2020 Acura RDX

Above average

Owners filed 351 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the wipers. It has been recalled 5 times.

Avoid One of the Acura RDX years to avoid: 3.5× the complaints of a typical RDX year. Which Acura RDX years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
6,500 milesMedian miles at failure

84 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2020 Acura RDX problems

76 of the 351 complaints (22%) are about the wipers.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Unknown or Other87
000
Visibility/Wiper · wipers76
000
Engine49
000
Structure › Body · body and frame24
001
Service Brakes · brakes19
100
Electrical System17
010
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system16
000
Power Train · transmission13
000
Visibility11
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system9
100

2020 Acura RDX wipers problems

22% of all complaints

76 of the 351 complaints are about the wipers. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash7% · 5

Share of the 76 wipers complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Peak year of filing
2024
28 wipers complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the wipers
None
“On January 6, 2026, as I left my house and was driving to work, I heard a loud gunshot/explosion sound. The trunk window had a whole and it started to shatter. The window completely shattered and fell. No evidence of a rock hitting the window was present. The temperature was 45 degrees. The coldness was not an issue, as this car has been in below 0 degree weather. I called Acura dealership.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 6, 2026
“Acura 2020RDX. Rear windshield spontaneously shattered. No impact was made. The trunk was opened with button from inside the car. After being open for over a minute, there was a loud pop, the rear windshield had shattered. The car is available to inspect. The broken rear windshield poses a safety hazard because my car is unsecured and my garage door openers could be accessed. No warning lights were given.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 22, 2024

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2019: 4 complaints, 0 about the wipers'192020: 47 complaints, 0 about the wipers'202021: 27 complaints, 1 about the wipers'212022: 32 complaints, 5 about the wipers'222023: 33 complaints, 10 about the wipers'232024: 82 complaints, 28 about the wipers'242025: 71 complaints, 19 about the wipers'252026: 55 complaints, 13 about the wipers'26Recall 21V215000 (fuel system)Recall 23V158000 (seat belts)Recall 23V858000 (fuel system)Recall 24V064000 (airbags)Recall 26V332000 (airbags)
All complaintsAbout the wipersRecall (red: the wipers)

Complaints about the 2020 RDX peaked in 2024, with 82 filed that year. No recall on file covers the wipers, the subject of 22% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 55 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger26V332000
Filed May 21, 202698,892 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.

Risk. Air bags that deploy unintentionally during a crash increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 7, 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are BOL, WO9, OOA, WOM, XOH, NOC, POD, BOE, UOF, POB, EOG, AOI, QO8, TOJ, DO7, and SOK. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 24V064. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 29, 2026.

Air Bags › Sensor › Occupant Classification › Front Passenger24V064000
Filed Feb 1, 2024750,114 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.

Risk. An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump23V858000
Filed Dec 18, 20232,490,460 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.

Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly23V158000
Filed Mar 9, 2023448,613 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2020 CR-V, 2018-2019 Accord and Accord Hybrid, 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019 Insight, and 2019-2020 Acura RDX vehicles. A manufacturing issue with the front seat belts may cause the seat belt buckle channel to interfere with the release button, preventing the seat belt buckle from latching.

Risk. An unlatched seat belt cannot properly restrain the seat occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the driver and front passenger seat belt buckle release buttons or the buckle assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2023. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are NDA, QDB, BDC, MDD, LD9. TDF, FDG, ODH, YDI, ZDE.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump21V215000
Filed Mar 25, 2021624,552 vehiclesHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Defect. Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Acura MDX, MDX Sport Hybrid, RDX, TLX, Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Insight, 2019 Acura ILX, Honda Accord Hybrid, Civic Coupe, Civic Coupe Si, Civic Sedan, Civic Sedan Si, Civic Type R, Fit, HR-V, Odyssey, Passport, Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 CR-V vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Risk. Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-314.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

234 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2020 RDX. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 55visibility 41equipment 37body and frame 22fuel system 18suspension 14engine 13brakes 10
BPOC05102021Warranty extensionMay 10, 2021electrical system

