Best & Worst Acura MDX Years | Years To Avoid

Its production began in 2000 and has become one of the market’s most dependable mid-size luxury crossovers. As an SUV at the intersection of utility and comfort, the MDX’s name stands for “multidimensional luxury.”

Best & Worst Acura MDX Years [Models To Avoid]

Certainly, some MDXs are better than others after two decades of improvement and perfection. Our CoPilot tool is here to guide you through the wide variety of Acura MDX vehicles on the market.


Acura MDX: Overview Of Generations

There are four main generations of Acura MDX production: YD1, YD2, YD3 and YD9. A mid-generation facelift was also added to each generation, likely as a result of the popularity explosion among SUVs. Over the last 20 years, SUVs have been immensely successful, and because of this, facelifts have been a smart way for Acura to keep its MDX looking fresh.

Acura MDX: Overview Of Generations

It has always been marketed as a premium product, yet has undercut key competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz with lower prices. With the evolution of the model, new trims like Hybrid and Sport Hybrid versions were added, which were popular as well. A 355-horsepower V6 engine powers the most recent model generation, YD9, which was released for 2022. YD9s are still in production, with a starting MSRP of $51,200 for the 2025 model.

Like all Acura SUVs, the MDX has many features, but let’s see which years are most reliable, and which ones should be avoided.

Acura MDX: Generations And Key Specifications
GenerationModel YearsEngine OptionsTransmissionKey Features
YD1 (First generation)2001 – 20063.5L V65-speed automaticA 3.5-liter V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission are the only transmissions available on Acura’s first generation MDX three-row SUV.
YD2 (Second generation)2007 – 20133.7L V65- and 6-speed automaticAn upgraded V6 engine, as well as a complete style refresh, gives the YD2 MDX more power. It is now standard to have all-wheel drive.
YD3 (Third generation)2014 – 20203.5L V6, 3.0L V6 Hybrid6- and 9-speed automatic, 7-speed dual-clutch automaticIn 2017, the facelifted MDX became the first MDX to be available as a hybrid.
YD9 (Fourth generation)2022 – present3.5L V6, 3.0L turbocharged V610-speed automaticWith all-wheel drive as standard, the Type S is equipped with a powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine.

A Guide To The Best Acura MDX Model Years

As one of the more affordable luxury three-row SUVs on the market in 2024, the Acura MDX is keenly priced at a base MSRP just north of $50,000. A used example, however, offers better value for money and is more affordable. To make it easier for those shopping for used MDXs, we researched which models are most reliable, using data sources such as Car Complaints, the NHTSA, and J.D. Power reliability ratings.

As a result of these sources, we will not only be able to obtain valuable third-party reliability and quality reviews, but we will also have access to other metrics, such as how many official complaints have been filed and how many recalls have been issued. According to the same methodology, we also narrowed down Acura MDX models with the lowest reliability ratings.

A Guide To The Best Acura MDX Model Years

Due to the lack of data available, we ruled out 2023 and 2024 models for this reliability review, which focuses on 2001 through 2022. Due to this, only the first production year for the YD9 generation will be considered. It will also highlight the Acura MDX years to avoid, along with the top year for the MDX.

2007 Acura MDX

A new generation of YD2 models was introduced this year, which marked a significant update from its predecessor. The NHTSA has only logged one recall for the YD2 generation, indicating Acura did a great job engineering it. The YD2 MDX did not experience any recalls in its first year, which is unusual for a new generation.

An optional bike rack is being recalled for potentially pinching fingers when moving between positions. In spite of the recall, Acura MDX production in 2007 was among the best in its history due to its reliability.

2018 Acura MDX Hybrid

Since the standard model has been subject to seven recalls in 2018, 2018 doesn’t immediately stand out as the best year of production for the Acura MDX. However, only two recalls have been logged against the Sport Hybrid trim, and only one against the standard Hybrid trim.

In addition, Car Complaints shows just three complaints for the 2018 model – far less than the average. When shopping for a used MDX, 2018 appears to be one of the best years to secure one. Additionally, since it is a 2018 model, it is modern enough to meet the needs of most customers.

2022 Acura MDX Type S

Data indicates the Acura MDX’s best year was 2022, the same year the MDX Type S was introduced. By far the fastest MDX produced to date, the Type S boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with 355 horsepower.

There is one recall on record for the standard 2022 MDX, but there have been just two complaints reported on Car Complaints for the Type S. One refers to an engine issue, while the other concerns brakes. We should point out that Car Complaints doesn’t differentiate between the standard and Type S models. Since this generation of MDX was just introduced, there may be more complaints and recalls. The Acura MDX has almost certainly enjoyed one of its best years to date, however.


