2024 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 2024 Acura Mdx problems
The 2024 Acura MDX is a midsize luxury three-row SUV that has been praised for its comfortable front seats, generous cargo area, and suite of advanced driver aids. However, based on complaints from owners, there are several common problems that have been reported with this vehicle.
One of the most frequently reported issues is a jerky drive train, which is caused by the transmission not releasing the gears quickly enough when the driver takes their foot off the gas pedal. This can cause the car to lurch forward or feel like it is braking, particularly when driving in traffic. This issue has been attributed to the 10-speed transmission and has been reported by multiple owners.
Another problem that has been reported is that the air-conditioning system is unable to cool the car on very hot days. Despite the air blowing at the correct temperature, the cabin air does not cool down. This issue has been reported by multiple owners and has been attributed to the full sunroof lining and the large black dashboard, which can expel heat into the cabin.
The brakes in the 2024 Acura MDX have also been reported to squeal, particularly when the driver is repositioning the steering column. This issue has been attributed to the metallic brake pads and has been reported by multiple owners.
Another issue that has been reported is that the wireless charger is not compatible with the new iPhone 14. This issue has been attributed to a disagreement between Acura and Apple, with both companies pointing the finger at the other.
Finally, some owners have reported that the steering column groans when repositioning itself after the driver gets behind the wheel. This issue has been attributed to the motor and has been reported by multiple owners.
Despite these reported issues, the 2024 Acura MDX has received positive reviews for its comfortable front seats, generous cargo area, and suite of advanced driver aids. However, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and to consider them when making their purchasing decision.
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.
What is the real world mpg for the Acura MDX 2024?
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The base MDX boasts EPA fuel-economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway; the Type S is rated for 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, our all-wheel-drive A-Spec test vehicle delivered a disappointing 22 mpg.
Why MDX is better than RDX?
MDX offers more power, with a 3.5L V-6 engine that is capable of delivering up to 355 horsepower in the MDX Type S. The more basic models offer up to 290 horsepower from the 4-cylinder V-6 engine. Due to its more compact size, the RDX gets slightly better gas mileage than the MDX.
2024 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:
- Steering problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Lane departure problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2024 Acura Mdx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2024 Acura Mdx complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2024 Acura Mdx.
STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5J8YE1H89RL
- Components: STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Driving to work, about to merge onto the highway when my car beeped at me and several warning messages appeared on my dashboard: "Road departure mitigation system problem. See your dealer.; Low speed braking control problem. See your dealer.; Electric power steering system problem. Steering assist not available. Do not drive.; Collision mitigation braking system problem. See your dealer." Simultaneously, the steering wheel became extremely hard to turn and the car would barely move, even when applying pressure to the gas pedal. I was, very slowly, able to turn my car off of the main road, onto a side street, and eventually into a parking lot. In the parking lot, I turned the car on and off several times but the warning messages returned and the steering wheel was almost impossible to move. I then opened Acura Link and requested a roadside assistance for a tow. After approximately 20 minutes the tow truck showed up. I got out of the car and let the tow truck drive look. The warning messages on the dashboard were gone and the steering wheel was fine. Tow truck driver followed me to my Acura dealership. They have had the car since. Dealership said it was the "Steering Angle Sensor". They are replacing with new. Never had issues before.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 5J8YE1H89RL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving, the power steering in my car failed. I was unable to turn the steering wheel beyond 0.5” or so. Luckily, I was driving only 25mph on an empty road, so I was able to take my time and pull over. But had I been on the highway, this would have been a fatal crash for my wife, 2 year old, one 5 month old, who were in the car. When the power steering failed, I had 10+ failure messages flash on the screen (full list available on request), along with multiple error lights. The car is with Rallye Acura in Roslyn, NY, who has been unable to replicate the failure. They have stated the car is fine to drive. However, we are very shaken and afraid to get in the car until the root cause is identified, and a solution is offered.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 5J8YD9H40RL
