2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid problems

General information about Acura-Mdx sport hybrid
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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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Common 2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid problems

The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are the details of these problems:

Brake Master Cylinder Separation: Honda is recalling certain 2020-2021 Civic, 2020-2023 Ridgeline, 2021-2023 Passport, 2021-2022 Pilot, and 2020 Acura MDX vehicles due to a problem with the tie rod fastener that connects the brake booster and the brake master cylinder. The tie rod fastener may have been improperly assembled, which can cause the brake master cylinder to separate from the booster assembly. This issue can lead to a loss of brake power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Connecting Rod Bearing Wear: Honda is recalling certain 2015-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey vehicles due to a problem with the connecting rod bearing in the engine. Due to a manufacturing error, the connecting rod bearing in the engine may wear and seize, causing the engine to stall and increasing the risk of a crash.

Tailgate Lid Lights: Honda is recalling certain 2014-2019 Acura MDX and 2017-2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid vehicles due to a problem with the tailgate lid lights. Moisture may enter the tailgate lid lights, possibly causing a loss of the tailgate lid lights and the taillights. This issue can increase the risk of a crash, as other drivers may not be able to see the vehicle at night.

Timing Belt Teeth Separation: Honda is recalling certain 2018-2019 Acura MDX and Honda Pilot vehicles, as well as RLX Sport Hybrid, TLX, and Honda Odyssey and Ridgeline vehicles due to a problem with the timing belt teeth. The timing belt teeth may separate from the belt, causing the engine to stall and increasing the risk of a crash.

Electrical Accessories: Owners of the 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid have reported problems with various electrical accessories, including cruise control, warning lights, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, and wireless charging pad. These issues can cause inconvenience and frustration for drivers, as well as potentially increase the risk of a crash if important warning lights or gauges are not functioning properly.

Jerking Motion when Backing Up: Some owners of the 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid have reported a hard jerking motion when backing up, which feels like the brakes are being applied. This issue can be dangerous, especially in tight spaces or when trying to parallel park.

In summary, the 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid has several common problems, including fuel system issues, brake master cylinder separation, connecting rod bearing wear, tailgate lid lights, timing belt teeth separation, electrical accessories, and jerking motion when backing up. These issues can cause inconvenience, frustration, and potentially increase the risk of a crash. Owners of this vehicle are encouraged to stay up to date with recalls and service bulletins, and to address any issues with their vehicle promptly to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

What are the issues with 2017 Acura MDX?

Are there any problems with the Acura MDX?

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.

Why did Acura get rid of hybrid?

In fact, stop looking for hybrids anywhere in the Acura lineup when the current NSX bows out after the 2022 model year. Unlike parent company Honda, the luxury brand wants to switch directly and more rapidly to full electric vehicles.

Is there any recalls on 2017 Acura MDX?

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles have an engine fuel feed hose and a fuel purge hose that may have been misrouted during vehicle assembly.

2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Mdx sport hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Power train problems
Fuel/propulsion system problems
Electrical system problems
Engine problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid.

2019-01-07

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-10-26
VIN: 5FRYD7H59HB
Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: VEHICLE INTERMITTENTLY BREAKS DOWN WITH "POWER SYSTEM" AND "AWD" WARNING LIGHTS TRIGGERING SAFE MODE OPERATION. SAFE MODE LIMITS POWER AND POTENTIALLY CREATES UNSAFE CONDITION AS CAR CANNOT BE OPERATED AT FULL POWER. ACURA REFUSES TO REPAIR. PROBLEM OCCURS BOTH WITH IN MOTION AND WHEN AT IDLE.

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2018-09-07

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-09-07
VIN: 5FRYD7H71HB
Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: UNINTENDED ACCELERATION - WHILE COASTING, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATES ON ITS OWN UP TO 30MPH. THIS HAS OCCURRED WHILE APPROACHING TRAFFIC LIGHTS, STOP SIGNS, PARKING LOTS, CROSSWALKS AND PARKING IN THE GARAGE. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WITH TWO DIFFERENT DRIVERS AND EVEN THE DEALER HAS EXPERIENCED THE SAME SYMPTOMS. THE VEHICLE ALSO STALLS WHILE STOPPED IN THE ROADWAY TO TURN. ACURA SENT A REGIONAL SERVICE DIRECTOR TO TEST THE VEHICLE AND MY DRIVING SKILLS AND STATES THAT SINCE THERE ARE NO TROUBLE CODES FROM THE COMPUTER, ALL SYSTEMS ARE OPERATING AS DESIGNED. BRAKING - THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL WILL SENSE LARGE VEHICLES IN ADJACENT LANES AND SMALL VEHICLES ON CURVES AND ABRUPTLY APPLY BRAKES. THE VEHICLE BELIEVES THESE VEHICLES ARE IN OUR LANE WHEN THEY ARE IN FACT IN THE ADJACENT LANE. WE HAVE HAD SEVERAL NEAR MISSES WHERE THE VEHICLE BEHIND US ALMOST REAR ENDED US DUE TO THE IMMEDIATE AND UNNECESSARY APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES. WE HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN THIS VEHICLES TECHNOLOGY TO PERFORM AS INTENDED AND FEAR EVENTUALLY SOMEONE WILL BE HURT OR KILLED AS IT DOES NOT RECOGNIZE PEDESTRIANS EITHER.

