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Acura MDX (pre-2007)
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Braking from 60 is 130ft
Skidpad in g is .74
These all came from Motor Trend. I have seen some diferrences from magazine to magazine but are negledgable.
What about while driving in the rain?
Dkly, let us know about the silicone solution...hmmm...
Also, how's the gas mileage. I had read about complaints in the past..14mpg.average. Does anyone really get 17-23 or more????
I speculate that the MDX will be extremely reliable but am concerned about everyones' complaints.
What do you think?
Thanks!
--Confused
Certainly, if you are going to be doing alot of driving over curbs, I'd by a used, beater 4x4 pickup for that.
As for placing in the Dakar rally.....the MDX just received SUV of the year. So what. Both are products of $$$. (Although the former buys mechanics/logistics/parts and the later advertising inches.)
Anyway, mileage has been all over. Most are in the middle of the range you quoted. I think the complaints are very minor, most are being addressed quickly. No major snafus (yet).
I'd say, though, make certain you need off road capabilities, not just the idea of off road capabilities. If you do, the MDX is not the best for serious off road, off track driving.
Ard
My thanks to all that take the time to respond.
Mark in NW CT
The Montero is engineered for off-roading. Also note the MDX does not have low range gearing.
The luxury SUV market isn't really aimed at off-roading or rough driving. If that was really a requirement for that market, Lexus wouldn't be selling 90,000 RX300's a year (almost double the second-place luxury SUV), which have even less off-road / rough road capability than the MDX. In that segment, the Mercedes Benz ML320 can do "medium" offroading, and has low range capability and plenty of underside protection.
Mileage is all over the map. Please keep in mind that a number of reports are based on relatively new vehicles that haven't been broken in yet. EPA mileage estimates are usually optimistic, though, hence complaints on the MDX and vehicles like the Sequoia.
2002 features are strictly speculation right now, it won't be known for a few months, if even then. Most expect a few small incremental changes but nothing radical, based on Acura / Honda's general conservatism and the fact that the vehicle is doing well in the market.
Unfortunately, if you order a 2002 a few months in advance, there probably won't be any discounts then either. That, owing to the fact that MSRP pricing will probably still be the pattern then, and because of the advance sale.
Waiting for a 2002 isn't necessarily a bad idea since it gives Acura more time to get any (mostly minor) bugs out, as is typical of most new vehicles.
While the MDX is a very good vehicle, have you looked into leasing other luxury SUV's like the MB ML320? The reason I mention this is that they may offer more attractive leasing terms with high residual values. The ML320 (and BMW X5) can work out very well as leased vehicles. They include free, regularly scheduled maintenance during the initial warranty period (on the ML320, the computer determines the interval). While the ML320's reliability has supposedly improved to just about average, that's not as much of an issue anyway because of the duration of the lease. Thus your total cost may be more attractive than the cost of an outright purchase and ownership.
(do a site search for MDX; the Townhall system won't let me post the url)
Montero Limited placed fourth:
"Highs: Gobs o' personality, supple ride, powerful packet of off-road skills.
Lows: Bottom-feeder handling, dismal acceleration, plasticky interior.
The Verdict: Great value in a package nonetheless crying out for a V-8."
Acura MDX placed first:
Highs: Potent V-6, seven-passenger capacity, a cargo-carrying king.
Lows: Noisy at speed, looks like a minivan, requires a cautious off-road captain.
The Verdict: Just enough sport, plenty of utility; Honda integrity, Acura luxury."
Now, to the evident surprise of C&D's editors, all of the vehicles tested successfully completed "a trail whose 30 percent grades and nose-grinding creek crossings would place it on the "Don't Even Try" list for all but a handful of America's sport-uting faithful."
So, I think this is the tradeoff. In the MDX, you'll fly up the paved twisties to get to your favorite off-road location, and none of your passengers will get carsick getting there. But, off-road, you'll proceed at a deliberate pace. In the Montero, you'll lumber up into the mountains, with occasional stops for passenger relief. But, then you'll blast through the bumps.
