Acura RDX Review: Engine Loses Power While Accelerating

A recent Acura RDX review received by the National Highway Traffic Safety Agency (NHTSA) highlights a serious problem with these vehicles.

Specifically, the review says that when a driver attempts to accelerate, the engine begins to malfunction, suddenly losing all power. This condition is known as “limp mode,” and is usually accompanied by the “check engine” light illuminating. One complaint sent to the NHTSA noted this happening when the driver attempted to pass another vehicle, nearly causing a potentially devastating accident.

Ironically, the NHSTA gave the Acura RDX a five-star rating for safety in crash tests. This problem was not apparent in those tests, but since that time, the NHTSA has received will over 70 complaints — and owners are starting to demand that the manufacturer issue a recall for all affected vehicles. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported in connection with this defect — yet.

Specific Incidents

The NHTSA has received no fewer than 20 complaints late model about Acura vehicles that abruptly lose all power when the driver attempts to accelerate – typically, while attempting to pass another vehicle. Three of these stories highlight the dangers of this condition.

The first Acura RDX review submission comes from a New Jersey man who was attempting to pass a slow-moving dump truck on Route 539, a two-lane highway through a rural part of the Garden State. He had completed the pass and had pulled in front of the truck when the engine abruptly lost power and the check engine light began flashing. Unable to go faster than 20 miles per hour, the driver was fortunately able to pull over on to the shoulder before he was struck from behind. The problem cleared up after shutting the motor down and restarting.

The second complaint submitted to the NHTSA was from an owner who experienced the problem four times. Twice, the driver was attempting to merge on to the freeway, and the other two incidents occurred while attempting to pass slower vehicles. A third complaint also noted an abrupt power loss when attempting to pass.

Acura Dealers’ Response

Generally, owners and lessees report Acura dealers have refused to address the problem, denying that it’s happening. Mechanics claim they are unable to replicate the problem under garage conditions. One owner wrote, “Acura has repeatedly denied the existence and told me I was the only one experiencing this issue. The approximately 20 complaints filed with the NHTSA indicate otherwise.”

Why is it Happening?

The exact cause of the problem is not altogether clear. According to Honda, parent company of Acura, it may be due to sodium particles that is found in some brands of gasoline. This affects the fuel pump, impeding the flow of fuel. However, Honda also noted that the problem has been occurring primarily during warmer months and in southern regions of the country – so this explanation fails to account for such incidents that have occurred in the late fall and winter months. Furthermore, although Honda has recalled affected vehicles, the recall list does not include the models that have been the subject of many an Acura RDX review.