2017 ACURA RDX

Typical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Burning 1+ quart of oil every 1,000 miles, Blue smoke on cold starts or under load, P0300-series misfire codes, Fouled spark plugs on cylinders 1, 4, or 6 (VCM-affected)

Fix: Honda's Variable Cylinder Management causes wear on specific cylinders. Real fix requires full engine rebuild with updated rings or short block replacement. Some try VCM disabler devices ($300-500) as preventive, but once rings fail, engine work is unavoidable. Expect 25-35 hours labor for proper rebuild.

Estimated cost: $4,500-7,500

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, Milky pink fluid in coolant reservoir (coolant in ATF), Transmission slipping or shuddering, Overheating transmission

Fix: Internal cooler in radiator fails, allowing coolant and ATF to mix. Requires radiator replacement, complete transmission fluid system flush (including cooler lines and torque converter), and often transmission rebuild if contamination went undetected. Critical to catch early. 8-12 hours labor if trans is salvageable, 18-25 if rebuild needed.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,500 (catch early), $4,000-6,500 (rebuild)

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunk when shifting from Park to Drive/Reverse, Vibration at idle in gear, Excessive engine movement visible under hood during acceleration

Fix: Upper transmission mount (torque mount) fails due to normal wear. Straightforward replacement, 1.5-2 hours labor. OEM mount recommended over aftermarket for longevity.

Estimated cost: $300-500

Typical onset: 90,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Whining or groaning noise when turning, especially when cold, Heavy steering at low speeds, Fluid leaks from pump area

Fix: Electric power steering pumps on this platform can fail prematurely. Check fluid level first (low fluid often the culprit), then replace pump if confirmed bad. 2-3 hours labor.

Estimated cost: $600-1,000

Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Rough idle or hesitation, Check engine light with lean/rich codes (P0171, P0174), Poor fuel economy, Hard starting

Fix: Direct injection system can develop clogged or failing injectors. Often just needs professional cleaning ($150-300), but failed injectors require replacement. Each injector runs 1.5 hours labor due to intake manifold access. Most see 1-2 fail, not all six.

Estimated cost: $400-800 per injector

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking over bumps from front end, Wandering or loose steering feel, Uneven tire wear on inside edges

Fix: Lower control arm rear bushings wear out. Many shops replace entire arms rather than pressing bushings (easier, not much more expensive). 2.5-3 hours for both sides.

Estimated cost: $500-800 (both sides)