2002 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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Common 2002 Acura Mdx problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are some common problems with the Acura MDX 2002 based on complaints from owners:
- Failed Gear Selection Switch: Another common problem reported by owners is the failure of the gear selection switch, leading to issues with gear shifting and the Check Engine light coming on.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Some MDX owners have complained about excessive oil consumption, which can be a costly problem to fix, potentially costing up to $6,800.
- Malfunctioning Climate System: Owners of the 2008 MDX model faced problems with faulty A/C units due to a leak caused by the compression hose rubbing against the vehicle's grounding surface.
- Stalling or Lurching: MDX owners have experienced stalling or lurching issues, particularly between speeds of 35 and 45 mph. Acura recommends replacing the faulty VCM rocker to address this problem.
These issues highlight some of the common problems faced by owners of the Acura MDX 2002, ranging from transmission issues to oil consumption and climate system malfunctions. It's essential for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider them when evaluating the purchase of a used Acura MDX 2002.
How many miles will a 2002 Acura MDX last?
250,000 miles
If the Acura MDX has been properly maintained throughout its life, you can anticipate driving it up to 250,000 miles before experiencing any significant problems. These are respectable numbers for a luxury SUV, even though the Acura MDX may get less mileage than the TLX and RDX.
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.
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.
Are there any recalls on a 2002 Acura MDX?
2002 Acura MDX Recalls
These vehicles may have received a replacement driver frontal air bag module as part of a vehicle repair. Due to a manufacturing issue, the replacement NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
2002 Acura Mdx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Acura Mdx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Acura Mdx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Acura Mdx
The NHTSA has received 220 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Acura Mdx. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Acura Mdx vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-21
- VIN: 2HNYD18692H
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - Immobiliser System. Yes, available. May be repaired by local mechanic unless I learn from you to defer such repair. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? - The inappropriate activation of the immobilizer system (at least I think that's what happened) caused the vehicle immediately to become unnamageable. All lights off, motor stopped, no power brakes pr power steering. No way to give warning to other drivers. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? - The identical behavior has occurred about 6 times, once on busy US 101 through downtown Oakland, CA during rush hour. The car will be towed to a mechanic's shop later today. I have no history with this mechanic's shop. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? - No. It is my inference that the immobilizer system activated while at speed due to description in the owner's manual of the appropriate behavior of the immobilizer. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? - No. The first appearance of the "green key" light preceded the entire shutdown by only a few seconds.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-14
- VIN: 2HNYD18612H
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1. Rear subframe body mount rust-through, newly discovered. 2. Available for inspection. 3. Risk of frame failure and resulting instability at speed 4. There is a TSB for the virtually identical Honda Pilot regarding this issue; TSB 21-019 "2003-2008 Pilot Rear Subframe Body Mount Rust Repair (Customer-Pay Repair)". 5. Not inspected. A local body shop reviewed a photo and won't touch it. 6. No warnings
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-21
- VIN: 2HNYD18422H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Acura MDX. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact stated that she depressed the accelerator pedal and the RPM’s revved; however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact pulled over, turned off and restarted the vehicle and started driving; however, after getting up to speed the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact believed that the vehicle had slipped out of gear. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to respond while shifted into drive or reverse. The contact stated no warning lights were illuminated. The contact had driven the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact had researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V176000 (Power Train). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-09
