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Comments
You can't disable the SH-AWD system on the MDX. The MDX is rated for towing by Acura, plenty of people do it.
Yes, any PLENTY of people are obviously having drive train component failures as a result. The MDX drive train is already being put under undue stress and thus overheating as a result of it automatically going into "4WD" mode on highly tractive surfaces and adding a towing load will only serve to accelerate the failures.
"..You can't disable the SH-AWD system on the MDX.."
I don't own one so I can't say for sure but the first things I would try is pull the rear drive clutch(es) fuse or unplug the connections. And yes, and error code would probably result but who cares if the drive train then lasts for 100,000 plus miles.
Personally I would put a switch in so the rear drive capability could be engaged as needed.
Has everyone noticed that while the MDX was switched over to the SH-AWD system the Ridgeline still uses the VTM-4 system? Ridgeline as a PU requires a more ROBUST F/awd system..? Was the switchover the result of too many early MDX drive train component failures under the more robust VTM-4 system...?
Thanks for the helpful response. We live near the mountains and would be pulling this load up to between 5-10k ft. Has any of your towing been alpine?
May I ask how much you payed for your '08 Tech?
Is your towing mostly flat or mountains?
I'll update again in a year -- unless I experience any of the reported Honda/Acura tranny problems in which case I would post ASAP!
Ha, its a hotrod inline four minivan with a turbo and a liftkit.
We are thinking a small motor home (22') will be next.