I recently started noticing a hum/vibration that sounds like it’s in the rear, but only happens when the turbo kicks in. The steps to reproduce this is to be on a highway, going 65-75. Approach an incline in the highway while very lightly pushing the accelerator, but not enough to cause a downshift to 9th gear. At that point, there is an awful hum or vibration. It’s hard to explain, but it almost feels/sounds like someone turned the bass on the radio up. I have my sport gauges on my display and I noticed that it happens when the turbo turns the slightest bit of red. If I manually downshift to 9th gear or press the gas harder the noise immediately goes away.

Can anyone confirm whether their RDX does this or not? I had it in at the dealer, but they said everything is normal. I am going to get them to go on a ride with me at my next oil change. I don’t remember hearing this when I first bought it. If I can get someone to confirm yes or no, my next step would be to see if it’s reproducible on one at the lot, if it’s not, then they need to figure it out.

 

When I rode in the backseat of my car I noticed a subtle vibration when the car was giving power. I don’t notice it in the front seat. Same thing?

 

If it’s like my TLX, could just be the piped in engine noise becoming more prominent.

 

Record a couple of videos. Set your phone in the back seat and later in one of the under floor cargo bins while recording. If there is a sound it will probably pick it up. If the one in back is more noticeable that might help to figure out where it originates.

John Davies
Spokane WA

 

I vote for this. OP, put your car in 'Comfort' mode while ascending this incline. If the noise goes away, it's the fake engine noise that you're hearing. If it is and it bothers you, it's fairly easy to unplug and disable.

 

I have a similar vibration, ive checked everything , had road force balance done etc and buddy at honda thinks its axles i think its the u joint on the shaft a bearing or even bad mount but it ruins the driving experience to the point i use my wifes car lol

 

If you hold the transmission in a lower gear, (get the rpm near 3,000 or more), and then apply light load, do you still hear or feel whatever this is?