Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. Acura
  6. /
  7. MDX
Acura · Known Issues

2001-2020 Acura MDX Problems: 12 Known Issues

2001-2020 model years · 5,500+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

All years · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Choose a year to request this visual. Trim and engine are optional; omitted trim is Not specified.

Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
Preview the XT6 example

Choose your vehicle configuration

Choose a year to request this visual. Trim and engine are optional; omitted trim is Not specified.

Which vehicle’s visual would you like?

Choose from our year, make, model and trim catalog. This does not change the page underneath or mean a visual is already available.

Choose a vehicle configuration to continue. No request has been submitted.

Optional email notification

Choose a year to request this visual. Trim and engine are optional; omitted trim is Not specified.

Which vehicle’s visual would you like?

Choose from our year, make, model and trim catalog. This does not change the page underneath or mean a visual is already available.

Choose a vehicle configuration to continue. No request has been submitted.

2019 Acura MDX Technology silhouette · representative artwork, not equipment confirmation

Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 5,500+ owner reports, the 2001-2020 Acura MDX has 12 documented known issues, with 8 rated critical. The most serious are ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting ($200-$3,200 repair), Timing Belt Tensioner and Water Pump Failure ($800-$1,500 repair), Auto Idle-Stop Failure to Restart (2016-2020 MDX) ($0-$1,500 repair), Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Stall (NHTSA Recall 23V-858) ($0-$0 repair), First-Year 2001 MDX Included in NADI Driver Airbag Inflator Recall (NHTSA 20V026000), ZF 9-Speed Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifts and Stalling (2016-2019 MDX) ($0-$6,500 repair), Replacement Driver Air Bag Inflator May Rupture or Underinflate (Recall 20V027000) and J37 Oil Consumption, Spark Plug Fouling, and Active Motor Mount Failure ($400-$3,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting with 2,400 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $6,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • MDX Transmission3
  • MDX Engine2
  • MDX Safety/Recalls2
  • MDX Electrical3
  • MDX Fuel System1
  • MDX Suspension1
  • Recalls14
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Transmission3
  • Engine2
  • Safety/Recalls2
  • Electrical3
  • Fuel System1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls14
  • FAQ

All 12 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls14 recalls

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Acura MDX, 2015-2019 Acura TLX and 2015-2017 Honda Accord vehicles, equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine. Particulates in fuel may adhere to the internal components of the fuel pump, reducing its performance.

Campaign #19V06000029/01/2019

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS

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.

Campaign #19V25600028/03/2019

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

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."

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of Acura MDX problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Acura MDX. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or .

Other Acura Models

Acura Integra19Acura RDX17Acura TLX15Acura TL14Acura RSX14Acura ILX12

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Acura MDX problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 5,500+ owner reports, the 2001-2020 Acura MDX has 12 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting, Timing Belt Tensioner and Water Pump Failure, Auto Idle-Stop Failure to Restart (2016-2020 MDX). Of these, 8 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Acura MDX reliable?

The 2001-2020 Acura MDX has 12 known issues documented across 5,500+ owner reports. 8 issues are rated critical: ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting and Timing Belt Tensioner and Water Pump Failure and Auto Idle-Stop Failure to Restart (2016-2020 MDX) and Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Stall (NHTSA Recall 23V-858) and First-Year 2001 MDX Included in NADI Driver Airbag Inflator Recall (NHTSA 20V026000) and ZF 9-Speed Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifts and Stalling (2016-2019 MDX) and Replacement Driver Air Bag Inflator May Rupture or Underinflate (Recall 20V027000) and J37 Oil Consumption, Spark Plug Fouling, and Active Motor Mount Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Acura MDX problems?

Repair costs for known Acura MDX issues range from $0 to $6,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting, typically costs $200-$3,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Acura MDX is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Acura MDX. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2001-2020 Acura MDX with 12 documented issues documented across 5,500+ owner reports.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 5,500+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Filter:
ALL YEARS20202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001
Community reported
2,400 owners

Third-generation MDX models with the ZF 9-speed automatic suffer from torque converter shudder during light throttle acceleration between 30-50 mph. The lockup clutch in the torque converter vibrates as it engages, creating a sensation similar to driving over rumble strips that many owners mistake for an engine misfire.

