2021 Acura RDX Problems & Lemon Law Help

Common 2021 Acura RDX Problems

Engine Problems

Owners have reported stalling, loss of power, and rough acceleration, particularly at highway speeds. In some cases, the engine suddenly lost motive power during passing maneuvers, posing a serious safety risk. Others noted check engine lights and diagnostic codes related to PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failures or software glitches that required updates.

Transmission Problems

The RDX’s 10-speed automatic transmission has been linked to gear slippage, delayed shifting, and abrupt gear changes. Drivers have described instances where the vehicle shifted itself out of park or struggled to accelerate smoothly. Transmission problems are especially concerning since they can affect vehicle control and increase accident risk.

Brake Problems

Several 2021 RDX drivers have experienced brake pedal resistance, grinding, or poor stopping performance. Some reported that the brakes failed to engage properly, while others noticed squealing sounds after only a few thousand miles. These symptoms may point to premature wear or brake system defects that Acura has yet to fully address.

Electrical and Software Failures

In addition to mechanical problems, some RDX vehicles have experienced complete software failures affecting essential systems like steering and braking. One reported case described all systems shutting down simultaneously, requiring towing and a software reflash to restore operation.

2021 Acura RDX Owner Complaints

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received numerous complaints about the 2021 RDX. The most common issues involve engine power loss, faulty braking systems, and infotainment malfunctions.

Drivers report that despite multiple visits to dealerships, the same issues often reoccur. In some cases, the vehicle’s infotainment system and collision avoidance features failed simultaneously, leaving owners frustrated and concerned about safety.

2021 Acura RDX Recalls

The 2021 Acura RDX has been affected by two major recalls:

• Airbag recall: Due to a defect in the airbag system, the front airbags may fail to deploy correctly during a crash, increasing injury risk.
• Driveshaft recall: Some RDX models were built with driveshafts prone to detachment or failure, potentially causing a sudden loss of power or control while driving.

Owners can check their VIN on the NHTSA recall database to see if their RDX is affected by either of these recalls.

Is the 2021 Acura RDX a Lemon?

If your 2021 Acura RDX continues to have problems that the dealership cannot fix, you may qualify for protection under California’s lemon law. In California, a vehicle may be considered a lemon if:

• The same safety-related defect persists after 2 or more repair attempts.
• The same non-safety issue persists after 4 or more repair attempts.
• The vehicle has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days for warranty repairs.

California’s lemon law applies to new, used, and leased vehicles still under the original manufacturer’s warranty. If your RDX qualifies, you could be entitled to a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation, and Acura must cover your legal fees.

What to Do if Your 2021 Acura RDX Has Problems

1. Keep documentation: Save repair orders, receipts, and communications from the dealership.
2. Report recurring issues promptly: Always take your vehicle back to an authorized Acura dealer for repair attempts.
3. Speak with a lemon law attorney: In California, the manufacturer pays your legal fees if your claim is successful, so pursuing a case costs you nothing out of pocket.