Hey everyone. Im looking at buying a used 07 or 08 RDX. My question is, is it worth buying one with the tech package, or is it possible to just add bluetooth and the backup camera to the standard RDX?

 

get the tech if you can.. but only for 08 and above.. you can add backup camera but it shows up on the rearview mirror instead of the screen.. and you can add bluetooth to anything just need a module to do it =)

 

I think the 08 comes with standard bluetooth for base/tech models; but, for phone calls only. You have to still do something else if you want bluetooth audio streaming. I think only the +10 RDX have bluetooth phone/audio and back up camera for all models.

I would still go for the tech model because of min to no cost for the extra tech. Vehicle mileage will determine the price more than tech.

 

Thanks for the advice. Will definitely be going with the tech.

 

I got the base model a couple months ago, because at least in my area (SF Bay area) the techs carry a premium. Given the variable history of these cars with regards to mechanical issues, I decided to go for the lowest mileage, cleanest 08-09 I could find, tech or non-tech. Ended up finding a spotless 08 base with 45k miles for $17.9k in black, my first color choice.

Since the my iPhone is a better GPS than what the 08 tech has, I really just wanted it for the ELS sound system. Don't really miss it though, as the Premium sound system is still pretty good, for a non-snobby audiophile like me. I love the car BTW!

 

I've been eyeing the RDX market, and while I can't speak for your area, I've found that it's not possible to be choosy about color or trim (tech).

When searching Autotrader and Cars.com in a 500 mile radius, I generally only get a few hits that are reasonably priced (I live in a rural area, but a 500 mile search covers a number of metro regions).

On the plus side, I'm not seeing much (if any) price difference for a tech vs non-tech model.

When we are talking about a 7 y/o car with low production numbers, just trying to find the best maintained vehicle for the right price is my priority.

 

I understand your dilemma. Here in the SF Bay area it looks more like a buyers market. If you are serious, maybe you should be willing to travel. Is that an option? Otherwise patience usually pays off and you will find just the right one.

 

The good thing is that prices look reasonable (at least to me).

I had been torn between the RDX and a CR-V (3rd gen).


When searching for both, the prices on a comparable CR-V (EX-L & AWD) tend to be at least $3k higher (with similar miles).

Another plus is that most of the RDX's are one owner with extensive service records. Most CR-V's of that age are on owner 2-3, with limited to no records.

Some of the CR-V's are showing extensive wear, while even very high mileage RDX's look nearly pristine (I think it's a difference in the types of owners, and not an issue with CR-V quality).


While the RDX will cost more to own, the price difference will help pay for many gallons of premium gas!

 

Despite the RDX being a "premium" offering, the maintenance costs should be the same as any other Honda. (read - cheap) Find yourself a mechanic that specializes in Honda cars and you should be able to get quality maintenance for low money. The only place the RDX can really bite you is the lower fuel economy and required 91 gas. But it's pretty easy to meet or beat the combined EPA rating so long as you don't drive it like a race car.

 

07 and 08 ipod hookup sucks also gotta get aftermarkwt module or the 10+

 

The last time I spent any money on aftermarket car audio accessories was in 1997.
If audio and browntooth options are that important to you, buy the car with OEM electronics. I would never take my car to an audio shop so some teenager can drill holes in my firewall (and avoid Best Buy at all costs).

 

Where does one find this rearview mirror backup camera add on?

 

It's standard in the 2010+ models, can't say for sure on the 07-09. If you get the tech package the camera view is displayed on the center console screen rather than the mirror.