2021 Acura Rdx Safety Report
2021 Acura RDX: Strong crash ratings, but concerning reports of spontaneous glass shattering, powertrain issues, and ADAS malfunctions.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Acura Rdx
Reliability Score
The 2021 Acura Rdx receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Acura Rdx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Acura Rdx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spontaneous Rear Window/Sunroof Shattering Multiple reports of rear windows and panoramic sunroofs shattering spontaneously without impact, often while parked or after closing a door. This is a significant safety concern due to flying glass and potential structural defect. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Transfer Case/Transmission Failure Reports of transfer case leaks and complete failure requiring replacement, indicating a potential powertrain durability issue. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Unintended Acceleration Isolated reports of the vehicle surging forward while stopped or braking, posing a severe crash risk. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Air Bag Sensor Recall (24v064000) Recall for occupant classification system sensor, potentially leading to unintentional airbag deployment. Owners report parts unavailability for repair. |
High | Common | all miles |
| Driveshaft Recall (21v889000) Recall for improperly heat-treated driveshaft component, risking sudden loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway. |
High | Common | all miles |
| Infotainment System Malfunctions Screen going blank or system failing, causing driver distraction. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Adas System Failures Errors with Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Road Departure Mitigation System, sometimes leading to loss of power steering. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Acura Rdx:
A significant portion of complaints fall into a general 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category, indicating a variety of less specific issues.
Includes issues related to visibility, such as the spontaneous shattering of rear windows and panoramic sunroofs.
Reports of brakes slipping, juddering, or unintended acceleration while braking.
Complaints related to the airbag system, including the active recall for the occupant classification sensor.
Further complaints related to the vehicle's structure, likely encompassing the glass shattering issues.
Reports of engine issues, including random slowing down while accelerating.
Issues such as blinking headlights, instrument panel lights, and body control module malfunctions.
Complaints related to the powertrain, including transfer case leaks and the driveshaft recall.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Acura Rdx
Is the 2021 Acura RDX safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Acura RDX received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 98 complaints, 2 recalls, and reports of serious issues like spontaneous glass shattering, transfer case failures, and unintended acceleration, which raise concerns about its overall reliability and long-term safety.
What are common problems with the 2021 Acura RDX?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Acura RDX include spontaneous shattering of rear windows and panoramic sunroofs, transfer case leaks and failures, various electrical system malfunctions (including infotainment and ADAS), and brake-related problems like slipping or unintended acceleration. There are also two active recalls for airbag sensors and driveshaft components.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Acura RDX?
Yes, the 2021 Acura RDX has two recalls. One (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V064000) is for the AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER, which could lead to unintentional airbag deployment. The other (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V889000) is for the POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT, where improper heat treatment could cause a sudden loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway.
How does the 2021 Acura RDX perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Acura RDX performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash and rollover, and a perfect 5 stars for side crash protection.
Should I be concerned about the glass shattering issues?
Yes, the numerous reports of spontaneous rear window and panoramic sunroof shattering are a significant concern. This issue, occurring without external impact, suggests a potential manufacturing or structural defect and poses a safety risk due to flying glass and compromised vehicle integrity. It's a recurring pattern in owner complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Acura RDX has strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues like spontaneous glass shattering, powertrain problems, and active recalls. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history, ensure all recalls are addressed, and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Acura Rdx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Acura Rdx. The data includes 98 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Acura Rdx 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.