What 50 owners told NHTSA about the 2024 Acura Zdx

The braking system does not engage properly and is worse in the rain. When adaptive cruise control is on, the car does not slow down at every instance when there is a car in front slowing down. When the car finally realizes there's an object/car in front it then slips before engaging in traction control, which seems to make the car actually slide forward rather than attempting to stop immediately.

NHTSA ODI 11748979

My 2024 Acura ZDX has an intermittent braking-related malfunction that causes the vehicle to jerk unexpectedly while slowing or stopping. The problem has occurred in stop-and-go traffic, on hills, and while reversing. The exact cause is UNKNOWN. This creates a serious safety risk because the vehicle does not always respond smoothly or predictably when braking. In traffic, the sudden jerking could cause a rear-end collision or make it difficult to maintain a safe stopping distance. On hills or while reversing, the unpredictable movement could cause the vehicle to strike another vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, child, or object. The vehicle has also experienced unusually rapid battery depletion, raising concern that it could become disabled unexpectedly in traffic, severe weather, or an unsafe location. Any relationship between the battery issue and the braking problem is UNKNOWN. The vehicle has been taken to authorized Acura dealerships multiple times, including Acura of Westchester and Curry Acura. The condition was reported repeatedly. The dealers stated they could not duplicate it, even after an extended road test of more than 300 miles. No permanent diagnosis or repair was provided, and the problem remains unresolved. Acura/American Honda was notified and opened a corporate case. There were no consistent warning lights or dashboard messages before the incidents. Because the malfunction is intermittent and may occur without warning, I cannot predict when the vehicle will jerk or fail to stop smoothly. No crash or injury has occurred, but I believe this defect presents an unreasonable risk of collision and pedestrian injury. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

NHTSA ODI 11742683

My 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec is impacted by the NHTSA Campaign Number 26V112000 (blank instrument panel/rearview camera). I took the vehicle to the dealership for the recall software update. The service invoice explicitly states: 'software update due performed software update on vehicle A11.' However, the update did not actually apply. The A11 module update is supposed to transition the infotainment system from Android 12 to Android 14 to resolve the safety issue. My vehicle is still stuck on Android 12, and Acura has incorrectly advised me that my trim does not get the update. The dealership's diagnostic tools are falsely reporting that the A11 safety recall update was successfully completed when it has not been, leaving my vehicle's camera and instrument panel vulnerable to failure. I have attached the service invoice as proof of the failed repair attempt. I have contacted Acura Customer Relations multiple times and advised that the recall is not complete. They have marked the recall update as complete.

NHTSA ODI 11741130

On [XXX] at approximately 700 miles on a 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec AWD (VIN [XXX] ), the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) failed to engage during a collision event. The system did not provide forward collision warning and did not initiate automatic emergency braking before impact. The collision resulted in minor damage to my vehicle. There were no injuries. CMBS is a manufacturer-installed automatic emergency braking system designed and marketed as a primary collision-avoidance safety feature; its failure to engage in an impending-impact scenario is a safety-critical defect. This CMBS failure is one of multiple safety system defects on this vehicle. Beginning at approximately 200 miles, the rear Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) developed progressive failures, including: Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Park Assist intermittently non-functional Blind Spot Monitoring failures on both left and right sides (DTCs U197A-00 confirmed by independent pre-repair diagnostic scan) A stress-cracked rear parking sensor housing A factory wiring harness routed incorrectly from the vehicle side, causing mechanical tension on the rear parking sensor connector and mounting bracket (confirmed in writing by the Acura dealer service manager on Repair Order [XXX][ dated February 25, 2026) American Honda Motor Co. (AHM) refused to honor the factory warranty, asserting without supporting forensic evidence that the defects were caused by an unspecified "outside influence" or "third-party repairs." I pursued and won binding consumer arbitration through the National Center for Dispute Settlement (NCDS Case [XXX]). On March 30, 2026, the arbitrator ruled that AHM had not met its warranty obligations and that no proof of any outside influence had been offered. The arbitrator ordered AHM to perform warranty repair of all the affected safety systems plus reimbursement of a diagnostic fee. AHM has not complied with the binding arbitration award. As of INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11740970

This is the most recent time that the automatic brake on my car kicked in for no reason. It has happened several times and I have made Acura aware of it, but this is the first time it has almost caused an accident because the car behind me almost rear-ended me. A Similar incident happened last year and I brought it in and they did nothing since they could not replicate it. I let the dealership know that there is a recall associated with this and they said that my VIN number does not match any recalls. I made it very clear to them that it is a safety issue and that it needs to be looked into in more depth in the only response they gave me was that sometimes the automatic brakes can be triggered by items that look like bicycles or people. In this case, there was a car in front of me and a car behind me, neither of which look like a bicycle or a person. It happened so quickly and so suddenly that I am not sure if any lights came on. The Acura client relations team so far has not been able to get a hold of a manager at the dealership and this remains unresolved.