I am amazed at the handling of the MDX when I go up Page Mill Road to Skyline, here in the Bay.
On mileage: I think highway reports are pretty consistent. I get 21-22 cruising at 75-80; I got 22-23 in the Subaru Outback, and never better than 18 in our Range Rover.
"City" driving is terribly dependent the details of the route and the style of the driver.
My understanding is it was not a big job for the dealer to replace the mirror. No damage observed anywhere else, and no problems since...
We're averaging around 16.5 MPG, mostly non-highway (malls, suburban streets, etc.).
Anyway, we've been getting about 18.5 mpg in our city driving, and about 22 mpg when cruising at 75 mph. This is per the MDX's trip computer. As seen directly above, William has found that the trip computer in his MDX is usually on the conservative side by about 1 mpg. In other words, he actually gets slightly better mileage than what his trip computer indicates. I haven't done a comparison test between my trip computer and a "manual" calculation.
Drew can better comment on this, but I remember that, supposedly, most German vehicles have a more sophisticated fuel sending mechanism that may tally it more accurately. Did you notice anything like that with your current or previous Audi's and BMW?
Reminds me of an amusing message from an ML fan I read on Townhall a few months ago, claiming that a reason ML's had those ~2.25 years of fuel system problems was that the better technology being used (in German cars in general) just wasn't accustomed to the gunk in the gas from American gas stations, thus damaging the unit. Whereas the older, cruder, limited technology in Japanese vehicles happened to handle it.
For the newbees to the group and lurkers out there, PLEASE read back through the discussion board. Many if not most of your questions have been addressed several times, and there is some great information available. If you have made it this far to the Townhall and are seriously considering the MDX, you owe it to yourself to be informed.
I have had some of the same minor issues described here with mixed corrective action results:
Stowed 3rd row seats sitting up a 1/4". My service department claims this is ‘as designed’ since the front/top of the seatback has nothing to rest on once stowed, and therefore, the extra 1/4 inch is give in the seat cushions for compression when heavy cargo is carried. Logical, but a flat load floor should be a flat load floor – it’s not.
Rear(second row) vents temperature difference. I have the problem that cotmc has described where the left rear vent has noticeably colder air than the right rear vent. I have not taken this in for service yet, but I would suspect many others have the same issue without realizing it.
Headliner noise. Got a terrible and extremely annoying headliner noise at 3500 miles. The squeaking sound seemed to be coming from the rear lift gate and was prevalent after hitting 35mph. After 3 tries and 2 rides with me, the service department finally got it right. Just as ard described, a part in the headliner behind the sunroof mechanism(i.e. above the 3rd row of seats) was the culprit. As ard’s problem was diagnosed so quickly, I would venture a guess that a service bulletin now exists for this problem.
Cold starts. I continue to have cold start issues under 15 degrees F, but the service department has done nothing. My other minivan starts right up. ;-)
Finally, on the NAV discussion. I am extremely happy with the Navi functionality. Atleast in the northeast corridor and major highways in no-man’s land(I-80 through PA), the Navi is everything you could want it to be – accurate, user friendly, and very useful. As for extended coverage, if someone is willing to champion this cause, I will certainly tag along to help put pressure for a more complete database. Ard’s suggestion that an Alpine DVD just might work is a good one for those unhappy with the coverage in your area. The operating systems and GUI may differ, but there is a good chance that the data on the Acura & Alpine DVD’s are stored and accessed the same way.
Still highly recommend the MDX - IMO, the best SUV/Crossover/Whatever at blending trade offs to arrive at a functional, enjoyable, and fun drive package.
- hold the release handle UP while stowing, and push all the way flat, then let go -- it'll find the final latchpoint
- leave the seats down for a week or two; the cushions will compress enough to make it easier in the future.