Dealer Message - On February 18, 2021, American Honda announced a warranty extension for certain 2019-2020 RDX vehicles. This warranty extension covers communication issues in the MOST bus network where the vehicle may experience popping or crackling from the speakers, a blank display, no sound from the audio system, a Network Loss message, center display …

ONLF9O04232021Warranty extensionApr 23, 2021electrical system

"Owner Notification Letter - Please be advised that there was a printing error in a letter you recently received regarding the above-mentioned warranty extension. Acura is adding an additional 2,000 miles to this extension. Please note that the warranty coverage for the MOST bus network on your vehicle is 6 years or 74,000 miles from the original date of …

ONLF9O04222021Warranty extensionApr 22, 2021electrical system

"Owner Notification Letter - On some 2019 RDX models, a loose connection in the MOST bus network may cause the following: - A popping or crackling from the speakers, a blank display, or no sound from the audio system - Network Loss and/or Drive Mode Not Available Messages or the disclaimer message stuck on - The center display staying on after turning the …

ONLF9O04052021Warranty extensionApr 5, 2021electrical system

"Owner Notification Letter - On some 2019 RDX models, a loose connection in the MOST bus network may cause the following: -A popping or crackling from the speakers, a blank display, or no sound from the audio system -Network Loss and/or Drive Mode Not Available Messages or the disclaimer message stuck on -The center display staying on after turning the …

BTI&01022024902Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 2, 2024wipers

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is investigating certain 2019-2024 RDXs with a client complaint of the front wipers inop. To fully understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

BTI&11272023904Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 27, 2023wipers

Dealer Message - American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (AHM) is investigating certain 2019-2023 RDXs with a client complaint of the front wipers inop. To fully understand the cause of this condition, AHM would like to inspect the vehicle prior to you attempting a repair of any kind.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2020 Acura RDX SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★15.0%
2020 Acura RDX SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★16.5%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 28, 2026WA

I own a 2020 Acura RDX SH-AWD Advance, VIN [XXX], about 80,080 miles. On XXX, the rear windshield shattered with no external impact, with glass caving into the cargo area. No crash and no injury occurred, but shattered glass in the cargo area and loss of the rear window is a safety concern for occupants. Acura Service Bulletin 22-014, version 3, XXX, covers 2020 RDX AWD vehicles in VIN range 5J8TC2H..LL000001 through 5J8TC2H..LL039430 for rear windshield shattering with no external impact, caused by incorrect specification for the rear defroster grid. My VIN [XXX] is inside that range. I filed a goodwill claim with Acura Client Relations, cases XXX and XXX. Acura's only written reply was XXX, requesting a dealer diagnosis. Assessment photos were sent to Acura on Wednesday morning, XXX. Since then, contact has been scarce. Messages left for Acura went unreturned, callbacks when they came were unintelligible, sounding like speakerphone, and another dealership also struggled to reach my case worker, [XXX]. On XXX, [XXX] told me verbally that my claim was denied, said no warranty is available, and refused to send the denial in writing. I replied that I know warranty is not available, which is why I filed a goodwill claim. [XXX] told me to file with NHTSA. A supervisor call is scheduled for Friday, XXX, after 12pm. I have received no written denial, no written reason for the goodwill denial, and no payment or reimbursement from Acura for this defect. This is the 2nd time in 11 mon

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 27, 2026PA

My back window shattered while in driveway when tempature had slightly changed

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Oct 25, 2026IL

The back hatch window suddenly shattered without anything hitting it, doors slamming, etc. just randomly shattered.

Engine
Filed Oct 7, 202675,000 milesCT

The contact owns a 2020 Acura RDX. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the head gasket had failed and that the engine and head gasket needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,000.

Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2026OR

The vehicle had 84400 miles at the time a blown head gasket was diagnosed by a Honda factory dealer. Was told not to drive vehicle further as sudden and catastrophic engine failure could occur. Unexpected and sudden engine failure at moderate to highway speeds, can create serious safety issues for passengers, nearby vehicles, and pedestrians. The vehicle has been serviced as scheduled at the local Honda factory dealer since new with supporting receipts. No engines repairs had been made to the vehicle since new. The issue was identified when the car was in for routine scheduled maintenance and I asked the dealer to check for the cause of momentary rough idle at engine startup. No diagnostic codes were set or found. This relatively new low milage vehicle has never overheated or been exposed to driving conditions that one would expect to be related to a blown head gasket. During repair, no issues were found with either the head or block. The master technician indicated it appeared the head gasket was faulty and failed.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 30, 2026MA

• The Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) bus network / FAKRA coaxial service cable connectors failed. This failure directly controls the primary infotainment assembly and the central safety display screen. The vehicle and its active components are currently intact, fully operational (with the defect present), and available for inspection upon request. • The hardware defect causes sudden, unpredictable total blackouts of the central display screen while driving. This completely disables the safety rearview/backup camera and mutes vital audible driver-assist safety alerts. Additionally, the defect causes extremely loud, jarring, and distracting popping and crackling noises through the audio speakers while moving, creating an immediate driver distraction and safety hazard on public roads. • Yes. The vehicle was brought to an authorized Acura dealership service center, where the active symptoms (crackling audio and system instability) were documented. Furthermore, the issue perfectly matches the diagnostic criteria of Acura's official technical service campaign (TSB 23-025). • The vehicle has been inspected at an authorized Acura dealership service department to initiate a corporate claim. However, because the vehicle is just 345 miles past an arbitrary 100,000-mile warranty extension threshold, Acura Corporate has refused to perform the physical repair, meaning the defective factory components are still currently installed in the vehicle. • There were no traditional dashboa

Power Train
Filed Sep 9, 2026FL

Transfer case is leaking. Then the engine overheated. Confirmed and inspected by the dealer. No warnings prior to the incident.

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 30, 2026TX

I am reporting recurring water intrusion into the driver-side passenger compartment of my 2020 Acura RDX following significant rainfall. This has occurred multiple times. The most recent incident occurred on August 28, 2026, following heavy rainfall. Water entered the vehicle and accumulated on the driver-side floor, leaving the interior floor in a puddle. I documented the water intrusion with photographs and video and submitted that documentation to my automobile insurance company as part of a claim. The vehicle was not being driven through standing water; the intrusion occurred after rainfall while the vehicle was parked. The vehicle has previously been inspected by North Park Lincoln of Dominion, where I purchased the vehicle. Despite the prior inspection, the vehicle has continued to experience water intrusion into the driver-side cabin following significant rainfall. The recurring water intrusion raises concern that the panoramic sunroof drainage system may not be adequately draining or preventing water from entering the passenger compartment. Water entering the cabin can reach wiring, electrical connectors, control modules, and other electrical components located within the vehicle and could potentially cause electrical malfunction or other unsafe conditions. The most recent water intrusion is documented, and the vehicle and affected components are available for inspection upon request. Photographs and video documenting the August 28, 2026 incident were provided to my a

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 30, 2026TX

I am reporting recurring water intrusion into my 2020 Acura RDX following significant rainfall. The first water intrusion resulted from heavy rainfall in April 2026. I did not discover the water inside the vehicle until May 1, 2026, when I found water accumulated on the driver-side floor. I filed an insurance claim after discovering the damage. Following the May 1 discovery, Gunn Acura, where I purchased the vehicle, inspected it. The dealership found the panoramic sunroof drainage system had a kinked/clogged drain line that was not properly allowing water to drain. The dealership also identified corrosion affecting wiring harness components and recommended repairs including replacement of the moonroof drain tube, carpet removal/cleaning, and replacement of affected wiring harnesses. Following another heavy rainfall on June 15, 2026, water again entered the vehicle. The water intrusion has resulted in electrical concerns, including warning messages and electrical abnormalities. Water entering the cabin can reach wiring, electrical connectors, control modules and other critical electrical components, creating a potential safety risk. The vehicle and affected components are available for inspection upon request. I have dealership documentation of the kinked/clogged drain and recommended repairs, as well as insurance documentation related to the water intrusion. I am reporting this because a failure of the panoramic sunroof drainage system has resulted in repeated cabin water in

