Acura recalls 7,387 RLX saloons in US for rear suspension bolt fault
Owners of 2014 Acura RLX models in the US are being asked to return their cars to dealers after the discovery of improperly tightened rear suspension bolts that could increase crash risk.
Acura has announced a recall of 7,387 RLX saloons from the 2014 model year in the United States after identifying a problem with the rear suspension bolts. The company said the bolts may not have been tightened to specification during assembly, leading to a risk they could loosen over time. This issue has led to a formal recall campaign, as confirmed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall is limited to the 2014 RLX and does not affect any other Acura models or later production years.
Recall Roundup: 2014 Acura RLX Suspension Problems
Details of the 2014 Acura RLX Recall
Nature of the Suspension Problem
The problem centres on up to eight bolts that secure several rear suspension components on the RLX. If these bolts were not properly tightened at the factory, they could gradually loosen with use. Should a bolt work loose or fall out, it may allow a portion of the rear suspension to move out of alignment. This misalignment can compromise the vehicle’s handling and stability, increasing the likelihood of a crash, particularly in demanding driving situations or during emergency manoeuvres.
Acura and the NHTSA have both stated that, at the time of the recall announcement, there have been no reports of crashes or injuries related to this defect. However, the potential consequences of a loose suspension bolt make the recall a significant safety concern. Owners are advised to take the recall seriously and arrange for inspection and repair as soon as possible.
Recall Process and Owner Instructions
Acura will notify affected owners by mail. The recall campaign is scheduled to begin in January, and owners will be asked to bring their RLX saloons to an authorised Acura dealership. There, technicians will inspect the torque of all relevant rear suspension bolts. Any bolt found to be loose, damaged, or improperly fitted will be replaced. All work will be performed at no cost to the owner, and the inspection itself is also free of charge. This approach ensures that even vehicles not showing symptoms are checked for the potential defect.
Owners seeking more information or wishing to check if their vehicle is included in the recall can contact Acura’s customer service at 1-800-382-2238 or the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236. Acura’s recall campaign currently applies only to vehicles in the US, with no similar action announced for other regions at this time.
Background on the Acura RLX and Suspension Bolt Recalls
The 2014 RLX is Acura’s flagship saloon, positioned above the TL and TSX in the brand’s US line-up. As a premium model, the RLX is equipped with advanced safety and comfort features, making the integrity of its suspension system especially important for owners and the brand’s reputation.
Suspension bolt recalls are not unique to Acura. Other manufacturers have faced similar issues in recent years. For example, Toyota recalled several thousand Camry and Avalon saloons due to concerns with rear suspension bolts that could loosen over time. These cases highlight industry-wide challenges in ensuring that critical fasteners are properly torqued and secured during assembly. Such recalls serve as reminders of the ongoing need for vigilance in manufacturing processes to prevent safety-related defects from reaching customers.
Consequences and Next Steps for Owners
While there have been no reported injuries or accidents linked to the RLX suspension bolt issue, the risk of a crash due to compromised suspension alignment is significant enough to warrant prompt action. Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to respond quickly to recall notifications and schedule an appointment with their local dealership. Addressing the issue early can help prevent potential accidents and maintain the safety and performance of the vehicle.
For those considering the purchase of a used 2014 Acura RLX, it is advisable to check that the recall repair has been completed. This can be verified through Acura dealerships or by contacting the NHTSA using the vehicle’s identification number (VIN). Keeping up with recall repairs is an important part of responsible vehicle ownership and helps ensure that all safety-related defects are addressed in a timely manner.
Summary of Key Contacts and Information
- Acura Customer Service: 1-800-382-2238
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236
- Recall affects only 2014 Acura RLX saloons in the US
- Owners will receive official notification by mail
- Repairs and inspections are free of charge at authorised Acura dealerships
