Acura Mdx problems
The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by the Japanese automaker Honda under its luxury Acura division since 2000. The alphanumeric moniker stands for "Multi-Dimensional" luxury. It has ranked as the second-best selling mid-size luxury SUV after the Lexus RX in the U.S.
The MDX is the first luxury crossover SUV to have standard third-row seating, and shares its platform with the Honda Pilot. The Pilot was made available with an eight person seating configuration, while the MDX exclusively seats seven, with two seating positions in the third row. The MDX was introduced on October 5, 2000 as a 2001 model, replacing the slow-selling U.S.-only body-on-frame SLX, based on the Isuzu Trooper. In Japan, it was made to replace the Honda Horizon (also based on the Trooper) which was discontinued in 1999. In 2003, the vehicle went on sale in Japan and Australia as the Honda MDX; sales with Honda badges ended with the introduction of the second generation three years later.
First generation (YD1; 2001)
Derived from Honda's Global mid-size platform which underpins cars like the Honda Accord, Acura TL, TSX and Odyssey, it is powered by a J35A3 3.5 L SOHC 24 valve V6 engine with VTEC. Curb weight is 4,451 lb (2,019 kg), with a 106.3 in (2,700 mm) wheelbase and 8 in (200 mm) of ground clearance. The cargo floor can flip up to provide two additional seats. The vehicle is designed to hold 7 passengers, but the third row seats are small and only seat two, in contrast to the Odyssey and Pilot whose third row holds three passengers.
The vehicle features an automatic four wheel drive system (named VTM-4) that engages during off the line acceleration as well as when wheel slippage is detected. Additionally, the system offers a lock mode which can be activated and operated at low speeds and provides permanent 4WD and the equivalent of a locked rear differential; designed for climbing steep hills and getting out of stuck situations. To reduce drivetrain noise and increase fuel efficiency, the system runs as front wheel drive during normal cruising. The VTM-4 AWD system in the MDX has the same design as the VTM-4 systems found in the Honda Pilot and Honda Ridgeline. It is different than Honda's "RealTime AWD" system in the Honda CR-V and other models in that it can lock and it attempts to predict when traction will be lost and apply power to all four wheels before slippage occurs (by monitoring throttle inputs).
The navigation system and DVD entertainment system (also popular on other Honda/Acura models, such as the CR-V and Odyssey) options were mutually exclusive in the 2002 model. Both could be ordered at the same time since the 2003 model. The navigation option comes with a backup camera since the 2003 model. Since 2005, the navigation system featured information from Zagat about restaurants and other points of interest. The 2003 model was rated as Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates 23 mpg‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) highway and 17 mpg‑US (14 L/100 km; 20 mpg‑imp) city.
The first two model years' 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 240 hp (179 kW) and 245 lb⋅ft (332 N⋅m) of torque from 3000 to 5000 rpm. For the 2003 model, the engine was improved to produce 20 hp (15 kW) more power than the earlier models, and the wheel designs were updated. The 2004 through 2006 engine received a modest increase in power and produces 265 hp (198 kW) and 253 lb⋅ft (343 N⋅m). The 2004 model is credited with a top speed of 137 mph, and a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds. The 2004 model features dual tail pipes instead of the single pipe in earlier models, side curtain airbags, new head lights and tail lights, and new wheels. Some chrome trimmings on the 2004 model use matte finish to distinguish from the polished shiny finish on earlier models. Little changed for the MDX during the 2006 model year with a few minor revisions to the vehicle's chrome and faux wood interior trim which could now be had with a dark grey wood (as opposed to reddish wood on earlier models), and also a black dash and steering wheel in tan interiors.
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Acura Mdx model years
Common Acura Mdx problems
The Acura MDX is a popular luxury SUV known for its comfort, style, and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most common issues with the Acura MDX is transmission failure, particularly in the 2001-2005 models. These early models have been reported to have transmission failures starting at 100,000-130,000 miles, with the 2004 model being the worst offender.
The 2014 and 2016 models suffered from engine problems, including premature piston ring wear and valve train woes.
In terms of specific problems, the combination of the Check Engine light and the flashing 'D4' light often indicates a problem with the all-wheel drive (AWD) system, specifically the transfer case or driveshaft. This could be due to a faulty sensor, actuator, or mechanical issue within the AWD system.
Vibration or shuddering while driving between 35 and 40 mph can be caused by drivetrain imbalance, unevenly worn tires, misaligned wheels, faulty CV axles, or worn engine mounts. Torque converter issues can also cause shuddering, while a worn-out torque converter clutch can break apart and send debris into the transmission fluid, causing internal damage.