Engine
Filed Aug 22, 2026FL

The vehicle’s keyless access/security and body control system malfunctioned. An authorized Acura dealer previously diagnosed water intrusion from blocked panoramic sunroof drains, including water reaching the Body Control Module (BCM) Multiplex Control Unit. The dealer reported that this was causing false security alarm activation and battery drainage and recommended BCM replacement. The vehicle and affected components are available for inspection upon request.The condition has since escalated. The security alarm repeatedly activated without cause and became difficult or impossible to silence. The dashboard displayed, “Keyless Access System Problem\. See Your Dealer.” During the latest episode, the engine spontaneously started without an authorized remote start command, and attempts to stop the engine were unsuccessful. The 12-volt battery was therefore disconnected to disable the vehicle and will remain disconnected until the vehicle is taken to the Acura dealership for diagnosis. This created a safety risk because the vehicle demonstrated unintended engine operation and loss of normal control over engine shutdown, creating potential risks of unintended operation, exhaust carbon monoxide exposure if this occurred in an enclosed area, and battery depletion. The dealer has confirmed the water intrusion and BCM security system malfunction. However, the unauthorized engine start and failure to shut down event occurred after that diagnosis and has not yet been evaluated by the de

Electrical System
Filed Aug 21, 2026FL

My RDX experienced a water-intrusion failure involving the panoramic sunroof drainage system and associated electrical components. An authorized Acura dealer diagnosed the right-front sunroof drain as backed up/overflowing, allowing water to reach the Body Control Module (BCM/Multiplex Control Unit). The dealer attributed abnormal security-alarm activation and battery drain to the water-damaged BCM and indicated that the BCM required replacement. The dealer also identified a blocked right-rear sunroof drain that allowed water to reach the tuner, causing radio/stereo malfunction and requiring tuner replacement. The water intrusion reached critical electrical components and caused unpredictable electrical behavior, including unexplained security-alarm activations, exterior lights remaining illuminated, complete battery discharge, loss of keyless access, and ultimately a no-start condition that rendered the vehicle inoperable. After the battery was depleted, I had to use the manual key to enter the vehicle. This created a risk of being stranded and raised concerns about the reliability of the vehicle’s electrical systems. There were no known dashboard warning lamps or conventional warning messages before the failure. AcuraLink recorded unexplained security-alarm activations on August 16, 2026, at 10:27 PM EDT and again on August 19, 2026, at 10:51 AM EDT. During the overnight incident, the alarm activated and the exterior lights remained on until the recently replaced battery wa

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 14, 202682,000 milesVT

The contact owns a 2020 Acura RDX. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the engine started shuddering and vibrating, and the vehicle stalled. The message that the engine was overheating was displayed. The vehicle was driven to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the head gasket had failed. The contact was later informed that the bolts on the turbocharger also failed. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 82,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Other Fuel Types › Turbo/Supercharger › Intercooler
Filed Jul 17, 202665,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2020 Acura RDX. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH in inclement weather, moisture entered the turbocharger, and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over, restarted the vehicle, and drove to a local dealer. A technician confirmed that the failure was caused by moisture entering the turbocharger and referenced an unknown Technical Service Bulletin associated with the repair for the vehicle. The dealer stated that the vehicle was safe to operate. There were no further issues with the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 15, 2026TX

Grubbs Acura in Grapevine TX has all the information

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 9, 2026IL

While driving my 2020 Acura RDX on the highway, the sunroof suddenly shattered without any warning. There was a very loud explosion-like sound that was extremely startling and frightening. No objects appeared to strike the vehicle, and the glass seemed to break on its own while driving at highway speed.

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Filed Jun 8, 202667,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2020 Acura RDX. The contact stated that while driving 5 MPH, the contact heard an exploding sound and noticed that the sunroof had exploded, causing fragmented glass to enter the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 67,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 7, 2026OR

Rear windshield (Tailgate Glass) spontaneously shattered while parked without external impact. This left the vehicle exposed to theft and made me feel unsafe. Will this continue to happen? The dealership replaced the glass but now the broken pieces of glass are trapped inside the tailgate providing a rattle when gate lifts /closes.

Engine
Filed May 27, 2026GA

This is a well known problem that when water gets into the intercooler, the car goes into limp Mode. This happens to my daughter, while driving 85 miles in the fast lane in the highway. Her check engine light started flashing, she was unable to accelerate, and she was scared! She had to pull over in the left lane, against the median.This is a safety hazard! I am paying over $1000 to have this fixed. TSB 20-053 this should be a recall!!