Mine still don't just "drop" down flat, but they're a lot better than initially.
More importantly to your question, it was not the glass mirror that was loose; it was the housing around the mirror that was loose on the post. Perhaps the clamping mechanism broke from applying a little too much force when folding the mirror? It was most curious that this problem was first noticed after running our MDX through one of those brushless car washes!
My question is re the Touring package. Am I missing that much for the additional $2600? The only items I'm interested are the roof rack, Stereo, and better rims and tires ( I believe Michelin's are on the touring as opposed to Goodyear's). I can purchase the rack separately, no problem. Am I missing alot with the standard stereo?
Any thoughts, comments or reactions greatly appreciated. It's possible my question may have already been answered, but couldn't find it.
Love to hear more long-termers feelings about their MDX. Thanks.
Although drc101a listed a handful of problems with his MDX, it's nice to hear that they are all relatively minor issues. That seems to be the case with all of us, although I do remember a couple major problems mentioned, such as the power steering pump failure. However, compare the problems we've encountered with all the problems new X5 owners have had thus far, or with the problems of the 1998 M-Class. Although I'm not involved with any Odyssey discussions, it seems that the first-year MDX reliability is also better than the Odyssey. Anybody know about the problems on the Sequoia? Just curious how that compares to the MDX.
I personally thought it wasn't worth the $2600, but that is all very subjective. Since the features I listed (above) aren't important to you, then you are correct in questioning whether to pay the extra money for this package.
Here are the items you listed:
Roof Rack: Yes, you can buy this as an accessory. I don't mean to insult you, but are you sure you want the roof rack? If you have a functional use for it, then by all means buy it. But if it is for "looks" only, then consider some reviewers and owners report that this roof rack adds wind noise to the cabin at highway speeds. Also consider that the cross members are not adjustable. But as I said, if you plan to use a roof rack, this is probably your best option. I haven't seen any praise regarding aftermarket roof racks, yet. I understand this Acura rack is very handy if used with the ski or bike clamp accessories, and these accessories can be purchased after-market at a good discount.
Tires: Yes, everyone seems to agree the Michelin tires (on the TP) are better, smoother, and quieter than the Goodyear tires. I wish I had the Michelins on my MDX, and I will likely change my tires a little sooner than required. On the other hand, without having tried the Michelins, I don't notice any additional ride harshness with the Goodyear tires. I notice some tread noise, but it isn't overwhelming by any means. I also haven't notice any real squeeling on corners that some other people have described. In short, I have no complaints with the Goodyears; and if I develop some complaints with them, I'll change them out.
Rims: The rims on the Base and the TP are the exact same size. I would consider this issue to be fully subjective, as I know of no functional reason why the TP rims are better than the Base rims. Yes, I like the look of the TP rims slightly more than the Base rims, but I consider it a close call. I definitely like the Base rims more than the rims used on the ML320 or the RX300.
Stereo: Of all 4 items you listed, this is likely the most important issue. Unforuntately, I have not compared the two stereos. I am a bit of an audio enthusiast, and so I wouldn't give my approval if the stereo was flat, mushy, or weak. (For example, I give a big thumbs down to the base stereo in the BMW 3-series, and I'm not too impressed with the stereo in the Acura TL.) I give the base MDX stereo a thumbs up, although it's not an overly enthusiastic thumbs up. From what I've seen, some people with the Bose system have had minor problems with it, and sound quality complaints are similar to those of the base stereo (most of which are a lack of deep, defined bass). I suggest you ask your dealer to let you listen to each version of the MDX stereo. Worst case, I would suspect a dealer with whom you have a deposit, would allow you to sit in someone else's pre-delivered MDX for a few seconds in order to listen to the stereo.
Hope this helps. I'd suspect somebody with the TP will also provide some feedback...
Matt
I ordered the Touring package, but it is an expensive option. Is it worth it can only be answered by the buyer. For what it is worth:
Wheels: Offers no value. They are merely a different style, not better quality.
