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2017 Acura RLX Report

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

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

Overall Score

7.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent safety scores with a 5-star NHTSA overall rating.
  • Comfortable and quiet ride, suitable for long-distance travel.
  • The 3.5L V6 engine provides sufficient power for everyday use.
  • A noted vibration issue, particularly in the driver's side wheel, requires thorough inspection.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Acura RLX

The 2017 Acura RLX is a front-wheel-drive luxury sedan that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. It boasts excellent safety ratings, achieving a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in NHTSA crash tests. Under the hood, a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission delivers adequate power for daily driving, achieving an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. While generally well-regarded for its quiet cabin and upscale features, potential buyers should be aware of a reported vibration issue that can manifest in the driver's side wheel, potentially related to suspension, brakes, or wheel components. The vehicle has a low complaint volume and no reported recalls, contributing to its 'Good' reliability verdict.

Critical Failure Risk

A severe vibration is reported on the driver's side wheel, particularly noticeable at higher speeds. This issue has been reported early in the vehicle's life, around 2,500 miles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$900 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

3
Suspension1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Used-car shoppers prioritizing safety, comfort, and a quiet ride.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking the latest in infotainment technology.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Acura RLX Reliability Analysis

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

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Most Common Issues

1. Suspension

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Acura RLX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Acura RLX is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 3.

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

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Acura RLX is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Pads and Rotors (typical at 55,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $900).

What engine is in the 2017 Acura RLX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2017 Acura RLX use?▾

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

Does the 2017 RLX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

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

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

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

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

What body style is the 2017 Acura RLX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Acura RLX, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Acura RLX use?▾

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

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

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

Is the 2017 Acura RLX good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2017 Acura RLX is a luxury sedan that prioritizes comfort and refinement. While not a performance-oriented platform, there are aftermark...

What are the most common suspension problems on the 2017 Acura RLX?▾

Top complaint category: suspension (1 reports, 33.3% 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

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