What are the most common Acura MDX problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 3,600+ owner reports, the 2018 Acura MDX has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting, ZF 9-Speed Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifts and Stalling (2016-2019 MDX), Auto Idle-Stop Failure to Restart (2016-2020 MDX). Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Acura MDX reliable?
The 2018 Acura MDX has 5 known issues documented across 3,600+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: ZF 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifting and ZF 9-Speed Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifts and Stalling (2016-2019 MDX) and Auto Idle-Stop Failure to Restart (2016-2020 MDX) and Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation Causing Stall (NHTSA Recall 23V-858). 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 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 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 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 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.
