Best & Worst Acura MDX Years: [Models To Avoid]

As a midsize luxury crossover with three rows of seating, the Acura MDX has been a market leader since 2000. In its title, the MDX stands for “multidimensional luxury,” demonstrating the SUV’s place as an intersection of utility and comfort on the road.

There are certainly some MDXs that are better than others after two decades of improvements and refinements. Whether you’re looking for an Acura MDX or any other Acura vehicle, CoPilot can help.

Overview of Acura MDX generations

There are four main generations of Acura MDX production: YD1, YD2, YD3 and YD9. As the SUV segment exploded in popularity, each generation also underwent a mid-generation facelift. Over the past 20 years, SUVs have been immensely successful, so facelifts were an essential part of Acura’s strategy to keep its MDX looking fresh.

In spite of its premium positioning, the MDX managed to undercut key competitors, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz, with cheaper prices. Hybrid and Sport Hybrid trims, which proved popular as the model evolved, joined the model lineup. A 355-horsepower V6 engine powers the new generation of YD9, which was launched for the 2022 model year. There is still a YD9 in production, and the base price of the 2025 model is $51,200.

All Acura SUVs offer plenty of features, including the MDX, but let’s figure out which years are most reliable, and which to avoid.

Identifying The Best Acura MDX Model Years

One of the more affordable luxury three-row SUVs in 2024, the Acura MDX is keenly priced with a base MSRP marginally north of $50,000. A used example, however, offers better value for money at a more affordable price. With the aim of helping those looking to buy used MDXs, we decided to identify which years of the MDX have the highest reliability, based on Car Complaints, the NHTSA, and J.D. Power reliability ratings. Besides providing us with third-party reliability and quality reviews, these sources will also provide us with other metrics, such as how many official complaints any given year has received and how many recalls have been filed. Based on the same methodology, we have also narrowed down Acura MDX models with the lowest reliability ratings.

Because we are focusing on model years 2001 through 2022, we have ruled out the 2023 and 2024 model years. In this case, only the first year of production of the YD9 generation should be taken into account. Throughout the article, we will highlight the best and worst years for the Acura MDX.

2007 Acura MDX

It is this year, 2007, that the YD2 generation makes its debut, which is an upgrade from the earlier first-generation model. Only one recall has been logged by the NHTSA for Acura’s YD2 generation, which appears to have been designed well. 

The YD2 MDX does not have the high recall rate typically associated with the first year of a new generation.

When moving from one position to another, an optional bike rack could pinch fingers, causing injury. In spite of the recall, the Acura MDX was one of the best years in terms of reliability, so it’s still important to keep an eye out for it.

2018 Acura MDX Hybrid

There have been seven recalls for the standard Acura MDX model in 2018, making it one of the worst years of production so far. In contrast, only two recalls have been logged against the Sport Hybrid trim, and just one against the standard Hybrid trim.

According to Car Complaints, the 2018 model received just three complaints, far fewer than the average number. If you’re looking to purchase a used MDX, 2018 is one of the best years to do so. Due to its modern design, it is also suitable for most customers since it is a 2018 model.

2022 Acura MDX Type S

One of the best years for the Acura MDX was the 2022 model year, which coincided with the release of the current MDX Type S. Its powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 355 horsepower, making it by far the fastest MDX ever built.

In addition to just two complaints noted on Car Complaints, the MDX Type S has zero recalls on record. Car Complaints does not differentiate between standard and Type S models. One complaint pertains to an engine problem, while the other pertains to a brake problem. The fact that this generation of MDX was introduced so recently makes it likely that more complaints and recalls will arise. Nevertheless, for now, this has been one of Acura MDX’s best years.

Acura MDX Model Years To Avoid

MDX SUVs have proved themselves reliable in a wide range of model years. A large number of complaints have been registered both with Car Complaints and with NHTSA regarding the following MDX model years. You may be better off steering clear of these specific model years if you’re considering buying a used Acura MDX.

