exlondoner

Hello just joined the community and am planning to purchase a 2007 RDX within the next few weeks.

I have owned and driven a vast range of cars and after much thought decided to go with an Acura RDX due to space and overall ride and comfort.

I've been daily driving a Wrangler but need more space and something a little more smoother and refined.

Is there anything that I should be aware of during my search, in terms of mechanical or other possible issues?

Many thanks.

Mr Marco

Welcome to AZ and Acura.

mrgold35

Are you going for a base or Tech model?

There are a few more goodies with 07 Tech models compared to base:
- ELS sound system
- Navi/back-up camera
- XM traffic
- Hands free Bluetooth
- More voice commands

The price gap between base and tech models can be within a few hundred dollars of each other depending on mileage of the vehicle.

I like the 08 models because Acura added at few more standard upgrades:
- Bluetooth on base and tech with steering wheel controls
- Memory seats and auto side view mirror adjustment
- Slightly updated M.I.D. display
- Slightly softer suspension
- Auto dimming rear view mirror
- 2 driver personal settings using the M.I.D.

The 08 tech model has the same features as the 07 tech plus the upgrades mentioned above. You can sometimes find a 08 for the same price or a few hundred more depending on mileage.

All RDX’s drive the same with 2.3L turbo engine + sh-awd. Gas mileage will be around 18-20 combined depending on the mix of city/hwy. Other than ensuring all scheduled maint was done; pretty much all RDX’s are rock solid. You just have to decide on what color combo and features you want.

The RDX is a sporty CUV made to be driven hard on dry roads. The sh-awd will take care of you in any kind of weather; but, it is mostly designed for dry conditions when the road gets curvy. It not very good at off road trails or constant towing at its 1500lbs limit; but, it can do it.

exlondoner

Mr Gold, that was some great input and I really appreciate it. I wasn't aware of there being two particular models but would prefer the Tech.

In terms of Mileage for an 07/08 model should I be concerned?

I have found one 07 with approx 60k fairly close to me.

mrgold35

I like to get the best vehicle (color combo with tech) with the lowest mileage possible. A 07 with 60K (assuming 60,000 miles not 60,000 kilometers). I think that is about normal for a 07. I have about 75,000 miles on my 08 and I expect to take it another 50,000-75,000 miles before I even think about selling her.

You really don’t have to do anything major to the RDX until the 100,000 mark (replacement of spark plugs, inspect water pump, brakes, replace drive belts, fluid flushes, etc…). I purchase my RDX used 2 1/2 years ago and I am just on my first set of tires after the OEM wore out, purchased a new battery, and haven't changed out my brake pads yet. I would look for something under the 90,000-100,000 mile mark if it is just a daily driver commuter car (second vehicle). I would stick with something with even less miles if it going to be your primary vehicle for +3 years.

Since the RDX is relatively new, there isn’t a lot of data of issues for the sh-awd+turbo+tech at +120,000 miles. I am going to keep my RDX up to 150,000 miles to find out (it is a damn good CUV).

kingkong222

Unless you are looking at the 2013 model. RDX is not well known for ride+comfort. The ride is harsh and bumpy, especially in the back seat.

kingkong222

I don't believe the 08 has the passenger automatic seat setting. At least not in my friend's RDX.

Bluto

I'm shopping for a 2010. From my research, the RDX is mechanically sound. No particular issues to look for. Just the normal used car check list. Only option (07-09) is Tech/Nav.

You can find a model year comparison from Acura here:

http://www.acura.com/ModelYearsCompa...aspx?model=rdx

Just wondering, what other vehicles have you considered? I've looked at a Forester XT and a CX-5. I did not like the 4AT in the Forester. The CX-5 was nice, but too slow.

mrgold35

I meant to say the driver seat has two person memory setting that also adjust the radio settings and side mirrors. The passenger seat is manual; which, I think is better because it is so slow to move the seat up/down when it is powered (like in my TSX). I wish the passenger seat had a height adjustment.

exlondoner

Great information thus far.

Bluto I've been looking at a variety of options, so far the E90 328i, the X3 and Lexus is350, yes all are a big difference, lol.

I'm not aware of the rules about pricing here, but since this will be my daily driver and the fact that I already have a weekend car I want to limit my spending to around 18k.

JohnIsaac

be within a few hundred dollars of each other depending on mileage of the vehicle.




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rt-man

You will enjoy it. I am a recent new owner ('09 Base, 31.5k miles) and love it. Heavy, firm ride (belies the small stature), scoots in traffic, corners awesome for tall vehicle, minimal turbo lag, nice interior...

Good luck.