Service Bulletin - During engine start in cold conditions, a miscalculation in the PCM causes the air-fuel ratio to exceed DTC rich criteria.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2019 Acura RDX powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2019 Acura RDX have filed 36 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 7,100 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
36
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2015 RDX | 4 |
| 2016 RDX | 6 |
| 2017 RDX | 20 |
| 2018 RDX | 12 |
| 2019 RDX (this page) | 36 |
| 2020 RDX | 21 |
| 2021 RDX | 9 |
When does it fail?
Of the 36 powertrain complaints filed for the 2019 Acura RDX, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 8 model years of Acura RDX we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 36.
Owners have filed 36 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Service Bulletin - The MIL comes on with DTC P061B (PCM Internal Malfunction) is stored.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - The MIL comes on with DTC P061B (PCM Internal Malfunction) is stored.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - The MIL comes on with DTC P061B (PCM Internal Malfunction) is stored.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Service Bulletin - The AWD indicator comes on with DTC C1843-62 (left rear differential fluid pressure deviation) and/or DTC C1844-62 (right rear differential fluid pressure deviation).
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of 2019 Acura RDX models report a dominant safety issue: sudden loss of engine power during acceleration, especially in wet conditions or during highway passing maneuvers. The vehicle enters limp mode, limiting speed to 20-40 mph despite full throttle input. The flashing check engine light goes dark after a restart, and diagnostics show no stored codes—leaving dealerships unable or unwilling to fix it. Acura issued Service Bulletin 20-053 in May 2021 prescribing intercooler replacement and software update for "flashing MIL with loss of power" affecting all 2019-2020 RDX models, yet dealers claim they cannot replicate the condition or deny the vehicle qualifies.
Beyond the power-loss issue, owners document throttle delay (1–3 seconds between pedal and response), transmission stuck in wrong gears, unexpected forward lurches when braking, and complete engine shutdowns at highway speeds. One owner had metal shavings in transmission fluid at 60,000 miles; another discovered a cracked cylinder head without warning. Infotainment systems malfunction with false tire-pressure alerts and display errors that persist after MOST bus replacement. Dealers have been unable or unwilling to resolve most issues, and warranty denials are common—one owner was refused help because his independent mechanic found the problem, not an Acura technician.
Same Acura RDX powertrain reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Loss of Power / Limp Mode During Acceleration
Engine enters limp mode, loses most or all power output, and limits vehicle speed to 20-40 mph during or after acceleration attempts. Check engine light typically flashes. Power is restored only after vehicle is shut off and restarted. Occurs most frequently in wet/rainy conditions but also reported in dry weather. Affects highway driving, passing maneuvers, and merging situations.
When: Occurs intermittently; incidents reported from 5,400 miles through 60,000+ miles. Majority of wet-weather incidents cluster in rain or immediately after rain; some occur in clear weather.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of acceleration; vehicle limits to 20-40 mph despite full throttle input; Flashing check engine light or illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL); Vehicle enters limp mode, forcing driver to pull over; Power loss during highway passing maneuvers and freeway merges; Power fully restored after restart; no codes remain in system; Intermittent recurrence across multiple driving sessions
Repairs/costs cited: Owners cite Acura Service Bulletin 20-053 as applicable fix: intercooler replacement, intercooler outlet pipe and hose replacement, and PGM-FI software update. Dealerships often claim inability to replicate issue or state vehicle is not covered by bulletin despite model/year match. Some owners report clutch procedure attempted without success. Intercooler replacement costs not specified in narratives.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Acura Service Bulletin 20-053 (dated May 25, 2021) for 2019-2020 RDX models specifies intercooler replacement, outlet pipe/hose replacement, and PGM-FI software update. Bulletin states symptom: 'The MIL is flashing with loss of power.' Bulletin indicates affected vehicles include 'ALL' 2019-2020 RDX models. Dealerships cite inability to replicate or confirm applicability. No recall issued. Some owners report Acura Client Relations refusal to assist; CEO office did not respond to owner inquiry.
Throttle Delay / Delayed Acceleration Response
Significant delay (1-3 seconds) between depressing accelerator and vehicle responding with acceleration. Occurs from standstill and at highway speeds. Happens in both Comfort and Sport modes. Owner reports transmission stuck in high gears (5th-6th) at low speed (10-15 mph) with full throttle input producing no acceleration response.
When: Reported across model year; one owner received software update in February (year not specified). Condition appears dependent on RPM and driving mode.
