Clunking from rear
05-13-2014, 11:52 AM
#442
This is a part design flaw/failure that Acura has yet to address after two years. Unreal! GOOD BYE ACURA.
05-13-2014, 08:13 PM
#445
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Sorry I haven't installed the KYB's, but when I attempted to do the install this afternoon, I found my car completely dead. I checked the battery with a meter and it was dead.....called Acura service and they were there in 45 minutes. It started right up with a jump, and the mentioned it might have been the starter button. Apparently if you hit the starter/turn off button more than once, it might leave the car in accessory mode, and after two days, it kills the battery. I'm not the only one thus has happened to! Enough said....what's next??
05-14-2014, 06:39 AM
#446
Instructor
Sorry I haven't installed the KYB's, but when I attempted to do the install this afternoon, I found my car completely dead. I checked the battery with a meter and it was dead.....called Acura service and they were there in 45 minutes. It started right up with a jump, and the mentioned it might have been the starter button. Apparently if you hit the starter/turn off button more than once, it might leave the car in accessory mode, and after two days, it kills the battery. I'm not the only one thus has happened to! Enough said....what's next??
05-14-2014, 06:40 AM
#447
Instructor
Way more than just a bad batch. Hundreds, if not thousands of RDX's and ILX's affected. I even drove new ILX's on the lot to see if they made the same thumping noise from the rear as my car did, and they did as well.
This is a part design flaw/failure that Acura has yet to address after two years. Unreal! GOOD BYE ACURA.
This is a part design flaw/failure that Acura has yet to address after two years. Unreal! GOOD BYE ACURA.
05-14-2014, 06:43 AM
#448
Instructor
I just ordered the last two KYB shocks that Tirerack had in stock - free shipping still, so $136 total. 
I bought my RDX new in March, and immediately noticed the clunking rear suspension - it literally crashes over every pothole/manhole cover and there is minimal damping. Thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread, and to hand-filer for posting the fix. When they show up and get installed I'll give an update...
As an aside, I also have the VCM vibration, so I'll have to take it back to the dealer to try and get the propeller shaft TSB done. Problem is that I'm 50 miles away, so it's not too high on my priority list right now.
Other than these two things, I'm very satisfied with the car. Just seems a shame that Acura hasn't stepped up to the plate to fix a known suspension problem. This is my first Acura, but I've owned Hondas in the past; am I wrong in expecting them to offer a better overall experience for their luxury division?
I bought my RDX new in March, and immediately noticed the clunking rear suspension - it literally crashes over every pothole/manhole cover and there is minimal damping. Thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread, and to hand-filer for posting the fix. When they show up and get installed I'll give an update...
As an aside, I also have the VCM vibration, so I'll have to take it back to the dealer to try and get the propeller shaft TSB done. Problem is that I'm 50 miles away, so it's not too high on my priority list right now.
Other than these two things, I'm very satisfied with the car. Just seems a shame that Acura hasn't stepped up to the plate to fix a known suspension problem. This is my first Acura, but I've owned Hondas in the past; am I wrong in expecting them to offer a better overall experience for their luxury division?
05-14-2014, 10:51 AM
#449
Burning Brakes
The Replacement propeller shaft takes care of the vibration issue. While I might not be gifted with your ability to sense vibration on a level that is imperceptible to most humans I can assure you I am also very attuned to what goes on with my vehicle and I no longer feel any vibrations.
Since getting rid of or deciding to get rid of your RDX you have been on a one man crusade to convince everyone that VCM that will eventually destroy our engines.
I find that both humorous as well as ridiculous. I'm sure I'm not alone.
Since getting rid of or deciding to get rid of your RDX you have been on a one man crusade to convince everyone that VCM that will eventually destroy our engines.
I find that both humorous as well as ridiculous. I'm sure I'm not alone.
Sorry, but the Vibration Cylinder Management is never going to go away. It might get worse. It's a characteristic of the vehicle.. On some, you will start fouling out plugs and going through ignition coils.. if you keep driving it you will damage the engine... I've had owned a few since 2007, never again until they get rid of VCM or better improve it. The good news is if you do a lot of stop and go city driving you won't notice as much, but on straight highway runs, it's noticeable...
05-14-2014, 03:04 PM
#450
I just did a round trip to Southern CT from Upstate NY in my 2014 RDX AWD/Tech with 9000+ miles with replacement propeller shaft, no vibration at all. No rear end noise on the pot hole loaded roads either with the replacement shocks. Kudos to my dealer for handling both issues as they arose, no questions asked.
