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2017 Acura RDX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2017 Acura RDX Report

Overall Score

7.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain and electrical system issues are the dominant concerns, leading to a 'Below Average' reliability rating. Expect potential for power loss and hesitation.
  • Service brakes are another area of frequent complaint, indicating a need for thorough inspection of the braking system.
  • Confirm the certification label recall has been addressed by the manufacturer.
  • Given the reliability concerns, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is non-negotiable.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Acura RDX

The 2017 Acura RDX presents a mixed ownership proposition. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings (5-star overall), its 'Below Average' reliability verdict stems from numerous owner complaints. The primary areas of concern are the powertrain and electrical system, with reports of power loss and hesitation. The service brakes also warrant attention. A single recall for certification labels is minor, but the volume of complaints across critical systems suggests potential for costly repairs. Its 3.5L V6 and 6-speed automatic provide adequate power, and AWD enhances traction, with a combined 22 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints include power loss, hesitation during acceleration, jerky gear shifts, and transmission slippage. Some owners report issues with the torque converter.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

100
Power Train17
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
22
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.2/ 10

Practicality

5.3/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize safety and comfort.

+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

2017 Acura RDX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Acura RDX.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
22

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 17 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 15 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: $70 - $150

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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Acura RDX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Acura RDX is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 100.

How practical is the 2017 Acura RDX for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.3/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Acura RDX is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Acura RDX?▾

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: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Torque Converter (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2017 Acura RDX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura RDX, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 RDX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2017 Acura RDX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura RDX, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura RDX, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Acura RDX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura RDX, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

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

Is the 2017 Acura RDX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2017 Acura RDX, equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, presents a moderate tuning platform. Popular platforms: Acura RDX.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

Top complaint category: power train (17 reports, 17% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Acura RDX?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Lexus NX and 2017 BMW X3.

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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