2015 Acura Rlx Safety Report

2015 Acura RLX: Excellent crash ratings, but steering malfunctions and critical recalls raise safety concerns.

11Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Steering (5)Structure (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Suspension (1)Engine (1)Steering,Suspension (1)Steering,Electrical System,Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Acura Rlx

The 2015 Acura RLX presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts an excellent 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with perfect scores in Frontal, Side, and Rollover tests, there are notable concerns regarding steering system malfunctions and recall history. The vehicle has a low number of total complaints (11), with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, which is positive. However, a significant portion of these complaints, 5 out of 11, are related to the STEERING system, often describing loss of control, fishtailing, and unexpected vehicle movements, particularly during turns. These steering issues are severe and directly impact vehicle control. Three recalls have been issued for the 2015 RLX. One critical recall (NHTSA ID: 23V-652) addresses a fuel pump failure that can cause an engine stall, increasing crash risk. Another significant recall (NHTSA ID: 14V-391) pertains to the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) unexpectedly applying emergency braking, also raising crash risk. The third recall (NHTSA ID: 14V-604) involves headlight delamination, which can diminish light output and increase crash risk. The steering-related complaints, while not directly linked to a recall, describe symptoms that could be as dangerous as those addressed by the CMBS recall. The overall safety rating is reassuring for crash protection, but the recurring steering complaints and the nature of the recalls suggest potential reliability issues with critical safety systems. The low complaint volume might mask more widespread issues, or it could indicate that these problems, while severe, are not extremely common. Buyers should be aware of the potential for steering malfunctions and ensure all recalls have been addressed.

Reliability Score

The 2015 Acura Rlx 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 2015 Acura Rlx

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Acura Rlx:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Steering System Malfunction (Paws)
Precision All-Wheel Steer (PAWS) system malfunctions, causing loss of control, fishtailing, unexpected lane changes, and difficulty steering, particularly during turns. Multiple complaints describe the vehicle moving in unintended paths.
High Occasional unknown miles
Fuel Pump Failure
Recall 23V-652: Fuel pump failure can lead to engine stalling while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
High Rare unknown miles
Collision Mitigation Braking System (Cmbs) Unexpected Activation
Recall 14V-391: CMBS may unexpectedly apply emergency braking force, increasing the risk of a crash.
High Rare unknown miles
Headlight Delamination
Recall 14V-604: Delamination of aluminum film in headlights can diminish light output, increasing crash risk, and is mentioned in a complaint.
Medium Rare unknown miles
Engine Knocking And Stalling
One complaint describes a knocking sound from the engine compartment followed by vehicle stalling and inability to restart.
High Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2015 Acura Rlx:

Steering 45% of complaints

The most frequently reported issue, accounting for 5 out of 11 complaints, involves the steering system, specifically the Precision All-Wheel Steer (PAWS) system, leading to loss of control, fishtailing, and difficulty steering.

Structure 9% of complaints

One complaint mentions paint fading on the hood, roof, and tailgate.

Exterior Lighting 9% of complaints

One complaint references a headlight blowing out due to moisture, linking it to a known recall for delamination.

Engine 9% of complaints

One complaint describes engine knocking and subsequent stalling.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Acura Rlx

Is the 2015 Acura RLX safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2015 Acura RLX received a 5-star overall safety rating, indicating excellent crash protection. However, there are significant concerns regarding steering system malfunctions reported by owners and three safety recalls, including issues with the fuel pump and collision mitigation braking system, which could increase crash risk.

What are common problems with the 2015 Acura RLX?

The most reported issues, accounting for 45% of complaints, are related to the STEERING system, with owners describing loss of control, fishtailing, and unexpected vehicle movements. Other problems include a recall for fuel pump failure, unexpected activation of the Collision Mitigation Braking System, and headlight delamination.

Are there any recalls for the 2015 Acura RLX?

Yes, there are three recalls for the 2015 Acura RLX. These include a recall for fuel pump failure (NHTSA ID: 23V-652), a recall for the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) unexpectedly applying emergency braking (NHTSA ID: 14V-391), and a recall for headlight delamination (NHTSA ID: 14V-604).

How does the 2015 Acura RLX perform in crash tests?

The 2015 Acura RLX performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a perfect 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars in Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover resistance tests.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2015 Acura RLX?

When considering a used 2015 Acura RLX, prioritize verifying that all three safety recalls (fuel pump, CMBS, headlights) have been completed. Pay close attention during a test drive for any unusual steering behavior, such as fishtailing, loss of control, or unexpected vehicle movements, especially during turns, as these are common owner complaints.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be cautious due to recurring steering system complaints and critical safety recalls; ensure all recalls are addressed and thoroughly test the steering system before purchase.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Acura Rlx

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Acura Rlx. The data includes 11 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2015 Acura Rlx an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 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.