NHTSA ODI 11738603

The contact owns a 2024 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 10 MPH and coming to a stop, the ABS activated unexpectedly and released brake pressure in the service brake system. The contact stated that the vehicle unexpectedly came to a complete stop. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V614000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10,080.

NHTSA ODI 11734503

Was trying to unlock the vehicle but it wouldn’t unlock the doors with the remote. Had to crawl through the trunk to access the car. Got a “door latch system service” maintenance error on the screen after the dealership had “fixed” it. This is a huge safety concern as this car is electric and if it does not unlock from the inside, can cause the passengers to be stuck in the car.

NHTSA ODI 11721598

Incident Date: [XXX] Location: Miami, FL, USA What happened: On [XXX], in Miami, Florida, I brought my 2024 Acura ZDX to a complete stop on a flat surface, applied the brake, and then selected Park (the “P” indicator was illuminated on the instrument panel). After selecting Park, I opened the driver’s door and exited the vehicle. While I was outside the vehicle and no one was in the driver’s seat, the vehicle moved backward on its own and struck another car. I did not press Reverse or command any additional gear change after selecting Park. The vehicle had been fully stopped before Park was selected. No injuries occurred, but property damage resulted. This incident created a significant safety concern because the vehicle moved while unattended after Park was selected. I am reporting this event for safety documentation and investigation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11721230

My husband was driving on a small road and we were going about 25mph when he tapped the brakes the car jumped forward and the brakes did not catch. We lunged forward almost crashing into another car. No warning lights appeared. Driving conditions were normal, dry roads. Brought it into the dealership again for the same issue that we brought it in for less than 30 days ago.

NHTSA ODI 11720244

On Sunday, February 15th at approximately 9:00 AM EST, I took my vehicle to Wash Co Car Wash (1020 Dolsontown Road, Middletown, NY 10940). This was the first and only time I have taken this vehicle through a car wash since beginning my lease in July 2025. It is important to note that this specific car wash is one for which my local Acura dealership provides service coupons during routine maintenance visits. As a loyal Acura customer, this reasonably implied that the facility is appropriate and safe for Acura vehicles. While inside the automatic wash tunnel, the roof-mounted shark-fin antenna assembly detached completely. There were no prior issues, no visible damage, and no warning signs before entering the wash. The following day, February 16th, I brought the vehicle to my local Acura dealership for inspection. After diagnostics, I was presented with an estimated $1,700 repair cost. This incident is particularly concerning because it is not the first issue I have experienced with this vehicle. Since beginning my lease in July, I have brought this ZDX to the dealership for service on three separate occasions to address different concerns. For a vehicle that is less than a year into its lease term, this pattern of service visits raises legitimate concerns about quality, durability, and reliability. Given the severity of the cost and the nature of the failure, I contacted Acura Client Relations in an effort to resolve the matter directly and professionally. After more than 48 hours, I was assigned a case manager named Lisette, who declined to provide her last name when asked. During our conversation, I found her demeanor dismissive and unwilling to meaningfully investigate the concern. The resolution I was given was that there is “no defect” and that the failure was effectively my fault.

NHTSA ODI 11719148

2024 Acura ZDX Collision Mitigation Brake System will activate without warning engaging the parking brake. Has occurred intermittently while driving forward or in reverse. Dealership claims there are no codes and has advised that both front and rear systems should be disabled. Manufacturer states there are no software updates to address this issue. Failure milage approx. 100.

