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Rough Idle and Misfire on 2020 RDX - Time for Spark Plugs?

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James R. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:00 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Acura RDX Advance

Hi Acura fam,

My 2020 Acura RDX Advance with about 65,000 miles has started acting up. I'm experiencing a rough idle, especially when cold, and I've noticed a slight hesitation during acceleration. The check engine light came on briefly and then went off, but I managed to pull a pending code P0301 (Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected) with my OBD scanner.

Could this be a sign that it's time to replace the spark plugs? I know the maintenance schedule suggests around 100k miles, but with the misfire, I'm wondering if they've worn out prematurely. What kind of plugs should I get, and is this a DIY job for someone with moderate mechanical skills?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:00 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like your 2020 Acura RDX Advance is indeed showing classic symptoms of spark plug issues, even if it's a bit earlier than the typical 100,000-mile interval. A P0301 code strongly points to a misfire in Cylinder 1, and worn spark plugs are a common culprit.

  1. Spark Plug Recommendation: For your 2020 RDX, you should use NGK Iridium IX or Denso Iridium Long Life spark plugs, which are typically OEM or equivalent. Always verify the specific part number for your vehicle's engine (K20C4). Using the correct heat range and gap is crucial.
  2. DIY Feasibility: Replacing spark plugs on the K20C4 engine in the RDX is generally considered a moderate DIY job. You'll need a spark plug socket (usually 14mm thin-wall), a torque wrench, extensions, and a universal joint. Access to the plugs is relatively straightforward once the engine cover is removed.
  3. Procedure Overview:
    • Ensure the engine is cool before starting.
    • Remove the engine cover.
    • Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ignition coils.
    • Remove the bolts holding the ignition coils in place and carefully pull out the coils.
    • Use your spark plug socket and extension to remove the old plugs. Inspect them for signs of wear, oil fouling, or carbon buildup.
    • Install the new plugs, ensuring they are hand-tightened first to avoid cross-threading. Then, torque them to the manufacturer's specification (typically around 13 lb-ft or 16 Nm for these engines).
    • Reinstall the ignition coils and reconnect the electrical connectors.
    • Clear the P0301 code with your OBD scanner.

Causes of Premature Wear: While 100k is the general interval, factors like aggressive driving, frequent short trips, or poor fuel quality can accelerate spark plug wear. A misfire can also be caused by a faulty ignition coil, fuel injector, or low compression, but plugs are the easiest and most common first check.

When to See a Shop: If replacing the spark plugs doesn't resolve the P0301 code or the rough idle, or if you're uncomfortable performing the replacement yourself, it's time to take your RDX to an Acura dealership or a trusted independent mechanic. They can perform further diagnostics, such as checking ignition coils, fuel injectors, or compression, to pinpoint the exact cause of the misfire.

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