Symptoms owners cite: 1-3 second delay between throttle input and engine response; Occurs from complete stop and while merging at highway speed; Vehicle remains in high gear at low speed despite full throttle; Dangerous during turns crossing traffic and highway merging; Condition repeatable and documented on video
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer performed clutch procedure; did not resolve issue. Software update received in February (year unclear) did not fix throttle delay. Owner reports ongoing issue after dealer service.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Software update issued in February. Dealer advised of clutch procedure; results passed to Acura. No resolution reported.
Braking System Malfunction
Brake pedal unresponsive or non-functional in parking lot and low-speed situations. Vehicle rolled forward despite brake input. In one incident, multiple brake-related systems illuminated simultaneously during highway acceleration loss (brake system light, EPS, VSA, RDM, CMBS).
When: Incidents reported in parking lot and during highway driving. One incident involved vehicle with approximately 40,000+ miles; another under 5 miles of driving. One incident during brake hold feature engagement.
Symptoms owners cite: No brake response when pedal depressed; Vehicle rolls forward in park or while shifting to drive; Brake system light illuminates simultaneously with multiple warning lights (EPS, VSA, RDM, CMBS); Loss of steering control during brake failure on highway; Brake pedal function resumes intermittently
Repairs/costs cited: Parking lot incident not reported to dealer or inspected. Highway incident resulted in vehicle coasting to shoulder; no repair documented. ABS sensor replaced under warranty in one case without resolving underlying issue.
Transmission Shift Delay / Stuck Gear
Transmission fails to downshift appropriately when slowing or holding low speed while requiring fast acceleration. Transmission becomes stuck in 1st gear after auto idle stop restart or stuck in high gears (5th-6th) during low-speed driving. Vehicle requires shutdown and restart to resume normal operation.
When: Incidents reported from early ownership through 64,000+ miles. Auto idle stop restart incidents and low-speed downshift failures documented.
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission stuck in 1st gear after auto idle stop and restart at traffic light; Transmission stuck in high gear (5th-6th) at low speed (10-15 mph); Vehicle will not downshift for acceleration when needed; Approximately 1/4 mile of driving in wrong gear before shutdown and restart; No error codes recorded in vehicle diagnostics; Normal operation resumes after vehicle restart
Repairs/costs cited: Dash cam video documentation provided to dealer; zero findings reported. Dealer found no error codes. No repair performed.
Engine Stall During Motion
Engine shuts down completely while vehicle is in motion at highway speeds (40 mph and higher). Vehicle loses all propulsion and control in traffic lanes. Power-down occurs without warning codes or prior symptoms.
When: Incidents reported at 40 mph during acceleration and at highway merging speed. One incident on busy bridge during heavy traffic.
Symptoms owners cite: Complete engine shutdown while in motion; Loss of steering and braking assistance during stall; Flashing warning lights for brakes, steering, and stability systems; Vehicle coasts uncontrollably to shoulder or construction area
Repairs/costs cited: One incident occurred out of warranty (1,200 miles past warranty expiration); dealer refused coverage.
Engine Overheating / Blown Head Gasket
Engine overheating with subsequent head gasket failure. Vehicle jerking and overheating reported at 64,000 miles. Mechanic diagnosis indicates blown head gasket.
When: Reported at 64,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle jerking during operation; Engine overheating; Blown head gasket condition (mechanic diagnosis)
Repairs/costs cited: Mechanic diagnosed blown head gasket; repair costs not specified in narrative.
Cracked Cylinder Head
Sudden, complete loss of engine power at highway speed without prior warning codes or illuminated warning lights. Post-incident mechanic diagnosis revealed cracked cylinder head with possible manufacturer casting defect. Manufacturer refused case review and assistance because diagnosis was not performed at dealership by certified technician.
When: Incident occurred at highway speeds; mileage not specified.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden complete loss of engine power at highway speed; No warning codes or illuminated warning lights prior to failure; Vehicle loses all propulsion on busy freeway; Automatic alarming beeps at moment of power loss
Repairs/costs cited: Owner has cracked cylinder head in possession; mechanic indicates possible manufacturer or casting defect. No repair through manufacturer; owner bore repair costs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Acura Corporation refused case review and denied remedy or reimbursement because vehicle was not diagnosed at dealership by certified technician.
Transmission Metal Shavings / Transmission Wear
Metal shavings found in transmission oil six weeks after transmission warranty expired. Vehicle had only 60,000 miles. Indicates abnormal internal transmission wear or damage.
