Hey guys... A year ago I was MDX set.. but now I realize.. I'm not a parent.. not even married.. so why get a school buss? The RDX seems like a good choice. I will use it mostly for city commuting to work 12 miles each way. And when we finally get snow, for 1-2 trips a month to skiboard in (think SHORT skis no roofrack needed they fit in any trunk).


So I think the RDX might be a better fit and I want a 13 because of the v6 and much better gas mileage over the 12 and old RDX's (and don't wana pay 14-15 prices).. But then I've read some people are not happy with the VCM or saying its pretty bad quality? I only ask this as I'm still on my 2002 Honda accord with a notoriously faulty transmission, so now I'm kind of gun shy..


I also considered the 2012-13 TL with SH-AWD and v6... course now I learn the SHAWD model of tl in these years burns oil? w... t... f... Can acura do anything without some negative effects? I'm still fairly loyal to Honda-acura, and really don't like other brands..


So what do you guys think about the RDX's VCM...


Also. Just curious, how much am I losing going to the 'basic' AWD of the RDX from the SH-AWD on the TL? No tight corners? Less snow performance? Don't wana get stuck in a fresh coat of powder in the parking lot!


Please chime in about anything dealing with either of these two acura's as I'm still kind of open.. but heavily leaning towards the RDX still if the VCM isn't all that terrible (or cause problems down the road).

 

If you want a sporty SUV, get the Infiniti FX37 (QX70).

I think the (2nd gen or 3rd gen) MDX with SH-AWD actually fits your style than the RDX.

On the VCM, the RDX has 6-4-3 pattern while the MDX has 6-3. I cannot detect when the VCM kicks in in my 2014 MDX. It's not noticeable at all. I've read from the forum that the one on the RDX is more noticeable with rumbles and vibrations.

 

Regarding the VCM, most of the time it is seamless, other times I really noticed it, I had a 2014 RDX AWD. The AWD was anemic, my biggest complaint about the RDX, it should have the same AWD system as the previous RDX and the current MDX, the rears never bite in going around a corner, it feels like a FWD car. That was my only complaint, otherwise it's a fine vehicle for what it is, maybe I expected too much, but I never felt truly confident with it. Most people won't notice, a trip to the store fine, hustling down a road, sorry, I trade you in.

 

Both good responses!


I was considering a 2010 MDX as it was in the same price range roughly (possibly a 2011 is closer to price actually, but I liked that the 2010 didn't lock you out of the nav while you drove, were're talking tech package vs tech package here price wise)..


and the biggest drawback against the 2010 mdx for me was the gas mileage.. p-u! it's like 16-21 or something bad like that.. at least the rdx was 20-28... and the TL is still respectable at 18-25 I believe.. But the MDX gets pretty terrible MPG and if I don't need to be having that much space 364 days out of a year, why get it? as I said no kids to pack around, don't carry much stuff to and fro...


That being said I still appreciate the suggestions.. I'm guess I could consider an older MDX again.. Just wish they had the VCM the 2010 model.. I have to get a 14 or newer for that and that's gonna be 40k+ minimum.. was hoping to spend 30-33k ish or less.. Yes I don't want brand new.. a year or two used with 20-30k miles is just fine for me..


So lack luster performance in the RDX.. But is the VCM failing or having issues? or just noisey? The burning oil issue with TL SH-AWD is kind of scary.. so I'm not sure what to do..


Infinity?? sounds expensive.. and actually my familys last run in with 'nissans' was not pretty.. some seal on the engine broke and th eonly way to fix it was apparently a brand new engine at 5k a pop.. with only like 80k miles on it.. yeah not a fan of Nissan/infinity right now.

