The Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers three-row seating for larger families. It’s produced by the Japanese manufacturer Honda as part of the Acura luxury division that began in 2002. In fact, it shares many of the same features as the Honda Pilot. The MDX has been in production since 2001 and the name stands for “Multi-Dimensional” luxury. It’s been the second best-selling luxury SUV model, selling more than 1.1 million units, behind the Lexus RX, with its top sales year occurring in 2014.
It’s wise to do your research before buying a used Acura MDX. You want to know which models are the most reliable so you can stay away from those that aren’t. To help you out, we’ve combined tons of data so you can see the bigger picture. This information should also help you decide when to sell a used MDX.
Our data is sourced from thousands of FIXD car scanners from owners who’ve installed it in their Acura MDX SUVs. We combine this information with the survey results from MDX owners. To add even more to the equation, we use the safety ratings, repair estimates, KBB values, open NHTSA recalls, and fuel economy figures to the rankings.
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Best Years |
Why? |
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Exceptional reliability ratings, minimal repair bills, superior fuel economy scores |
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Fantastic reliability scores, average cost of ownership |
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High-reliability ratings, Recommended by owners |
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Top pick by drivers, Low cost of maintenance and repairs |
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Loved by owners, minimal chance of expensive engine or transmission problems |
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Worst Years |
Why? |
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Higher cost of ownership, increased chance of transmission trouble, low resale value |
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Low-reliability scores, likelihood of expensive mechanical repairs |
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Average reliability ratings, some of the highest cost of ownership among models |
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Average reliability scores, slightly elevated risk of expensive repairs |
Acura MDX Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year
Everything we’ve been able to source about the Acura MDX models is laid out for your research needs. We’ve included handy charts that give you all of the important ratings, along with a breakdown of the values you need to make an informed decision. This data should help you pick a reliable Acura MDX, especially when you factor in the owner ratings, fuel economy scores, reliability rankings, safety data, and the average cost of maintenance and repairs.
We also recommend checking out the comparable Honda Pilot or examining the BMW X5.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
So that you see the MDX reliability for what it is, we’ve used two different factors for the graph. With this chart, you see these data points:
- The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – this score comes from the amount of check engine lights set by Acura MDX models over 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving).
- The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) – we compile this score from answers coming from Acura MDX owners who took part in our survey.
We set the reliability ratings on a scale of 1 to 10 to be assigned to every Acura MDX in our rankings. If the SUV shows a 10, it’s the best-rated available. On the other hand, a score of 1 is considered to be the worst of the rankings. Scores around 5 are considered average.
For the most part, you can count on newer models to be among the most reliable. To maintain accuracy, we did have to remove the 2001 and 2017 to 2019 models because of a lack of data. Even a few more respondents could have dramatically changed the rankings.
Before you read on, we also recommend checking out the most common reasons for the Check Engine Light on Acura MDX models. This information is valuable for determining what problems you may face with your Acura SUV.
The MDX was also affected by a fuel pump recall: Honda Fuel Pump Recall: What to Know.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the government agency that scores passenger vehicles in America for safety. These scores reveal which models are the best options for today’s families.
We graph both the safety scores for the Acura MDX models, as well as the average among all vehicles we’ve charted. The green line reveals the MDX scores, while the gray line gives you the average. You can see that the Acura MDX remains above the average, except for some newer model years.
We know you want cheap car insurance rates. The key to ensuring your rates are as low as possible is to choose an SUV with good safety scores.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
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| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
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| New York |
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| California |
MPG – Over The Years
The Acura MDX is a luxury SUV with a couple of powertrain options. While there were various configurations throughout the years, you have the choice of gas-powered models and a hybrid powertrain.
Our chart reveals average Acura MDX fuel economy scores by model year. All of our information comes from fueleconomy.gov. Look at the green line to see the average rankings on gas-powered models. The gray line gives you the hybrid rankings instead.
Based on this data, the best fuel economy per powertrain is considered the 2014 to 2020 gas models (22 mpg) and the 2017 to 2020 hybrid models (27 mpg).
Current Market Value of All Acura MDX Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
The price tag on the Acura MDX can be higher than other models because it’s a luxury SUV. Even models that are a decade old can still have a higher price tag. Yet, as the models age, the resale value drops like any other vehicle. Average resale value depends heavily on model year, mileage, chosen trim level, and features. That’s why you should run a custom KBB value report before you buy or sell an MDX.
