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2017 RDX Engine Stalling at Low Speeds

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:40 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Acura RDX 3.5L V6 FWD

Hi all,

My 2017 Acura RDX with the 3.5L V6 has started stalling sporadically, usually when I'm coming to a stop or driving at very low speeds, like in a parking lot. It just cuts out without warning, and then I have to put it in park and restart it. It always restarts fine, but it's incredibly unnerving, especially in traffic.

There's no check engine light on, which makes it even more confusing. It happens maybe once or twice a week now. I've got about 80,000 miles on it and have kept up with regular maintenance.

Has anyone experienced this with their RDX? What could be causing this kind of intermittent stalling without any dashboard warnings? Any suggestions on what I should look into?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:40 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Intermittent stalling at low speeds without a check engine light can be tricky to diagnose, but there are several common culprits for your 2017 Acura RDX. Here's a guide to understanding and addressing the issue:

Potential Causes:

  1. Fuel Delivery Issues: A weak fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or failing fuel pressure regulator can cause the engine to starve for fuel, especially under varying load conditions.
  2. Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve / Throttle Body: A dirty or failing IAC valve (if applicable) or a carbon-fouled throttle body can disrupt the engine's ability to maintain a stable idle, leading to stalling.
  3. Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) / Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): A failing CKP or CMP sensor can send erratic signals to the engine control unit (ECU), causing misfires or sudden engine shutdown. These often don't immediately trigger a CEL.
  4. Vacuum Leaks: Leaks in the intake system can lead to unmetered air entering the engine, causing an unstable idle and potential stalling.

Diagnostics & What to Do:

  1. Check Air Filter and Throttle Body: Visually inspect your air filter and, if comfortable, carefully clean the throttle body plate and bore with a specialized cleaner.
  2. Professional Diagnostic Scan: Even without a CEL, a professional scan tool can often reveal pending codes, freeze-frame data from when the stall occurred, or specific sensor readings that are out of spec. Look for codes related to fuel trim (P0171, P0174) or misfires (P0300-P0306).
  3. Fuel Pressure Test: A mechanic can perform a fuel pressure test to ensure the fuel pump and regulator are functioning correctly.

When to See a Shop:

  • Promptly if the stalling becomes more frequent or occurs at higher speeds. This can be a safety hazard.
  • If basic checks don't reveal an obvious cause, or if you're not comfortable performing them yourself, take your RDX to a trusted mechanic. They have the tools to properly diagnose fuel system, sensor, and vacuum issues. A failing CKP sensor, for example, can be difficult to pinpoint without specialized equipment.
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