 

Performance isn't lackluster, previous poster was commenting on the AWD. Not sure I agree, I did 9 hours in canada in a snowstorm, totally confident in the AWD. I run dedicated snow tires, which helps, but the car is fine from an AWD perspective. Performance is very good, near best in class, and probably best in class for the money (BMW with 300 hp or audi with a v6 are quicker, but much more $). VCM is a non issue, it is noticeable sometimes, but so what? Typically when coasting to a step, there is some engine breaking of sorts, it's often handy. Hit the gas, or drive in sport mode, you'll never notice it. Trade off is a 3800 pound near luxury vehicle that can get high 20's on the highway, scoot to 60 in the low 6's, and is bank vault reliable. I have a 2013, I don't think you'll regret it.

 

I tend to agree with sculldog's perspective. VCM vibration has never been an issue for me. In fact I don't know what it feels like yet?
To me the smoothness and power of the V6 engine is very rewarding and that itself makes it worth the money (apart from the comfy ride). Yes, there are minor quirks such as not having rear A/C vents and poor navi interface, etc, unless they are a deal breaker for you. Of course everybody is different in their views and values and what is fine for some may not be fine for others. As far as I care winter driving and performance has more to do with tires than any particular system of AWD.
You should test drive an RDX and TL and decide for yourself. Good luck.

 

Those are totally legit reasons to go for the '13, and true on the MPG. I test drove a '15 and I really liked it. Then I test drove a 2008 and really LOVED it. The SH-AWD is just amazing, and so is the turbo torque. Ended up finding a minty 2008 base, 45k miles for 18 grand. Brakes are way better on the '13-15 models tho, but they are not comparable in the fun factor imo. If that is important to you, you should at least test drive a first gen. I was willing to take my lumps on the MPG since I only put about about 5k per year on my daily driver. Both are great cars.

 

Sculldog- Thanks I appreciate the honest response..


Let me clarify, I guess I had read a few responses (been reading random posts all day) where people were saying that Honda accords had major problems with the v6 VCM's they were using a few years ago or something along those lines and that the engine in these 2013+ RDX's is the same one (or not much different) and they seemed to be what negative towards the VCM system in general. I Realize no one has had an RDX with VCM long enough to really know how long lasting it's going to be. I just don't want the whole MDX torque/tranny fiasco all over again with the cylinders...


Comfy - have driven each, both seem to get up and go, I was a little bit disappointed how how rough the transmission shifting felt on the TL to be honest, it was 2012 with 45k miles on it though, but it felt... not as smooth as the 2013 RDX I test drove a few weeks prior.. Did not test drive them back to back though, a lady showed up and bought the RDX I was there to see while I was be talked to by the salesman..


Kaputnik- You have a point I should probably try the 1st gens, but I was really turned off by the worse gas mileage and small engine, I realize turbo can feel powerful though. I may sit in one and take it for a spin. Aren't you supposed to let those engines idle for a bit after turning off the car or something to let em cool down properly or is that just a myth?




Overall if VCM vibration was the only thing and it was not a sign of the engine breaking down or degrading or getting ready for some kind of failure, I don't really mind then. I just feel like the fact that my 2002 Honda is dying already (transmission wise it revs shifting between 2-3 and 3-4 gear, and cat converter is ratting now). with only 130k miles on it, that the realiability I was hoping for from Honda type cars is not what it used to be.. But I lean towards acura/Honda over other makers.. Lexus/Toyota never really spoke to me, I don't like german, and wont buy American.

 

That is definitely a myth on these cars, and most modern turbos I believe. What surprised me was the way the 4 cyl cruised effortlessly at 2000 RPM at highway speeds. And the torque is wicked. It is also easy to install a Hondata tune and safely improve power, torque and MPG. I am averaging 20 mpg with about 50/50 city highway. Probably the #1 deciding factor for me was wanting the SH-AWD.

1st Gen (I prefer 2007-09 as the 10-12 have an ugly front end IMO) and 2nd Gen are two very different cars. If performance and the ability to mod/tune are your thing, the first gen are exciting cars - like driving a BMW 3 series to me. I also like the big shiny dual exhaust! I did tons of research on the 2013-15s, and really liked the test drive - it just didn't have the wow factor I wanted. That said, I'd be very happy owning a 2013+ and I'm looking forward to what comes with a possible refresh in the 2016 lineup.

