2019-2025 Acura RDX Liftgate Module Failure: Diagnosis and Replacement Guide

Known Issues and TSBs

While there are no widespread recalls specifically for the liftgate control module on the 2019-2025 Acura RDX, Acura has acknowledged some issues. A dealer message, TSB #BPaS09282020902, was issued on September 28, 2020, to investigate customer complaints of the "automatic tailgate not closing." This indicates that Acura is aware of potential malfunctions within the system. Owners have reported various problems online, often pointing to the control module as the source of the failure.

Symptoms of a Failing Liftgate Control Module

When the liftgate control module begins to fail, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Power Liftgate is Completely Unresponsive: Pressing the button on the key fob, dashboard, or the tailgate itself does nothing. You may hear no sound at all from the rear of the vehicle.
• "Power Tailgate System Problem" Warning: A warning message may appear on the multi-information display on your dashboard, indicating a fault has been detected by the vehicle's diagnostic system.
• Intermittent Operation: The power liftgate may work sometimes but fail at other times without a clear pattern. Temperature changes can sometimes affect intermittent electronic problems.
• Liftgate Stops Mid-Travel: The tailgate may start to open or close but stop partway through its cycle, often accompanied by beeping sounds.
• Inability to Close: The liftgate may open normally but will not respond to any commands to close, forcing you to close it manually.

Diagnosing the Liftgate System

If your power liftgate is malfunctioning, a few simple checks can help narrow down the cause:

1. Check Fuses: The first and easiest step is to check the fuse boxes for any blown fuses related to the power tailgate. A simple blown fuse can cause the entire system to stop working.
2. Listen for Clicks or Motor Sounds: When you press a button to operate the liftgate, listen carefully. If you hear a click from the rear of the vehicle but nothing happens, it could point to a problem with the latch or motor. If you hear nothing at all, it's more likely an electrical issue, such as the control module or a switch.
3. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): A professional-grade OBD-II scanner can communicate with the Body Control Module (BCM) and the liftgate control unit itself. While specific codes for this generation are not widely published, they often follow a standard format. For example, in the previous generation RDX, codes like B1377 (Power Tailgate Inner Switch Circuit Malfunction) or B1378 (Pinch Sensor Circuit Malfunction) could be stored. Finding such codes can confirm the module has detected a fault.
🎬 Learn how to diagnose power liftgate switches and latches.

Buying a Used Liftgate Control Module for Your RDX

For many electronic modules, buying used can be risky due to programming requirements. However, the RDX liftgate control module is an excellent candidate for a used OEM part, offering significant savings with minimal hassle.

Programming and Installation: What You MUST Know

Part Number Compatibility

It is critical to match the part number when buying a replacement. Two primary part numbers were used for this generation:

• 74970-TJB-A11
• 74970-TJB-A12

Part number 74970-TJB-A12 is the later version and officially supersedes, or replaces, 74970-TJB-A11. While either part number should work, it is always best practice to purchase the newest version available (A12) if possible.

What to Inspect on a Used Module

When purchasing a used module, perform a quick visual inspection. Check the plastic casing for any cracks or signs of heat damage. Most importantly, inspect the electrical connector pins. They should be straight, clean, and free of any green or white corrosion, which would indicate water damage.

Liftgate Control Module Replacement Overview

Replacing the module is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The difficulty lies in removing interior trim panels without damaging them.

• Location: The Liftgate Control Module is located in the rear left (driver's side) of the cargo area, mounted behind the main interior trim panel.
• Difficulty: 2 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 1.0 - 1.5 hours

General Steps:

1. Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal.
2. Remove the cargo area floor, foam trays, and tie-down hooks to gain access to the lower trim.
3. Carefully remove the rear cargo sill plate and then the main left-side quarter panel trim. This typically involves removing a few screws and then gently prying the panel to release a series of hidden clips.
🎬 See how to safely remove Acura RDX tailgate trim panels.
4. Once the trim is removed, the module will be visible, secured by a few bolts or nuts.
5. Disconnect the electrical connectors, unbolt the old module, and install the new one in its place.
6. Reconnect the electrical connectors and the battery, then test the power liftgate function before reinstalling all trim panels.

Cost to Replace an Acura RDX Liftgate Control Module

Opting for a used OEM module can result in substantial savings compared to a new part from the dealer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)