Acura MDX Accessories and Modifications

mecheng1 · September 2007

Over the years, I have loaded numerous bikes onto the roof of my '01 MDX and even with a step stool any bike over 20lbs can be quite a chore. I recently installed a Class III hitch (took about 20 minutes) and then purchased a Yakima "Hook Up 2". I could kick myself for not going to this system sooner. It is easy to understand and involves little or no lifting. The bikes are more stable and there is much less anxiety about the load on the roof. Plus, it opens the roof up for a cargo box ("Skybox). (And the hatch still opens with the rack in the stowed position)

scottm123 · September 2007

I have to agree that if you have a hitch, that may be the more convenient way to go.
I didn't have a hitch on our MDX, and certainly wasn't up for having one installed. (no other need for it)

If you're tall enough and have the strength, the bikes are easily mounted on the roof.
I definitely can see where some people would have trouble though.
It's not so much picking the bike up, it's holding it at the bottom edges of the frame and having enough strength in the wrists to hold the bike upright while mounting it.

I do have to constantly remind myself that something is on the roof... no drive-throughs and no garages.

My friend has had, not once...but twice, 2 roofs replaced on a VW Golf for this same reason. :sick:

sisu1996 · September 2007

I understand nose mask is basically for long distance traveling (to keep off the chips and grits). As such, is it fairly easy to mount and dismount the mask by oneself, withour any help? Any special tool needed?

alexsuv · October 2007

Is it easy to install roof rails and cross bars on 2008 MDX by myself? Does it require any special tools or skills so that only can (should) be done at the dealership? I found this accessory on the web cheaper than at Acura dealerships, so I was wondering if I could save on buying it elsewhere and also self-installing it. Thanks.

my3rdrx · October 2007

If you're handy with tools, you shouldn't have any problem ~ However, you should first check out the installation instructions here:
https://hondacuraworld.hostasaurus.com/Merchant2/instructions/mdx07/

Just make sure you measure exactly or you'd be sorry!

krspo · October 2007

Is the forward tilt of the headrest on the 2007 MDX driving anyone else crazy? Just picked up my 07 Sport/Ent 5 days ago, love it except for the headrests. Can I replace with a different year model headrest? I cannot sit up straight without having my head pushed forward!

barb36jack31 · November 2007

I would much prefer having backup sensors on my rear bumper than the back up camera I now have. The camera view is so "fish eye" and distorted that I have no idea how far I am from an object behind me. The sensors system apparently emits a sound that changes as you get closer to something. Is there such a system available either from the dealer or aftermarket?

Thanks for any help.
Jack H.

scuba01 · November 2007

Has anybody purchased this new item?
The cost is about $1,900 and completed onsite at an Acura dealer.

rxm1 · November 2007

Hi All

I have an 08 MDX Base. It comes with the auto dimming mirror. However, it does not have the compass. I was thinking about replacing it with the auto dimming mirror for the 07 model. It has the compass.

I am wondering if I can simply replce the mirrors or do I nee to change the harness as well. Hope to hear from you.
Thanks

RM

dant5965 · November 2007

I've recently installed the Acura ski racks that were purchased directly from the Acura dealership. I'm now getting a horrible high pitch sound cause by the wind when the vehicle is traveling above 30mph. I was wondering if anyone else have encounter this problem and if there's a solution.

jburnison · November 2007

Yes, I had the same issue (uncomfy headrest pushing my head too forward) with my new '08 MDX. Best solution for me was to tilt back the seat...not by adjusting the seat back but by tilting back the bottom seat cushion.

suefisch · November 2007

We just purchased 2008 Tech/Ent. We wanted to add front garnish but dealership (Pohanka - Northern VA) said it is no longer availabe due to issues with installing it. Does anyone know anything about this?

andrewscott · December 2007

Are the roof rails for the 2007-2008 MDX's only available in Black from Acura? Or can you get them in chrome or any color to match your vehicles color?

twocanb1 · December 2007

I owned the 2007 mdx in white and wanted to add a running board. But, can't decide whether to put on chrome side step or the sport running board.
any suggestions ?

uggator · December 2007

Has anyone seen a remote start that can be used with the Acura KeyFob I got with the car. I do not want a 2nd keyfob.

Acura really missed the ball. Infiniti has had this technology for years. I need the third row, so I stuck with MDX, but the CXP and FX have nice remote start and keyless start.

crvexl4wd · December 2007

I installed Sports running board as they look great to me, does not extend out and does it's work.

syntaxial · January 2008

After a test drive in a 2008 MDX with the tech package and its associated camera we decided that it was fairly useless as well and instead went with the base model together with the optional backup sensors. We found that the sensors generally work well although they can miss some smaller scale objects that invariably are around the edges of the garage. The manual says not to expect them to work properly in rain but we found that they functioned fine in a downpour.