The Check Engine light for running rough and difficulty starting can be caused by ignition system problems, such as faulty spark plugs, coils, or ignition modules, or fuel system issues, such as a clogged fuel filter, dirty injectors, or failing fuel pump.
Some MDX models have been recalled for fuel tank leaks or faulty fuel-sending units, which can pose a fire risk.
In terms of the worst model year, the 2010 model year is considered the worst due to transmission problems, which can lead to early failure.
In conclusion, while the Acura MDX is a reliable vehicle, it does have its fair share of issues. Owners should be aware of these common problems and consider them when purchasing a used MDX. Regular care and maintenance can help prevent many of these issues and ensure that the MDX lasts for more than 200,000 miles.
Do Acura MDX have problems?
Acura MDX owners have reported problems with their air conditioning systems, including issues with refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, and inadequate cooling. Regular maintenance of the air conditioning system—such as refrigerant level checks and cleaning of the condenser—can help prevent these issues.
Is the Acura MDX a reliable car?
The Acura MDX follows suit with four out of five stars from RepairPal for reliability, putting it second among 14 luxury midsize SUVs. This Acura SUV costs $571 annually to maintain. Average repair shop visits total 0.4 times yearly, with an 11% chance of severe repair.
Which year did MDX have transmission problems?
The Acura MDX's biggest problem across the board is transmission failure, and the 2004 year model has earlier and more expensive failures than most other MDXs. The 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2005 MDXes are also plagued with total transmission failure, but it comes a bit later.
What are the best years for Acura MDX?
A: The most reliable model years for the Acura MDX include 2006-2009, 2011-2013, 2015, and 2018-2020. These years have proven themselves time and again, with the fewest reported customer complaints.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Acura Mdx years
We have researched Acura problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Acura Mdx cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Acura Mdx model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Acura Mdx model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Acura Mdx years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Acura Mdx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Acura Mdx , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Acura Mdx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mdx model years
A total of 132 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mdx model years
There were a total of 46 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mdx model years
There were a total of 118 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2456 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Acura Mdx . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Acura Mdx vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Acura Mdx 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5J8YD3H55HL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). However, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Acura Mdx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5J8YD4H55JL
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Acura MDX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Acura Mdx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5J8YD4H34JL
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Acura MDX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Acura Mdx 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5FRYD4H94HB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Air Conditioning system in 2017 Acura MDX is releasing chemical fumes when Air Conditioning is turned on. This problem was reported to authorized Acura Service Center (Chapman Acura in Tucson, Arizona) during vehicle warranty period. This problem has been reported to this Acura Service Center more than 5 times but the Acura Service Center is not fixing the problem. Release of chemical fumes from Air Conditioning system is causing respiratory problems and is a passenger safety issue. Chapman Acura has charged consumer several times for the same problem but has not fixed the issue.
Acura Mdx 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5J8YD7H56KL
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Middle row passenger seatbelt malfunctioning. Waiting on part on back order. Available for inspection until it gets replaced. Numerous occasions noticed the belt would lock when getting children out of car and didn’t think anything of it. Had to move middle row seat to get it to retract out of the lock position. Today my child got tangled in the seatbelt and he was trying to get out of car and it retracted and locked and kept getting tighter around his chest. I tried slacking the belt back to loosen it and it wouldn’t retract out and only got tighter. I eventually cut the belt as he couldn’t breathe and I was unable to loosen the belt. It has not been inspected yet by anyone as I’m waiting for the part to come in. No messages on car dashboard.
Acura Mdx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5J8YD4H88LL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I came to a stop at a stop sign. The start/stop feature activated and the engine shut off. When I lifted my foot off the brake, the engine did not restart (as it's supposed to), and then vehicle automatically shifted itself into neutral (without any of my doing). I put the emergency flashers on to alert other motorists, hoping to avoid a rear-end collision as I was stopped in the middle of an intersection in rush hour traffic. At this time, the battery light illuminated. The engine light illluminated as well. I had to forcefully and unusually push the brakew pedal towards the floor as the vehicle was drifting backwards. At this time, the vehicle would not shift into park. Then "PARK" illuminated, so I attempted to reapply the brake hoping that when I let up from the brake the car would start again (like the usual procedure). The vehicle then shifted into park, but the engine had not restarted. I pressed the on/off red button to follow normal procedures for turning the vehicle off. With my foot remaining on the brake, I pressed the off/on red button to start the engine as usual and the engine finally restarted. Afraid for the safety for myself and other motorists, I put the vehicle into drive and I pushed the button to stop the stop/start system from engaging. No codes generated during this. This is a safety issue for several reasons. First, I was stuck in the middle of a busy intersection where a large volume of cars travel through each day. It was rush hour, so the roads couldn't be more filled. Someone coming around the corner who might not have been prepared to stop could have hit me. Likewise, I could have been hit while in the intersection. Secondly, once the vehicle failed to turn back on, the Washington Grove (Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services - MCFRS) was responding to a vehicular file nearby on I-270 and had I not have been able to move in time, some of their vehicles likely wouldn't have made it through because my vehicle was blocking the lane.