05-14-2014, 05:08 PM
#451
I can also attest to that my former RDX never had any vibration.....just the rear noise in the suspension. I am pretty anal with my vehicles and the VCM was rarely, if not impossible, to detect when it would go in and out.
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05-14-2014, 08:35 PM
#452
2nd Gear
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Im thinking of buying a 2014 RDX this weekend. This whole bad shock thing has me scared and second guessing myself. Is this problem just a noise or is it something that affects how bumps are absorbed? Does it cause the rear suspension to lock up? Im looking for a comfortable ride, is the RDX for me if Acura wont fix this issue?
What rear shocks cure the problem 100% if i do end up buying the RDX?
What rear shocks cure the problem 100% if i do end up buying the RDX?
05-14-2014, 08:44 PM
#453
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Installed the KYB's today and have a rattle back there I didn't have before. I put the top hal of shock / plastic cover first, then a steel washer, then a rubber bushing below the flange, then the other rubber bushing, steel washer and nut on the top. There were no replacement parts for the bottom. I used the factory bolt on the bottom. Any suggestions?? The directions were hard to follow, but I thinks they are on correctly. I'm going to take them apart tomorrow looking for some gap somewhere causing the new noise. Thanks!!!!
05-14-2014, 10:03 PM
#454
See attached picture. Did you first put on the white bumper, then the shock cover, then the washer and rubber bushing? The picture also shows what appears to be a steel sleeve. Was there a metal sleeve in the bushing where the bottom bolt goes through?
Last edited by rosen39; 05-14-2014 at 10:09 PM.
05-15-2014, 07:07 AM
#455
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Yes. Everything was there just like the picture. After reading the KYB site, they say to tighten the nuts with the car on the floor. I tightened them in the air. So....after my coffee this morning, I'm back to the garage to re-tighten the nuts. I hope that does it. It rode good, but on certain bumps there is a rattle. I'll update later today.Thanks....
05-15-2014, 07:18 AM
#456
Did that steel sleeve go over the threaded rod at the top (and between the two washers)? There looks like there is another small part in the picture. What was that for? Did the shocks come with instructions that maybe you could post? I sure hope this fixes the noise. I'm getting ready to order a set if it works for you.
05-15-2014, 08:24 AM
#457
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There is a steel sleeve it does go over the threaded shaft and the two rubber bushings go over that. The white bumper is already installed, basically you put the top of the shock on over the white bumper, then a washer, rubber bushing, those are all the parts from the bottom. From the top you put a rubber bushing over that small sleeve then a washer and then the nut. There are no replacement parts or washers for the bottom, you use the factory bolt. The directions that are given are for every possible scenario that KYB sells, one tiny picture gives you the flow of the washers and bushings the rest is useless. I'm headed to the garage now I'll get back to you little bit. Thanks
05-15-2014, 09:23 AM
#458
Instructor
Not to state the obvious, but is it possible this noise was always there but "masked" by the other shock noise? Also have you checked the spare tire cavity for anything loose in there?
05-15-2014, 09:58 AM
#459
Burning Brakes
Yes. Everything was there just like the picture. After reading the KYB site, they say to tighten the nuts with the car on the floor. I tightened them in the air. So....after my coffee this morning, I'm back to the garage to re-tighten the nuts. I hope that does it. It rode good, but on certain bumps there is a rattle. I'll update later today.Thanks....
These shocks are absolutely silent in operation when properly installed.
05-15-2014, 10:46 AM
#460
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I re-checked the top nut and it is tight. Couldn't get a quarter turn. I checked the bottom bolt and found minimal play in the shock, so I loosened both and re-tightened both bottoms on the ground. I also re-checked the tire cavity, took out a small tool set, checked the rear seat belt,etc. I am going to test drive it now. I am praying that was it!!!Thanks to all for suggestions.....
05-15-2014, 11:19 AM
#461
Racer
hey i am on the 3/14 batch too. haven't noticed anything yet still, maybe things will come loose after some time or major temperature changes
05-15-2014, 11:54 AM
#462
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It's a beautiful thing!!!! No thumping!!!!!Do all final tightening/adjustments for top and bottom of the shocks with the car on the floor.
Now tomorrow I have an appointment with Acura to test my electrical for what killed my battery, besides human error, and I am good to go!!!
Thanks again to all, especially hand-filer!!!!!
Now tomorrow I have an appointment with Acura to test my electrical for what killed my battery, besides human error, and I am good to go!!!