Visibility
Filed May 27, 202664,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2020 Acura RDX. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in the garage when he heard a noise and went to inspect the vehicle. The contact discovered that the rear windshield had cracked and imploded. There was no impact to the rear windshield that could have caused the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 64,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 26, 2026PA

I went to my car, got in and shut the door. Immediately I heard an explosion behind me. It was my rear lift gate window. The glass burst into thousands of pieces & could have hit someone outside & myself. It was inspected by myself & others. There were no cracks or damage prior. I tried contacting the dealership with no response. No warning lamps.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 12, 2026VI

My 2020 Acura RDX is currently non-operational due to a failure of the fuel pump, which is the subject of NHTSA Recall 23V-858. The vehicle suffered a complete loss of power and will not start, posing a significant safety risk should this have occurred while in motion. Despite contacting Acura Client Relations over 30 days ago, no remedy has been provided. My Case Manager states they are unable to offer a solution other than waiting for a "Territory Manager" to make contact—an event that has yet to occur. My vehicle has now been completely disabled for over two weeks. Because I reside in the [XXX] , the manufacturer claims they cannot service the vehicle due to a lack of a local franchise dealership. However, as a [XXX] territory, federal safety mandates apply. Acura has refused to authorize a local certified mechanic to perform the repair or ship the necessary parts to rectify this safety defect in a reasonable timeframe. The manufacturer is effectively denying a federally mandated safety remedy based on geographic location, leaving me with a non-operational, hazardous vehicle and no timeline for repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Visibility/Wiper
Filed May 5, 2026TX

My rear window in Acura RDX 2020 shattered spontaneously.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Apr 18, 2026OH

My car was parked and off at a local park, I loaded my [XXX] son in the backseat of the car and then I got into my car. Before even turning car on I heard a loud pop sound and got out to look around and then realized it was the back windshield shattering. Apparently this is a known issue with Acura where the rear windshield will spontaneously shattered for no reason. Safety wise this is a concern since I have a child in the back seat and glass is shattering into the car as well as outside on pavement . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 10, 2026OH

The rear glass in my 2020 Acura RDX Aspec randomly shattered when I closed my rear driver side door. My car was not running and hadn’t been running for over a hour and there were no signs of impact to the glass. There is a TSB from Honda about this being an issue already. I bought the car used and have owned it for a year. My extended warranty doesn’t cover the rear glass. It was going to cost over $1000 to fix as the dealership would not cover the cost and my car is out of its factory warranty. Didn’t have much choice but to use Safelite. Now there are glass shards stuck in my tailgate and apparently no way to remove them without removing the glass from the tailgate and removing the tailgate from the vehicle. Other complaints show that this can also happen while the car is running and in motion which seems like a major safety concern. With the glass shards stuck in the tailgate my car has been devalued by no fault of own. Honda knows this is an issue but will not issue a recall and it could also be a safety issue.

Power Train
Filed Apr 1, 2026MN

Powertrain failed in 2020 Acura RDX Tech Pkg AWD. Only 2 weeks after the 6 year warranty expired on the vehicle the powertrain failed and set off the check engine light. Dealer service department found an excessive amount of shavings in the plug. The vehicle only had 41,345 miles on it before transmission/powertrain failed and there was only 1 owner for the vehicle. It was purchased brand new from the dealer and vehicle was well-maintained.

Suspension
Filed Apr 1, 2026OH

2020 Acura RDX Rear Coil Spring snapped in half on left side. Safety concern drove to nearest independent service center to be accessed within 5 miles of incident. Advised not to drive it. Called Acura Dealership. Advised to replace both Left and Right side and have new alignment. No warning lights or other symptoms, just an extremely loud bang to left side while driving. Estimated out-of-pocket expenses: Rear coil springs (both) $600 parts/labor Alignment required $100 Total $700 unless goodwill applies (Acura quoted and independent matched prices (allowing me not to have it towed 15 miles to dealership) This is a corrosion related rear coil spring failure at 72,000 miles in Ohio. I’m asking Acura to consider goodwill assistance because this appears premature for a critical suspension component.” Please open a good will case with Acura Tech Line/Client Relations based on: ✅ Safety-related failure (suspension spring) ✅ Salt-belt state (Ohio — well known for corrosion issues) ✅ Reasonable mileage (72,000 miles is not excessive for a structural suspension part) ✅ Dealer acknowledged the issue (they quoted it and advised not to drive) ✅ No abuse or impact damage (no tire damage, single spring corrosion failure)