Acura Mdx 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 5FRYD3H91GB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2016 Acura MDX in White Diamond Pearl with peeling paint just above windshield. There is a Service Bulletin (19-029) but I am told that my VIN is not covered. Same problem and same color within the year models. Acura has indicated that VIN was not manufactured where the Service Bulletin covers. Clearly, there is a defect with the paint regardless of where the vehicle was built. There is no safety risk from the defect and it is available at any time for inspection. Was unaware of the Service Bulletin until researching how to stop the problem from progressing since the paint is lifting and peeling off.
Acura Mdx 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5FRYD4H29GB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission slips and make chirp sound, and failed completely during driving at 86000
Acura Mdx 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5J8YD3H5XKL
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There are two open recalls, and I have tried reaching out local dealer as well as Honda email, to get these repaired. However, I have been told that fix is not available. It has a year plus and I worry driving car with these issues ignored by Honda. Thanks.
Acura Mdx 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 5FRYD4H95GB
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH PAINT PEELING OFF DIAMOND WHITE 2014-2016 WITH PAINT COLOR CODE OF NH603P- SO COMMON THAT ACURA ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN (19-029). THE PROBLEM IS ACURA SAYS IT IS BASED ON YOUR VIN. EVERYTHING I HAVE RESEARCHED SHOWS MOST VINS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR REIMBURSEMENT (LIKE MINE) AND MANY PEOPLE ARE PISSED OFF> JUST GOOGLE "2016 WHITE ACURA MDX WITH PAINT PEELING" AND YOU WILL SEE HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM. LOCAL ACURA DEALERSHIP SAYS "YOUR VIN IS NOT ELIGIBLE" AS DOES ACURA HQ. I AM SEEKING A FULL RECALL ON ALL VEHICLES NOTED IN SERVICE BULLETIN 19-029 REGARDLESS OF VIN. THAT IS THE ONLY WAY TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. MANY PEOPLE WANT TO START A CLASS ACTION SUIT BUT NO ONE KNOWS HOW NOR DOES ANYONE WANT TO SPEND LEGAL FEES.
Acura Mdx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 5J8YD4H97JL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: We experienced multiple/many warning lights all at the same time. Systems not working. Repeated every time. The Acura dealer diagnosed the problem to the DTC U3000-49 Multipurpose Camera internal electronic failure. Replaced the unit and they performed a couple of calibrations. Thank You, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Acura Mdx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5J8YD4H50LL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I was in a stop and go traffic on the highway. When at a complete stop car shifted into neutral, I know that I didn’t push neutral because both of my hands were on the steering wheel. Step on gas pedal and car will not go. Tried putting into Drive but will not shift into Drive. Lots of vehicle behind me. It was very scary and dangerous, I could have been rear ended. I had to turn the engine off and restarted again then I was able to put it Drive and go. This issue happened twice, once at a stop sign about a month earlier.
Acura Mdx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 5J8YD4H50LL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Issue with Auto Idle Stop. I have had multiple instances of the auto idle stop kicking in and shutting the car off while I am at a stoplight. This has resulted in VERY close calls with me getting rear ended. I have taken the vehicle in to be inspected at an Acura dealership only to be told that they cannot replicate the issue. When this issue occurs, it takes about a minute to get the car working again. The dashboard lights up with a lot of different flashing lights. There was no warning prior to this issue occurring. You cannot permanently shut off the auto idle stop and I should not be expected to remember to do it every time I get into the vehicle. I am afraid that one day this will cause a bad car accident that will lead to myself or my family getting severely injured/killed as other drivers are not aware that the car won't be going. The most recent incident occurred last weekend.
Acura Mdx 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 5J8YE1H02NL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Third time with the same issue. Steering wheel vibrates loudly when retracting. Car has already had the steering column replaced once and issue is still there. Car has less than 16K miles and driven locally only.