 

Exactly, if you could wait till the 2016 refresh which should be out in around 6 months or so, you'd have a better set of options to choose from. I couldn't wait so I had to buy.

 

I've done two Toronto winters with the RDX and it has been awesome.

With respect to AWD...Honestly, unless you plan on street racing with your RDX, the AWD system is more than enough for a "spirited" driver.

Hope this helps!

 

Thanks s1ver! I totally appreciate that feedback.. I'd say I'm spirited, but no 'race car' drive, sometimes we have free way onramp turns that say take at 45 and I take em at 60 through the turn...


I went on a test drive last night for a 2013 RDX (and sat in at a different dealership). right before we came back from the test drive I took a 15 mph turn at about 30, and the tires start to squalk a little bit, but it held.. I think that's about the max perf I'd push it.. Beyond that, if I can park it in the mountains parking lot, and get dusted with a foot of snow and still be able to back out and get down the mountain during snowing conditions with all wheel tires (and preferably without needing chains) then the AWD should be fine for my needs. Again i'll only hit the slops 5-15 times a year..the rest of the time its a city commuter in Seattle (yes lots of rain too, so I think the AWD will help a bit on slippery starts that I get in my current 02 accord fwd).


Now may I ask your guys opinion on pricing?


I sat in a 14' RDX with 16k miles NO tech package just base (NOT acura dealership), they want 32,450 for that, It's very nice outside hardly a ding in the paint.. but the inside, the steering wheel leather is worn down around the seams and the shifter knob is turning a kind of 'white' from the leather wear too, the front seat also looks a bit flattened... Not the best charmer on the inside, it just 'feels' like an older car...


But the one that kind of spoke to me, was one at a different dealership, a 2013 RDX with tech package, but 26k miles (also not an acura dealership). they want 33,999 for it.. This one has a few tiny knicks and dings on the outside, and a few hairline scratches here and there... but the inside feels VERY nice, the steering wheel leather is perfect, same with the shifter.. The only downside is one of the backseats has this area of the leather where it looks like they put something heavy and it stretched it and there's like a 3-4 inch dimple (not sure if that can be heat-gunned back to normal or what). beyond that it's very nice.. and I have to admit, the ELS sound system makes me smile, it is NIGHT and day compared to the base.. and with the base my fear is I can never replace that head unit so that is probably the best sound i'll get out of it. And while I'm not an audiophile I do appreciate better quality sound (all my mp3's are preferably 256-320k I don't do 128-192 if I can help it)..


I don't REALLY care about most of the rest of the tech package features. like nav, meh , it looks wonky and I have my s5... power lift gate? fun , but I could function without it.. Fog lights.. really? They aren't even HId will I ever use em? .. Hid.. Okay this one is kind cool and makes the car feel a bit classier/higher quality, (but definatley not necessary). I wont ever pay for traffic/weather assistance..


What else am I missing the tech package offers? Does it have adaptive cruise control (I actually don't know what adapter cruise control does to be honest, i'll admit my ignorance here). Gps linked climate control? wha??? I don't know what else I'm leaving out, but in my eyes I feel like the ELS is the only thing making me really feel like I'd be missing something if I just got the BASE unit.. but is it worth paying more to get worse milage and year older.. I dunno...? Any thoughts is appreciated!


for comparisons, th enext best option for for what I'd look for is a 2014 at an actual acura dealership (so probably cpo) WITH tech package and 10k miles for 36,880... Just a bit pricier than I was aiming for (was hoping closer to 30k not 40). There's no other RDX's with tech package in 2013 in my area, and the 14's are all a bit higher than I'd like to spend in theory.

