2016 Acura RLX HybridRecalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 2 owner complaints for the 2016 Acura RLX Hybrid. Most complaints involve engine (1) and traction control system (1). The EPA rates it 30 mpg combined.
Safety recalls
Owner complaints by component
- Engine1
- Traction control system1
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
What owners report most
Engine
“2016 RLX SH-AWD (bought new in 2017 - now with 62K on the odometer) developed a knocking noise on [XXX] 2024. I scheduled service with Buerkle Acura (Brooklyn Park, MN) and drove it very little until the appointment on Wednesday, [XXX], 2024. I was hoping it was noisy valves, or a broken exhaust hanger, but was informed by the technician last night that there are metal shavings in the oil pan and that connecting rod bearing #5 is spun. All maintenance has been performed at this dealership, which is where I bought the car brand new. The engine in this vehicle is the J35Y4 which is NOT part of the NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-751. Please look into this matter, as I have seen on the Acura forum [XXX] ) that another Acura RLX owner (2018 model) has experienced a connecting rod bearing failure as well. My vehicle is covered by an extended warranty from Acura, so I will be getting a new short block. The heads were pressure tested and milled and will be reinstalled. All labor and parts are covered by the extended warranty by Acura, so I have no complaints with Acura (so far).”
Traction control system
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 ACURA RLX. WHEN MAKING A TURN, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE LOST TRACTION INTERMITTENTLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO COLUMBIA ACURA INC (10979 MONTGOMERY RD, CINCINNATI, OH 45249, (513) 530-0100) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR SPECIFICS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000.”
Engines, transmissions & drive
- EPA class
- Midsize Cars
- Engines
- 3.5L 6-cyl hybrid
- Transmissions
- Automatic (AM7)
- Drive
- All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Premium Gasoline
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
EPA fuel economy by version
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RLX Hybrid Auto (AM7), 6 cyl, 3.5 L · All-Wheel Drive | 28 | 31 | 30 | $2,500 | 302 |
- 30mpg comb.
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
Maintenance basics
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
2016 RLX Hybrid questions
How many recalls does the 2016 Acura RLX Hybrid have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Nov 12, 2026.
What are the most common 2016 Acura RLX Hybrid problems?
Owners filed 2 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are engine (1), traction control system (1). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2016 Acura RLX Hybrid get?
The EPA rates the 2016 Acura RLX Hybrid at 30 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (1 version rated).