2020 Acura Ilx Safety Report
2020 Acura ILX: Strong NHTSA ratings, but two recalls for critical brake and fuel pump issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Acura Ilx
Reliability Score
The 2020 Acura Ilx receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2020 Acura Ilx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Acura Ilx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Master Cylinder Deformation Contaminated brake fluid may deform a seal in the master cylinder, reducing brake function and increasing stopping distance. This is covered by a recall. |
High | Occasional | N/A (recall) miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure A faulty fuel pump can cause the engine to stall while driving, increasing crash risk. This is covered by a recall. |
High | Occasional | N/A (recall) miles |
| Rear Window Shattering Reports of the rear window spontaneously shattering, particularly in cold weather with the defroster on. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
| Brake Pedal Descending Brake pedal slowly descends towards the floor while stopped, indicating a potential issue with brake pressure or master cylinder. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
| Smart Unit/Electrical System Malfunction Smart Unit failure leading to constant alarm triggering, headlights not turning off, and dashboard control shorting out. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
| Steering/Suspension Issues Mechanical problems related to steering that dealers reportedly cannot fix, described as dangerous. |
Medium | Rare | under 40000 miles |
| Windshield Wiper Scratches Factory original windshield wipers causing micro scratches in the glass, obstructing vision, especially when facing the sun. |
Low | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Acura Ilx:
Three out of nine complaints relate to visibility issues, specifically rear window shattering and windshield wiper-induced scratches.
One complaint directly mentions brake pedal descent, aligning with the master cylinder recall.
One complaint details a 'Smart Unit' failure causing various electrical malfunctions.
One complaint about the rear window shattering falls under structural integrity.
One complaint describes a dangerous, unfixable mechanical problem related to steering.
One complaint reports a seat belt snapping during a crash.
One complaint describes the vehicle stalling and not restarting shortly after purchase, aligning with the fuel pump recall.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Acura Ilx
Is the 2020 Acura ILX safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Acura ILX received a 5-star overall safety rating, indicating strong crash test performance. However, it has two significant recalls for potential brake master cylinder and fuel pump failures that could increase crash risk. With only 9 total complaints, including 1 crash and 0 injuries/deaths, its real-world safety incident rate appears low.
What are common problems with the 2020 Acura ILX?
The most reported issues, based on NHTSA complaints, are related to VISIBILITY/WIPER (33% of complaints), including rear window shattering and windshield wiper scratches. Other reported problems include SERVICE BRAKES (11%), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11%), STRUCTURE (11%), STEERING/SUSPENSION (11%), SEAT BELTS (11%), and FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (11%). Two recalls address potential brake master cylinder and fuel pump failures.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 Acura ILX?
Yes, the 2020 Acura ILX has two recalls. One is for the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER, where contaminated brake fluid can reduce brake function. The other is for the FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP, where a faulty fuel pump can cause an engine stall.
How does the 2020 Acura ILX perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Acura ILX received excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It scored 5 stars in side crash tests and 4 stars in both frontal crash and rollover tests.
What should I check before buying a used 2020 Acura ILX?
Before buying, ensure both open recalls (brake master cylinder and fuel pump) have been addressed by a dealer. Also, pay attention to any signs of brake pedal issues, unusual electrical behavior, or problems with the rear window or windshield wipers, as these are noted in consumer complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: The 2020 Acura ILX offers strong crash safety ratings, but ensure both critical safety recalls for the brake master cylinder and fuel pump have been completed before purchase to mitigate known risks.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Acura Ilx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Acura Ilx. The data includes 9 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Acura Ilx an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.