 

I would not spend that kind of money on a used base RDX. Yes the ELS audio and bigger screen (for navigation as well as reversing camera) along with HID and power lift gate is mostly the tech package. The RDX is not a technologically loaded car (unlike some of its competitors- unfortunately), but it's makes it up with a quiet and smooth ride, punchy V6 engine and generally higher quality inside out. We hope that the 2016 update will fill the deficiency.
FYI- adaptive cruise control automatically brakes and regains speed according to traffic conditions. As far as I know most folks use it in very heavy and slow bumper to bumper traffic only and not at high speeds as it's braking is too late and harsh to be not nervous.

 

Okay so in your opinion the used base is a bit too much? (I have a feeling I could probably talk em down at least 1000 to maybe 1500, but thats's just a guess). The only reason I mentioned it was because it was cheaper than the older 13' and had nearly half as many miles..


do you feel the 13 with tech package is a fair price? over email I was given a quote of 500$ off, but I have a feeling I could probably push it to 1000 off.. making it 32,9k but I'm wondering if that's still a little high or not?

 

You can go to Kelly blue book (kbb.com) and plug in the car make, model, year, features/trim, mileage and condition and Kelly will give you an authoritative value. Other sites do the same. Some sites will tell you what others are paying for the same car. You can then use that information in your negotiations.

Also, some things are easy to replace, like shift knob and steering wheel have factory upgrades. Other things are hard to fix, like leather seats and exterior paint chips. It can be done, but to look good might be costly. So have a pro give you some advice.

Also, a CPO has some value, as Acura will stand behind that, so that might be a consideration for you.

Personally I like the tech package.

Good luck!

 

ahh When I tried on my phone I couldn't see an option to add the tech package.. hmm they say for a 13 with tech package its worth between 28 and 33 (32,5 being retail?) I think they are slightly valued higher here, cuz I never see ANY with tech that low.. heck even most of the 2013's base units they are asking 33 for... it's kind of sad cuz when you trade a car in they quote KBB, but when you want to buy the cite how much more in demand they are in the area... bogus..

 

Hey Electricview,

The tech package (well in Canada at least ) adds the following:

- Solar Sensing Climate Control - Apparently...depending on the angle of the sun, the RDX adjusts the vent temperature to make sure the entire vehicle is consistently cool / warm. I haven't been in an RDX without this, but I do know that I only have to switch between 21 C - 23 C to get the RDX to a perfect internal temp.
- Power Tailgate - Nice to have....I've used it sparingly here and there. Not a deal breakers honestly.
- ELS Audio / Hard-drive - The sound system rocks. It's clear and crisp. You may not have enough juice to host a block party out of the back of your RDX, but you should have enough juice to get the car vibrating nicely.
- Navigation System - Easily the best last minute decision I could have made when buying the RDX. I absolutely love having a birds eye view of my surroundings. In Toronto traffic, I can easily scan the map to see if there are other roads leading to my destination. Also, when on the highway, I know exactly how long I can stay in the fast lane before I absolutely have to move into the lane that takes me to the off ramp. If you get this, you will not regret it.

With respect to the fog lights...I usually leave these off unless needed, but I've noticed most SUV drivers leave theirs on. Despite the Fogs not being HID, they provide a very good amount of 'peripheral' illumination. The area ~25 metres in front of your car is substantially more illuminated.

Overall, I would honestly say to get the 2014 with the Tech Package through Acura. Get a car that has minimal body damage and has a solid interior. My take on it is, if you're already spending ~33k, then dishing out about 10% more to get in a top of the line model is well worth the money. Plus, if you buy it directly from Acura, you establish a rapport with the dealership. If you have any issues (hopefully you won't) you can always pin it back on the dealer for selling it to you that way. It's better than having the dealership say, "well we didn't sell it to you".