This issue also affects: Acura CL, Acura ILX, Acura TL

Common Symptoms

  • Vibration/shudder at 30-50 mph under light throttle
  • Sensation like driving over rumble strips
  • Shudder disappears under hard acceleration
  • Vibration felt through seat and steering wheel
  • Transmission slipping sensation

How to Fix

Update the TCM software to the latest Acura calibration that modifies torque converter lockup strategy. Perform a complete ATF drain and refill with Honda DW-1. If shudder persists after software update and fluid change, the torque converter assembly must be replaced.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipGet the TCM update first — it resolves about 70% of cases for free under warranty. If the shudder returns after 10,000 miles, the torque converter needs replacement. Do not let the dealer just change fluid and send you home.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $3,200

Research This Issue

Based on 2,400 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence2,400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic introduced on the 2016 MDX suffers from documented hesitation, harsh shifts, lurching, and unexpected downshifts/deceleration. Drivers report the vehicle hesitating from a stop, banging into gear, or briefly losing power. Software miscommunication between TCM, ECM and throttle control is the alleged root cause; a class action was filed alleging Honda knew of the defect from 2015.

This issue also affects: Acura CL, Acura TL

Common Symptoms

  • Hesitation from a stop
  • Hard or banging shifts
  • Unexpected downshift while cruising
  • Brief loss of power
  • Lurching at low speed

How to Fix

Have dealer apply latest TCM/PGM-FI software updates first (covered by powertrain warranty). If symptoms persist, request fluid replacement and dealer escalation; document everything for lemon-law/class-action relief. Avoid jerky throttle inputs while cold.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $6,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

Owners of the 6-speed 2012-2015 MDX feel a rhythmic 'rumble-strip' judder between roughly 20 and 60 mph during light/steady throttle. Honda's investigation found the torque converter itself is not damaged; the lock-up clutch judders due to ATF deterioration combined with calibration. TSB 16-062 documents the condition (follow-up TSB 16-063 covers repeat cases).

Common Symptoms

  • Rumble-strip vibration at 20-60 mph
  • Judder during light acceleration
  • Worse when transmission is cold
  • Briefly disappears with throttle lift

How to Fix

Have dealer perform TSB 16-062: update PGM-FI software then triple-drain-and-fill the ATF with Honda DW-1/ATF-DW1. Follow-up TSB 16-063 covers repeat cases needing additional flushes. Avoid universal/aftermarket ATF. Note: TSB itself does NOT extend powertrain warranty — coverage depends on standard 5yr/60k powertrain warranty status.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
1,900 owners

First-generation MDX models with the J35 V6 are prone to timing belt tensioner bearing failure and simultaneous water pump leaks when the timing belt service is neglected past 105,000 miles. The hydraulic tensioner loses pressure, allowing the belt to skip teeth and potentially bend valves on this interference engine.

This issue also affects: Acura TSX, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking or rattling noise from front of engine on startup
  • Coolant leak from water pump weep hole
  • Engine runs rough after high-mileage
  • Squealing noise from belt area
  • Engine misfires at high RPM

How to Fix

Replace the timing belt, tensioner, water pump, and all idler pulleys as a complete kit at 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Use genuine Honda/Acura components or the verified AISIN kit matched to the year split: TKH-001 for 2001–2002 and TKH-002 for 2003–2006. Never reuse the old tensioner even if it appears functional. This is a critical interference engine — a broken belt destroys the valves.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • 2001–2002 AISIN TKH-001
    Fits 2001-2002

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2001–2002 AISIN TKH-001.

    Partsgeek
  • 2003–2006 AISIN TKH-002
    Fits 2003-2006

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2003–2006 AISIN TKH-002.

    Partsgeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningThis is an INTERFERENCE engine. If the timing belt breaks, the pistons hit the valves and you are looking at a $3,000-5,000 head repair. Do the belt, tensioner, and water pump together at 100k miles — it is the single most important maintenance item on these engines.
Typical repair cost:$800 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 1,900 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence1,900 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

The 2010–2013 MDX J37A1 can develop oil consumption and spark-plug fouling from piston-ring or cylinder sealing problems. Separately, its front and rear active hydraulic engine mounts can leak or collapse, causing idle vibration and a clunk when shifting. Diagnose these as separate repair paths; this J37A1 MDX application does not use Variable Cylinder Management.

