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Acura MDX (pre-2007)
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The radio station feature was in my old Integra, I guess it's not too uncommon.
Some people have bought full-sized spares, by buying a Touring or Premium wheel, and then adding the appropriately sized Goodyear Integrity or Michellin Cross Terrain SUV tire. It fits, since I believe the current spare is full diameter. However, the current spare is not full width, so the full-sized spare will have its bottom a bit closer to the ground.
If you can find a steel wheel it's all the better, since a nice alloy one will catch junk on it as you drive over it.
"True" AWD's are vehicles like the Range Rover that operate in 4wd always. The only way to 'hold' the MDX in all-wheel-drive is with the dash button, but that disengages once you get out of second gear or over 18mph.
The May/June issue of Motor Trend's Truck Trend has a great discussion of the various AWD, 4x4 set-ups.
Michael
By its definitions, the MDX is actually full-time AWD. It is not, say, "permanent 4WD" like the MB M-class.
Realistically, the definitions of AWD, 4WD, etc. are blurry and often distorted by automotive marketeers.
people paying premium price for MDX is not only because it's HOT, also it's in a SHORT supply, i really don't understand why people need to pay more in order to cover aura's mistake. sometime i'm wondering honda is doing it in purpose not resolving production and dealer's problems.
well, but it's surely a wonderful marketing skill. nothing better than a group of loyal customer not only paying extra money but come back to defend you.....
So, it is AWD and not full-time/permanent 4WD. The only way to keep it in full-time AWD, though, would be to keep the gas pedal floored where slip may then be generated and the clutch-packs activate.
"Permanent AWD" means that all four wheels are always being powered, usually in something approaching a 50/50 split. It's essentially "permanent 4WD" without the low range. An example of permanent AWD is the torsen-based Audi quattro system.
Yes, I think it stinks that some dealerships, Acura or otherwise, try to gouge above MSRP.
Yes, I don't like the idea of paying MSRP.
However, I think the complaint originally voiced here is the repeated and continuing griping by the same individuals over MSRP / above-MSRP, at the exclusion of more productive discussion about the vehicle, whether one is interested or not.
I don't think anyone is complaining about the opinions, positive or negative, so long as it doesn't end up sounding like a broken record. One should make their point, as it is their right to do, and then one should move on. No sense beating a dead horse. Some other forums here have been destroyed (IMHO) by the relentless repetition of the same negative theme, and the owners have thus left Townhall for other systems.
Honda Corporation must think we Americans' have money to burn! And they prove it every time someone pays full MSRP for a MDX.
I will buy a MDX from the first US dealer who takes off $2,500.00 from MSRP. That dealer will be still making more than $2,500.00 on that sale!
Interesting about the transmission overheating? Maybe that is why they recommend not using a regular tow truck? I thought it would be something to do with the rear clutches? The rears are not engaged while at normal speeds, but can you spin the rears without the fronts moving? Maybe it doesn't work both ways.
I wouldn't think you could spin the rears independent of the front since the rears are only activated (and rear left/right separately) to get the vehicle moving or with anticipated slip.
Wouldn't you need some sort of brake traction control like on the Range Rover or Toyota's for that to happen? Then again, if you had brake traction control, none of the wheels should spin(?) It would seem that the clutch activation would proportion the amount of torque to the rear wheels to prevent them from spinning and the front is always connected to power. So, front spin, clutch activation, rear tires get power, (hopefully) move the vehicle forward.
When the MDX was first introduced, Acura said that extra transmission and power steering coolers were necessary if you towed above 2,000 lbs. This was amended almost immediately to requiring the coolers for all towing circumstances. They are not cheap.
There has been some speculation that repeated, prolonged towing could shorten the life of the transmission. The MDX doesn't have a true differential in the rear, it's a set of wet clutch packs. I'd definitely use the coolers as recommended.
I think the vehicle is designed for occasional towing, but nothing very extensive. I'd recommend a beefier frame-based SUV or a pickup for that. Most of the hybrid, car-based SUV's (or whatever one chooses to call them) seem to be oriented toward the buying profile where off-roading and touring are only occasional, if at all. The tradeoffs are a unibody design that reduces weight somewhat, for theoretically better fuel economy, better ride comfort, performance, and less rattles and squeaks.
For folks who need to tow extensively, do a lot of off-roading, I think something like a Montero, Axiom, Sequoia, or Explorer are better choices. Buy the vehicle that fits your needs best.