Good luck with whatever you choose though, you're going to get an awesome vehicle

 

I'm with silver samurai in this matter. You are planning to spend more than 30k on this car, (which is significantly more than any regular cars you can buy) then why would want to settle for a base model. I agree it's not that great a difference in technology, but the awesome ELS audio and bigger navigation screen makes up for the price difference. Keep in mind that many regular cars costing 20-25k will have most of these features anyway. I don't want to tell you how you should spend your money. In the end it's what makes you happy, but beware of buyers remorse ( you are unlikely to have it with a tech package)

 

VCM?

 

S1v3r- I believe we get most of that stuff in our USA tech package as well? plus HID headlights, not sure about the solar sensing climate control though? someone else here who owns one would have to chime in..


I never thought of the nav as a quick tool, I figured it was used for only finding destinations specifically, but you raise a good point, though just having it handy to see side streets can help!


The ELS system is the biggest puller for me, when I sat in the 2014 BASE at a non acura dealership and specifically faded it to the back speakers, they sounded like utter crap.. no joke, there was NO highs or anything they just sounded muted and lifeless.. Apparently there WAS a sub in this specific base model? (do they ALL come with subs regardless of model?) but it barely did anything.. seriously....


Then when in the tech package equipped 2013.. it was like night and day when I faded it to the back channels only it was clear full of mids, and the subwoofer was considerably more noticeable. Not saying it's AS pronounced as I feel it should be.. and I've seen others comment about it (although I have a feeling after its used a bit and starts to break in it will be more oomphy I think this is how a lot of bassy speakers work, no?) Anywas I don't listen to any rap and don't need to rattle any bumpers, I just like to be able to turn up my rock music loud on occasion and would be fine if it wont break up or get distorted too easily. And the 2013 model I tried in the other dealership had the acura dvd surround sample disc thingy in it, it was pretty damn impressive.. even a flat eq'd song like 'money for nothin' by dire straights sounded pretty good. the eagles song was rockin on that ELS system. Is it JUSt better speakers or is there actually more? I noticed a 'center' speaker that didn't seem to be there on the base model? so by my count 6 speakers on the ELS? 2 front, 2 back, 1 sub, 1 center?


Can I ask a taboo no no question? just for informational purposes! Can the ELS system play burned CD's/DVD's? If I like to back up my collection (to not risk scratches associated with a bumping and rumbling of a car and such) and wanted to burn a copy of my multichannel dvd-a discs, will it play them or give me some kind of copywrite error message? I remember reading the MDX at least would NOT rip cds to mp3's from a 'copied cd' to its hard drive, but no one said if it would just play them or not? Just a minor question I had.




comfy - I totally get the buyers remorse.. Part of me wants to just go for the 2014 base at the non acura dealership because I feel after a light conversation with that person that they'd probably come down 2k and get it to me for 30k flat.. Which may not be the best price, but it's not bad for a 14 rdx with only 15k miles on it.. but.. BASE package.. and as I sat there and played with the stereo I felt a little mellon collie.. I sat in the 13 with tech and I cant stop the smile when I play music.. so I pretty much know I gotta get the tech package.. I've learned already spend the extra little bit up front instead of regretting it later..


The only reason I'm struggling is there isn't many RDX choices at actual acura dealerships.. There's that 14, I was just trying to stay closer to 30k and that one is pushing it upwards of 40k without even considering the 10% sales tax my state charges.. plus I start seeing 37k pricetag and think 'why not just get brand new if I'm gonna go in that much'?... That's why I originally was aiming for a 13 because its the oldest I can go with the new engine and better gas mileage, and most of its initial depreciation is out of the way. (yea it's still got one more year left before its out of the worst waters of depreciation, yeah?)

 

Sounds like the tech package equipped 2013 model is the one which fits your bills. The dimple on the back seat which you mentioned may be due to a child seat fitted poorly. See if you can get this car down to near 30K. Don't be in a hurry to buy what is available (in spite of whatever urgency the dealers seem to create). Good things happen to those who wait for it.