- VIN: 2HNYD18892H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Acura MDX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V027000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted several times and informed the contact that they did not have the equipment needed for the recall repair. 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 and followed up with the dealer. The contact stated an unknown service light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-13
- VIN: 2HNYD18882H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Acura MDX. The contact stated that the air bag warning light would illuminate while leaning on the passenger’s side front door. The contact stated that the warning light would turn off once the passenger moved away from the door. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-01
- VIN: 2HNYD18682H
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at speeds exceeding 50 MPH, the front end of the vehicle would shake and vibrate with an abnormal chain-like sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not determined. There was no further information available. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-03
- VIN: 2HNYD18262H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS) 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 CONTACT CONTACTED CROWN ACURA (18911 US HWY 19 N, CLEARWATER, FL 33764) AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-04
- VIN: 2HNYD18612H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS) 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. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-25
- VIN: 2HNYD18652H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT FROM SECOND GEAR. ADDITIONALLY, THE ENGINE REVVED. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-11
- VIN: 2HNYD18272H
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THIS STARTED A LONG TIME AGO. MY ENGINE WOULD REV UP AND I WOULD HAVE TO PUSH MY BREAKS SO HARD TO SLOW OR STOP. A MECHANIC FINALLY FOUND IT WAS THE CRUISE CONTROL STICKING. THE PART WAS SOLD $800. I GOT IT FIXED BUT THOUGHT THIS WAS VERY DANGEROUS. IT ALSO WOULD NOT GO BACK INTO GEAR AFTER I WOULD STOP THE ENGINE WHEN THIS WOULD HAPPEN. I WOULD GO INTO THE MANUAL RELEASE TAB TO FINALLY GET GOING AGAIN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-06
- VIN: 2HNYD18692H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS) 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. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-08
- VIN: 2HNYD18812H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN FOR EMISSIONS TESTING, HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V627000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER 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. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.*DT*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-15
- VIN: 2HNYD18692H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR THE DEALER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-24
- VIN: 2HNYD18872H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE ACURA OF PEORIA DEALER LOCATED AT (9190 W. BELL RD, PEORIA, AZ, 85382) WHERE THE TECHNICIAN CONFIRMED THAT AIR BAG WARNING WAS ILLUMINATED HOWEVER, IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 149,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-12
- VIN: 2HNYD18462H
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: DRIVING AT 70 MPH VEHICLES VTM4 LIGHT STARTED TO FKASH 3 SECONDS LATER ALL WHEELS LOCJMKED UP AND UDER FEET WAS SO HOT HAD TO LIFT MY FEET SKIDDED ABOUT 290 FEET.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
- VIN: 2HNYD18402H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SRS LIGHT IS ON. THEREFORE,HAVE THE AIRBAGS BEEN DISABLED? WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW?
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-25
- VIN: 2HNYD18402H
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SRS LIGHT TURNS ON AND DOESN'T GO OUT AFTER STARTUP OF THE VEHICLE. THERE IS A RECALL OF THE SRS UNIT MALFUNCTION FOR THE 2003 YEAR MODEL. SECONDLY, MY VEHICLE IS MORE THAN FIFTEEN YEARS OLD. IS THERE A TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL INVOLVING MY 2002 ACURA MDX? I HAVE TAKEN OWNERSHIP VERY RECENT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-26
- VIN: 2HNYD18242H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR TURNS OFF WHILE DRIVING SIMILAR TO PROBLEM I HAD WITH MY 1999 HONDA CRV INGITION SWITCH BEEN DOING IT FOR SEVERAL DAYS TODAY SMOKE CAME OUT FROM THE STEERING COLUM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-15
- VIN: 2HNYD18252H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: SRS DEVICE FAILED, LEAVING AIR BAGS INOPERABLE. DEALER ASKED FACTORY REP TO AUTHORIZE SERVICE. DENIED BY ACURA. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD. RESEARCH INDICATES IDENTICAL PROBLEMS IN OTHER VEHICLES, A PRIOR CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT AND OTHER COMPLAINTS. SRS WARNING LIGHT STAYS ON. BOTH DEALER AND INDEPENDENT GARAGE TESTED AND CONFIRMED UNIT IS DEFECTIVE.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-10