2003 Acura MDX

This 2003 Acura MDX features an alarming 13 recalls from the NHTSA as well as 211 complaints from the same website. Several recalls have been issued for the 2003 MDX, including accelerator pedal binding, airbag inflator explosions, and ignition faults that could cause the car to roll away. Drivers and passengers of this model year face serious risks from all of these factors.

Most of the complaints are related to the recalls that have been highlighted, and rightfully so. Looking at the data, it’s obvious that this is a year to avoid for the Acura MDX.

2014 Acura MDX

NHTSA has issued seven recalls for the 2014 Acura MDX, but that’s not the main reason it’s on the list of years to avoid. The number of complaints for this MDX is the highest ever, with 63 showing up on Car Complaints. 26 of those 63 complaints concerned engine issues, and in particular, lurching problems.

Based on Car Complaints, 2010 is actually the worst year because 2010’s related issues are generally considered to be more costly. Our list of examples to avoid instead refers to the 2014 Acura MDX, as the 2010 MDX has one recall.

2019 Acura MDX

In addition to fewer recalls for the Hybrid trims of the 2019 MDX, we recommend the 2018 MDX as a Hybrid model. Its gas-only MDX, however, has drawn six recalls and ten complaints for buyers to be aware of.

It is also possible for the recalls to be very costly if they are ignored. Any one of these problems can easily damage your Acura and your wallet in the four-figure range. Some of these issues are engine related, such as faulty fuel pumps, rod bearing issues, and even deteriorating timing belts. Depending on the complaint, there may or may not be a connection between the recalls and engine noises, stalling, and acceleration.

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

With its luxurious styling and luxurious third row seating, the Acura MDX is one of the best 5-door SUVs out there. Our experts have determined which models are the most secure in the line. Following year models of Acura MDX are recommended for safe purchase:

• 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 few complaints about all of these Acura MDX year models, or any complaints they do have are minor. The 2019 and 2020 MDXes have no complaints, so you’re best off sticking with models from the past few years.

One report of a 2018 model dying while driving has been reported. However, the incident was so rare that it shouldn’t be an issue. In addition to being very reliable, a 2006 model has had a minimum number of complaints and has had only a few problems with 150,000 miles.

In the unlikely event that it happens to you, a broken sunroof is the biggest flaw with the 2007 model. All three 2008, 2013, and 2015 Acura MDX models have mostly clean records, and most of their potential problems would just cost a few hundred dollars to fix, such as a bad air conditioning system or a hesitating transmission.

In one case, a timing belt was broken on a 2008 MDX, but it’s probable that this was an anomaly, and it won’t happen to your MDX.

A 2009 MDX with 96,000 miles has straightforward problems, like a drained battery that costs $400 to replace.

For 2011 and 2012 year models, some of the biggest complaints are about minor malfunctions with the garage door opener and backup camera. The Acura MDX is a good choice for anyone.

Which Year Models of Acura MDX to Avoid?

While the MDX has had ups and downs throughout its history, not all will meet your needs. Your Acura MDX purchase will be more successful 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

At some point during the life of the first five-year Acura MDX models (2001 – 2005), the transmission failed completely. Repairs cost over $4,000, so they don’t occur early, but they happen in the range of 100,000 – 130,000 miles. As for the 2004 model, it has a transmission that fails even sooner, at 84,000 miles, and has more transmission problems such as jerking and rumble strips.

An average of 92,000 miles is the mileage at which most complaints about the 2010 MDX revolve around excessive oil consumption. Unlike some other vehicles, this isn’t a dealbreaker here but will cost you around $6,700 to fix.

There are a lot of engine problems that pop up early on in 2014, with the most complaints overall. Your engine might stall or lurch when you accelerate, or make strange ticking noises. Compared to the 2016 model, the 2017 model has similar problems, but the transmission is more problematic, as it tends to jerk, lurch, and hesitate on acceleration. Acura MDX models from these years should be avoided.

Are Acura MDXs Generally Reliable?

Acura MDX is most reliable when purchased in the most reliable year. In spite of this, if the Acura MDX isn’t reliable in general, then it doesn’t mean anything. Comparing this car to similar competitors will give us a better idea of its strengths and weaknesses. 