 

good points. I was also considering going to the acura dealership with the 14 with 10k miles and tech package that want 36,880 (Used 2014 Acura RDX For Sale | Bellevue WA) am I allowed to post links or is that a no no?
Just to sit in it and maybe ask if they have any 13's on the lot that aren't on the website.. who knows maybe they'll be in a generious mood and knock a few k off? haha yeah right...


What would you think the 14 should be worth with those specs? 33k?

 

Hey Electricview,

To the best of my knowledge, you can store 'burned' CDs to the RDX's hard-drive. At least in my experience, I have been able to save CDs that I've created myself.

Based on your conversation with comfy and myself, i'm more in tune with what you are aiming for. Yeah if you're spending 37k, you might as well go new...but if you get a killer deal on the 14 with tech, you'll bite the bullet. I feel you on that. Remember, the second you say you're ready to buy 'then and there' if the dealer can hit your magic number...the ball is in your court. That being said, you can only pull the ready to buy card once, and out of respect for the dealer it should be actually when you're ready to buy. I'd put a magic number in my mind if I were you, and hit up the dealer with that number in my and full intention to buy. 9 times out of 10, they make it happen if you're even slightly reasonable

 

Sorry kinda fell asleep there. I'd put a magic number in my mind if I were you, and hit up the dealer with that number (and full intention to buy). 9 times out of 10, they make it happen if you're even slightly reasonable!

 

lol! no problem!


Hmm I thought someone said they couldn't rip burned cd's to the MDX... I wonder if the RDX is less picky.. Does it come with a hard drive in the RDX tech package? like something measly I'm guessing? and cant be upgraded I'm guessing huh... Wonder if it would be possible to just somehow copy the mp3's from my memory stick onto it..


anyways I went to the acura dealership.. The guy there was pretty non chalant and basically was telling me how these rdx's go fast.. and all the Microsoft people in the area buy them. He didn't even ask what I was looking to spend, and pretty much flat out said "it is what it is" almost like there's no deal to be had.. this is why I don't wana mess with acura dealers anymore, they are either rude, pushy, or just unhelpful at all...


back on tatooine.... BMW sent me an email with an offer for 1200 off that 13 mdx with 26.8k miles tech package.. (with very small nick and ding here and there.. smaller than an eraser head easily). so now their offer is 32,780.... Still higher than what Kelly bluebook shows, but I'm not sure I can do much better in the area.. I almost want to count back and tell them if they can do 32,000 they have a deal. Is it a bad choice ? Ultimately I have to make up my own mind I know.. but I think there's more money than brains out here in seattle and that means cars go for a bit more than they should, and if I don't buy it, some overly rich idiot will.

 

+1

One of the reason holding me back on a RDX purchase. I understand the RDX is VCM-2 but couldn't Honda make a V6 engine unmolested like other car makers???

 

Kind of interesting thing I saw in a TSB (is that what its called? the service announcements?) They show how to 'test' if your propeller shaft might be a cause for 'shuddery' noises due to the vcm, by disconnecting the VCM 'plug' which I think it said, disables the VCM? I'm not sure if this is true, but if it is, I wonder what negative effects this could have on the car if you just unplugged it permanently?

 

If you disable your VCM you will lose the mpg advantage of using fewer cylinders at cruising rpms.

My 14 AWD RDX had the vibration in all gears at 1500 rpms. I took it in and they replaced the early version propeller shaft no questions asked. The vibration is gone and I am enjoying a smoother ride.

Here's how it was explained to me:
The newer vin # RDXs ship with the new part already installed (according to my dealer service tech), but mine was before the VIN cutoff. The old prop shaft had a rubber component that vibrates when the engine is slightly unbalanced, namely when the VCM shuts down 3 cylinders and runs the engine on an odd number of cylinders. The new part has a different rubber compound and doesn't make the vibration.