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH a loud booming noise occurred as the glass sunroof exploded without impact. During the incident shards of glass fell into the vehicle's cabin making contact with both the driver and the second-row passenger. The son, who was seated in the second-row passenger seat sustained a laceration on the left arm which did not require medical treatment. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 8,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
- VIN: 5J8YE1H86RL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Acura MDX. The contact stated that when the vehicle was cold started, the rearview camera delayed in showing an image after the transmission was shifted into reverse(R). Additionally, the contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the instrument cluster indicated that the Navigational System and Driving Modes were not engaged. The contact stated that the 360-degree camera and the Suspension Mode control were inoperable. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed that several electrical wiring harnesses needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failures reoccurred, and that there was a warning with a yellow dot indicating that the "Bin/WiFi/NavSys” was inoperable. The contact took the vehicle back to the same dealer and the contact was informed that the wiring harness needed to be ordered. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 9,873.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 5J8YE1H03RL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Cruise control does not hold speed during transition from downhill coast to uphill acceleration. If set at 70mph on an interstate and car goes down a hill, coasting may slow to 68. When uphill is immediately encountered, speed drops to 64-65mph before finally accelerating to 70. Many trucks get very close and some honk because of the slowdown. Some road rage has been received. Also, throttle lags 0.5-1.0 seconds when transitioning from complete stop. Rear end collision has almost occurred when other drivers proceed to move forward and this car doesn’t move.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-23
- VIN: 5J8YE1H41RL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: This car only has 2500 miles on it. When it was just driven a few weeks in January, 2024, the car would start jerking while driving down the highway going a consistent 55-60 miles per hour. We took it back to the dealer in St. Louis and they told us they were unable to duplicate. We drove it a few more weeks and in February the jerking was more pronounced and more often so we took it back. Again, they said they could find nothing wrong with it. It ran pretty good until mid March when I drove it to Florida for a 6 week break in my wife’s cancer treatment. The car jerked a lot and broke down completely 3 times. I was able to restart the first two times but the third time it took a while and I was stalled in heavy traffic on [XXX] north of Gainesville. Luckily, a trucker pulled up behind me and put on his flashers to keep me from being hit. After sitting there several minutes, it did restart and I drove to Ft. Myers where I took it to the Acura Dealer there, Scanlon Acura. They, too, ran diagnostics and said nothing showed up. I drove it to our condo and it died before I could turn into my driveway. I called Triple A to come tow it back. This time they gave me a loaner, said they checked it out and the manager drove it over night to his home. They said it had water in the gas tank and we had to pay for the draining as that is not covered. When I picked the car up the maintenance sheet also stated a leaky valve but said there was NO water in the gas tank. I had to request my money back and asked about the valve. Was told it was a mistake. On Saturday, [XXX], my wife was driving to an appointment down [XXX] and after about 35 min, the car started jerking badly so she pulled into a parking lot when it shifted into park on its own and died. She had to have it towed backed to Scanlon Acura. They they called yesterday and said the computer says nothing is wrong. This car is a death trap and we have to return home for her treatment in a few weeks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-20
- VIN: 5J8YE1H30RL
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased my new vehicle (2024 Acura MDX) in September 2024. On December 20, 2024, my SUV was on but in the parked position when the lights on the dashboard started flashing. I had the suv towed to Paragon Acura, where I was informed that the PCM had internal failure due to a circuit shortage. There were not any vehicle issues prior to the issues on December 20.
