Acura RDX overheating problems

Filed Oct 27, 2026 · Engine · NY

The engine cooling system failed due to a coolant loss issue caused by an internal engine problem. The vehicle experienced repeated coolant loss, overheating, and was later diagnosed with a head gasket failure. The failed components were repaired/replaced by an Acura dealer and may be available for inspection upon request through repair records and replaced parts if retained. The failure created a safety risk because the vehicle overheated while driving and while idling in traffic. Loss of coolant and engine overheating could result in sudden loss of vehicle power, engine damage, or a breakdown in unsafe locations such as roadways. The issue was especially concerning because the symptoms occurred without an immediate warning that allowed enough time to safely prevent the failure. Yes. The coolant loss and overheating concern was confirmed by service providers. An Acura dealer mechanic performed testing that indicated combustion gases were present in the cooling system. The vehicle was later inspected and repaired by an Acura dealer, who replaced the head gaskets and related components. The vehicle was inspected by Acura dealership personnel during diagnosis and repair. Acura was contacted regarding the failure and a request for goodwill assistance was submitted. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives regarding this issue. Yes. Prior to the final failure, the vehicle showed symptoms of coolant loss and overheating. I had to add coolant m

Filed Oct 6, 2026 · Engine · OR

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.

Filed Sep 9, 2026 · Transmission · FL

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

Filed Aug 14, 2026 · Engine · 82,000 miles · VT

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.

Filed Jul 17, 2026 · Engine · CA

Vehicle lost all coolant and could be smelled. Vehicle was towed to dealership before it could overheat. Diagnosed with a cracked cylinder head at 88,000 miles. Vehicle has never been modified, tracked, nor has it ever overheated. All service has been performed on time and at Acura dealership since I purchased the vehicle brand new. Vehicle is still at dealership. I've researched and found many other owners experiencing the same problem with the crack occurring in the exact same spot on the cylinder head.

Filed Jul 6, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · PA

Head Gasket failure. Design failure there are grooves holding coolant on the block making the coolant leak into cylinders heads

Filed Jun 26, 2026 · Driver assistance, Transmission · WI

Vehicle Information: 2018 Acura RDX AWDAffected System: Power Train / Automatic Transmission / Torque ConverterAssociated Code/Bulletin: DTC P0741 / Acura TSB B23-029Complaint Description:The vehicle is experiencing a documented manufacturer defect covered under Acura Warranty Extension TSB B23-029, where the internal torque converter lock-up piston cracks, causing hydraulic fluid pressure to bleed down. A professional diagnostic scan confirmed active Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0741 alongside a flashing transmission "D" indicator on the dashboard.This mechanical component failure creates a severe, immediate safety hazard. Because the cracked piston allows the torque converter clutch to continuously slip under load, operating the vehicle at sustained highway speeds generates extreme internal friction and excessive hydraulic heat. This thermal buildup presents a high risk of sudden, catastrophic transmission failure, fluid vaporization, or powertrain lock-up while operating on public roadways.The manufacturer is actively exacerbating this safety hazard. Because there is no Acura dealership within a 90-mile radius, Acura Corporate Client Relations (Case #164446080) and the nearest authorized Acura dealership service manager have explicitly instructed me to drive the malfunctioning vehicle over 90 miles on the highway to reach their facility for service. The manufacturer is refusing to provide safe flatbed transport for this all-wheel-drive vehicle, forcing the consumer to choose between incurring massive private towing expenses or operating a vehicle with a known transmission overheating hazard on high-speed interstate systems. I am requesting an investigation into the unsafe logistical barriers the manufacturer is enforcing to avoid safely honoring this powertrain defect campaign.

Filed Jun 7, 2026 · Lights · AR

The headlight housings on this generation of 2013 Acura MDXs completely fail due to a design flaw that causes the housing to overheat and dim the lights to a dangerous level. At night, you would be safer if you were driving with flashlights taped to the hood of the vehicle. I’m sure this has caused numerous wrecks for 2013-2015 MDX owners as it is a widely reported issue that needs to be fixed asap before more people perish. Please do something about this as it is not just a select few lemons but it is nearly every 2013 Acura MDX out there with the same OEM housings. Lives could depend on fixing this issue. Please hear this out.

Filed May 21, 2026 · Engine · CA

My RDX A-Spec experienced premature head gasket failure and suspected turbocharger related issues at low moderate mileage. Vehicle shows coolant loss and overheating/midfire symptons, rough idle. Im concerned this May be related to known Honda/Acura 2.0 turbo engine defects causing unsafe and costly engine damage.

Filed May 4, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · FL

The car started jerking and overheating. Mechanic says blown head gasket. The car is only 64000 miles.