When it comes to luxury sedans, Acura has established a reputation for delivering an exceptional blend of style, performance, and reliability.
The Acura ILX, a compact luxury sedan, has been popular among discerning drivers seeking comfort and sophistication on the road. However, like any other vehicle, the Acura ILX is not immune to occasional problems that can arise over time.
In this article, we will explore the known issues that Acura ILX owners may encounter and provide some other relevant information that potential buyers should consider.
Table of Contents
1. Malfunctioning Airbag – A Prevalent Problem in Acura ILX
One of the most concerning issues reported by Acura ILX owners is the occurrence of malfunctioning airbags.
This problem has caused significant safety concerns and has led to investigations, recalls, and actions taken by Acura to rectify the situation.
Instances of malfunctioning airbags in Acura ILX models have been reported, with two primary concerns:
- Failing to deploy during a collision.
- Unexpectedly exploding without any apparent impact.
The causes of these airbag malfunctions can vary, including manufacturing defects, sensor failures, or improper installation. Therefore, the precise reasons for these failures may differ among cases, but the consequences remain alarming, necessitating swift action and resolution.
In response to these reports, Acura has taken proactive measures to address the airbag problems in the ILX models.
The automaker has issued recalls for certain model years and production dates (2013-2014), aiming to rectify the faulty airbags and ensure the safety of ILX owners.
Acura ILX owners must be aware of any relevant recalls or updates related to their specific model.
If you suspect problems with your airbags, it is recommended to contact an authorized service center promptly to schedule an inspection or repair.
2. Car Accelerating While Braking
Adding to the list, another issue reported by Acura ILX owners is the occurrence of unintended acceleration when braking.
Instances of the car accelerating unexpectedly while applying the brakes have been reported in certain Acura ILX models, more specifically the 2016 model.
This can be alarming and potentially dangerous, as it can compromise the driver’s control over the vehicle and increase the risk of accidents.
The causes behind this unintended acceleration can vary, including:
- Electronic glitches
- Faulty sensors
- Issues with the vehicle’s software
Acura has taken proactive measures to address the unintended acceleration issue in the ILX models. The automaker has issued recalls for specific model years to rectify the underlying problems and ensure the safety of ILX owners.
These recalls typically involve inspecting and, if necessary, updating the affected electronic control systems or software.
Therefore, ILX owners should be aware of any relevant recalls or updates related to their specific model.
Regularly checking for manufacturer announcements or visiting the official website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can provide the most up-to-date information on recalls and safety-related matters.
3. ILX’s Fuel Pump Failures
Another one of the most prevalent and concerning issues faced by Acura ILX owners is the persistent problem of fuel pump failures.
This recurring issue has left many owners frustrated and seeking solutions. That said, Acura has taken the necessary steps to address the problem.
Fuel pump failures in the Acura ILX have been reported across multiple model years, affecting a significant number of vehicles. However, no model year felt this malfunction harder than the 2019 model.
The fuel pump, responsible for delivering a steady flow of fuel to the engine, is a vital component of any vehicle.
Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, Acura has issued recalls to tackle the fuel pump failures in affected ILX models. These recalls aim to rectify the faulty fuel pumps and restore the proper functioning of the vehicle’s fuel delivery system.
Common symptoms of a failing fuel pump include:
- Engine misfires
- Difficulty starting the vehicle
- Poor acceleration
- Sudden stalling while driving
ILX owners should stay informed about any recalls or updates related to their specific model and production year.
4. Dual-Clutch Transmission Issues – Another Prevalent Problem
The dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the Acura ILX has been a source of concern for many owners.
Owners have reported various problems, including:
- Rough shifting
- Hesitation
- Excessive noise during gear changes
One particular area where the dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the Acura ILX falls short is in its shifting performance. Many owners have expressed frustration as they experience a loss of the advantages typically associated with a DCT.
When the transmission is cold, the torque converter can be unreliable, causing jerky and inconsistent gear changes. This issue becomes particularly noticeable in the 30-45mph range, where it has become a nightmare for numerous ILX owners.
During this speed range, driving the ILX can feel like traversing rumble strips, resulting in a highly uncomfortable experience.
To make matters worse, some owners have reported the illumination of a blinking “D4” or “Check Engine” light, further adding to their concerns. These symptoms indicate a potential underlying problem that requires attention and resolution.
In addressing these concerns, recalls have been issued for specific model years. These recalls typically involve software updates or adjustments to the transmission control module (TCM) to improve the shifting performance and overall reliability of the DCT.