Acura MDX reliability is decent. A top rating of 63.05 is given to the MDX by withclutch.com. There aren’t many large vehicles on the market like it.

Getting a second opinion on a vehicle’s reliability is also a good idea. Compared to fourteen other luxury midsize SUVs, the Acura MDX scores 45.5 on repairpal.com. There is no doubt that it is one of the most powerful SUVs on the market.

In comparison to other luxury vehicle options, the Acura MDX’s annual repair cost is $571. If an unexpected repair is needed, it is likely to be repaired 8% of the time. A comparison of this number with the 11% average for other cars shows that it fared well.

It is reported that the Acura MDX is brought in for an average of .4 times a year, which is excellent when compared to other luxury vehicles, which are brought in for an average of .6 times. Across all years, Acura MDXs are generally reliable.

Is The Acura MDX Worth It?

If you’re looking for a reliable SUV, the Acura MDX is a great choice. Despite its faults, it’s not too extreme during the best years. For an affordable ownership experience, choose the best of the best.

There is no better SUV to drive with your family or on your own than the MDX. You won’t regret buying it.

Despite its high price tag, Acura produces quality luxury vehicles at a reasonable price. Investments in Acura MDX are well worth it.

Common Acura MDX Problems

The Acura MDX has a few reliability issues that you need to be aware of, despite its reputation for solid reliability:

• Acceleration issues: 2016 and 2017 MDX owners reported jerky or poor acceleration due to transmission problems. The situation becomes more severe once the vehicle is started, according to the reports. Dealers recommended updating software for Honda/Acura transmission control modules (TCMs).
• Excessive oil consumption: Some MDX owners claim their vehicles are consuming more oil than usual. In addition, owners may have to shell out up to $6,800 in order to fix this problem. Service bulletins were issued by Honda because of the severity of the problem.
• Malfunctioning climate system: MDX owners experienced A/C problems in 2008. The report states the problem was caused by rubbing the compression hose against the grounding surface of the vehicle.
• Stalling or lurching: MDX owners also complain about their vehicle stalling or lurching forward during light acceleration. Usually, this occurs between 35 and 45 mph, according to reports. In order to resolve the issue, Acura recommends replacing the faulty VCM rocker.

Read: Here Are The Honda CR-V Years To Avoid
Read: Best & Worst Honda Pilot Years
Read: Honda B13 Service

Frequently Asked Questions: Used Acura MDX Years to Avoid

Which model years of the Acura MDX should be avoided?

Various issues have led experts and owners alike to warn against the 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2017 models because of transmission problems that have plagued earlier models.

What issues plague the 2014 and 2016 Acura MDX models?

There have been many complaints regarding various defects 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 problems, such as jerking and hesitation, are common early on in a 2017 Acura MDX, contributing to an unreliable driving experience.

Which Acura MDX models are considered safe to buy used?

There are fewer complaints and the repairs are less expensive on Acura MDX models from 2006-2009, 2011-2013, and 2015-2020.

Are Acura MDXs typically reliable?

Acura MDXs generally enjoy good reliability ratings, but some model years can be problematic. You shouldn’t assume that every MDX is a good investment.

How much does a used Acura MDX typically cost?

Due to the fact that the Acura MDX has been around for more than 20 years, used examples often fluctuate in price. According to CoPilot Price Pulse, an average 2008 MDX is listed for $9,438, on average. It is, however, much more expensive to purchase a more recent model. According to the current market conditions, a 2019 MDX costs $33,720, which includes a 16% premium.

Conclusion

It is usually the case that some generations of a model will prove more or less reliable than others, so it is advisable to avoid those that have more problems. MDX, however, is a little more confusing. The various iterations of the model seem well-engineered in some ways, but others seem like ticking time bombs in others. Additionally, it’s the same for trims, such as the Hybrid models, which proved reliable despite having gas-only trims for model years.

The bottom line is that when considering a used MDX, you should pay extra attention to the recalls listed and see if any of the more noteworthy complaints can be observed.