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2018-04-12

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-03-29
VIN: 5FRYD7H74HB
Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: THIS CAR HAS SERIOUS ISSUES. THE PREVIOUS BRAKING COMPLAINT IS ABSOLUTELY VALID! THE FIRST TWO ISSUES OUTLINED BELOW ARE MOST PROBLEMATIC AT HIGHWAY SPEED WITH THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL SET. THAT BEING SAID, PROBLEM NUMBER ONE IN PARTICULAR OCCURS ON A REGULAR BASIS WHENEVER THE CRUISE CONTROL IS SET. 1. BRAKING - THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL WILL SENSE LARGE VEHICLES IN ADJACENT LANES AND ABRUPTLY APPLY BRAKES. IT SEEMS THE MDX 'THINKS' THESE VEHICLES ARE IN YOUR LANE WHEN THEY ARE IN FACT IN THE LANE NEXT TO YOU. THE SAME WILL OCCUR WHEN A CAR IN AN ADJACENT LANE DRIFTS NEAR, BUT NOT INTO THE LANE OCCUPIED BY THE MDX. WE HAVE HAD NO LESS THAN THREE NEAR MISSES WHERE THE VEHICLE BEHIND US NEARLY REAR ENDED US DUE TO THE IMMEDIATE AND UNNECESSARY APPLICATION OF BRAKES BY THE MDX. 2. LANE KEEP ASSIST - ON A MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WE HAVE ATTEMPTED TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE WHILE REMAINING IN OUR LANE TO AVOID A ROAD HAZARD. THE CAR FIGHTS AGAINST YOU WITH SUCH FORCE AS TO NEARLY MAKE THE VEHICLE NON-MANEUVERABLE. BOTH OF THE ITEMS ABOVE HAVE BEEN REPORTED TO THE DEALER TWICE. IN BOTH CASES WE WERE TOLD THIS IS NORMAL AND THAT WE SHOULD ADJUST THE SENSOR SENSITIVITY. WE'VE TRIED ALL LEVELS OF THE SENSOR SENSITIVITY AND NOTHING HAS WORKED. 3. UNINTENDED ACCELERATION - THIS IS EASILY THE MOST SCARY THING THAT HAS OCCURRED. WHILE SLOWLY DRIVING THROUGH A GROCERY STORE PARKING LOT, MY FOOT WAS HOVERING OVER THE BRAKE. OUR MDX ALL OF A SUDDEN WITH NO DRIVER INPUT AUTOMATICALLY ACCELERATED ABRUPTLY. I IMMEDIATELY HIT THE BRAKES AND THE VEHICLE RESPONDED. THANKFULLY, NO PEDESTRIAN WAS CROSSING IN FRONT OF ME. I'VE YET TO SEE THIS PROBLEM AGAIN HOWEVER THIS CAUSES SERIOUS CONCERN.

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2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid.

2019-03-28

Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Acura MDX and 2017-2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid vehicles. Moisture may enter the tailgate lid lights, possibly causing a loss of the tailgate lid lights and the taillights.
Consequence: Loss of the taillights reduces the vehicle's visibility, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Acura will notify owners, and dealers will modify the tailgate lid lights and install updated gaskets and a wiring sub-harness or will replace both tailgate lid lights. The repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is M49.

2018-11-01

Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Acura MDX, 2017-2018 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda HR-V and Honda Odyssey, and 2016 Honda HR-V vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating, causing gas pockets to form, reducing brake performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence: A reduction of braking performance increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners will be notified, and Honda or Acura dealers will bleed the brakes, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2018. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are C31 and L30.

2017-06-30

Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid vehicles. The affected vehicles have an engine fuel feed hose and a fuel purge hose that may have been misrouted during vehicle assembly.
Consequence: The misrouting can cause the hoses to be damaged from contact with other components, potentially resulting in a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Acura will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the routing of the fuel feed hose and the fuel purge hose. If misrouted, the hoses will be replaced and installed correctly, free of charge. The recall began on August 14, 2017. Owners may contact Acura Client Relations at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is KF8.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2017 Acura Mdx sport hybrid problems:

2017 MDX Gas/Hybrid The Good/The Bad | Acura MDX SUV Forums

https://www.mdxers.org/threads/2017-mdx-gas-hybrid-the-good-the-bad.149593/

Jul 17, 2017 ... Most of the common issues on the 2014 MDX carried over to the 2015 and even the 2016 so there would have been little gain to avoid the early ...

Considering 2020 MDX Hybrid, any long term reviews? - AcuraZine ...

https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-mdx-2014-2020-414/considering-2020-mdx-hybrid-any-long-term-reviews-983398/

Oct 23, 2019 ... We have about 32K miles on our 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid and outside of the taillight recall common to all MDXs, a bad front parking sensor ...

Sport Hybrid Reliability | Acura MDX SUV Forums

https://www.mdxers.org/threads/sport-hybrid-reliability.175130/

Jul 26, 2021 ... Also, 37,000 miles, no problems. 2014 MDX,TECH. CHERRY AWD Gone. 2017 MDX, ADV SP HYBRID. MODERN STEEL.

2017 Acura MDX Hybrid AWD Problem Notification - AcuraZine ...

https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-mdx-discussion-2014-414/2017-acura-mdx-hybrid-awd-problem-notification-959770/

Jun 26, 2017 ... 3G MDX (2014-2020) - 2017 Acura MDX Hybrid AWD Problem ... RLX-Sport Hybrid , 06-26-2017 01:32 PM. Three ... known issue & this was the fix. Did not ...

2017 Sport Hybrid | Acura MDX SUV Forums

https://www.mdxers.org/threads/2017-sport-hybrid.172068/

Mar 16, 2020 ... I am told this is normal. I cannot believe a $60K vehicle should jerk when backing up. Please advise if anyone else has had this problem and it ...