2016 Acura ILX: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Major refresh adds a standard 201-hp 2.4L and a slick 8-speed dual-clutch automatic; complaints fall sharply, a reliable, good-value used luxury compact with only first-year DCT and a few isolated brake reports. 2 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2016 Acura ILX ranged from $27,900 to $34,890 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
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Major refresh adds a standard 201-hp 2.4L and a slick 8-speed dual-clutch automatic; complaints fall sharply, a reliable, good-value used luxury compact with only first-year DCT and a few isolated brake reports.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=ilx&mod…
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/acura/ilx
- thecarconnection.comhttps://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/acura_ilx
Known issues
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Defective Takata passenger-frontal airbag inflators that can rupture and spray metal fragments in a crash, subject to the industry-wide Takata recall, the most-reported safety concern on these early ILX years.
commonly reported · 61 NHTSA complaints · other
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Scattered first-generation electrical and dual-screen infotainment glitches (Bluetooth pairing, audio, display) reported on the early cars.
occasional · 10 NHTSA complaints · electrical
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (2)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=ilx&mod…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=acura&model=ilx&mod…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Strong fuel economy for a premium-badge sedan (low-30s mpg combined).
- Standard 201-hp 2.4L i-VTEC four paired with a quick, well-sorted 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, one of the better DCTs, smooth in normal driving.
- Excellent reliability and low running costs from Honda mechanicals, RepairPal rates it near the top of the luxury-compact class.
- AcuraWatch driver-assist safety suite available, then standard from 2019.
- Affordable entry into luxury-brand ownership with strong resale value.
Cons
- Light steering and understeer-prone handling, secure but not engaging to drive.
- Interior materials and a dated dual-screen infotainment feel closer to the Civic it is based on than to true luxury rivals.
- Tight, narrow rear seat, difficult for three adults or taller passengers.
- No Apple CarPlay / Android Auto on earlier refresh cars (added for 2018).
- The 8-speed dual-clutch can feel hesitant or jerky at low speeds and in stop-and-go traffic.
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $27,900 | discontinued | — | — |
| AcuraWatch Plus | $29,200 | discontinued | — | — |
| Premium | $29,900 | discontinued | — | — |
| Premium A-Spec | $31,890 | discontinued | — | — |
| Technology Plus | $32,900 | discontinued | — | — |
| Technology Plus A-Spec | $34,890 | discontinued | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2016-acura-ilx-price
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $400–450/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~200k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (4)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/acura/ilx
- insurance.comhttps://www.insurance.com/vehicles/acura-insurance/acura-ilx-car-insurance
- motorbiscuit.comhttps://www.motorbiscuit.com/how-many-miles-will-an-acura-ilx-last/
- motorbiscuit.comhttps://www.motorbiscuit.com/acura-ilx-need-premium-gas/
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2016 Acura ILX have?
Documented issue patterns include: Defective Takata passenger-frontal airbag inflators that can rupture and spray metal fragments in a crash, subject to the industry-wide Takata recall, the most-reported safety concern on these early ILX years; Scattered first-generation electrical and dual-screen infotainment glitches (Bluetooth pairing, audio, display) reported on the early cars. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2016 Acura ILX reliable?
Major refresh adds a standard 201-hp 2.4L and a slick 8-speed dual-clutch automatic; complaints fall sharply, a reliable, good-value used luxury compact with only first-year DCT and a few isolated brake reports.
How much did the 2016 Acura ILX cost new?
Between $27,900 and $34,890 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Acura ILX expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $400–450/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.