That makes sense about the overheating and towing (or being towed). If I have to tow it will be with my trooper. The only thing I might add a hitch for would be bike rack.
I propose a section for:
- Price paid for MDX
- Dealer experiences
- Mechanics problems (probably flawless)
(in addition to this section).
Just like the other discussions groups like the Honda Accord, or Odys..
Just an idea.
Steve
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KarenS
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Owners Clubs
The Auto-Select function actually picks 12 FM and 6 AM stations for you and places temporarily on your 6-station selection buttons. By selecting FM a second time, you'll be able to go to the second band of 6 FM stations you've been missing.
Jamie S.
Steve
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The manual says to turn off the "auto" feature and your old stations will return.
Steve
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Any other other experience with the Acura 7,500 mile service charges?
Regards, Jim
Since Honda dealers will soon be selling the Pilot, they should have what they need to provide MDX maintenance. Helps folks who live far from an Acura dealership.
The VTM-4 fluid, as you probably know, doesn't need to be changed again until either 30k miles under "normal" driving conditions, and every 30k miles afterwards. For "severe" driving conditions, it'll be at 15k, then every 15k after that.
It remains to be seen if the DVD player for the Pilot, which is sold as an accessory, can be put in the MDX. One issue could be its length. E.g. does it interfere with the moonroof (the Pilot doesn't have a moonroof). And how would the controls integrate -- on the Pilot, it shares the same controls where the nav would be, hence you can't get a Pilot with both the nav and the DVD system, like the Odyssey.
I don't know what brand it is but someone in the Odyssey forum will probably know.
Steve
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I like the idea of using honda for service. I bet there will be decreased cost over the long term by doing so. Anyone else have such luck getting a honda dealership to do work?
The touring package is $2600, does that make $1800 fair for wheels? Hmmmm...6 cd - $250? Power memory seats $400? Roof rack $200? well probably close.
1. Overall build quality is superb. Really. No squeaks or rattles and all controls work with the fluidity and ease that I expect from Honda/Acura. And we do punish the vehicle with continuous snowboarding trips and home depot visits. BTW, has anyone visited the GM Trailblazer et al discussion group? Sad.
2. Engine/Drivetrain. You can never be too thin, too rich or have enough engine hp. More power would be nice although I would not be willing to give up fuel economy for it. Overall, great compromise, especially when compared to the X5. Average 20-22mpg per tank on 50/50 highway/city.
3. Navigation system. Bought it because we knew it was a toy. A fun toy. Oh, but how useful that toy has become. We have found it simple to use and intuitive. If you like gadgets, get this one.
4. Ride and Handling. Always feels nimble and light. The best way to describe it would be typical Honda/Acura handling characteristics. I always feel like I'm driving a smaller vehicle. Decent on center feel but slightly firmer steering would be appreciated. Smooth as glass on highways and not bad at all in the twisties.
5. Utility. Really shines in this department. Clever. We rarely use the third row of seats but they have come in handy. Fold flat, tumble feature is the benchmark in this class. Also, no drivetrain tunnel and completely flat floor is something almost transparent but is a key feature in creating the spaciousness of the vehicle.
6. Problems. Had to have the driver's seat replaced at 10k as the adjustments stopped working. Fixed under warranty. Had left front strut tightened then replaced. Those familiar with this initial problem know that it has been addressed by Honda/Acura. Gas tank "thud" - getting used to it. Acura service had been exemplary. (Plus, they now have RSX loaner cars. Fun.)
Overall, a great vehicle. We would buy another. Hopefully, Acura is working on a Type S version.
Steve
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Nevermind, probably is soliciting. ;-)
tidester
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INKY
Like a lot of vehicles, the MDX's mileage is pretty sensitive to speed and vehicle loads. But some of it is how Acura has set the numbers. E.g. highway mileage estimates are based on the rather tall 5th gear for highway cruising. Spend a lot of time at 70mph or north of that, add some hills, and the mileage dips.
I am sure the MPG will go up, but just wasn't sure how soon. I hope our mothers day road trip will yield great highway mileage.
I don't think the stereo is as bad as some folks have said, though. The in-dash, magazine-less 6-CD changer is terrific.
Going to better-quality speakers is a problem because the Bose ones are low ohms - 2, I _think_. Not a lot of speakers like that.