 

I thought you were not considering MDX and are only looking for RDX. Now if you are considering the 2013 MDX with virtually the same miles as the 2013 RDX, things are looking different. The MDX of course is a superior vehicle if you discount the driving dynamics compared with RDX. It has better tech and a better ride I believe (even though I haven't driven one yet, other than checking one out inside in a showroom). You might want to run it by the MDX section in this forum as well.

 

Besides it doesn't make any of us feel better if you have to pay 36,880 for a 14 RDX tech with 10K miles. For perspective most of us got brand new similar ones (2014) between 37-38 K (including destination). I understand it varies by state and availability of dealers as well. This forum helped me a lot four months ago when I was in the middle of such decisions. If you want to stay closer to 30K and are okay with MDX, then I'm also leaning towards it.

 

Naw the MDX is out. I cant afford a newer model with VCM to help fuel economy and I just don't need anything that big..


I've made a deal at the non acura dealership. I got em down to 32,250 from 33,995 for 13' Tech package with 27k miles.. I know not the best deal but its the best price I've seen around here, and it just felt right when I sat in it.. I'm going to go pick it up in a few minutes.


Looks like i'll be the proud owner of an RDX now.


It was purchased in 12/2012 so should I assume that's old enough that I'm gonna get the vibration noise from the VCM stuff? Is it only heard if the windows are rolled down?

 

I recently spent several months researching, shopping and nearly purchasing a 2013-14 RDX here in the San Francisco Bay area (I ultimately went with a 2008 for various reasons). Nonetheless after nearly purchasing the newer model, $36,880 seems quite high from my experience, even here in northern CA. I found many local, high quality 2013-14 CPO RDXs that I suspect were the lease returns coming in. Enough dealer stock so that you could position yourself to have them compete for your business - there were many similar ones available.

 

Congrats on your purchase! I you haven't felt any sort of vibration while test driving it, then it won't start now. Mine was built in Oct 2012 and *touch wood* no vibration issues

Btw, I feel like i'm invested in this car as much as you are considering I've been following this thread for a few days lol! Please take plenty of pics, inside and out! #pumped

 

Awesome. Congratulations on your new car. Now let's see the pictures. Glad you made the right decision.

 

front bumper scrape, looks through the 3m and slightly into the paint..




the very thin scratch on the door under the handle.. not too bad.. don't believe it requires filling?




Dark charcoal gray? what is this actual color called?




No RDX badge or AWD badge...








leather is in pretty good condition.




the steering wheel leather and shifter are perfect, they feel brand new! everything is so clean and doesn't hardly look used. no fingernail scratches I've seen on others..














Here's the dimple in the back seat..






Here's the nick that looks filled? Also the 2 dots on the right side are sun flairs I think on my camera lense, I don't see these on the paint..




few scuffs near the speaker, but they don't bother me.




clearn rims and breaks!




not tons of tread left, I'm guessing original tires? but hopefully I can get a few more months out of them.




the 3m stuff applied to the door knob areas.





Okay guys here's the pics!! I noticed there are NO badges on this car at all! no "RDX" no "AWD" for a minute I started to panic.. Did I buy a knockoff car? lol.. Did I buy a FWD that they mistakenly thought was AWD? (btw is there a way to verify AWD without the badge being on there?).


This struck me as odd, because even though I've seen a thread where some people remove these badges.. I was told the previous owner was a lady with a child that doesn't strike me as the type of demographic to 'remove badges' from the car.. Does Acura sometimes not put these on? I almost cant believe she would 'request' it not have the badges either? Anyone please chime in!


I've taken a picture of the few body damage things it has.. I cant tell if the chip near the door edge has been filled or not? IT almost looks like it has a primer or grey fill in there...


Here's some added stuff I got with it beyond being tech. It has a transparent clear 3m bra on the front, along each of the doors edges and behind each door knob handle. It also came with front and back all weather heavy duty matts (still in the back because the carpet ones are PRESTINE! I got them dirty for the first time today!) and has wheel locks installed (with key and old caps in the glove box) and still has the Acura DVD-A disc in its case in the glove box as well. The only negative is there is a 'dimple' in the rear passengers seat in the leather but I've seen I might be able to get this to come out with a hair dryer and a little patience.