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 12, 2026NJ

Rear windshield shattered while car was parked. Entered car, closed door, hit start button - rear windshield spontaneously shattered. Called dealership where RDX was purchased - They recommended contacting Client Services. Filed complaint with Acura Client Relations - received case#. Took vehicle to a local dealership per their instruction - sent report to Acura. It's been 3 days - no resolution - no case manager assigned - no loaner supplied. No prior issues to note with windshield. Did see many issues such as this one online. Getting the run-around from Acura.

Engine
Filed Mar 10, 2026MA

My 2020 vehicle lost all power when I was attempting to pass an 18-wheel trailer on the expressway. I took it to the dealership which was less than a mile away. They told me I needed a head gasket replacement @$6500. They replaced the HG and it ran great for 5-6 months. Then exact same thing happened again on expressway. It was another head gasket. After searching online I found a lot of history on my vehicle where the 2.0L turbo engine was failing prematurely.

Visibility
Filed Mar 5, 202672,055 milesIN

The contact owns a 2020 Acura RDX. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle and pressing the engine start button, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. Immediately following the sound, the rear window shattered without impact. The vehicle was taken to a dealer but was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 72,055.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking
Filed Feb 21, 2026WA

System warning light stating Electronic Parking Brake Error, that the system would not engage and to contact a dealership.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 17, 2026MD

This morning after getting into my vehicle and closing the door my rear windshield shattered. This is a known and common problem certain model year RDXs. We are waiting to hear from my insurance company on whether it’s covered. There were not warnings or issues prior to the shatter.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Feb 16, 2026OH

Rear windshield shattered upon closing the driver door to start and drive the car. No impact from a random object or use of defroster.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 14, 2026WI

Came out of Drs office in parking lot. Sat down in drivers seat and started the car when I heard a pop and then looked back and the entire rear window shattered.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Feb 11, 2026PA

•What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? REAR WINDOW SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUSTED AND CRACKED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. IT IS BEING REPAIRED ON SATURDAY BY SAFELITE PER MY HARTFORD INSURANCE •How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I COULD NOT SEE OUT OF MY REAR WINDOW, IT WAS ENTIRELY FRACTURED AND HAD A HOLE IN IT. IT ALSO SPILLED GLASS ON THE ROAD AND IN MY CAR. •Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? YES, IT HAS PREVIOUSLY BEEN ACKNOWLEDGED BY ACURA/HONDA HOWEVER THEY DID NOT INCLUDE MY VIN NUMBER ON THE ISSUE, EVEN THOUGH IT WAS IN THE SAME CLASS OF ISSUES. •Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? YES, THROUGH MY INSURANCE CARRIER HARTFORD IT WAS BROUGHT TO SAFELITE WHERE THEY PUT ON A CRASH COVER BEFORE THEY REPLACE THE GLASS THIS SATURDAY. •Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 5, 2026IN

My rear windshield shattered completely on its own shortly after I had gotten in the car, I was parked, luckily I had not even started driving yet. This is a major safety component that could have resulted in a dangerous situation if I had been driving the vehicle.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 4, 2026PA

Rear glass broken 2 times: 1) 12/23/2022 2) 01/31/2026.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 3, 2026IL

The rear window has shattered twice (2023, 2026). Both times, the vehicle has been parked in a lot with cameras. After reviewing the cameras no one was near the vehicle. After the first time, I became aware that this was an issue with my model. I contacted the manufacturer and they expressed that my year was not affected by the defect. It just happened again. I contacted the manufacturer again, they expressed, that in order for them to do anything a recall has to be put in place and to report it to you. In addition, I do not put on the rear defrost. I have been driving around with shards of glass in the rear door. Safelite has expressed, due to how the manufacturer built the door, they can not remove all the glass. Also, every time the door is lifted pieces of glass fall out.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Feb 1, 2026VA