With the luxury price tag, you can also expect higher maintenance and repair costs because of the expense of the parts and labor. It’s going to cost more, on average, to own a luxury SUV versus a cheaper compact car. That’s something to keep in mind when budgeting for your MDX purchase.
If your research gives you a toss-up between two MDX model years, you may consider the newer one as long as it is reliable. Newer models tend to have more life left in them and often include more advanced technology.
When shopping for a used Acura MDX, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
2001: Brand-new luxury SUV model
2002: Four new exterior colors added, noise and vibration reduced
2003: Received 20 horsepower boost and an updated five-speed automatic transmission
2004: 265-hp V6 engine added, restyled features include a modern front fascia, dual exhaust tips, and updated chrome trim
2005: XM Satellite Radio and Bluetooth added with standard features, optional rear entertainment system includes an in-dash six-disc CD changer
2006: Touring package receives minor interior updates, horsepower rating drops from 265 to 253
2007: 2nd generation model released with more power, better handling, and increased traction
2008: No significant model changes
2009: No significant model changes
2010: Restyled grille, updated front and rear fascias, new six-speed transmission released, the optional navigation system includes a hard drive with music storage, weather reporting, and traffic rerouting
2011: No significant model changes
2012: No significant model changes
2013: No significant model changes
2014: 3rd generation model was released with better fuel economy, a quieter interior, and an updated control interface
2015: No significant model changes
2016: New nine-speed automatic transmission released, optional safety suite called AcuraWatch Plus, frameless rearview mirror becomes standard technology
2017: Facelift provided with a new front end, refreshed headlights and grille design, Sport Hybrid debuts, new standard features include capless fueling, auto high beams, AcuraWater safety suite, an electronic parking brake, and added USB ports
2018: Updated dual-screen infotainment system includes a new capacitive touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay become standard technology
2019: Recalibrated transmission and engine stop-start technology, Advance package includes continuously variable suspension dampers, A-Spec variant becomes available
2020: No significant model changes
2021: No MDX for this model year
2022: 4th generation was released with an improved interior design and 12.3” infotainment screen, Sport-focused Type S model became available, and the Sport Hybrid discontinued
The Best Years of the Acura MDX
To pick the best Acura MDX models, we used the FIXD Reliability Ratings in conjunction with the Owner Survey Scores. We also included the trouble code information, safety scores, fuel economy ratings, and average ownership costs. In each review, we also look at the open recalls based on information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
With the Best & Worst Acura MDX list, we took out the 2001 and 2017 to 2019 models due to a lack of data. If more respondents had answered the survey, ratings may have drastically changed, so it’s best to avoid speculating. If you prefer to buy one of these models, we suggest grouping it with others in the same generation to get a general idea of how it might perform.
2020 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $24,482
Fuel Economy: 22 mpg (gas), 27 mpg (hybrid)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $417
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Not only does the 2020 Acura MDX achieve exceptional ratings, but it also has the best fuel economy numbers.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2020 Acura MDX is a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2020 MDX earns 8 out of 10.
The NHTSA crash test scores on the 2020 Acura MDX are 4.8 (out of 5). This rating shows that the SUV is a great choice for families.
This MDX model is available as a gas-powered variant, averaging 22 mpg. Otherwise, you could choose a hybrid model for better fuel economy at 27 mpg on average.
The cost of ownership is one of the lowest for these models. At $417 a year, you won’t have a lot to worry about until the warranty term ends. Acura covers new MDX models for 4 years or 60,000 miles, plus it has a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The most common DTC for the 2020 Acura MDX is the Voltage Control Unit V2M Voltage Sensor Range/Performance (P1DA8) code. It also struggles with the EVAP System Low Purge Flow Detected (P04F1) code. This problem may be related to the common Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) DTC. Thankfully, these issues could be fixed under the warranty for a short time.
The 2020 Acura MDX only shows two open recalls from the NHTSA.
2016 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 9/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $13,248
Fuel Economy: 22 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
The 2016 Acura MDX ranks right up there with the best model because of its high-reliability scores, low cost of ownership, and decent fuel economy numbers.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2016 Acura MDX is a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2016 MDX earns 9 out of 10.
The NHTSA crash test scores on the 2016 Acura MDX are about as good as they get. This SUV earns a rating of 4.8 (out of 5).
This MDX model is available only as a gas-powered variant. The average rating is 22 mpg, which is among the best offered.