Michelins: Offers some value. The tires are superior to the Goodyears, but not by much. And this is a wear&tear item that will have to be replaced.
Roof Rack: Great if you want/need one! It will contrbute to road/wind noise. I will probably remove mine.
Remote Linked Driver's Seat: A plus for me. Although my wife and I rarely exchange keys. If you do this may not be a plus.
Passenger Power Seat: Another plus, but how often do you really adjust the passenger seat? Perhaps more now that we have it?
Two Position Seat Memory: A major plus in my opinion.
Bose Stereo: To me it is a big plus. Others say their should be even more improvement for the cost of this option package.
In-Dash 6-disc CD Changer: Another big plus to me. In my opinion a vehicle of the price/class level needs more than a single disc CD player.
Bottom line: I like the vehicle better with the Touring Package. Hope this helps.
The Explorer sounds like a great price, but I would be careful with the first model year of a new Ford product. Who knows about the reliability? How many recalls did Ford have for the new Escape?
Another factor in your decision is what kind of driving will you be doing? The Explorer would be better for offroad use, but the MDX should definitely be the better urban hauler and driver.
You're going to take a hit for depreciation, and you're paying more, period.
While I think the MDX is a very good vehicle, the fact is, this is a very competitive market segment here. The RX300 is almost going for fire-sale prices now, partly because of overproduction, partly because of the fact that it's nearing the end of its model cycle, and partly because of competition. If it meets your priorities, it could be significantly cheaper. And at MSRP+$2k, the MB ML320 becomes a major factor as well.
And on the lower end, the Toyota Highlander is a competitor depending on your priorities (e.g. you may not need the third row seating), and on the higher end, and full-sized end, there's the Toyota Sequoia.
Don't get me wrong, I like the MDX, and am happy with ours. But the buying environment can change on a month-to-month basis. We bought the MDX when 2001 RX's were still expensive, and would still choose the MDX over the RX today because of our priorities. But another $2k would pay for more than two months worth of daycare, and that could change things.
Matt,
Completely agree with wmquan and cotmc, don’t pay over MSRP, and there are other options than the Explorer. The EB and Touring MDX are good apples to apples comparisons content wise, but each has different strengths and weaknesses. As I have been following the new Explorer out of curiosity, here’s a quick rundown trying to limit my MDX bias:
EB compared to MDX
S - Towing, V8 torque and body on frame
S - Proven and reliable V8 engine
S - Rear Glass Opening
S - Low Range 4W & Better Off Road
S - I think adjustable foot pedals – my wife would like those
S – Extra outside lighting and key code entry – my wife would like that also
S – cheaper, able to get at invoice
W – Overall Ford track record on new models – should be a concern
W – Still a truck, although IRS is a huge improvement – maybe not a weakness IYO
W – 3rd row seats are a bench, not individual as in MDX
W – Fuel Economy
W – On road handling – certainly will not be ‘sporty’ as the MDX can be, even for a SUV
W – MDX climate control far superior
W – MDX has a more thoughtful interior design – little things like center console lid that turns into a tray for the second row, water bottle holders in the rear doors, etc.
W – Exclusivity, 40k per year volume vs. 400k per year volume. By may/june, there will more new Explorers on the road than MDX’s. I like having a unique vehicle.
If you do not have legitimate towing and off road concerns, the MDX is the better vehicle – several 2002 Explorer reviews have said as much. But, the price penalty is there at MSRP for an MDX, and really only you can judge that. I can’t imagine that Ford will let the Escape fiasco happen with the Explorer. But, this is an entirely new platform, and the record speaks for itself.
For me, if price was the motivating factor, I would get the base MDX at MSRP and pay the approx. $1500 difference to have a more reliable, exclusive ride.
DC
What do you want to know? I did a bunch of the posting on these as far as aftermarket availability goes/how to attach/etc.