NHTSA ODI 11718712

I was driving my 2024 Acura ZDX at approximately 50 mph on a rainy day and activated the rear windshield wiper. Upon activation, the rear wiper assembly detached from the vehicle and flew off while the vehicle was in motion. Fortunately, there were no nearby vehicles at the time; however, the detached wiper could have struck another vehicle or created a road hazard. The failure also resulted in loss of rear visibility during inclement weather. I contacted the authorized Acura dealer immediately. The dealer declined to inspect the vehicle or perform a warranty repair, stating that they could not proceed because the detached part could not be produced. The part was lost as a direct result of the failure. I provided photographs showing the location on the vehicle from which the wiper detached. The incident occurred less than six months after purchase, with fewer than 2,000 miles on the vehicle. I then contacted Acura corporate support. After an extended review period, Acura offered only a partial “courtesy” discount rather than a warranty repair for what appears to be a safety-related defect. I am reporting this incident due to the risk of detached exterior components becoming road debris and the associated safety hazard to other motorists.

NHTSA ODI 11718244

1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The failed component is the drive motor inverter cooling system, specifically the drive motor inverter cooler (OEM part number 87821986). This component is responsible for regulating temperature within the high-voltage electric drive system. The vehicle is currently at the dealership with the repair order open, and the part has not yet been replaced due to national backorder status. The vehicle and failed component are available for inspection upon request. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The failure triggered a “High Voltage System Warning” message. This warning indicates a malfunction within the electric propulsion system, which controls vehicle movement and power delivery. A malfunction in the inverter cooling system can lead to: Loss of propulsion Sudden power reduction Vehicle shutdown while driving Potential overheating of high-voltage components Because this is a $75,000 electric performance vehicle with only approximately 5,100 miles and four months of ownership, a critical high-voltage system failure creates a serious safety concern. I do not feel the vehicle is safe to operate, and I have refused to drive it under these conditions. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. The issue was diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized Acura dealership service department on January 29, 2026. The dealership determined that the drive motor inverter cooler requires replacement. The repair order remains open because the required OEM part is on national backorder with no confirmed ETA. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle has been inspected by the authorized Acura dealership service department. The manufacturer, American Honda/Acura, has been notified through a formal customer relations

NHTSA ODI 11718350

I am submitting this complaint regarding a significant safety-related failure in my 2024 Acura ZDX that occurred immediately after a dealer-installed software update. After my vehicle received a software update performed by an authorized Acura dealership, the entire infotainment system became inoperable. I was subsequently informed that the update caused a complete failure of the unit and that full replacement of the infotainment module is required. As a result of this failure, the following systems are nonfunctional: Hands-free Bluetooth (unable to make or receive calls legally and safely while driving) Audio/radio system Navigation system Climate control interface (controls integrated into the display) Phone charging capability The loss of hands-free Bluetooth functionality presents a direct safety concern, as drivers are required in many states to use hands-free systems while operating a vehicle. Additionally, the inability to access navigation and certain vehicle settings increases driver distraction. The climate control integration within the infotainment display further compounds safety concerns. These systems were fully operational prior to the dealership performing the software update. A routine manufacturer-issued update should not result in total system failure requiring hardware replacement. I am concerned that this issue may represent a broader defect affecting other vehicles equipped with the same system. I request that this incident be reviewed for potential safety implications and possible investigation.

NHTSA ODI 11718043

Acura EV app does not sync. Not only for those who purchased the car used, but those who updated the app.

NHTSA ODI 11718055

I’m reaching out regarding a serious vehicle incident that occurred in September 2024 involving my 2024 Acura ZDX. The vehicle i am leasing, accelerated forward into our property under circumstances that remain unclear and crashed into our garage, tearing down approximately half of the structure. During the event, the vehicle struck my girlfriend, causing her to sustain significant injuries, including a fractured femur, fractured tailbone, and a T12 compression fracture. There are several concerns regarding potential failure of vehicle safety systems, including lack of automatic emergency braking activation and no emergency call initiation. The vehicle remains in my possession and has not been repaired. I would like to explore whether a mechanical defect, unintended acceleration issue, or safety system failure may have contributed to the incident. Please let me know if you are available to review this matter. I can provide photos, documentation, and access to the vehicle for inspection.