While this model no longer falls under the limited warranty term, it still has a low cost of ownership. On average, owners estimate it costs $250 a year to own. There are also no reports of expensive mechanical issues.
The most common DTC for the 2016 Acura MDX is the Voltage Control Unit V2M Voltage Sensor Range/Performance (P18DA) code. It also shows a higher chance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) code. With other model years, a catalytic converter was needed, costing between $1,538 and $2,041. It also shows the Multiple, Misfire Detected (P0300) DTC. With other model years, a new mass air flow sensor fixed the issue, costing $172 to $309.
The 2016 Acura MDX only shows three open recalls from the NHTSA.
2012-2013 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-9/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7-10/10
KBB Value: $8,032-$10,972
Fuel Economy: 18 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250-$375
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
These two MDX models are the last of the 2nd generation, so most of the glitches have been worked out.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2012 Acura MDX is 7 out of 10, while the 2013 models earn a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2012 MDX earns a 7 out of 10, while the 2013 MDX has a ranking of 9 out of 10.
The NHTSA crash test scores on the 2012 and 2013 Acura MDX are 4.6 (out of 5). This is a great score for a luxury SUV.
The 2012 and 2013 Acura MDX earns a fuel economy rating of 18 mpg. While this is slightly lower than the newer models, it’s still a decent score.
These two MDX models also have some of the lowest cost of ownership. The 2013 Acura MDX averages $250 a year, while the 2012 MDX shows a rating of $375 a year. The 2013 model year does show a higher chance for some engine issues, while the 2012 MDX models are ranked higher for brake repairs.
The 2012 Acura MDX deals most often with the “A” Rocker Arm Actuator System Performance/Stuck Off (P2646) code. Additionally, the 2013 Acura MDX struggles with the Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent (P0339) DTC. However, they both seem to deal with the Multiple, Misfire Detected (P0300) DTC. If a new mass air flow sensor is needed, it may cost $172 to $309.
While the 2012 Acura MDX shows one open recall, there are none with the 2013 Acura MDX.
2009 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $5,715
Fuel Economy: 17 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $450
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Our final selection in the best MDX models is the 2009 Acura because it continues to get good rankings and is on the lower end of the cost spectrum.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2009 Acura MDX is 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2009 MDX earns 6 out of 10.
The NHTSA crash test scores on the 2009 Acura MDX are still impressive. This model year earns a ranking of 4.8 (out of 5).
The 2009 Acura MDX is only available as a gas-powered variant. It earns an average fuel economy rating of 17 mpg.
The cost of ownership for the 2009 Acura MDX is low, at just $450 a year. However, there are some reports of expensive engine issues.
The 2009 Acura MDX shows a higher instance of the Voltage Control Unit V2M Voltage Sensor Range/Performance (P18DA) code. It also shows a higher chance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 1 (P0420) code, which could require a catalytic converter, costing between $1,538 and $2,041. Finally, you need to look out for the O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected – Bank 1, Sensor 1 (P0134) code.
The 2009 Acura MDX shows no open recalls with the NHTSA.
2014-2015 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $12,705-$12,906
Fuel Economy: 22 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,000-$1,250
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
As the first two models of the 3rd generation, the 2014 and 2015 MDX are well-loved by owners. They have a good fuel economy rating and don’t suffer from massive engine or transmission problems.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2014 and 2015 Acura MDX is a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2014 MDX earns a 7 out of 10, while the 2015 Acura MDX gets 8 out of 10.
The NHTSA crash test scores on the 2014 and 2015 Acura MDX are 4.8 (out of 5). This is as close to perfect as it can get.
The 2014 and 2015 Acura MDX models do have an average fuel economy rating of 22 mpg, which is an improvement over the previous generation.
The 2014 MDX is rated at $1,000 a year for repairs and maintenance, while the 2015 MDX has a ranking at $1,250 a year. While this is higher than normal, there aren’t many expensive repairs listed, except with the brakes on both models or the AC/heat on the 2015 MDX.
With the 2014 and 2015 MDX models, you have to watch for the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 1 (P0420) code, as well as the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) code. With other model years, a catalytic converter was needed, costing between $1,538 and $2,041. They both also deal with the Throttle Actuator “A” Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance (P2101) code. Thankfully, there’s plenty of resale value left in these models to justify a costly repair.
The 2014 Acura MDX has six recalls, and the 2015 Acura MDX shows five recalls.
