I'm in the market for a new car and I really like the RDX. Are there any special things I should be looking for with a used one? How easy it is to reach the turbo inlet? I know it's on the backside of the motor, but I'd like to be able to check the amount of shaftplay on the turbo if possible.

Thanks for the input.

 

Pretty reliable car, I can't remember reading about any (major) issues with transmissions or engines from the people on the boards. Mine is a 2007 and I am very happy with it.
I would look for something 08 or newer, there are a few things like memory seats for driver and power seat for passenger that were added to the 08 or 09 model year.
Don't know how to answer your turbo question...

 

You would need to drop the engine to wiggle that shaft. I don't think you could even touch it as tight as things are back there. As for model years,

Wrestrepo is right, '08+ is worth looking for as the additions (2driver seat memory, power passenger seat, phone interface update, etc.) are worth the extra $$$.

 

+1 on the 08 or 09 models (if you like the styling compared to the +10 redesign). The cost of the RDX with Tech can sometimes be the same as the base model depending on mileage. I think the tech model is worth getting in a used RDX (upgraded ELS stereo, back-up camera, Navi/traffic, etc…)

I would make sure all the service is up-to-date. Purchasing a RDX with a little of the 4/50,000 mile warranty left wouldn't hurt. Minor problems I had with my RDX were:

- Condensation in driver's headlight (replace under bumper-to-bumper warranty)
- Bad battery (replaced out of pocket)
- failed vtec solenoid (replaced under powertrain warranty)
- Flaking paint on front bumper (repainted front bumper under bumper-to-bumper warranty)
- Readjustment of left front fender, gap wasn't aligned and driver door was binding when it was wide open (fixed under bumper-to-bumper warranty)

I think my used RDX was in a minor fender-bender by the previous owner; that is why the paint was flaking and the fender was out of adjustment. I have a little under 60,000 miles and my only out-of-pocket expensive were routine scheduled maint, wiper blades, 1 battery, and 4 new tires.

 

Thanks for the information. I wasn't aware of the changes between the 07 and 08+ models, thanks for that.

 

09s had the passanger power seat. 08s dont.. FYI

 

Ah...but the '07s have a sportier ride. Yes, I'm biased.

 

I'm looking around too, things I do:
1) 08-09 only for me, the 2010+ models have that ugly beak in front, but if you get a 2010 get the sh-awd.
2) Get the Tech package, easy to spot in pics if you see that big control wheel under the nav screen, not only you get nav but also the best surround sound system out there.
3) I always check the Carfax report, to see when it was built, I hate it when an 08 is called an 08 if it was built 10/07, and I look for accident reports, maintenamce records, and how many owners it had.

Best place to look is Autotrader, but I noticed many Acura dealers don't list their used rides there, so you have to find Acura dealers around your town and check their inventory.

And of course, do the Hondata ECU tune as soon as you get your RDX, I'll send in my ECU within a couple of weeks of getting my RDX.

 

07 models had stiffer shocks springs steering. So you might like 08 better.

 

the slightly softer settings only marginally affect handling. 65.7mph slalom vs 64.6mph which still bests the tsx. however the steering became numb on the later models, not sure about 2008 maybe someone else knows.

 

I have a 06 TSX (Progress RSB+Aspec suspension+conti DWS) and a 08 RDX (hondata+Eibach springs+conti DWS). I feel more confident and secure driving at the limits with the RDX in compared to the TSX. The steering feels about the same in both vehicles. The only race the TSX would win is a downhill race with switchbacks because the extra top heavy weight and limited use of the sh-awd would slow the RDX down.

I picked the 08 RDX because of memory seats and the Moroccan Pearl Red. This color was only for the 07-08 RDX model years (no memory seats for the 07 model). You might have to do some traveling to find the combo you want or pay top dollar from places like Carmax to have them deliver to your location.