(you did say LOTS of pics!)

 

Fantastic! Looks to be in great condition. Maybe take it to an Acura dealer service department for a thorough check up on the fluids and mechanical systems. Otherwise, great car!

 

thanks!!! After sitting a few of them this one felt to be in extremely nice shape despite its age! most of the ones I saw the leather was more worn looking, didn't have any kind of new smell and didn't feel as tight.. So far no rattling or anything.


I DO notice the vibration from the propeller shaft issue, but it's MOSTLY only noticible on our fresh blacktop roads they've poured, on our rougher roads, it kind of blends in with the road noise.. I certainly wouldn't say its worth 'dumping' the vechile for (for those who have), but I do notice it with the music off.. Might get more aqquainted with the vehicle then decide if I should pursue a fix with acura and that TSB.... (or is it something that they'll just do without question/proving that it's making the noise?).

 

The car looks really good for the miles it has got. I feel really strange about the debadging part. Why would anyone do it? Its not a performance race car anyway. Congratulations again. Take care of you baby. You'll love it even more as days go by.

 

Overall, I'm really impressed with how well kept the car is.

I would, if I were you, take it in to an Acura dealer (Maybe one that you haven't already visited to buy from :P) and have them do a full car detailing. I believe they aren't too pricey, but they'll buff out any external scratches and clean the upholstery. They might even be able to fix up the dimple.

With respect to the badges, it is kind of odd that the badges have been removed but that being said, it could have been her boyfriend, son, etc...that removed the badges so i'm not too concerned. I personally love having the badges on the car because they look pretty classy. I'd see if I could have them added back on.

I'm going to guesstimate that with ~200-300 bucks, you can get the car fully detailed and the badges re-added. Might not be a bad investment to bring your 100% satisfaction to 110%

 

Thanks!


I know I was, too, impressed with the interior of the car, maybe the BMW dealership just did their own detailing and cleaning and that's why it felt so nice, but seriously the steering wheel has 0 wear on it at all.. I don't know if a simple cleaning would have made the steering wheel in that 14' I sat in even approach this ones, that 14's felt worn, and was shinney and thinner near the seams around the top and sides of the wheel.


I almost besides the dimple in the seat (which I haven't attempted to heat out yet), I'm wondering if I'd notice much of a 'detailing' on the inside of the car even..


I'm guessing that wouldn't cover any kind of 'point' inspection where they could tell me if everything is up to snuff on the car?


I went to ALL the dealerships in the area, and this one, ironically came from the same dealership I visited the night before I bought, the one had a 2014 tech package (not the 14 I sat in , I couldn't sit in theirs cuz their key system was supposedly 'not working' or something??) with the sales guy who was pretty much trying to 'scare' me that they go fast! i.e. didn't seem like he wanted to make any kind of deal, and I just wasn't looking to drop 37k before taxes licensing and fee's (i.e. over 41k out the door).


That's the dealer this car came from, that's the dealership that's closest to me and preferable to visit for maintenance... Also the dealership she's had the oil changed at every time according to the carfax


I'm hoping they don't treat 'non acura dealership' purchases like a step child!


As for the badging, I'm skeptic they'll be able to do anything for me on that as I'm guessing its only done at the factory and not something they keep in their shop..


Is it pretty much absolutely guaranteed it was removed by the owner? (i.e. acura would NEVER let one go out without the badges brand new right?)



Curiously enough on 8/16/2013 at 8,233 miles this dealership serviced and according to the carfax it says 'noise checked, oil and filter changed, battery replaced'.


Why would a battery need replacing that soon and could it be related to the 'noise' checked which I'm guessing is probably related to the VMC/prop shaft issue... guessing the TSB wasn't out then ?