The Worst Years of the Acura MDX
To select the worst Acura MDX model years, we used the same data as evaluated with the best choices. We start with the Acura SUVs that seem to have the most significant issues or lowest scores and work our way to the models you may still want to consider if in a pinch.
2002 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 5/10
KBB Value: $2,608
Fuel Economy: 17 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,125
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Not only do the reliability scores drop with the 2002 Acura MDX, but it also has a low resale value, making it more difficult to agree to expensive repairs.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2002 Acura MDX is 5 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2002 MDX model earns 1 out of 10.
The 2002 Acura MDX has a safety rating of 4.8 (out of 5). This is a fantastic safety rating for an SUV that’s more than two decades old.
The 2002 Acura MDX only comes in a gas configuration. It earns an average rating of 17 mpg.
The cost of ownership for the 2002 Acura MDX is high, at $1,125 a year. Plus, it shows a chance of expensive transmission issues, which is further revealed through the top codes.
The biggest fault with the 2002 Acura MDX is the Random Cylinder Misfire Detected (P1399) code. It also suffers from the Multiple, Misfire Detected (P0300) DTC. With other model years, a new mass air flow sensor fixed the issue, costing $172 to $309. What’s even more alarming is the Incorrect Gear Ratio (P0730) DTC. If you need to put a new transmission in the SUV, it could cost $2,528 to $3,045, which could easily exceed the vehicle’s value.
The 2002 Acura MDX shows four recalls and one investigation.
2003-2004 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 1-3/10
Owner Reliability Score: 3-8/10
KBB Value: $2,835-$3,332
Fuel Economy: 17 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $583-$750
Safety Rating: 4.4-4.75/5
Because the value of the 2003 and 2004 Acura MDX models doesn’t rise dramatically, these older SUVs could easily end up in the junkyard for one major repair.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2003 Acura MDX is 3 out of 10, but the 2004 MDX does better at 8 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2003 MDX model earns 3 out of 10, while the 2004 Acura model drops down to 1 out of 10.
The 2003 Acura MDX has a safety rating of 4.4 (out of 5). The 2003 MDX does slightly better, with a ranking of 4.75 (out of 5).
The 2003 and 2004 Acura MDX models only come in a gas configuration. These earn an average rating of 17 mpg.
The cost of ownership for the 2003 Acura MDX is $583 a year, on average, with the 2004 MDX model ranking at $750 a year. However, both show a chance of expensive transmission repairs, while the 2004 model also deals with engine and brake issues.
While the 2003 Acura MDX shows a higher instance of the Multiple, Misfire Detected (P0300) DTC, they both suffer from some of the same issues. For example, both the 2003 and 2004 Acura MDX show an elevated chance of the Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected (P0302) code and the Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected (P0303) DTC. If these problems turn into major repairs, the MDX won’t be worth owning.
Even more alarming is that the 2003 Acura MDX shows 13 recalls and five investigations. Falling just behind, the 2004 Acura MDX has ten recalls and four investigations.
2005-2008 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 3-7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6-9/10
KBB Value: $3,240-$5,365
Fuel Economy: 17 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $850-$1,321
Safety Rating: 4.67-4.8/5
While the 2005 to 2008 Acura MDX models aren’t going to be worth extensive repairs, the rankings do get a little better.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2005 Acura MDX is 6 out of 10, while the 2006 MDX does better at 9 out of 10, and both the 2007 and 2008 MDX models earn 7 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2005 MDX model earns 3 out of 10, and the 2006 MDX earns 4 out of 10. Even better, the 2007 Acura model has a ranking of 6 out of 10, while the 2008 MDX gets 7 out of 10.
The 2006 Acura MDX has a safety rating of 4.67 (out of 5). In comparison, the other three MDX models earn 4.8 (out of 5).
The 2005 to 2008 Acura MDX models only come in a gas configuration. These earn an average rating of 17 mpg.
The cost of ownership on these MDX models is still quite high. On the lower end, the 2006 MDX is ranked at $850, but the 2008 MDX shows an average of $1,321 a year. Additionally, the 2006 and 2008 MDX models deal with engine issues, while the 2005, 2007, and 2008 models have brake troubles. Furthermore, the 2006 MDX shows a higher chance of transmission and AC/heat problems, while the 2008 Acura SUV shows a chance of AC/heat or fuel system issues.