When: Metal shavings discovered at approximately 60,000 miles, six weeks after transmission warranty expiration.
Symptoms owners cite: Metal shavings present in transmission fluid
Repairs/costs cited: $13,000 maintenance bill for transmission repair. All prior maintenance performed at Acura dealership.
Infotainment System and Electronics Malfunction
Erratic display operation, system errors, false tire pressure warnings, and radio display failures. Screen goes dark intermittently. Infotainment and audio systems error or remain stuck on after vehicle powering off. MOST bus system replaced twice without resolution. Display incompatibility with vehicle electronics creates driver distraction and makes it impossible to confirm vehicle mode (Comfort, Sport, Snow).
When: Ongoing issues across ownership; vehicle dealer reports unable to resolve with multiple visits. MOST bus system replaced twice without fixing root cause.
Symptoms owners cite: Infotainment display goes dark; False tire pressure warnings despite correct pressure; System error messages on display; Radio station access errors; Display flickering or blank screens; Audio system remains on after vehicle power-off; Unable to confirm vehicle drive mode on display; Repeated system errors requiring multiple dealer visits
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer repeatedly resets vehicle and reports no problems found. Dealer suggests radio update may fix issue but has not resolved it. MOST bus system replaced twice without resolution.
Unexpected Vehicle Lurch / Brake Hold Feature Malfunction
Vehicle lurches forward unexpectedly during low-speed braking or while brake hold feature is engaged. TAC revs to over 5,000 RPM during low-speed braking, propelling vehicle forward despite foot on brake pedal. Occurs with both auto idle stop and brake hold enabled.
When: Multiple incidents reported; latest dated 12/10/23. Four occurrences documented by one owner. Occurred three times under warranty with dealer unable to locate cause.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle lurches forward during low-speed braking; TAC revs above 5,000 RPM during braking; Forward propulsion despite both feet on brake pedal; Nearly hit perpendicular traffic in intersection; Occurs when both auto idle stop and brake hold enabled; Lurch forward propels vehicle to side of intersection
Repairs/costs cited: Three visits to dealer under warranty; dealer unable to find cause or solution. ABS sensor replaced by factory rep after five-day diagnostic hold; did not resolve issue. Dealer now charges $120/hour diagnostic rate after warranty expiration.
Fluid Leak
Unknown fluid leak from vehicle requiring component patch. Vehicle taken to dealer at 7,100 miles.
When: Incident at approximately 7,100 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Unknown fluid leak observed
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed need for unknown component patch; vehicle not repaired.
AWD Disable / FWD Switch Warning
Vehicle disables AWD and switches to FWD without driver request during snow and poor road conditions. Warning message appears unexpectedly. Occurs repeatedly during snow storms.
When: Reported during two major New York snow storms in winter (year not specified). Warning appears and disappears with weather conditions.
Symptoms owners cite: Unexpected AWD disabling warning message; Vehicle switches to FWD without driver initiation; Occurs during snow and poor road conditions; Warning repeats every time it snows; Warning disappears when weather improves
Trunk Randomly Opens
Trunk opens spontaneously when no one is in range of vehicle with key fob or transmitter.
When: Occurs on hot days after vehicle is stopped.
Symptoms owners cite: Trunk opens without driver command or fob activation; Occurs when vehicle is unattended
Repairs/costs cited: Issue documented on video and reported to Acura dealer and Acura Client Relations; neither willing to help resolve.
Horn Randomly Sounds
Horn sounds for approximately 30 seconds without activation, occurring spontaneously on hot days after vehicle has been stopped.
When: Occurs on hot days after vehicle has been stopped.
Symptoms owners cite: Horn blares for approximately 30 seconds; No driver activation or fob command
Repairs/costs cited: Horn has been replaced without resolving issue.
Synthesized from 36 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
We turned onto the on-ramp of i40 west in arkansas at exit 58 heading west. I accelerated to get up to speed to merge onto the highway. When I reached 70mph the car stopped acceleration and very rapidly slowed to 20mph in front of multiple cars and semi trucks. I was lucky to have been missed by the traffic behind us and was able to get to the right shoulder. The car would not accelerate past…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2019 Acura RDX?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2019 Acura RDX?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 36 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 15 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 3,850 and 24,500 miles, with the median around 7,100. A quarter of owners report trouble before 3,850; a quarter make it past 24,500. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2019/Acura/RDX.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.