RLX Front Suspension Rattle and Clunk

Posted on
Author
Scott McCracken
Tagged
#suspension #tsb
An underside view of an RLX suspension

Acura released TSB 14-040 in August 2015. The TSB suggests the clunking is due to a problem in the internal valve of the front damper.

Dampers are also known as shock absorbers and their primary objective is to dampen unwanted motion and vibrations in the suspension by taking the kinetic energy (shaking) and turning it into heat that is dissipated through hydraulic fluid.

The TSB suggests replacing both front spring / damper assemblies with new strut noise kits (part number 0651 0-TY2-305). Strut replacements should always be followed by a re-alignment.

Vehicles covered ∞

This should be covered under the standard warranty for the entire VIN-range of the 2014-15 RLX, excluding the RLX Sport Hybrid.

Does Acura's damper design just rattle naturally? ∞

Despite getting the damper assemblies replaced under warranty, some owners continue to have problems with rattling.

Took the car in for recall on seat belts and to report front end noise at low speed. They looked at it and said everything was tight. They asked me to go for a ride with a tech driving and he immediately said that's no good. So they called me back and said there is a tech bulletin on this and we will replace the front struts. They had my car for 15 days, got it back, same problem exists, going back as soon as I have time. Their flagship 60,000 dollar car, not happy at all, don't buy this car.

Generations Where This Problem Has Been Reported

This problem has popped up in the following Acura generations.

Most years within a generation share the same parts and manufacturing process. You can also expect them to share the same problems. So while it may not be a problem in every year yet, it's worth looking out for.

OK, Now What?

Maybe you've experienced this problem. Maybe you're concerned you will soon. Whatever the reason, here's a handful of things you can do to make sure it gets the attention it deserves.

  1. File Your Complaint

    CarComplaints.com is a free site dedicated to uncovering problem trends and informing owners about potential issues with their cars. Major class action law firms use this data when researching cases.

    Add a Complaint

  2. Notify CAS

    The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) is a pro-consumer organization that researches auto safety issues & often compels the US government to do the right thing through lobbying & lawsuits.

    Notify The CAS

  3. Report a Safety Concern

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the US agency with the authority to conduct vehicle defect investigations & force recalls. Their focus is on safety-related issues.

    Report to NHTSA