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2020 Acura RLX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·34 Critical Recalls
2020 Acura RLX Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2020 Acura RLX has an average reliability score, primarily due to a high number of recalls related to the fuel pump module.
  • Despite numerous recalls, consumer complaints are notably absent, suggesting proactive manufacturer intervention.
  • This sedan achieves a combined EPA-estimated 23 MPG, offering reasonable fuel economy for its class.
  • All safety ratings from NHTSA are a perfect 5 out of 5, indicating strong occupant protection.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 Acura RLX

The 2020 Acura RLX offers a comfortable and safe luxury sedan experience, boasting top-tier NHTSA safety ratings across the board. However, its average reliability verdict, driven by a high number of recalls concentrated on the fuel system, warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. While consumer complaints are absent, the sheer volume and nature of the recalls suggest potential for significant mechanical issues. This model provides a respectable 23 MPG combined, powered by a 3.5L V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of recalls have been issued for the fuel pump module, indicating a widespread potential for failure. This can lead to engine stalling.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls34
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.3/ 10

Practicality

4.2/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety, with the RLX earning 5-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a strong, unblemished reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Acura RLX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 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 (S10)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel Pump Module Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 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
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 Acura RLX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Acura RLX is 6.3/10. Reliability score is 6.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 34. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2020 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 2020 Acura RLX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Acura RLX is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 4.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Acura RLX?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump Module (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2020 Acura RLX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Acura RLX, transmission is Automatic (S10). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2020 RLX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2020 Acura RLX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Acura RLX, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Acura RLX, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Acura RLX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Acura RLX, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S10).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

This model year has 34 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 Acura RLX?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Lexus ES and 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

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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