Negative 2024 Acura Mdx car reviews
Positive 2024 Acura Mdx car reviews
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Congratulations on your new 2023 Acura MDX! It's great to hear that you're enjoying the smooth acceleration and comfortable interior. As a loyal Acura fan who has owned five new Acuras since 2001, you have certainly put the brand to the test and proven its reliability. While you mentioned a minor issue with the turn signal, it's clear that you appreciate the ergonomic design and overall comfort of the vehicle. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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The touch pad is the only thing I dislike about this SUV. It may take a little time to get used to it, but it also has some redundant controls on the steering wheel. To get the most out of it, I recommend reading the manual or watching a tutorial online. However, the features you get for the price are comparable to those of luxury SUVs that cost $10,000 more, such as BMW or Audi. I have driven this SUV over 13,000 miles, including two trips from Arizona to Illinois and back. It handles tight turns in the mountains of eastern Arizona and the Tucson area like a sedan. Although it's not as quiet as other luxury SUVs, road noise is noticeable, as with most other Honda products. If you're looking for a great family SUV with luxury, tons of equipment, and safety controls, this is the one for you. The only things to consider are the slightly lower power, although the sound of the engine and exhaust are truly sports car-oriented, and the touch pad.
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Great features on this all around 7 passenger vehicle. You can haul around your grandchildren and great-grandchildren safely and still be sporty on your own. It's a great looking and performing car.
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Hi there! It seems like you're experiencing an issue with your window controls. Let's see how we can help you fix that!
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Really a nice vehicle, with lots of computer, camera, and radar accessories. It's a great car and a pleasure to drive.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2024 Acura Mdx problems:
2024 MDX Problems? : r/Acura
Dec 9, 2023 ... 2024 MDX Problems? Anyone with a newer gen MDX having any issues with collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation system ...
2024 MDX Type-S | Acura MDX SUV Forums
May 19, 2023 ... Does anyone have any legit information on all the changes with the 2024 Type-S? Did they fix any of the issues? Thanks in advance!
Thinking about 2024 MDX A Spec - AcuraZine - Acura Enthusiast ...
Aug 21, 2023 ... I have a 2022 MDX and already have 131,000 clocked with no issues. I've run both 87 Octane and 93 Octane, while there is a noticeable difference ...
Problems | Acura MDX SUV Forums
Transmission Problems. 5.7K · 3M. Mar 7, 2024 ; Sounds & Noises. 3.1K · 1.8M · Mar 5, 2024 ; Technical Service Bulletins (TSB). 516. 452K. Jun 19, 2023.
Other years of Acura Mdx
Are you having problems with your 2024 Acura Mdx?
Skylar Zemlak 2025-01-01
I recently traded in my 2016 Volvo XC 90 for the 2023 MDX, but unfortunately, I have not been enjoying the ride as much as I had hoped. The car feels a bit clunky and the turn radius is not as good as I expected. Additionally, there have been some strange noises that I find concerning. While I am disappointed with my experience so far, I am hopeful that things will improve. I would not recommend this car based on my experience, but I understand that everyone's preferences are different. Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts.
Manuel Bauch 2024-10-15
Although there have been some challenges with my new car, I am confident that I will be able to master all of its features with time and practice. I am determined to make the most of my investment and enjoy all of the benefits that come with owning such a high-quality vehicle.
Rahul Walker 2024-10-07
I have a nice car, but unfortunately, the brakes make a screeching and embarrassing noise. Despite taking it to the dealer multiple times and calling corporate, they have stated that there is nothing they can do as the new engineers changed the materials of the rotors and brakes to provide better performance. They have even stated that the screeching noise is part of the car's characteristic. I regret changing to Acura and am disappointed with my purchase. I will soon seek a new and better brand.
Hayley Nicolas 2024-09-04
Acura has made the MDX slower, which is disappointing. Additionally, the interior design may not be to everyone's taste. As an owner of a BMW X3 M40, I found the MDX to feel and ride like cheap plastic.
Alphonso O'Connell 2024-08-11
Imagine driving across south central New Mexico on your way to visit your grandchildren in Arizona when suddenly you experience a flat tire and there's no one around to help. What do you do? Additionally, the constant downshifting can be quite disconcerting. It's surprising that the Honda engineers didn't think this through. I'm not aware of any other cars that have this annoying and hidden extra included in their 'extras.'