2016 Acura ILX Has Rough Idle

Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your 2016 Acura ILX and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Acura ILX has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Acura ILX has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a rough idle in a 2016 Acura ILX?

When faced with a rough idle in your 2016 Acura ILX, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to pinpoint the issue effectively. Start by checking for any OBD II codes, especially if the check engine light is illuminated, as these codes can offer crucial insights into the underlying problem. Next, inspect the spark plugs for wear or damage, and take a moment to examine the air filter for any blockages that could affect airflow. Additionally, assess the throttle body for dirt or coking, which can disrupt engine performance. Finally, locate the OBD plug to read any trouble codes and consider using a scanner to reset the check engine light if necessary. By following these initial steps, you can systematically identify and address the causes of a rough idle, ensuring your Acura ILX runs smoothly.

What are the common problems that could cause a rough idle in a 2016 Acura ILX?

When dealing with a rough idle in a 2016 Acura ILX, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting your vehicle's performance. Start by checking the spark plugs, as dirty or faulty ones can lead to misfiring, which is a primary cause of rough idling. Next, inspect the fuel filter; if it's clogged, it may restrict fuel flow to the engine, exacerbating the idle issue. Additionally, look for vacuum leaks in the engine, as these can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to instability in idle speed. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor is another critical component to examine, as it can cause incorrect air-fuel ratios, further contributing to rough idling. Don't overlook the throttle body; if it's dirty, it can impede airflow, affecting the engine's idle speed. Lastly, consider the mass airflow sensor, as a fault here can also disrupt the air-fuel mixture. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and potentially resolve the rough idle issue in your Acura ILX.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in a 2016 Acura ILX?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2016 Acura ILX should be a priority, as neglecting this symptom can lead to more significant engine problems and decreased vehicle performance. A rough idle may stem from various issues, some of which could be minor, but others may indicate serious underlying problems that could worsen over time. If left unaddressed, a rough idle can result in decreased throttle response, reduced fuel efficiency, and even potential engine damage, which can be costly to repair. Moreover, the longer you wait to diagnose and fix the issue, the more likely it is that you will face complications that could compromise the safety and drivability of your vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action to identify the cause of the rough idle, ensuring that your Acura ILX operates smoothly and efficiently while preventing further damage down the line.

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2016 Acura ILX Rough Idle: Causes & Repair Costs | RepairPal