parts: Cabin Air Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,500+).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Acura ILX?
Base MSRP is $28,100.
What engine is in the 2021 Acura ILX?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2021 Acura ILX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Acura ILX, transmission is Automatic (AM-S8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2021 ILX require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Acura ILX?
EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Acura ILX?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Acura ILX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Acura ILX, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Acura ILX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Acura ILX, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Acura ILX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Acura ILX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Acura ILX?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2021 Acura ILX?
Top complaint category: air bags (2 reports, 15.4% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Acura ILX?
Alternative listed in this guide: 2021 Audi A3.