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2HNYD18632H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL MY MDX IS HAVING A HEAT BUILD UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECOND SHAFT GEARS. ITS CASUING MY TRANSMISSION TO LOCK UP AND I AM VERY CONCERN
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-06
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION RECALL WAS PREV ADDRESSED BUT STILL HAS SAME PROBLEM HWY OVERHEATING OF TRANSMISSION CAUSING FAILURE EXTREME JERKING SCARED US BAD AND COULD CAUSE ACCIDENT GEARS GO OUT SLIP FROM OVERHEATING AS WELL BURNS TRANSM FLUID RECALLED PREVIOUSLY SAME EXACT ISSUE OF EXTREME OVERHEATING AND AT TEMP GAUGE NOT WORKINGOCCOURS WHILE DRIVING IN MOTION
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-30
- VIN: 2HNYD18612H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: GEAR FAILURE, TRANSMISSION LOCK UP, SMOKE COMING FROM TRANSMISSION INSIDE THE CAR. HEAT BUILD UP FROM TRANSMISSION WHEN WE DO LONG DRIVE.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-05
- VIN: 2HYND186X2H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: PRIORITY ACURA GAVE 2002 MDX BACK MONDAY 4/3/17 HAD PROBLEMS AGAIN WITH IT SLIPPIN INTO NEUTRAL AND WONT MOVE IN D5...THIS TIME CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND D5 STARTED BLINKING AND GEAR SHIFT WAS NOT MOVE PASS N UNTIL JAMES THE MECHANIC SHUT OFF VEHICLE AND STARTED IT BACK UP.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-04
- VIN: 2HNYD186X2H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY NAME IS [XXX] I PURCHASED A USED 2002 ACURA MDX FROM DEALER [XXX] AT PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON VA 2/13/2017 ( 757 8381252 ). WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK OF DRIVING THIS ACURA MDX IT STALLED AS I MADE A TURN ON LYNNHAVEN PKWY INTO MY JOB PARKING LOT. THERE WHERE CARS BEHIND ME BEEPING. MY FIRST REACTION WAS TRY REVERSE IT DID REVERSE SO I TRY TO PUT IT BACK IN D5 NO MOVEMENT RPMS WITH JUST RUN UP NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON SO THEN I TRIED D5, D4, D3,2 NO MOVEMENT THE VEHICLE MOVE WHEN I PUT IT IN GEAR AT 1 AND IT DROVE ME TO A PARKING SPACE AND THAT IS WHEN I CALLED ACURA PRIORITY AND HAD CAR TOWED TO THEM AND EXPLAINED THAT I HAD PURCHASED THE CAR FROM PRIORITY HONDA THIS WAS MY 6/7 DAY DRIVING IT THIS HAPPEN. SO THE TOW COMPANY CAME AND TOWED IT TO PRIORITY ACURA CHESAPEAKE ( 757 5231700) UNFORTUNATELY THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WASN'T ON AND CAR DRIVING BACK NORMAL AND NO CODES HELD IN THE COMPUTER FOR THEM TO CHECK WHAT IS GOING ON. THEREFORE I REQUESTED THEY DO A THOROUGHLY CHECK ON VEHICLE WHICH COST ME 150.00 DOLLARS TO MAKE SURE IT WASN'T NOTHING WRONG WITH VEHICLE. THEY DID A EXTRA CHECK AND CAME BACK WITH BUSHINGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACE OTHER THAN THAT VEHICLE WAS GOOD PRIORITY ACURA STATED. IN MEANTIME I CALLED PRIORITY HONDA WHERE I JUST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM NOT EVEN A WEEK AND EXPLAINED TO THEM WHAT WAS GOING ON TO TIMOTHY USE CAR SUPERVISOR AT PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON ( 7578381252) HE GOT THE CAR TOWED OVER THERE NO COST TO ME AND GAVE ME A RENTAL FOR 4 DAYS ?WHEN I WAS CALLED I WAS TOLD AGAIN I CAN PICK UP MY VEHICLE PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON MECHANIC WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE MY COMPLAINT ON ACURA OR DIAGNOSIS IT DUE TO NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-01
- VIN: 2HNYD186X2H
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: HELLO MY NAME IS [XXX] I PURCHASED A USED 2002 ACURA MDX FROM PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON VA ( 757 838 1252) THE FIRST WEEK I DROVE THE CAR THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTED DOWNWARD WHILE I WAS TURNING A CORNER AT A BUSY INTERSECTION THE CAR DID NOT CUT OFF HOWEVER IT STOP AND WHEN I PRESSED ON THE GAS THE RPM WILL GO UP BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE I THEN TRY TO SHIFT TO D4 WOULD NOT MOVE D3 WOULD NOT MOVE 2 IT DROVE AGAIN. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO PRIORITY AND EXPLAIN WHAT HAPPEN THEY SOLD ME A LEMON THEY STATES MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT NOT ON OR KEEPING RECORDS OF WHAT HAPPEN WHEN CAR ACT UP THEREFORE THE CAR IS NOT DOING IT ALL THE TIME AND NOT DOING IT WHILE IN THERE POSSESSION. THEY SENT ME HOME AGAIN THE NEXT WEEK I WAS BACK WITH SAME PROBLEM THEY COULD NOT DIAGNOSE . SENT ME HOME AGAIN THE NEXT WEEK HAPPEN AGAIN I THEY STILL CANT FIGURE OUT PROBLEM THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHEN CARS ARE BEHIND ME AND CAN RESULT IN A CRASH CAN YOU PLEASE REACH OUT TO ME AT [XXX] OR PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON VA ([XXX]) TO CORRECT THIS DANGEROUS PROBLEM WITH MY VEHICLE I SEE OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM . I HAVE ANY RECORDED THIS ON MY PHONE AND SHOW THEM CAR NOT MOVING RPMS GOING UP THE ADVISOR [XXX] STATES LOOKS LIKE TRANSMISSION SLIPPING BUT IT WONT DO FOR THEM. MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT PRIORITY HONDA HAMPTON AGAIN. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2002 Acura Mdx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2002 Acura Mdx.
- Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2001-2002 Acura 3.2CL, 2000-2003 Acura 3.5RL, 2000-2001 Acura 3.2TL, Honda CR-V and Honda Odyssey, 2001-2002 Acura MDX and 2000 Accord Coupe, Accord Sedan, Civic Coupe, and Civic Sedan vehicles. These vehicles may have received a replacement driver frontal air bag module as part of a vehicle repair. Due to a manufacturing issue, the replacement NADI inflator may absorb moisture, causing the inflator to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag cushion may not properly protect the occupant. These scenarios increase the risk of serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the air bags in the vehicles, replacing the driver frontal air bag inflator with an inflator of a different design, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138.
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IN AREAS WHERE LARGE QUANTITIES OF ROAD SALT ARE USED, THE FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRINGS HAVE INSUFFICIENT CORROSION PROTECTION, AND MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO CORROSION.
- Consequence: EXCESSIVE CORROSION CAN CAUSE SPRING FAILURE AND A BROKEN SPRING COULD PUNCTURE A FRONT TIRE, WHICH INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH FRONT SPRINGS WITH IMPROVED SPRINGS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 11, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ACURA AT 800-382-2238.
- Manufacturer: HONDA (AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.)
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: ON SOME MINI VANS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES, CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS CAN RESULT IN HEAT BUILD-UP BETWEEN THE COUNTERSHAFT AND SECONDARY SHAFT SECOND GEARS IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, EVENTUALLY LEADING TO GEAR TOOTH CHIPPING OR GEAR BREAKAGE.
- Consequence: GEAR FAILURE COULD RESULT IN TRANSMISSION LOCKUP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: ON VEHICLES WITH 15,000 MILES OR LESS, THE DEALER WILL UPDATE THE TRANSMISSION WITH A SIMPLE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE TO INCREASE LUBRICATION TO THE SECOND GEAR. ON VEHICLES WITH MORE THAN 15,000 MILES, THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSION TO IDENTIFY GEARS THAT HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED DISCOLORATION DUE TO OVERHEATING. IF DISCOLORATION EXISTS, THE TRANSMISSION WILL BE REPLACED IF DISCOLORATION IS NOT PRESENT, THE DEALER WILL PERFORM THE REVISION TO THE OIL COOLER RETURN LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 21, 2004, FOR PILOT, ODYSSEY, AND MDX OWNERS. OWNERS OF THE ACCORD VEHICLES WILL START RECEIVING LETTERS ON JUNE 28, 2004, AND ON JUNE 29, 2004, FOR OWNERS OF THE TL AND CL VEHICLES. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, SEDANS, COUPES, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V6 ENGINES, A TIMING BELT TENSIONER PULLEY ON THE WATER PUMP IS MISALIGNED AND COULD CAUSE THE TIMING BELT TO CONTACT A BOLT ON THE CYLINDER HEAD. EVENTUALLY THE BELT COULD BE DAMAGED AND FAIL.
- Consequence: IF THE TIMING BELT BREAKS, THE ENGINE WILL STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WATER PUMP AND IF IT IS ONE OF THE DEFECTIVE PUMPS, THE WATER PUMP AND TIMING BELT WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 30, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT HONDA AT 1-800-999-1009 OR ACURA AT 1-800-382-2238.