Another reason that we opted not to get the tech package is that we expect that GPS technology will be rapidly improving (much as digital cameras did a few years back) and that portable units will soon exceed the capabilities of the current built-in option for much less money. With a savings of $3000+ after substituting the backup sensors for the tech package I think we made a sound choice.

mecheng1 · January 2008

The navigation systems in the Acuras (at least the ones made by Alpine) have always been way ahead of portable units (and those of other auto mfrs) because they were integrated with vehicle sensors, radio, etc. The gap is much smaller now. In addition, integrated units are not as large a target for thieves.

Certainly, the premium prices that the auto mfrs have been getting for nav systems as an option should be coming down in response to the competition from portable units.

upstatedoc · January 2008

I did a little investigating with the techs @ Circuit City regarding a remote start for the '04 MDX. They said there was an issue with installing them a while back, but that there is an easy by-pass now that they use and you only need one FOB. However, the bypass requires that the two front door panels have to come off and that cost s extra. For a one-way (the two-way lets you know if the engine actually started) FOB Python remote starter installed, they want $357, including tax.

dimkaspb · January 2008

Hi, were you able to deal with the noise problem? I am looking to install Thule ski rack on my MDX 2008.

Please share your experience.
Thanks!

Dmitry

uggator · January 2008

I have a 2008 Acura MDX Tech. I want to add a DC outlet next to the AUX outlet so I can charge IPOD. I want to split of the DC socket on the back of the center console. How to a disassemble the center console?

youdrive · February 2008

">DONT go with the large (functional) running boards! Unlike the earlier years, these stick out more and actually get in the way for average height adults. They hit the calf as you get in and annoy the heck out of everyone, but little kids.

dant5965 · February 2008

yes, I cut the rubber rail on the crossbar and put it back on after installing the Thule ski rack. It pretty much eliminate the noise. Good luck.

bfd27 · February 2008

Does anyone know of a dog net that fits the 2008 Acura MDX?? or if Acura intends to make one for the MDX?? I know that they made some for previous models. The metal pet barrier I currently have makes a lot of noise (clanking) and puts dents in the ceiling. I would really like to get a net that will stay in place.

sisu1996 · March 2008

Is it possible to switch the factory HID headlights on 06 model with those Xenon ones on 07 or later models? If so, how complicated would it be to change by myself? Thanks!

zaggywaggy · April 2008

I am looking to get a 2008 w/Sport. My wife wants to add several extras - Backup Sensor, Roof Rack & Cross Bar, Nice Wheels & Tires etc. By the time it is added up the total is $6,900 for all the extras. Aside from talking my wife out of them, what do you think would be a realistic discount to shoot for on this total? Thanks.

paulward · April 2008

I just sold my Audi Allroad that had a dog net and purchased an MDX. Did you find a fabric dog barrier? I thought I saw one a couple of years ago.

rmrc · April 2008

Friday we're scheduled to pick up my wife's '08 tech ent MDX and we'd like to add the hitch. The problem is that the dealer says this will run $819 installed which includes the trim piece that needs to be replaced. In my opinion this is ridiculous. I'll likely go to a third party for the hitch but I'm curious what others are paying at the dealer.

youdrive · April 2008

I paid closer to $600 1 year ago and thought that was outrageous too. On another note- I'll say it again - the PRE-2007 MDX models were terrific with technology, drivetrain, bluetooth, etc. The 2007 and 2008 models are a joke waiting to be refined over the next 4 or 5 years. Anyone want to buy my loaded 2007??

I am keeping my 2005 until it dies.

10sfan · April 2008

Your comment on your 05 MDX solidified my intent to purchase my 05 MDX in July when the lease expires. Its been an excellent vehicle with NO problems in the past 33 months. Selling dealer has only performed the routine required maintenance including fluid changes and tire rotations

upstatedoc · April 2008

Since we're on a roll here, I'll just say that my '04 has also been bullet-proof. It will be 5 years old in october and has never let me down (knock on wood).

That being said, I've never towed with it. :shades:

dms9 · April 2008

Smart move. My 2007 has been nothing but trouble. What a shame. Drives great, just has problem after problem.

somno · April 2008

My 2007 has 15,000 miles and no trouble at all. You may have just gotten one of the bad ones (or maybe I got lucky and got one of the good ones?).

valone1966 · April 2008

Has anyone installed these items by themselves? The running boards do not look too difficult to install, but the hitch package seems to be a bear. Any help would be appreciated.

trickydick · June 2008

I just bought a 2008 MDX without a roofrack or a trailer hitch. I take my kids' bikes with us to the shore (2 hour drive) just 2-3 times a year so I am looking for a bike rack I can use to transport their bikes. I don't want to break the bank adding a roof rack or trailer hitch. I'd prefer a strap rack, but the major manufacturers (Thule and Yakima) don't seem to recommend a partcular strap rack for this car. Any suggestions about a make/model that I can use safely and with little risk of losing my bikes off the back?

