2023 Acura Rdx Safety Report

2023 Acura RDX achieves high safety ratings but faces critical recall and recurring infotainment/forward collision system complaints.

16Complaints
1Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
75/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Power Train (2)Unknown Or Other (2)Forward Collision Avoidance (2)Electrical System (2)Engine (2)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (1)Unknown Or Other,Engine (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Structure (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Acura Rdx

The 2023 Acura RDX presents a generally strong safety profile, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in side crash tests and 4 stars in frontal and rollover tests. This indicates robust performance in common crash scenarios. However, despite its high ratings, the vehicle has accumulated 16 NHTSA complaints, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. A notable safety concern is a recall issued for the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC system, specifically a potential leak in the VSA modulator's ball valve, which could lead to unintended vehicle movement or increased brake pedal travel, elevating crash risk. This recall affects multiple Honda and Acura models, including the 2023 RDX. Analysis of the 16 complaints reveals several recurring issues. The POWER TRAIN, UNKNOWN OR OTHER, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE, and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM components each account for 2 complaints. Specific patterns include unintended activation of the Forward Collision Avoidance system, with two separate complaints detailing abrupt braking at speeds up to 70 MPH. Infotainment system failures, particularly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, are also frequently mentioned, with multiple reports of black screens, disconnections, and navigation issues, which can be a distraction and safety concern while driving. Engine issues, such as loss of power and limp mode, are also reported, sometimes linked to water intrusion. Other significant complaints include spontaneous shattering of the rear windshield (reported by at least two owners), transfer case defects leading to leaks, and issues with the keyless start system allowing the vehicle to be driven without the key present. While the overall complaint count is low for a new model year, the nature of some issues, such as unintended braking and engine power loss, are critical safety concerns. The recall addresses a fundamental braking system flaw, which is a high-priority safety fix. Buyers should ensure all recall work has been completed and be aware of the reported infotainment and forward collision system quirks.

Reliability Score

The 2023 Acura Rdx 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 2023 Acura Rdx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Acura Rdx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction
System inadvertently activates, causing abrupt braking at various speeds, including highway speeds, increasing crash risk.		 High Occasional 10000-12000 miles
Infotainment System Failure
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto disconnects, screens go black, and navigation fails, often after calls or during driving, causing distraction.		 Medium Common 0-15000 miles
Spontaneous Rear Windshield Shattering
Rear glass shatters without apparent external cause, sometimes while parked or backing up.		 Medium Occasional 0-1000 miles
Engine Power Loss / Limp Mode
Engine loses power, enters limp mode, and check engine light flashes, often during acceleration or heavy rain, limiting speed.		 High Occasional 10000-12000 miles
Keyless Start System Flaw
Vehicle can be started and driven away without the key present inside the car.		 High Rare 10000-11000 miles
Transfer Case Leak/Defect
AWD system's transfer case leaks, potentially leading to damage, with some owners reporting warranty denial.		 Medium Rare 10000-11000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Acura Rdx:

Power Train 12% of complaints

Issues related to the transfer case leaking and differential service concerns.

Forward Collision Avoidance 12% of complaints

System inadvertently activating and causing abrupt braking.

Electrical System 12% of complaints

Infotainment system failures, including black screens and disconnections with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Engine 12% of complaints

Loss of power, limp mode, and flashing check engine light, sometimes linked to water intrusion.

Structure 6% of complaints

Spontaneous shattering of the rear windshield.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 0% of complaints

Recall for VSA modulator leak, increasing crash risk (no direct complaints yet, but a known defect).

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Acura Rdx

Is the 2023 Acura RDX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 Acura RDX has an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, with strong performance in crash tests (5-star side, 4-star frontal/rollover). However, it has one critical recall for a brake system defect that could increase crash risk, and 16 complaints detailing issues like unintended automatic braking and infotainment failures.

What are common problems with the 2023 Acura RDX?

The most reported issues include unintended activation of the Forward Collision Avoidance system (2 complaints), infotainment system failures with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (2 complaints), and engine power loss/limp mode (2 complaints). There are also reports of spontaneous rear windshield shattering and a recall for a brake system component.

Has the 2023 Acura RDX been recalled?

Yes, the 2023 Acura RDX has been subject to one recall (NHTSA ID: 23V-751) concerning the SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC system. A ball valve in the vehicle stability assist (VSA) modulator may leak brake fluid, which could lead to unintended vehicle movement or an unexpected increase in brake pedal travel, increasing the risk of a crash.

How does the 2023 Acura RDX perform in crash tests?

The 2023 Acura RDX received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars in frontal crash tests, 5 stars in side crash tests, and 4 stars in rollover tests, indicating strong performance across various impact scenarios.

Are there issues with the 2023 Acura RDX's driver-assist systems?

Yes, there are complaints regarding the Forward Collision Avoidance system, with two owners reporting inadvertent activation and abrupt braking while driving, including at highway speeds. This suggests potential issues with the system's calibration or sensors.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2023 Acura RDX boasts high safety ratings, ensure the critical brake system recall has been addressed. Be aware of reported infotainment glitches and potential issues with the forward collision avoidance system, and test these features during a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Acura Rdx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Acura Rdx. The data includes 16 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 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.