BTW, I picked up a Thule 725 at REI for $99 which is IDENTICAL to the Acura rack which was $267 at my dealer.
Mounting was a snap.
Let me know.
Ard
BUT - I haven't actually tried it yet. I hope to do so tomorrow, so that we can drive up to Tahoe on Sunday.
However, I am disappointed that you had / are having a few minor issues, namely the headliner noise and the cold start problem. These are the smaller issues that may rank an "average" for reliability/quality among most vehicles, but not for Toyota/Lexus/Honda/Acura. Unfortunately, the Odyssey may have started the trend. Hopefully the second year will be better.
http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/showthread.php?threadid=728
What I found more interesting and possibly informative were the drops to 2nd or 3rd gear, and the claimed quantity of vehicle response.
(Your mileage may vary, and always drive with your head. There are folks who value their lives out there, and who have other folks who value theirs too.)
And preferably not on the streets w/ other traffic.
Here's the deal:
If you look at the factory rack you will note a raised bump running along it. This is a rubber trim strip that sits in a channel.
Now, if you look at the brackets that mount to the roof, you will notice a slot or hole in the back side (the side facing the centerline of the vehicle). You'll need to be up on a step stool to work on this, at least the first time. If you put a large-ish (1/4") screwdriver blade in and gently push straight in, the outer trim cover will slide up and off. It takes some messing- be firm but gentle. Once you get one off and look at it you'll go "oh, I see".
Now you can slide the trim strip out, leaving you with a channel that will accept a square headed bolt. Thule has these bolts, they just don't know the MDX needs them (I spoke with their OEM division who worked with Acura on this).
The bolt head is 3/4 inch square and around 1/8inch thick and is a (1/4"x20) thread. The Ski rack needed long bolts , since there are standoffs to keep the bindings off the paint. (Around 3 inches) I'm guessing the pod or would work with the 1.5 inch bolts.
(I'm thinking of the 663 Vision box with the internal ski carriers.)
Basically, any accessory (pod, basket, XT599 bikerack, etc) that can mount onto a vertical bolt will work (Yakima, I believe has horizontal connections)
If you're not very inclined, you'll need to at least show the guys at REI where the channel is- hopefully they can find the fittings.
I really liked using it because (a) thats how it was engineered (big in Ard's book) and (b) no exterior, exposed bolts so nobody can unbolt your stuff .
G' luck
Ard
Occasionally you can find knowledgeable "rack" folks at a truck canopy/accessory store. Good luck.
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards
Ard - you ARE the man. First to take on Acura CS over the trailer hitch mess, and now turning into the roof rack guru. Great info - thanks.
Haven't seem this one covered . . .
A question for all the owners out there - Do you have problems keeping the wind shield clean at highway speeds (65-80mph)?? If so, any resolutions, hints, fixes??
When that road salt starts kicking up on semi-wet roads, I have a terrible time keeping the wind shield clean. The MDX is too aerodynamic as the wind pushes the spray down so that it only hits at the base of my wipers. Standing still, the spray almost hits the roof ans is fine.
Thoughts.
the
i'm wondering if this price is consider buying?
can you guys give me any suggestions..
And oh if any of you in the LA., CA. area would you guys please let me know which dealer here in s.cal. should i purchase one from.. thanks alot if anyone can help..
The dealer was trying to sell with about $2500 of extras. (You know, wood strips, gold accents and other similar crap.)
Said no, said will pay list and a 6% rate on a lease. They said yes to a car arriving next week in the color we wanted. Base Model, No Nav, No Tour Pack, under $35K.
42 Month Honda lease before tax was under $490/Mo with 1500 down.
I think the supply has caught up with the demand
The touring plus nav is MSRP 38970 plus 480 dest or 39,450.
Wheel locks are $30. Mud flaps are $40. Touch Up is $12. Running boards are around $400.
THESE ARE ALL PARTS DEPARTMENT PRICES. Figure 2.5 hours to install all at $70 an hour, adds $175.