To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a vehicle safety defect complaint regarding my 2020 Acura RDX. The rear window of my vehicle suddenly shattered without any impact, collision, road debris, or external force. At the time of the incident, the vehicle was stationary. There was no warning or visible damage prior to failure. The glass shattered unexpectedly, creating a dangerous condition and risk of injury. I was required to file an insurance claim and have the rear window replaced. I am concerned this may indicate a defect in the glass, manufacturing process, or vehicle structure. I request that NHTSA review this incident, determine whether similar failures have been reported, and evaluate whether this represents a safety-related defect requiring investigation or recall. I can provide photographs, repair invoices, VIN, mileage, and additional documentation upon request. Sincerely, Joyce Burnett Phone: 757-636-6167 (Mobile) VIN: 5J8TC1H57LL013150

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 29, 2026NJ

I used my automatic start and came outside and got in the car and my rear windshield cracked.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 27, 2026MA

Rear windshield shattered spontaneously.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 27, 2026NY

My back window just shattered on its own while the car was sitting in the driveway. It wasn't running, and nothing hit it. The glass just suddenly cracked and spidered everywhere without any warning

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 26, 2026MO

My rear glass mirror shattered. This occurred after I closed the door.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 25, 2026IL

Rear Windshield spontaneously exploded, Acura has a service bulletin regarding the issue(Service Bulletin 22-014) No recalls, Acura refuses to address issue thousands of other drivers have experienced.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 24, 2026PA

Rear windshield shattered on its own, without impact from any object

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 23, 2026NY

The rear windshield shattered out of nowhere while parked outdoors on a cold day (<20 degree weather). There was no impact involved in the shattering. Dealer stated that I must go through insurance in order to get rear windshield repaired. Upon further searching this is a problem that is common with the Acura RDX model from years 2019-2023 there was even a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on May 20th, 2023 involving 'Rear Windshield Glass Shattering' caused by 'Incorrect specification for the rear defroster grid' showing that the company is aware of this issue.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 21, 2026PA

Rear glass windshield shattered while parked in my garage. No impact involved. Car was not driven for almost 24 hours

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 19, 2026PA

Rear windshield shattered while parked. It was not vandalism.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 16, 2026FL

Got in my car, closed driver side door and my rear window spontaneously shattered.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 16, 2026CA

Since we bought the vehicle in 2019, the passenger-side seat sensor didn't always go off when occupied. We asked the dealership to check it out in 2020 or 2021, however, due to the problem being inconsistent it couldn't be fixed. The inconsistency of the seat sensor has continued though the years, but lately, it has become more frequent. I am the usual occupant on the passenger side and I weigh 113 lbs. I recently spoke with the dealer service department after I saw the recall; however, the recall does not apply to our VIN.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 14, 2026VT

Sometime between 9pm on January 13th and 8:45am on January 14th, the rear glass of my 2020 Acura RDX shattered inside our closed, insulated garage. No cause could be found inside or around the garage and I googled and found out the rear defroster grid causes stress on the class and is actually quite common. I also have a video but it’s too large to upload.

Complaints 1-50 of 351, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2019
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20261000Routine
202530100Routine
202412210Routine
202324200Routine
202231200Routine
2021118300Routine
2020 — this page351510Above average
2019441500Above average
201878100Routine
201780111Fatalities reported
201641220Routine
2015416300Above average
2014244310Above average
2013162320Routine
201215200Routine
201116200Routine
201022220Routine
200915200Routine
200833300Routine
200753310Routine

Compare every RDX year →

2020 Acura RDX: questions buyers ask

Is the 2020 Acura RDX a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the RDX years to avoid: owners filed 351 complaints, 3.5 times as many as a typical RDX year. The most common complaint is about the wipers (22%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2020 Acura RDX?

The wipers: 76 of the 351 complaints (22%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (7%).

How many recalls does the 2020 Acura RDX have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 21, 2026. The largest, 23V858000, covered 2,490,460 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2020 Acura RDX problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 6,500 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2020 Acura RDX?

The manufacturer filed 234 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (55), the visibility (41) and the body and frame (22). They include a warranty extension, BPOC05102021, filed May 10, 2021. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 21, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.