This issue also affects: Acura RDX, Acura RSX, Acura TL

Common Symptoms

  • Excessive oil consumption (1 qt per 1-2k mi)
  • Fouled spark plugs on cyls 1-3
  • Idle vibration / shaking
  • Clunk when shifting into gear
  • MIL with P0301/P0302/P0303 misfire codes

How to Fix

Diagnose oil consumption and plug fouling separately from mount vibration. Replace failed front or rear active hydraulic motor mounts and replace oil-fouled spark plugs after confirming the oil-consumption cause. Monitor oil level monthly and inspect for piston-ring fouling. The 2010–2013 J37A1 MDX is not a VCM application, so do not install a VCM tuner.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Four-piece engine and transmission mount set for 2007–2013 Acura MDX 3.7L

    Repair parts Includes hydraulic front and rear engine mounts plus companion mounts; valid for the issue’s 2010–2013 subset.

    eBay

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $3,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

Only the 2001 model year of the Acura MDX falls under NHTSA recall 20V026000, the Non-Azide Driver airbag Inflator (NADI) campaign. This is a distinct problem from the PSAN-propellant inflator recalls — NADI inflators do not use phase stabilized ammonium nitrate at all. The defect is a manufacturing issue that lets the driver inflator take on moisture. In a crash severe enough to deploy the driver frontal airbag, that moisture can cause the inflator to rupture, sending metal fragments toward the driver and other people in the MDX, or it can cause the cushion to inflate only partially so it fails to protect the driver as designed. Both failure modes increase the chance of serious injury or death, which is why this is a safety recall rather than a service campaign. Honda's filing lists 1,439,841 vehicles for the entire campaign across all affected Honda, Acura and Isuzu models.

How to Fix

Take the MDX to an Acura dealer; the inspection and any repair are free. The dealer checks the driver frontal airbag inflator and replaces it with an inflator of a different design if it needs replacing. The recall began October 1, 2020. Because a 2001 MDX is likely on its second or third owner, don't rely on having received a letter — run the VIN through nhtsa.gov/recalls, or call American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138.

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

This recall does not apply to every 2001-2002 Acura MDX — it applies to MDXs that received a replacement driver frontal air bag module as part of a vehicle repair. The replacement NADI inflator used in those repairs was built with a manufacturing defect that allows it to absorb moisture. NHTSA states the affected inflator may rupture, or the air bag cushion may fail to inflate fully. In a crash serious enough to deploy the driver air bag, a ruptured inflator can throw metal fragments at the driver or other occupants, and an underinflated cushion may not protect the driver as designed. Either outcome raises the risk of serious injury or death. Recall 20V027000 covers 875,966 vehicles campaign-wide across all the Acura and Honda models included.

How to Fix

Take the MDX to an Acura dealer; the inspection and any repair are free of charge. The dealer inspects the air bags and, if needed, replaces the driver frontal air bag inflator with one of a different design. The campaign opened October 1, 2020. Because eligibility depends on repair history rather than build date, the reliable check is your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, or call American Honda's Customer Support & Campaign Center at 1-888-234-2138.

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On 2016-2020 Acura MDX with the 3.5L V6 (J35Y5) and Auto Idle-Stop, the engine may fail to automatically restart from a stop event, leaving the driver stranded in traffic. NHTSA opened an Engineering Analysis (PE22-016 → EA) after 1,300+ complaints across ~2.2M Honda/Acura vehicles, with 4 confirmed accidents. Acura issued Service Bulletin 23-001 in January 2023 with a PGM-FI software update (reduces idle-stop operating range) and extended warranty coverage on starter replacement and valve adjustment to 10 years / unlimited miles. Note: the Sport Hybrid (J30Y1) uses a different motor-based stop/start system and is not in scope of this TSB.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine does not restart after auto-stop event
  • Have to press Start button or shift to Park to restart
  • Warning chime / MIL
  • Battery drain after repeated failures

How to Fix

Have dealer perform the PGM-FI idle-stop software update plus starter / starter relay inspection per Honda's 2023 service campaign (covered 10 years). To avoid recurrence, defeat Idle-Stop with the dash button each drive or install an aftermarket auto-disable module.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
1,200 owners

The AcuraLink infotainment system in third-gen MDX models experiences random reboots during driving, temporarily disabling navigation, audio, and the backup camera. The system takes 30-60 seconds to restart, leaving the driver without audio or navigation guidance mid-route.

This issue also affects: Acura RDX, Acura TLX

Common Symptoms

  • Screen goes black and reboots while driving
  • Audio cuts out for 30-60 seconds
  • Navigation loses route mid-trip
  • Backup camera unavailable after reboot
  • Bluetooth disconnects and fails to reconnect

How to Fix

Update to the latest infotainment firmware from an Acura dealer. Reset the system to factory defaults and clear cached data. If reboots continue, the infotainment control module may need hardware replacement under an extended warranty program.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipAsk the dealer specifically for the latest firmware version — many dealers install outdated updates. The 2019 firmware revision dramatically reduced reboot frequency for most owners.