Total: $657 plus 39450 = $40,107
So, an extra $1700 for the very kind, helpful and cooperative salesman.
Betcha that changes when you tell him you want just the Nav+Touring and you'll do the options later. Betcha he tells you he "can't" sell it without some options. Betcha he say all MDXs MUST have some base options. (Hopefully I'm wrong, but...)
Lots of folks have advised that you'll do much better on any dealer add-ons if you buy them from either (a) the parts department or (b) Tim at Hondacuraworld, and in either case have ANY Acura dealer install them.
Really, I think most folks will agree that it is always a better deal to buy the add ons outside of the sales department. (If you're looking to lease or finance the whole deal, it will be more difficult. Here you need to get a printed parts price for what you want (from the parts department), and when the sales guy is writing up the base order, ask them to add these parts plus install at the parts/service department published labor rates...might work then.)
I might add that anyone who can't install wheel locks ought not be driving ANY car. Same goes for installing floor mats.
If you want to pay closer to MSRP, simply read the last 500 posts- you'll see how others are doing it. In a word: shop. Find the markets where folks are not so eager to shell out the extra $$. You may have to drive. You may have to call. It can be worth your effort.
Good Luck
Ard
Hondacuraworld:
http://hometown.aol.com/hondacuraworld/myhomepage/business.html
For more recent users here, the above outfit provides excellent customer service and terrific prices, which mostly include free shipping. A lot of folks here and on www.acuramdx.org have purchased from Tim and I haven't heard a complaint yet, just accolades. (This is an unsolicited opinion.)
So don't get taken to the cleaners twice -- once by a squirrely dealer, and once when you dispose of your vehicle.
Also, I have heard from the dealer that the MDX is fully protected underneath for offraoding, then I heard from someone else that there is only one skidplate (in the front..will that protect the transmission?). That doesn't sound too good if you were to go over a bump or hole on a dirt road. I like the MDX but I just want to be sure that it can handle towing and dirt roads. The dealer assures me that it can handle any situation. What do you think?
Thank you!!!
The MDX is designed for "light offroading," which probably means, in Acura's mind, driving over some unpaved roads from time to time but nothing really serious. If your needs are for something more aggressive, and/or you are very concerned about flying debris possibly damaging your vehicle, I would suggest you consider other vehicles. E.g. the Montero (which has its own pros and cons, but at least is designed for offroading), and on the higher end, the MB ML320, which is more of a "medium-duty" offroader and is truck-based and has more componentry higher up in its frame.
However, the clearance/protection of underside parts in the MDX should be sufficient enough for the driving that most buyers in Acura's "target market" want.
Unfortunately, that "target market" doesn't usually tow, or at least not very frequently. The MDX can indeed tow, but Acura does require those coolers. MDX towing capacity isn't as high as other vehicles, and the cooler thing just seems a bit weird, so I'd be leery of towing a 2,500+ lb load on a regular basis (occasionally should be fine). Again, the ML320 is a better tower.
Keyes Acura in Van Nuys
Cerritos Acura
Ron Tonkins - Valencia Acura
Dealers that I know are asking above MSRP and forcing added options:
Acura 101 West in Callabasas
Ventura Acura
Norm Reeves Acura in Termecula
Good luck.
I bought mine in Valencia BTW.
Rail
I'm still curious...has anyone hooked up their MDX to tow?? I just want to know about the electrical hookup..sounds strange that Acura doesn't do the wiring on their own vehicle..but you can't tow anything over 1500 lbs. unless you have electric brakes on the trailer.
also, railr: Down here in SD county there are two dealers selling at MSRP and no markup add ons etc. Hoehn Acura in Carlsbad and Cush Acura in Escondido. Unfortunately, the wait is long (4+months). Norm Reeves in Temecula is selling at 2000 over, but I know someone who paid 1000 over by asking. They also got the car within a week of deciding.