Acura RDX III (2019+): How to Remove the Bumpers

Acura RDX third generation (2019 – present)

Production Years and Facelift:

• Premiere and Start of Sales: 2019 model year (introduced in 2018).
• Facelift: Implemented in 2022 for the 2023 model year. Changes included a new radiator grille, updated front and rear lighting, revised bumpers, new wheel designs, and expanded standard equipment (in particular, the AcuraWatch safety suite became standard for all versions).

Technical Specifications (at the 2019 debut):

• Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged DOHC i-VTEC (K20C1), 272 hp at 6500 rpm, 380 Nm of torque at 1600-4500 rpm.
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control and paddle shifters.
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or torque-vectoring all-wheel drive (SH-AWD®).
• Suspension: Independent, front - MacPherson struts, rear - multi-link.
• Platform: Upgraded global Honda Architecture platform.

Bumper Plastic Marking: >PP-TD20<

Mounting points may vary depending on the year of manufacture.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Open the hood.
2. Under the hood, remove the cover over the radiator grille (held by eight clips).
3. Under the cover, pull out four push-pin clips (inserted from top to bottom).
4. Along the perimeter of the lower part of the bumper, pull out six push-pin clips and unscrew nine screws (note that screws and clips are of different sizes).
5. Turn the front wheels to the side.
6. In the wheel arches, pull out three push-pin clips on each side that secure the front part of the fender liners.
7. Unscrew one screw on each side that secures the sides of the bumper to the fenders.
8. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners of the bumper towards you).
9. Release the clips under the headlights.
10. Release the retainers on the corners of the radiator grille (near the headlights).
11. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward (mind the wiring).
12. Disconnect the electrical connectors on the right side.

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid.
2. Near the rear taillights, remove two covers (held by clips, pry from the bottom with a flathead screwdriver).
3. Unscrew four screws in the trunk opening.
4. In the lower part of the bumper, pull out two push-pin clips and unscrew two screws.
5. In the wheel arches, unscrew two screws on each side that secure the fender liners.
6. Unscrew one screw on each side that secures the corners of the bumper to the fenders.
7. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners of the bumper towards you).
8. Release the clips under the rear taillights.
9. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward (mind the wiring).
10. Disconnect the electrical connectors (if present).
11. The bumper is removed. Installation is performed in the reverse order.

Interesting Facts About the Third-Generation Acura RDX:

• Heart from Type R: The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is an adapted version of the famous power unit from the Honda Civic Type R hatchback for the SUV. It uses a similar design, including pistons with cooling channels.
• Unique Transmission: The 10-speed automatic transmission, co-developed by Honda and Ford, was one of the first in its class at launch. It can skip several gears for quick acceleration or, conversely, engine braking.
• Driver Focus: Despite being in the premium SUV segment, engineers emphasized dynamics. The SH-AWD® system can send up to 70% of torque to the rear axle and up to 100% to any rear wheel, improving cornering.
• Interface Evolution: Initially, the model featured a controversial dual touchscreen control system. After the 2023 facelift, the upper screen was enlarged to 11.3 inches, and the lower one was replaced with a more user-friendly and responsive touchpad unit.

Strengths:

• Vibrant Performance: One of the fastest and most engaging to drive cars in the compact premium SUV class.
• Excellent All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®): Sets a high standard for competitors in terms of precision and speed of response.
• Spacious and High-Quality Interior: Roomy rear seats and a large trunk (volume from 835 liters).
• Reliability: Based on proven Honda components predicts high durability and relatively low cost of ownership.
• Rich Standard Equipment: After the facelift, it includes a leather interior, a premium audio system, a panoramic roof, and a full suite of active safety features.

Weaknesses:

• Somewhat Firm Ride: In pursuit of handling, engineers sacrificed some ride comfort. The ride can be overly harsh on uneven roads, especially on versions with large-diameter wheels.
• Cabin Noise: Road and wind noise levels are higher than those of key competitors (e.g., BMW X3, Lexus NX).
• Controversial Interface: Even after the update, the dual-screen system is less intuitive than the best solutions from German or Korean manufacturers.
• Fuel Consumption: With aggressive driving, real-world fuel consumption significantly exceeds the claimed figures, which is typical for a powerful turbo engine.

Conclusion: The Acura RDX III is a deliberate choice for someone who, in the comfortable SUV class, is looking primarily for driving pleasure, technological mechanics, and individuality, while accepting some compromises in ride smoothness and sound insulation. After the 2023 facelift, the model also became more technologically advanced and attractive in terms of standard equipment.