Research This Issue

Based on 1,200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence1,200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Mar 2026

The third-gen MDX's stacked dual-display infotainment (8" upper + 7" touch) on 2014-2016 models suffers from slow boot times, screen freezes, Bluetooth dropouts, and random reboots. Acura issued TSB 15-001 (software v3.00.2304, dated 08/21/2015) for 2014 MDX, replacing TSB 14-014, to address speed and bug issues. TSB B15-036 covers 2014-2015 for HVAC display flicker. 2016 received a separate software track via AcuraLink updates. 2018 added Apple CarPlay, which introduced separate iOS-update compatibility issues.

Common Symptoms

  • Lower touchscreen frozen / unresponsive
  • Slow boot (30+ seconds)
  • Random reboots while driving
  • Bluetooth audio dropouts
  • Backup camera lag or stuck-on display

How to Fix

Have dealer install latest infotainment software update (TSB 15-001 v3.00.2304 for 2014; later versions for 2015-2016 via update disc/AcuraLink). Perform a soft reset by holding the audio power/volume knob for 10-15 seconds. For CarPlay-equipped 2018+, unplug USB if backup camera sticks. Updates are typically free during the original 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper warranty; out-of-warranty cost varies by dealer.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

Certain 2018-2020 MDX (J35Y5 3.5L V6) and MDX Sport Hybrid (3.0L V6 hybrid) units were built with low-density, improperly molded in-tank fuel pump impellers. Surface cracking from production solvent absorption causes the impeller to swell and seize against the pump body, leading to no-start or stall while driving. Honda issued NHTSA recall 23V-858 covering ~2.5 million Honda/Acura vehicles.

This issue also affects: Acura ILX, Acura TLX

Common Symptoms

  • Engine stall while driving
  • Long cranking / no-start
  • Intermittent loss of power
  • Check Engine Light
  • Fuel pump warning

How to Fix

Free recall remedy under NHTSA 23V-858 - dealer replaces the fuel pump module with a redesigned part. Check VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or owners.acura.com and schedule replacement immediately if not yet completed.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

First- and second-gen MDX power-steering high-pressure hose deteriorates and cracks at the metal-to-rubber crimp, weeping Honda PSF onto the subframe and causing whine, low-fluid warnings, and eventually pump damage. Internally, the rack develops 'morning sickness' - stiff steering when cold that loosens once warm - from worn input-shaft Teflon seals. Note: morning-sickness/rack failure is best-documented on 2003-2013 (Gen 1.5 and Gen 2); high-pressure hose failure spans 2001-2013.

Common Symptoms

  • PSF puddle under right side of engine
  • Whining noise on cold-start when turning wheel
  • Stiff steering when cold ('morning sickness')
  • Low PSF reservoir level
  • Reddish oil residue on subframe

How to Fix

Identify the MDX generation and hose part number before purchase. Replace the leaking high-pressure feed hose with the matching application and use only Honda power-steering fluid. The verified links cover 2001–2002 and 2007–2013 subsets; 2003–2006 still requires VIN-specific sourcing. For rack morning sickness, replace the steering rack with a remanufactured unit rather than using stop-leak.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • 2001–2002 OEM feed hose reference
    Fits 2001-2002

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2001–2002 OEM feed hose reference.

    Acurapartswarehouse
  • 2007–2009 OEM feed hose
    Fits 2007-2009

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2007–2009 OEM feed hose.

    Acurapartswarehouse
  • 2007–2013 aftermarket pressure line
    Fits 2007-2013

    Verified repair component. Approved replacement: 2007–2013 aftermarket pressure line.

    Walmart

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$350 - $1,800

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Campaign #18V77700001/11/2018

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) 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 manufacturing error, the connecting rod bearing in the engine may wear and seize, damaging the engine.

Campaign #23V75100013/11/2023

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

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.

Campaign #23V85800018/12/2023

+ 9 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

get a full repair guide

What is the 2016-2020 Acura MDX ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting?

Third-generation MDX models with the ZF 9-speed automatic suffer from torque converter shudder during light throttle acceleration between 30-50 mph. The lockup clutch in the torque converter vibrates as it engages, creating a sensation similar to driving over rumble strips that m… Repairs typically run $200-$3,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2001-2006 Acura MDX Timing Belt Tensioner and Water Pump Failure?

