Acura is recalling 17,334 units of its 2025 RDX compact SUV due to a software issue that could cause a sudden and unexpected loss of power steering. According to a recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the defect could increase the effort required to steer the vehicle, potentially making it harder to control.
The automaker has developed a fix and will be notifying affected owners to bring their vehicles to a dealership for a free software update. Here is what owners of the 2025 Acura RDX need to know.
The Problem: What RDX Owners Need to Know
The issue lies within the software that controls the RDX's electronic power steering (EPS) system. Due to an improper calibration, the system can incorrectly determine there is a fault and enter a «fail-safe mode.»
When this happens, the power steering assistance is disabled. While the driver can still steer the vehicle manually, it will require a significantly greater amount of physical effort, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers. This sudden change could surprise a driver and increase the risk of a crash.
Cause of the Recall and Affected Vehicles
The recall is specific to one model and model year:
The root cause of the problem has been traced back to the software development process. According to the NHTSA documents, the faulty calibration was inadvertently created when engineers were updating the power steering software to comply with California's stop-start engine requirements.
Honda, Acura's parent company, launched an investigation after receiving a customer complaint in October 2024. The investigation found 84 warranty claims related to the issue. Fortunately, no injuries or deaths have been reported as a result of this defect.
The Solution: A Free Software Update
Acura has already developed a remedy to correct the software flaw. The recall process will be straightforward:
- Acura will send official notification letters by mail to the owners of all affected 2025 RDX models.
- Owners will be instructed to schedule a service appointment with an authorized Acura dealership.
- A technician at the dealership will reprogram the electronic power steering system with the new, corrected software.
This recall service will be performed completely free of charge to the customer.
Owners of a 2025 Acura RDX should be on the lookout for the official recall notice in the mail and contact their local dealer to schedule the complimentary repair once notified.