Acura Mdx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5J8YD4H51LL
- Components: SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My 2020 MDX with less than 52,000 miles (VIN [XXX] ) has a transmission problem. I serviced the SUV as recommended by the dealer regularly and I take very good care . The transmission jerks several times when taking my foot off the gas to slow down within my short drive to and from work. If I parked on a little uphill or downhill roads and switch gear (either forward or reverse), the car jerks and jumps. I mentioned the issue to the dealer 3 weeks ago but of course couldn’t find any issues. Please advise. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Latest 5 recalls Acura Mdx
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 102 recalls for different components of the Acura Mdx.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Acura Mdx 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
- Model: Acura Mdx 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Consequence: An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
- Model: Acura Mdx 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-18
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
- Model: Acura Mdx 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-18
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
- Model: Acura Mdx 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-18
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
Latest negative Acura Mdx car reviews
Latest positive Acura Mdx car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
We've been enjoying our 2018 MDX for about seven months now, taking it on five road trips so far. It's been a great replacement for our 2010 RL, which itself replaced a 2005 RL. We're generally very happy with the car, although we have noticed a few minor issues. The adaptive cruise control can sometimes pick up large trucks in the lane to our right, and the rear view mirror can be a bit dim. Additionally, there are some blind spots that are only partially mitigated by the blind spot monitoring system. However, the biggest issue for us is the navigation system's traffic information. Unlike the XM radio-based system in our previous RLs, the MDX's traffic is HD radio-based, and we've noticed that it can be spotty in some areas. It seems to work well on some days, but not on others, even in the same locations. We're disappointed that a previously functioning system was replaced with one that seems to have some issues. We hope that this can be addressed in future updates.
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Vehicle year: 2022
Acura has done an excellent job with the 2022 Acura. The vehicle is much quieter than my previous RDX, and it handles and rides exceptionally well, especially considering its size. The power is sufficient, and the shifting is even better than the previous 8-speed automatic. The new interior is a significant improvement, and the base AWD comes with the equipment that previous models required an upgrade to get. Overall, the '22' MDX has exceeded my expectations. The updated electronics are not perfect, but they are better than before. The base SH-AWD is the best value, and it comes with a panoramic roof as standard, along with all the necessary safety features. If you use your phone for navigation, etc., you'll be more than satisfied.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I'm so excited to share that this is my second Acura! My first was a 2010 TL Tech, and I fell in love with Acura after that. This one is even better! I recently traded in my 2007 Suburban for the TL, which is great for me, but my boys (16 & 12) didn't have as much room as they would have liked in the back seat. So, I decided to trade it for the MDX, which is by far the BEST SUV in its class! Every day, I wake up and cannot WAIT to drive it! It handles like a sports car on my curvy, hilly road (I have a MINI S too, so I know). The handling, braking, steering, interior, and exterior are all perfect. The only thing I noticed is that there is just a LITTLE too much road noise. Nonetheless, it's still the best!!!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to share my experience with the Acura MDX Advance model. As someone who has owned a few MDXs in the past, I can confidently say that this model has the best Navigation on the market, as well as top-of-the-line safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Indicators, and Collision Warning system. Recently, I took a 4,000 mile trip and was able to enjoy effortless interstate driving thanks to the Adaptive Cruise Control. In busy, multiple lane traffic, the Blind Spot Indicators were a lifesaver. I also wanted to share a personal note - in 2009, I was in a T-Bone accident in my 2007 MDX, but the safety equipment in the car saved me from extensive injuries. Overall, I highly recommend the Acura MDX Advance model for its safety and convenience features. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Vehicle year: 2012
Although I'm a late reviewer, I've owned this car for over three years after buying it gently used at 40,000 miles. Unfortunately, at 103,000 miles, I encountered some issues and spent around $6500 on repairs in the last 12 months. We had to do the 100,000 mile service, which cost $2500 by itself, and then we were informed that there was a part that needed repair, which cost $2000. We also had to replace the alternator, which was a bit of a hassle since only ACURA alternators work on this car. However, our emergency mechanic was able to find one that fit and it has been working fine since then. Although the car's computer still occasionally reminds me to check the charging system, it's not as frequent as before. Overall, I still love the car and it has been a smooth ride for the last 70,000 miles. Despite the potholes in DC, the ride is still fairly smooth and the car has been easy to maintain since the repairs last summer. I don't drive it as often now that I take the metro, but I still have no plans to buy a new car anytime soon. If I had to do it all over again, I might consider buying a minivan instead. But for now, I'm still happy with my car and have no complaints.And every time it comes up, the MDX is still at the top of the list!
Are you having problems with your Acura Mdx?