Acura MDX Model Years To Avoid

As reliable SUVs, there is a wide range of MDX model years to choose from. A number of complaints and excessive recalls have been logged on both Car Complaints and with the NHTSA regarding the following MDX model years. The data suggests you should steer clear of these specific model years if you’re looking to buy a used Acura MDX.

Acura MDX Model Years To Avoid

2003 Acura MDX

The 2003 Acura MDX has been associated with 13 NHTSA recalls and 211 complaints, which should raise a few alarms for potential buyers. The 2003 MDX has been recalled because of binding accelerator pedals, exploding airbag inflators, and an ignition fault that can cause the car to roll away. This model year’s drivers and passengers face serious risks from all of these issues.

The highlighted recalls are associated with many complaints, and rightfully so. Looking at the data, we can conclude that this is a year to avoid with the Acura MDX.

2014 Acura MDX

NHTSA reports seven recalls for the 2014 Acura MDX, but that’s not why it’s among the best years to avoid. According to Car Complaints, 63 complaints have been filed against the MDX this year. Sixty-three of those 63 complaints pertain to engine issues, including lurching and noise to be concerned about.

According to Car Complaints, 2010 was actually the worst year for motor vehicle related problems, since the related costs were higher. Despite this, the 2010 MDX has fewer recalls, only one, so our list of examples to avoid for 2014 is the MDX from that year.

2019 Acura MDX

The 2019 Acura MDX has fewer recalls for the Hybrid trims than the 2018 Acura MDX, which we recommend for its Hybrid feature. Despite the Acura’s gas-only status, the MDX has been recalled six times and has received 10 complaints from buyers.

Ignoring recalls may also result in significant costs. Any one of these issues could cause your Acura and wallet four-figure damage. The most common are engine-related, such as fuel pump failures, rod bearing issues, or even failures of timing belts. It may or may not be related to the recalls, but the complaints mention strange engine noises, stalling and/or acceleration.


Which Year Models of Acura MDX are Safe to Buy Used? 

With luxurious styling and plush third-row seating, the Acura MDX is among the best 5-door SUVs available. It is best to choose one of the more secure models in the line, and we have determined what those models are. Acura MDX year models recommended for purchase include:

  • 2006 Acura MDX
  • 2007 Acura MDX
  • 2008 Acura MDX
  • 2009 Acura MDX
  • 2011 Acura MDX
  • 2012 Acura MDX
  • 2013 Acura MDX
  • 2015 Acura MDX
  • 2018 Acura MDX
  • 2019 Acura MDX
  • 2020 Acura MDX

There are either no complaints for any of these Acura MDX year models, or the complaints that do exist are minor. The 2019 and 2020 MDXes have no complaints, so you’re best off buying models from the last few years.

The death of a 2018 model while driving has been reported, but it was so rare that it shouldn’t be a concern. There are only a few complaints regarding 2006 models, and their problems are both rare and have occurred after 150,000 miles on average. 

One of the biggest flaws of the 2007 year model is the broken sunroof, but it only costs about $700 to replace in the unlikely event you need it. There are few defects in Acura MDXs from 2008, 2013, and 2015, and most of them are inexpensive to fix, such as a hesitating transmission (around $300) or a poor air conditioning system (about $400).

It was reported that a 2008 MDX had a broken timing belt, but this was probably an anomaly and shouldn’t occur in yours.

It costs around $400 to fix a drained battery in a 2009 MDX at 96,000 miles.

In addition, there have been some complaints about the backup camera and garage door opener on 2011 and 2012 models. Whenever you decide to buy an Acura MDX, you’ll be in good hands.


Which Year Models of Acura MDX to Avoid: 

In the MDX’s history, there have been ups and downs, but they are not all suitable for you. Acura MDX purchases can be made more rewarding if you avoid certain models. Acura MDX models from the following years should be avoided:

  • 2001 Acura MDX
  • 2002 Acura MDX
  • 2003 Acura MDX
  • 2004 Acura MDX
  • 2005 Acura MDX
  • 2010 Acura MDX
  • 2014 Acura MDX
  • 2016 Acura MDX
  • 2017 Acura MDX

A total transmission failure occurs at some point in the life of the first five-year Acura MDX models (2001 – 2005). Repairs usually cost over $4,000, so it isn’t an early issue, but it usually happens between 100,000 and 130,000 miles. There are further transmission defects like jerking, a rumble strip noise, and transmission failures reported on the 2004 model, which comes with 84,000 miles.

An average of 92,000 miles is the average mileage for complaints about the 2010 MDX’s excessive oil consumption. The cost of fixing this is approximately $6,700, which might not be a dealbreaker in other vehicles.