Thanks again to all, especially hand-filer!!!!!
05-15-2014, 12:24 PM
#463
Burning Brakes
So glad to hear it worked out for you. It is amazing how well the thumping sound is dampened by the softer rubber components of the KYB shocks. It's like you are driving a different vehicle. 
It's a beautiful thing!!!! No thumping!!!!!Do all final tightening/adjustments for top and bottom of the shocks with the car on the floor.
Now tomorrow I have an appointment with Acura to test my electrical for what killed my battery, besides human error, and I am good to go!!!
Thanks again to all, especially hand-filer!!!!!
Now tomorrow I have an appointment with Acura to test my electrical for what killed my battery, besides human error, and I am good to go!!!
Thanks again to all, especially hand-filer!!!!!
05-15-2014, 02:07 PM
#464
hand-filer.....You have no idea how appreciated that you took the time to explore and find a solution for RDX owners. Too bad Acura wouldn't care enough to provide this simple recommendation to their service advisers to address this issue once and for all.
I am positive that ILX owners would love to have a similar option. Are you aware of a replacement part to solve the same problem they are having?
I am positive that ILX owners would love to have a similar option. Are you aware of a replacement part to solve the same problem they are having?
05-15-2014, 08:00 PM
#467
Does this thumping issue happen in 2015 models as well? Anyone…?
05-15-2014, 08:16 PM
#468
^^ Yep...I don't see why it wouldn't as they haven't modified anything in the rear suspension and a TSB hasn't been issued to address these rear shocks made by SACHS.
Keep in mind that if you live in a warmer climate, it will not be as much of an issue.
Keep in mind that if you live in a warmer climate, it will not be as much of an issue.
05-15-2014, 10:41 PM
#469
Summer is Coming
I didn't realize this but SACHS is actually part of the ZF brand of car products which included the 9 speed transmission on the TLX. Maybe this is why Acura can't dump them.
05-16-2014, 06:13 AM
#470
Instructor
Weather, I had the issue in warm weather and cold weather, didn't matter. Up near NY City on days it hit 100 degrees last summer I had the issue.
05-16-2014, 06:30 AM
#471
Instructor
The Replacement propeller shaft takes care of the vibration issue. While I might not be gifted with your ability to sense vibration on a level that is imperceptible to most humans I can assure you I am also very attuned to what goes on with my vehicle and I no longer feel any vibrations.
Since getting rid of or deciding to get rid of your RDX you have been on a one man crusade to convince everyone that VCM that will eventually destroy our engines.
I find that both humorous as well as ridiculous. I'm sure I'm not alone.
Since getting rid of or deciding to get rid of your RDX you have been on a one man crusade to convince everyone that VCM that will eventually destroy our engines.
I find that both humorous as well as ridiculous. I'm sure I'm not alone.
BTW.. I'm not the only one here that has gotten rid of their RDX due to VCM/rear suspension issues..
Last edited by danmangto; 05-16-2014 at 06:34 AM.
05-16-2014, 07:25 AM
#472
05-16-2014, 02:43 PM
#473
Wow.....well that sucks!
05-16-2014, 03:29 PM
#475
^^ You can start hearing it from the get go. I know same they hear when its warm too but for me, I had picked up the RDX in May and didn't hear the noise until Nov when the temperature really dropped. Its only on certain of holes....for me, manholes were the most noticeable.
05-16-2014, 04:12 PM
#476
Suzuka Master
I am in Georgia and the noise was just as loud at 80 degrees as any other temp. They replaced one strut and it is much better, but I swear I hear some noise form the other strut and of course they don't and won't replace it.
Last edited by KeithL; 05-16-2014 at 04:14 PM.
05-16-2014, 07:01 PM
#477
^^ Maybe they just swapped their location *lmao* (just shitting with you)
05-17-2014, 10:28 AM
#478
Had business in Indianapolis this week, so made an appointment with a dealer down there. They replaced the struts....no more noise! Hooray!
05-17-2014, 11:37 AM
#479
Suzuka Master
I will go out there and predict Acura will never TSB this and may never change the part number. They sell 3-4K RDXs every month so if a few hundred need struts over the year the bean counter factor that in to the equation vs. any proactive resolution. And the same bean counter and product managers say sure we will upset a few customers and lose a few, but we sell 3-4K a month with no decline in sight and are taking market share so what if we lose a few customers as we gained far more. And if you don't think that conversation is or has happend then you do not understand big business.
05-17-2014, 12:00 PM
#480
^^ You are probably right.....sadly enough.