CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Acura›
  4. RLX›
  5. 2016

2016 Acura RLX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2016 Acura RLX Report

Overall Score

7.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize inspection of the airbag system due to documented concerns.
  • Be aware of potential issues with body structure and suspension components.
  • The tire durability on OEM wheels has been a point of concern, especially at lower mileage.
  • While no recalls exist, a high TSB count (62) indicates potential for minor, ongoing issues.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Acura RLX

The 2016 Acura RLX aims for the premium sedan segment, offering strong safety ratings and decent fuel economy. However, its average reliability verdict, coupled with a notable number of complaints and a high TSB count, warrants careful consideration. Key concerns include the airbag system and tire durability, suggesting potential ownership risks beyond routine maintenance.

Critical Failure Risk

Premature sidewall separation and blowouts have been reported, often after hitting potholes. This is linked to the vehicle's weight, suspension design, and 19-inch wheels.

Early detection can help you avoid a $4-$1,200 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

9
Structure:Body2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

4.2/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Used car shoppers prioritizing safety and a comfortable, quiet ride.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a bulletproof reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Acura RLX Reliability Analysis

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

  • 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
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

CarFocal account required

See the full 2016 Acura RLX buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Structure & Body

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $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 (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Acura RLX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Acura RLX is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 9.

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

Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Acura RLX is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.9/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.2/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $471. Repair prediction highlight: Tires (typical at 25,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2016 Acura RLX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Acura RLX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Acura RLX, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 RLX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

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

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

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

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

How many people fit in a 2016 Acura RLX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Acura RLX, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Acura RLX?▾

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

What drivetrain does the 2016 Acura RLX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Acura RLX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

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

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

Is the 2016 Acura RLX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2016 Acura RLX is a front-wheel-drive luxury sedan equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

What are the most common structure:body problems on the 2016 Acura RLX?▾

Top complaint category: structure:body (2 reports, 22.2% of complaints).

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.