youdrive · June 2008

Hello, I would surely recommend getting a good 2" hitch even if its not from Acura directly. You have already invested a fair amount and using any other rack type will only damage your tail gate and or bumper. I have seen too many of those dents from the strap-racks and the hitch can come in handy for other purposes later on perhaps. Amazon has lots of decent 2,3,4, and even 5 bike racks that are hitch mounted.

trickydick · June 2008

Other than Acura, who do I buy a hitch from? What do they cost? I leased my Acura (3 years) so it doesn't seem to make much sense spending upwards of $500 on a hitch and bike rack.

spark763 · June 2008

Installed this weekend, took about 3 hours on my 2008 MDX. Saved $350 that the dealer wanted to have them installed, they would not lower the price. A few steps in the installation are tricky. They look great.

kaabob · July 2008

I'm also thinking of installing them myself. How did you complete step 8) Secure all the bolts and nuts you installed. Torque the flange bolts to 27 N·m (20 lb-ft.). How did you know how much torque (quantitatively) to secure the bolt?

mdxrrrrr · November 2008

Does anyone have some good pictures of the "Fender Well Garnish" Accessory installed on their MDX? Acura part # 08P21-STX-200. Are you happy with the look? Were they easy to install? What are they made of? Do you think it was worth the cost? Thanks in advance.

mdxrrrrr · November 2008

Or does anyone know a website where there is some good "before and after" pix of an MDX with the Fender Well Garnishes (# 08P21-STX-200) installed? IMHO, the stock photo on Acura's website doesn't show them very well.

sanjaysdca · November 2008

have you looked at
acuramdx.org

you might find some pits there

mdxrrrrr · November 2008

thanks

dyc3 · December 2008

Just purchased 09 MDX Sports. Interested in putting on running board or step bar for my wife and kids.

Please advise
1. board vs. bar
2. OEM vs. Westin vs. Gladiator
3. best place to buy

Thanks.

ChuckMDX · December 2008

Has anyone hardwired a radar detector to a 2006 MDX and do you have suggestions on the best method to do this?

upstatedoc · December 2008

Hey Chuck,

I have an '04 that I have an Escort hardwired high.
For me, it saved me much frustration by paying Circuit City $29.99 to do it.
If you still want to do it yourself, check out radardetector.net where I am also a member. The guys over there can help you out.

mdxrrrrr · December 2008

A lot of it is personal preference, went with the MDX Sport Running boards on ours, mostly because I liked the look. Most adults really don't need them, your kids will love them. As an adult, I find myself naturally stepping directly down to the ground, if the running board is wet or muddy, your pant leg touches it if you aren't careful.
If you aren't in a big hurry, watch ebay, there are some dealers allowing their parts departments to sell anonymously to move inventory. Got mine from a dealer in the NE for $380 (delivered).
A couple on-line sites are www.acurapartssuperstore.com & handaaccessories.com. If you want to give your local store a shot, see if they will match an offer you see on-line, their prices aren't written in stone. Good Luck.

x5killer · April 2009

What is the best installed price ppl have paid (for an 09 MDX) on thse accessories:

1. Sport Running Boards
2. Cargo Tray (no installation neccessary so just need invoice price on this)
3. Fender Garnish
4. Front Lower Garnish
5. Rear Lower Garnish
6. Body Side Molding
7. Roof Rails
8. Hood Air Deflector
9. Cargo Cover
10.Moonroof Visor
11.Door Edge Guards
12.Cargo Net
13. First Aid Kit

On the 'Roof Rails' for an 09 MDX I've seen ppl say they paid $271 installed and I think some have gotten lower then that but I had a dealer try to charge me $346.50 for the same thing.

for the 'Body Side Molding' I've seen ppl pay $238 installed but I had a dealer try to charge me $282 so there seems to be a wide range of prices for the accessories which tells me its an an area that consumers overlook, because they are concentrating on getting a good price on the vehicle.

I think some dealers try to gouge the customer who gets a good deal on the vehicle even more with the accessories because ppl don't do their due dilligence on accessories and it seems to be harder to find out the invoice price even on these accessories let alone what ppl are paying. Plus there can be a difference in installation/labor cost from one area, state , or dealership to the next.

Please let me know where I can find the invoice price on the 09 MDX accessories and better yet what ppl are paying plus how to figure out what is a fair installation cost on these accessories.

thanks

x5killer · April 2009

www.acura.bernardiparts.com is cheaper then acurapartssuperstore.com and handaaccessories.com

x5killer · April 2009

please list your installed price on any of the MDX accessories.

personally I am looking to compare installed price on the following:

1. Fender Garnish:
2. Body Side Molding
3. Cargo Cover
4. Moonroof Visor
5. Front Lower Garnish
6. Rear Lower Garnish:
7. Hood Air Deflector
8. Door Edge Guards

I have been using www.acura.bernardiparts.com as a reference for price on the part but its hard to determine the installation/labor cost for each as it seems to vary depending on dealership.

I may just order from there as long as the shipping is free or cheap and then take to a shop to have installed or try and do myself or at a friends shop.

but please share your installed price on factory accessories here.

Acura MDX Accessories and Modifications

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