Which Year Models of Acura MDX to Avoid: 

There are a lot of engine problems that appear early on in 2014, which has the highest number of complaints overall. The engine may stall or lurch when accelerating or make strange ticking noises. It’s mostly the transmission that’s to blame for the 2016 and 2017 models’ jerks, lurches, and hesitations when accelerating. If you are interested in purchasing an Acura MDX from one of these years, you should avoid it.

Are Acura MDXs Generally Reliable?

Buying the most reliable Acura MDX year is the best option. Nevertheless, if the Acura MDX overall isn’t reliable, all that matters is what it looks like. Taking a look at similar cars, let’s see how this one compares. 

Acura MDXs are reliable vehicles. Withclutch.com rates the MDX 63.05, giving it the top ranking among SUVs. There are few large vehicles on the market like it.

Getting a second opinion on a vehicle’s reliability is also a good idea. A review by repairpal.com places the Acura MDX second among fourteen luxury midsize SUVs. The fancy SUV world needs to take notice of it.

Compared to other luxury SUVs, the Acura MDX has an annual repair cost of $571. Repairs are likely to occur 8% of the time if an unexpected issue arises. Compared to other cars, this number is above average at 11%.

Compared to other luxury vehicles, the Acura MDX is brought in for an average of .4 times a year, a superior rate. Across all years, Acura MDXs are generally reliable.

Is The Acura MDX Worth It?

You can’t go wrong with the Acura MDX if you’re looking for a reliable SUV. The best years have some faults, but they’re not too severe. If you want an affordable ownership experience, pick the best in the batch.

The MDX is a great choice for families or solo drivers. You won’t regret buying it.

Luxury vehicles from Acura are of excellent quality without a hefty price tag. Investments in Acura MDX are well worth it.


Common Acura MDX Problems

There are still a few reliability issues with the Acura MDX, despite its reputation for solid reliability:

  • Acceleration issues: MDX owners experienced poor or jerky acceleration due to transmission problems. As the reports suggest, the situation worsens when they are unable to start their vehicles. It had been recommended that Honda/Acura dealers update the software for the transmission control module (TCM).
  • Excessive oil consumption: Owners of MDXs experiencing this issue claim that their vehicles consume more oil than usual. In addition, owners may have to pay $6,800 to fix this problem. Honda had to issue service bulletins due to the severity of the problem.
  • Malfunctioning climate system: MDX owners experienced problems with their air conditioning systems in 2008. There was a leak caused by the compression hose rubbing against the grounding surface of the vehicle, according to the reports.
  • Stalling or lurching: MDX owners also experience headaches when their vehicles stall or lurch forward when accelerating lightly. According to reports, this usually occurs at speeds between 35 and 45 mph. The issue can be resolved by replacing the faulty VCM rocker, according to Acura.

Frequently Asked Questions: Used Acura MDX Years to Avoid

Which model years of the Acura MDX should be avoided?

Many experts and owners advise owners to avoid the 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2017 models due to a variety of problems, with transmission problems particularly widespread in older models.

What issues plague the 2014 and 2016 Acura MDX models?

A high volume of complaints regarding various defects have been received regarding both the 2014 and 2016 Acura MDX models early in their life cycles.

Can the 2017 Acura MDX’s transmission problems lead to early failure?

Transmission issues with the 2017 Acura MDX contribute to less reliable driving experience, even if it does not fail outright from the start.

Which Acura MDX models are considered safe to buy used?

Acura MDX models from 2006-2009, 2011-2013, and 2015-2020 generally have fewer complaints or have minor issues that are less expensive to fix than those from 2006-2009, 2011-2013, and 2015-2020.

Are Acura MDXs typically reliable?

A few model years of the Acura MDX are troublesome, but overall the MDX has a good reputation for reliability. Don’t assume all MDXs are good investments.

How much does a used Acura MDX typically cost?

Second-hand Acura MDX prices fluctuate significantly because the car has been on the market for over 20 years. According to CoPilot Price Pulse, an average 2008 MDX is asking $9,438. It is, however, considerably more expensive to purchase a more recent model. Current market conditions result in an 16% premium on a 2019 MDX’s price of $33,720.


Conclusion: Consider Your Acura MDX Options Carefully

A model’s reliability tends to vary with its generation, so avoiding the generations with more issues would be wise. The MDX, however, is a bit more confusing. There are some model years that appear to have been well-engineered, while there are others that appear to be ticking time-bombs. As with the hybrids, the gas-only trims on model years with fault-ridden Hybrids also proved reliable.

Take special care when considering a used MDX, and make sure to look for any notable complaints on the model you’re interested in.

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