NHTSA ODI 11717407

I am filing this complaint due to a persistent and dangerous safety defect in my 2024 Acura ZDX. Since January 2025, the vehicle has suffered from recurring heating system failures. This has happened multiple times throughout the year, each time I have had this issue I have taken the vehicle to the dealership and have documented records that are verifiable. The issue most recently occured, on January 21, 2026, the heater failed and was blowing ice cold air, during a winter with 'Real Feel' temperatures of -25°F. The manufacturer has refused mechanical repairs (claiming it is a 'software issue') and has suggested I simply 'charge the car every time I stop' to generate heat. This is an inadequate technical remedy for a life-safety issue, especially as I transport three small children. The dealership is currently demanding the return of their loaner vehicle, which would leave my family stranded in dangerous, sub-zero conditions. My vehicle meets the statutory presumption of a Lemon under the New Vehicle Buyer Protection Act because it has been out of service for over 30 business days. Manufacturer: American Honda Motor Co. (Acura) Model: 2024 Acura ZDX (EV) Defect: Complete failure of the heat pump/HVAC system in sub-zero temperatures. Mediation Start Date: April 2025 (Exceeds 9 months without resolution), I was finally assigned a mediator in December 2025 only after sending emails to Acura executives. Current Status: Vehicle is currently out-of-service at the dealership, the dealership states they are unable to replicate the issue and that I need to return the loaner vehicle. 

NHTSA ODI 11714007

I am reporting a safety concern involving delayed brake engagement on my 2024 Acura ZDX RWD. During normal braking, the brakes do not respond immediately. The vehicle slips and launches forward several times before braking force applies, and the traction control system activates prior to adequate deceleration. It feels like the brakes aren't catching properly. This condition occurs consistently and repeatedly, including on dry pavement, and is worse on wet pavement. It is not intermittent and does not require hard or emergency braking to occur. The delayed braking response creates a loss of braking confidence and presents a safety risk, particularly in traffic or during routine stops. I am concerned this may involve the brake control system, regenerative braking transition, or stability/traction control integration.

NHTSA ODI 11711827

Acura TSB 25-033 details how dealerships or independent shops should update the infotainment unit (a11). When followed correctly, the update causes the infotainment unit to fail. This leaves the vehicle with no hands-free safety and GPS functions, in addition to no radio. Acura cannot replace the radio unit, rendering hands-free safety features useless.

NHTSA ODI 11710864

The contact owns a 2024 Acura ZDX. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds and driving over a bump or an object in the roadway, the brake pedal would depress to the floorboard. The contact stated that upon approaching an object once the brakes had failed, the Automatic Emergency Braking system would activate, and the ABS and traction control warning lights would illuminate on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer on several occasions for repairs, but the dealer failed to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided a case number. The contact had been working with the manufacturer through arbitration for a buyback of the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 15.

NHTSA ODI 11708910

The contact owns a 2024 Acura ZDX. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) activated the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) erroneously. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred more frequently while reversing and occurred intermittently while driving forward. The contact stated that his wife also owned the same model vehicle, which had experienced the same failure. The contact had taken his wife's vehicle to an unknown local dealer, where it was suggested that the Forward Collision Avoidance system should be disabled. The contact had not taken the vehicle to the dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200.

NHTSA ODI 11701436

The contact owns a 2024 Acura ZDX. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) engaged erroneously. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while reversing. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 200.

NHTSA ODI 11701452

The contact owns a 2024 Acura ZDX. The contact stated that while driving 35-40 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal went down to the floorboard, and the vehicle slightly responded, causing the braking distance to be extended and the vehicle drove through the red traffic light before stopping. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The dealer was contacted, and an appointment was scheduled for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 11,000.

NHTSA ODI 11686518

On Wednesday, [XXX], I was driving near an intersection. There was a vehicle in front of me; however, they were accelerating as was I and at approximately the same speed. For no apparent reason, the automatic emergency braking activated and slammed on the brakes for absolutely no reason. This not only scared myself, but my [XXX] daughter in the back seat, and we almost were rear-ended by the car behind us. It was almost as if I was "brake-checking" the person. Both my daughter and I complained of neck pain (almost felt like whiplash) as well as a headache following this incident. There was absolutely no warning that this was going to happen. There were no messages, lights, or any other issues at the time. While this incident has only happened one time, it has happened one time when the vehicle has less than 3,000 miles on. This can quickly become an issue of someone getting rear-ended, or potentially even a road rage situation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11676284

While moving about 40mph, the emergency brake engaged and it slowed car down significantly. However, there was nothing in front of me. I turned emergency braking off due to this issue. Also, during raining day, when backing out of driveway, car's emergency brakes engaged. This happen twice.

NHTSA ODI 11675661