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Whining Noise from Rear of 2022 RDX A-Spec SH-AWD

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:32 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec SH-AWD

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec with SH-AWD, and I've started noticing a distinct whining noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. It's most prominent when I'm accelerating lightly, especially at highway speeds (around 50-70 mph), but I can sometimes hear it at lower speeds too.

The noise isn't super loud, but it's definitely noticeable and wasn't there before. It sounds like a high-pitched whine or hum. It doesn't seem to change with braking or turning, just with acceleration.

My RDX has around 30,000 miles on it. Is this a common issue with the SH-AWD system on these RDX models? Any ideas what it could be or what I should tell the dealer when I take it in?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 26, 3:32 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A whining noise from the rear of an Acura RDX with SH-AWD, especially under light acceleration, is a known concern for some owners. This symptom often points towards the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) rear differential.

  1. SH-AWD Fluid Condition: The most common cause for this type of noise is worn-out or contaminated SH-AWD fluid. The rear differential on SH-AWD models uses a specific fluid (Acura DPSF - Dual Pump System Fluid) that needs regular replacement, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and the maintenance minder system. If the fluid hasn't been changed recently, or if it's past its service interval, it's highly recommended.
  2. Fluid Change Procedure: A proper SH-AWD fluid change involves draining and refilling the differential with the correct fluid. Sometimes, a single drain and fill might not be enough to resolve the noise if the fluid is very old or contaminated; multiple drain-and-fill cycles might be recommended by a technician.
  3. Internal Differential Wear: If a fluid change doesn't resolve the issue, it could indicate internal wear within the rear differential components, such as bearings or gears. This is less common at 30,000 miles but can happen if the fluid was neglected or if there was a manufacturing defect.

Common Causes:

  • Degraded or incorrect SH-AWD fluid.
  • Wear in the rear differential's internal components (bearings, clutch packs).

When to See a Shop: Given your RDX is a 2022 model with 30,000 miles, it's still relatively new, and this issue should ideally be covered under your powertrain warranty. You should schedule an appointment with an Acura dealership immediately. Explain the specific symptoms (whine under light acceleration, highway speeds). They will:

  • Check the SH-AWD fluid level and condition.
  • Perform a fluid change if necessary.
  • Diagnose the rear differential for any internal wear or damage. They have specialized tools and knowledge to identify if the differential needs repair or replacement. There are typically no direct OBD-II codes for differential noise, but a skilled technician can diagnose it through listening tests and inspection.
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