The 2005 and 2006 Acura MDX show a high instance of the Multiple, Misfire Detected (P0300) DTC. These two models have other misfire codes present, such as the Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected (P0306) code. With the 2007 and 2008 Acura MDX, you may face the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 1 (P0420) code, which could require a catalytic converter, costing between $1,538 and $2,041.
The 2005 Acura MDX has 13 recalls and five investigations, while the 2006 Acura MDX shows 11 recalls and five investigations. What’s interesting is that the 2007 Acura MDX and 2008 Acura MDX only have one recall each.
2010-2011 Acura MDX
FIXD Reliability Score: 7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 5-7/10
KBB Value: $7,357-$8,317
Fuel Economy: 18 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750-$875
Safety Rating: 4.6-4.8/5
While there are still issues with the 2010 and 2011 Acura MDX models, the value is higher, so there’s some room for repairs.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2010 Acura MDX is 5 out of 10, while the 2011 MDX does better at 7 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score of both the 2010 and 2011 MDX models is 7 out of 10.
The 2010 Acura MDX has a safety rating of 4.8 (out of 5). This is higher than the 2011 Acura MDX at 4.6 (out of 5).
The 2010 and 2011 Acura MDX models only come in a gas configuration. These earn an average rating of 18 mpg.
The cost of ownership is reasonable with the two Acura SUVs. The 2011 MDX has a lower average ($750), but the 2010 Acura MDX isn’t rated much higher ($875). While the 2010 MDX shows an elevated chance of engine, transmission, AC/heat, and fuel system issues, the 2011 MDX also deals with expensive brake repairs.
Both the 2010 and 2011 MDX models have a higher instance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 1 (P0420) code, as well as the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) code. If a catalytic converter is needed, you may spend between $1,538 and $2,041. There’s also a chance for the Voltage Control Unit V2M Voltage Sensor Range/Performance (P18DA) code.
The 2010 Acura MDX only has one recall. While the 2011 Acura MDX doesn’t have any recalls, the NHTSA does list a safety concern, showing that after the side impact barrier test, 10.88 oz. of fluid leaked from the fuel system, leading to a possible fire hazard.
FAQs
What years of the Acura MDX have engine and/or transmission problems?
According to our data, the 2004, 2006, 2008-2010, and 2013 models deal with more expensive engine repairs. There’s also a higher instance of transmission repairs with the 2002-2004, 2006, and 2010 Acura MDX models.
What is considered high mileage for an Acura MDX?
The Acura MDX is a luxury SUV that’s known for its reliability. Yet, it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly how long the vehicle will last unless you know how it was maintained and driven. If maintenance has been a priority, the MDX could last more than 200,000 miles.
Based on our data, a high-mileage Acura MDX could be considered anything over 175,000 miles.
The 2003, 2005, and 2006 Acura MDX have the highest mileage in our surveys at 225,000. However, many of the other models are inching up closely behind. Just remember the more miles on the odometer, the lower the resale value drops.
Do any hybrid years have problems?
The hybrid configuration was offered in the 2017 to 2020 Acura MDX models. Our data doesn’t indicate any major issues with the hybrid engine, so this is considered a reliable option. However, it’s still important to maintain and care for the luxury SUV if you want it to perform its best.
What other vehicles should I consider?
Acura only makes two SUVs, with the MDX as the largest one. However, you could check out the Acura RDX if you are interested in something smaller. There’s also the option to choose the Honda Pilot if you don’t mind giving up some of the luxury aspects of the Acura variant.
Outside the brand, consider evaluating the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne, Genesis GV80, Lincoln Nautilus, or Land Rover Range Rover Sport. We also recommend looking into the Lincoln Aviator, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Audi Q8, Land Rover Range Rover Velar, Land Rover Discovery, Infiniti QX60, BMW X6, Lexus RX 350, Cadillac XT5, Cadillac XT6, and Lexus GX.
What owners of the ACURA MDX like to use their car for:
Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | **** |
| Hauling/Towing | * |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Acura MDX’s reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Acura MDX owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Acura MDX.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Acura MDX is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
b. A Daily Commuter
c. Good for a 100-mile road trip
d. Good for a 500-mile road trip
e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
b. = 4
c. = 6
d. = 8
e. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Acura MDX with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Acura MDX owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Acura MDX, wikipedia.org. Retrieved September 11, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_MDX
- Acura MDX reviews, edmunds.com. Retrieved September 12, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/Acura/mdx/
- Warranty Information for Acura, honda.com. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://mygarage.honda.com/s/warranty-search?brand=Acura
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