Robin Price 2025-08-20
Vehicle year: 2018
I've had my 2018 MDX SH AWD with Technology Package for 4 1/2 years as of November 1, 2022. Overall, it's a good vehicle, but not without its flaws. Unfortunately, the Acura voice recognition system is not up to par and doesn't work as well as it should. Despite this, the drivability is good, although the transmission can still surge at times when starting from a stop. The dealer has re-programmed it with minimal changes, but it still occasionally seems to 'search' for a gear, resulting in a rather rough shift. On the bright side, the front seats are very comfortable and the car handles fine. I've had no other mechanical issues other than normal wear and tear, and the service department at my local dealership is tremendous. However, I have been waiting for a torn weather strip to be replaced for almost 7 months now, and I'm told it's a supplier issue. Overall, I still question the price/value relationship of this vehicle, but I appreciate the efforts of the service department to address the issues I've had.
Brett Aufderhar 2025-08-18
Vehicle year: 2018
I have noticed that my car is slow to accelerate from a stop and jerks when shifting from first to second gear. Based on my experience and comparison with another MDX, I believe there is an issue with my vehicle. Although the dealership did not find any problems, I am confident that my concerns are valid and will continue to seek a resolution.
Ansley Lindgren 2025-08-16
Vehicle year: 2019
My husband and I recently purchased this car because we have a little one on the way. However, we have been experiencing some frustration and disappointment with it. Although the car drives smoothly with nice acceleration, we have found that the rest of it is not very user-friendly. The entertainment system, in particular, has been a challenge to navigate due to the tiny buttons on the screen. Even simple tasks like adjusting the volume or air conditioner speed can be difficult while driving. Additionally, we have had trouble with the Bluetooth connection and voice activation for our phone book. We have learned that this has been an ongoing issue for others as well, so it's important to be aware of this before purchasing the car. We have attempted to contact Acura support for assistance multiple times, but unfortunately, we have been on hold for thirty minutes each time. Despite these issues, we still believe that this car has potential and we hope that Acura will address these concerns in the future. Thank you for considering our feedback.
Elian Cole 2025-08-15
Vehicle year: 2005
I recently purchased my seventh Honda vehicle, which unfortunately had a slight transmission noise. In 2012, I received a letter from Honda suggesting a transmission software upgrade, which I promptly took care of. This upgrade resolved the noise issue, but it also caused the fifth gear to come on at 45 MPH instead of the original 40 MPH. As a result, my gas consumption has increased significantly, especially since most of my city driving is below 45 MPH. I believe that manufacturers should take responsibility for their bad designs instead of making customers pay for it. Additionally, I have noticed that a recent recall software upgrade has disabled my Vehicle Stability Assist, which is disappointing for a luxury brand like Honda.
Zack Waters 2025-08-14
Vehicle year: 2022
I recently upgraded from a 2018 MDX to a 2022 MDX (A Spec) and I must say, it's a serious upgrade. The handling and overall ride feels much better, and the interior is light years ahead. The transmission is also much better. The ELS surround sound is impressive, and the large sunroof is much appreciated. The exterior styling looks slick, and it feels bigger inside while not riding or feeling bigger outside. For me, the price was just right, not much more than a loaded Telluride or Pilot etc., and significantly less than an XC90 or Q7. The power is adequate. However, there are a few downsides. The tires are louder than they should be, and the touchpad has a learning curve and isn't the best. If you are using Apple CarPlay, the only way to change the radio channel is with the steering wheel dial to scroll through favorites. I wish it was a hybrid. Unfortunately, there are some tech gremlins that live within. There are known issues with iPhone 12, but I have an iPhone XR (with up-to-date IOS). My Sirius cuts out intermittently (50% of the time) when it connects to Apple Car Play, and then I'm forced to go to the home screen, choose FM, go back to the home screen, and choose Sirius if I want to listen to XM radio. It seems to especially dislike Waze. I videoed this issue with the salesperson so that there was no doubt. I was told by the Service Department today to delete the Waze app, while another tech told me I didn't have to do it. Bottom line, Acura is working on it, but it could take 6-8 months is what I was told. I asked if my problem was common, they said they've seen some issues, but I was their first with the new MDX. If you have an iPhone, especially if you like using Waze, test CarPlay many times over to see if you might have issues too.I used Waze and Apple Car Play all day without any issues on my 2018 MDX. Although one Acura Tech blamed Waze, I believe that the issue lies with Acura's system. I have experienced phone calls that disappear and switch back to XM, as well as the touchpad not responding and preventing me from answering incoming calls. I kindly request that Acura addresses these bugs and improves their system. Thank you.