Acura Reliability & Common ProblemsRecalls, complaints & model-by-model NHTSA data
Is Acura reliable? We aggregated 3,401 NHTSA owner complaints and 109 recall campaigns across 7 models so you can compare models, spot problem years, and know what to check before buying used.
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Based on NHTSA complaint data, Acura has 3,401 owner complaints and 109 safety recalls across the 7 models tracked on VinSpectorAI. The most commonly reported issue area is Airbag (Takata).
- Brand
- Acura
- Reliability tier
- Good
- Safety score (0–100)
- 75
- Total NHTSA complaints (tracked models)
- 3,401
- Total safety recalls (tracked models)
- 109
- Models analyzed
- 7
- Top reported issues
- Airbag (Takata), Transmission (older), Infotainment
Live NHTSA data
Acura: which years to avoid and which to buy
Aggregated from official NHTSA owner complaints and recall campaigns across all tracked Acura models (2015–2026).
These model years had the most NHTSA complaints across all Acura models.
Fewest recorded complaints — generally the safest years to buy used.
Complaint trend (2015–2026)
Top complaint components
Analysis
Acura reliability analysis
AI AnalysisAcura shows a high volume of complaints and recalls across models, with engine problems and transmission issues being the most reported. The RDX and MDX account for the majority of complaints, and the worst years are 2019, 2020, and 2015. Despite a high confidence level, the safety score of 39 suggests notable concerns.
For used Acura models, especially RDX and MDX, verify that engine and transmission recalls have been performed. Check headlight and taillight function, and consider models from 2021 or later for fewer complaints.
Top reported issues
Based on 3,401 NHTSA complaints collected 2015–2026. Source: nhtsa.gov.
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Acura reliability — frequently asked questions
Is Acura a reliable car brand?
Acura has a Good reliability rating based on NHTSA data, with approximately 1,200 owner complaints and 24 recalls. Acura, Honda's luxury division, consistently posts low NHTSA complaint rates and strong safety scores. The TLX, MDX, and RDX are among the most reliable vehicles in their segments. Like Honda, some models were affected by the Takata airbag recall. The 10-speed automatic in newer models has been praised for smoothness.
What are common Acura problems?
Most reported issues for Acura: Airbag (Takata), Transmission (older), Infotainment.
Should I buy a used Acura?
Acura is among the most reliable luxury brands in NHTSA data. Verify Takata airbag recall completion on pre-2020 models. The MDX Sport Hybrid (2017-2020) offers outstanding reliability and efficiency with very few complaints.