CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Acura›
  4. RDX›
  5. 2018

2018 Acura RDX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026··Ryan Davis27 sources analyzed·34 Critical Recalls
2018 Acura RDX Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for used 2018 Acura RDX buyers is its 'Below Average' reliability, heavily influenced by a critical fuel pump recall.
  • Verify that the fuel pump module recall (NHTSA #23V858000) has been addressed by a dealer.
  • Be aware of numerous complaints concerning the fuel system, engine, and powertrain, which could lead to unexpected repair expenses.
  • Its strong safety ratings and comfortable interior are positives, but potential for costly repairs related to the fuel system and powertrain should heavily influence purchasing decisions.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Acura RDX

The 2018 Acura RDX is a compact luxury SUV that delivers a potent 3.5L V6 engine and confident all-wheel-drive performance. It boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, providing peace of mind. However, its 'Below Average' reliability verdict is a significant concern for used car buyers. This is largely due to a widespread fuel pump recall affecting numerous vehicles, alongside a high volume of complaints related to the fuel system, engine, and powertrain. These issues suggest potential for higher maintenance costs and necessitate thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

This is a widespread issue addressed by recall 23V858000. The failure of the fuel pump module can lead to a complete loss of motive power, posing a significant safety risk.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls34
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

91
Fuel System, Gasoline17
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

5.9/ 10

Practicality

5.3/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Used car buyers prioritizing a comfortable and powerful driving experience.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a hassle-free ownership experience with minimal risk of unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Acura RDX Reliability Analysis

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

CarFocal account required

See the full 2018 Acura RDX buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System

Most reported

Usage: 17 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 16 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: $75 - $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
34 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Acura RDX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Acura RDX is 5.9/10. Reliability score is 5.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 34. Owner complaints: 91.

How practical is the 2018 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 2018 Acura RDX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Acura RDX is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.5/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

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

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: $1,200 - $1,800. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump Module (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What engine is in the 2018 Acura RDX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2018 Acura RDX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura RDX, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 RDX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

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

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

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

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

How many people fit in a 2018 Acura RDX?▾

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

What body style is the 2018 Acura RDX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura RDX, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Acura RDX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Acura RDX, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

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

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

Is the 2018 Acura RDX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2018 Acura RDX, equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, offers a comfortable and reliable driving experienc...

What are the most common fuel system, gasoline problems on the 2018 Acura RDX?▾

Top complaint category: fuel system, gasoline (17 reports, 18.7% of complaints).

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

This model year has 34 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

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.