If you are an Acura ILX owner experiencing problems with your dual-clutch transmission, it is crucial to reach out to an authorized service center or dealership promptly.
General Pros and Cons of Acura ILX
When considering the Acura ILX, it’s important to weigh its strengths and weaknesses.
To assist potential buyers in making an informed decision, below we present a comprehensive overview of the pros and cons of the ILX.
Whether you prioritize luxury and comfort, fuel efficiency, agile handling, advanced safety features, or value for money, the pros and cons table will help you navigate the key considerations surrounding the Acura ILX.
Pros |
Cons |
Luxury and comfortable interior | Malfunctioning airbag |
Fuel-efficient performance | Car accelerating while breaking |
Agile and responsive handling | Fuel Pump Failures |
Advanced safety features | Dual-Clutch Transmission Issues |
Good value for money compared to competitors |
Ultimately, the Acura ILX remains an enticing option for those seeking an entry-level sedan that offers a well-rounded package of luxury, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
What Do the Reviews Say?
When it comes to evaluating a vehicle’s performance and overall quality, it’s essential to consider multiple sources to get a comprehensive understanding.
In this section, I’ll examine contrasting reviews from two reputable automotive publications, Edmunds and Car and Driver, to shed light on the Acura ILX’s strengths and weaknesses.
Edmunds, known for its comprehensive analysis, expressed disappointment with the Acura ILX’s engine performance.
According to their review, “The Acura ILX feels like a car stuck in time. It looks fairly stylish and in line with Acura’s other products, but the interior, powertrain, and technology features are dated and not up to the standard set by the segment leaders.” – Source: Edmunds.com
Car and Driver, another trusted source, also highlighted the drawbacks of the ILX. Their review mentioned concerns regarding cabin design and technology.
They stated, “At first glance, the 2022 Acura ILX looks like a luxury sedan bargain… look closer though and you’ll notice that the smallest Acura sedan is merely a reskinned previous-generation Honda Civic with a less desirable standard features list.” – Source: Caranddriver.com
Furthermore, Car and Driver notes “Its infotainment is woefully out of date, and it lacks the sporty driving dynamics we expect in this class.” – Source: Caranddriver.com
While this critique draws attention to the outdated technology, the less-than-ideal user experience of the infotainment system, and woeful performance, it is not all bad.
Both Edmunds and Car and Driver agree on certain positive aspects of the Acura ILX.
They both highlight that the ILX’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine offers fuel efficiency. Additionally, reviewers from both publications praise the ILX for its smooth and agreeable ride quality.
These shared observations indicate that the Acura ILX delivers good fuel economy and a comfortable driving experience.
What’s the Resale Value of Acura ILX?
When considering the purchase of a vehicle, it’s important to evaluate not only its initial cost but also its long-term value.
Resale value, in particular, plays a significant role in determining the overall ownership experience and potential return on investment.
To assess the resale value of the Acura ILX, we can refer to data from industry experts such as Car Edge.
According to the latest available data, the Acura ILX demonstrates solid resale value compared to its competitors in the compact luxury sedan segment.
The table below presents estimated resale values for different model years of the Acura ILX:
Years Old | Resale Value | Mileage |
1 | $31,109 | 12,000 |
2 | $30,244 | 24,000 |
3 | $28,485 | 36,000 |
4 | $24,227 | 48,000 |
5 | $20,968 | 60,000 |
6 | $18,574 | 72,000 |
7 | $17,960 | 84,000 |
8 | $15,088 | 96,000 |
9 | $14,561 | 108,000 |
10 | $13,469 | 120,000 |
Please also take a look at our article about the best and worst years for the Acura ILX.
From looking at the table we can see that the ILX shows a relatively strong initial resale value, as evidenced by the higher dollar amounts in the first few years.
This indicates that the ILX holds its value well in the early stages of ownership, making it an attractive option for those looking for a vehicle with better initial resale potential.
Overall, the provided resale value statistics suggest that the Acura ILX offers a favorable resale value compared to some of its competitors in the market.
This can be appealing to potential buyers as it indicates a potentially better return on investment and reduced financial loss when it comes time to sell or trade in the vehicle.
Check problems for all Acura models here.
Sources
Edmunds: Acura ILX Consumer Reviews
Quote Sources:
https://www.edmunds.com/acura/ilx/
https://www.caranddriver.com/acura/ilx
ⓘ The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.