Negative 2002 Acura Mdx car reviews
Positive 2002 Acura Mdx car reviews
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The MDX handles and drives really well, especially compared to other 7 passenger+ SUVs. It's so convenient that we don't have to remove the seats. We can still fit 3 kids in the middle row and fold down the rear row if needed.
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Superb interior, fun to drive, drives like a car not a truck.
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I had a Mercedes ML 320, but my MDX is far superior in so many ways. I'm so glad that I no longer have to deal with the snotty Mercedes dealer! In just three months, I've already had to go back to the dealer three times with the ML 320. The MDX has more room, a better interior, a quieter AC, and no wind noise or pieces falling off. There's really no comparison!
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Acura has really outdone themselves! The recent (and moderate) design changes clearly state that Acura has made a superior SUV with little room for improvement!
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Before buying this car, I did a lot of research and narrowed my options down to the MDX and the Pilot, which is the Honda version of the same car. Since I needed a car that was 49
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Acura Mdx problems:
2002 mdx transmission problem | Acura MDX SUV Forums
Aug 28, 2009 ... It is not a bad fuse...you have a major transmission problem and you are going t have to repair it. The dealer is going to be upwards of $4500-$ ...
2002 Acura MDX Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Acura MDX? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Acura MDX.
2002 Transmission Failure | Acura MDX SUV Forums
Apr 11, 2008 ... All 2001/2002 owners get remanned 2001/2002 trannies that have been retrofitted with the latest fixes for that tranny. Unfortunately those ...
2002 Acura MDX Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
No mechanical issues. Nice ride. 17 years old. Use it to pull a small trailer camping and as a 2nd vehicle. AWD has no trouble in snow, mud, ...
Common 2002 Acura MDX Transmission Problems: Q&A
Jan 5, 2011 ... This started some time ago and last fall the "engine light " came on. According to mechanics it is for the transmission and the code is for ...
Other years of Acura Mdx
Are you having problems with your 2002 Acura Mdx?
Joany Prohaska 2025-01-05
The vehicle is quite nice, but unfortunately, it seems to have some issues with the transmission. There is a known problem with gear failure that could result in transmission lockup, which was the case for me at 113k miles, even after Acura said they had fixed the issue. Thankfully, I was able to avoid any accidents. However, Acura tried to charge me $7k to fix the transmission, which seems quite steep. It appears that there are many similar cases reported online, and Acura is not taking responsibility for the issue. Due to safety concerns, I decided to sell the vehicle after logging a complaint with NHTSA.
Karl Gottlieb 2024-10-01
While driving at around 130km/hr, my new MDX suddenly broke down on the highway due to engine failure. Although this was a major safety issue, I was able to direct my car to the ramp in time. Unfortunately, the experience was not enjoyable and has left me feeling disappointed. As a result, I have decided not to purchase any Acura vehicles in the future. In my opinion, the roadside assistance and dealership services provided by Infiniti are far superior.
Doyle Prohaska 2024-07-16
We bought this vehicle for its supposed reliability and extra seating capacity. However, after driving it for about 1,000 miles, I started to notice a high-pitched ringing noise when going over 30mph. Despite taking the MDX back to the dealer three times for repair, the issue persists. Additionally, there is a loud thud when braking after changing gears (i.e. going into reverse after being in park). The dealer informed me that this is a normal characteristic of the MDX's brake calipers adjusting, but I'm not entirely convinced. Overall, I'm disappointed with my Acura experience, especially considering the close to $40,000 price tag for a noisy vehicle that I don't enjoy driving.
Enid Heller 2024-05-12
The car has several transmission problems and the noise level is high. Additionally, the paint quality is subpar.
Frederick Adams 2024-05-10
I purchased this vehicle brand new, but unfortunately, it has had several issues since day one, such as bubbles in the paint and numerous EGR valve recalls. The latest issue is with the transmission, which is the second one to fail in just 160K miles. The first one was replaced under warranty, but the second one failed while still under warranty. However, the Sunnyvale Acura dealership did not identify the issue and now that they have changed ownership, they are not taking responsibility. The repair cost is estimated to be between $5K-$7K. This experience has left me disappointed and I have decided that this will be the first and last Acura I will ever purchase. While Acura may market themselves as a luxury vehicle, my prior experience with a Lexus was far superior, with over 250K miles on the transmission and no issues.