First-generation MDX models with the J35 V6 are prone to timing belt tensioner bearing failure and simultaneous water pump leaks when the timing belt service is neglected past 105,000 miles. The hydraulic tensioner loses pressure, allowing the belt to skip teeth and potentially b… Repairs typically run $800-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2016-2020 Acura MDX Auto Idle-Stop Failure to Restart (2016-2020 MDX)?

On 2016-2020 Acura MDX with the 3.5L V6 (J35Y5) and Auto Idle-Stop, the engine may fail to automatically restart from a stop event, leaving the driver stranded in traffic. NHTSA opened an Engineering Analysis (PE22-016 → EA) after 1,300+ complaints across ~2.2M Honda/Acura vehicl… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2020 Acura MDX Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Stall (NHTSA Recall 23V-858)?

Certain 2018-2020 MDX (J35Y5 3.5L V6) and MDX Sport Hybrid (3.0L V6 hybrid) units were built with low-density, improperly molded in-tank fuel pump impellers. Surface cracking from production solvent absorption causes the impeller to swell and seize against the pump body, leading… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2001 Acura MDX First-Year 2001 MDX Included in NADI Driver Airbag Inflator Recall (NHTSA 20V026000)?

Only the 2001 model year of the Acura MDX falls under NHTSA recall 20V026000, the Non-Azide Driver airbag Inflator (NADI) campaign. This is a distinct problem from the PSAN-propellant inflator recalls — NADI inflators do not use phase stabilized ammonium nitrate at all. The defec… Severity: high.

What is the 2016-2019 Acura MDX ZF 9-Speed Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifts and Stalling (2016-2019 MDX)?

The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic introduced on the 2016 MDX suffers from documented hesitation, harsh shifts, lurching, and unexpected downshifts/deceleration. Drivers report the vehicle hesitating from a stop, banging into gear, or briefly losing power. Software miscommunication bet… Repairs typically run $0-$6,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2001-2002 Acura MDX Replacement Driver Air Bag Inflator May Rupture or Underinflate (Recall 20V027000)?

This recall does not apply to every 2001-2002 Acura MDX — it applies to MDXs that received a replacement driver frontal air bag module as part of a vehicle repair. The replacement NADI inflator used in those repairs was built with a manufacturing defect that allows it to absorb m… Severity: high.

What is the 2010-2013 Acura MDX J37 Oil Consumption, Spark Plug Fouling, and Active Motor Mount Failure?

The 2010–2013 MDX J37A1 can develop oil consumption and spark-plug fouling from piston-ring or cylinder sealing problems. Separately, its front and rear active hydraulic engine mounts can leak or collapse, causing idle vibration and a clunk when shifting. Diagnose these as separa… Repairs typically run $400-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2014-2020 Acura MDX Infotainment System Random Reboots?

The AcuraLink infotainment system in third-gen MDX models experiences random reboots during driving, temporarily disabling navigation, audio, and the backup camera. The system takes 30-60 seconds to restart, leaving the driver without audio or navigation guidance mid-route. Severity: medium.

What is the 2012-2015 Acura MDX Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch Judder at 20-60 mph (2012-2015 MDX)?

Owners of the 6-speed 2012-2015 MDX feel a rhythmic 'rumble-strip' judder between roughly 20 and 60 mph during light/steady throttle. Honda's investigation found the torque converter itself is not damaged; the lock-up clutch judders due to ATF deterioration combined with calibrat… Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2014-2016 Acura MDX Dual-Screen Infotainment Freezes, Slow Boots and Reboots (2014-2016 MDX)?

The third-gen MDX's stacked dual-display infotainment (8" upper + 7" touch) on 2014-2016 models suffers from slow boot times, screen freezes, Bluetooth dropouts, and random reboots. Acura issued TSB 15-001 (software v3.00.2304, dated 08/21/2015) for 2014 MDX, replacing TSB 14-014… Repairs typically run $0-$200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2001-2013 Acura MDX Power Steering High-Pressure Hose Cracking and Rack 'Morning Sickness' — Generation-Specific Fitment?

First- and second-gen MDX power-steering high-pressure hose deteriorates and cracks at the metal-to-rubber crimp, weeping Honda PSF onto the subframe and causing whine, low-fluid warnings, and eventually pump damage. Internally, the rack develops 'morning sickness' - stiff steeri… Repairs typically run $350-$1,800. Severity: medium.