I can not make up my mind which one has better value and which one to buy.
With the price of 02-mdx dropping, (texstim MSRP-$500, woodard1 -$800 and tom208 -$1000 plus) there is reason to re-compare the two. Below is my understanding and personal opinion. advantage mdx pilot mdx($) cost: $35.2K, $31K(?)
safety: proven, expected to be good but not proven 2K
2nd row middle seat: uncomfortable, very uncomfortable 0.25K exterior look: better, good 0.5K
interior look: much better, good 1K
spare: normal, small
moonroof yes no 0.4K
resale: better, good $2K
model yr: 1 yr old, just born -$2K ------ tot: 4.15K
If the $ amount is reasonable and if one could afford either one, mdx is preferred. In order to know other opinions, I will post this in both pilot and mdx boards.
I called the Acura dealer and my salesman said the '03 are expected to arrive in Oct. They will stop receiving '02 in Aug-Sept.
He did not release any major details but he said that there will be "drastic impovements". The engine at 3.8L is a very warm rumour as well as the RES option.
This maybe why lots of people are waiting for the '03 and leaving those '02 at the lots to sell.
Curtain airbags are in the works for '03 but the last I heard was that it is not perfected yet.
Test drive them and buy the one you like the best. If you plan on owning the car for 5-10 years, a few thousand either way is easily justified. I personally love my MDX, and after sitting in a pilot, reading the reviews (primarily the softer suspension), and drving the MDX I am very satisfied. I haven't driven the pilot, but the reviews of a "softer" suspension make me glad I got the MDX almost for that alone. The MDX handles like a luxury sedan.
I think the cost differences are decently justified between the features each model has...so it really comes down to what you want. If you are in the $30K plus range, affording either doesn't seem like the problem.
Again, go test drive them both and make up your own mind. Complex calculations between market values and feature values will only get you so close to a decision.
We lost one of our keys and remotes. The dealer is telling me that the key has a special chip in it and needs to be programmed to start the car? Is this true? A regular key cut at a local hardware store won't work? BTW it is $30 for the key and $98 for the remote. Ugh.
I found my answer on the web. I am not sure if it is a chip or not, but they use a "transponder". Apparently you have to have a working key in order to get a new one. I am not sure what would happen if we lost all of them? I wonder how Acura TLC would handle something like that if you lost your key away from home?
I think the chip is for the engine immobilizer. If the chip is not recognized by the immobilizer, it will not start -- a good theft-deterrent. But, quite costly to replace. Most new cars have this feature.
However, this will not work if the car thieves load the MDX on a flatbed tow truck.
Thanks. You always give good answers to questions supported by facts. I would appreciate for the urls of the photos you mentioned if available. I am surprise to hear that cutting a hole in a metal sheet does not weaken the structure.
I got my key and replacement remote/fob. Key was reasonably overpriced, $20. The remote/fob was $97.20, I thought OK, expensive but whatever, then they told me that I would have to come back Saturday to have the acura tech program it, and it would be another $60 labor to do it. That is a total rip-off. If I am paying for a whole hour of this guys time, he better sing, dance or tell me jokes for the remaining 45 mintues. Seriously I am going to call around, maybe a honda shop can do it cheaper? The other option is to say that it never worked since delivery (2 months ago) and I am finally getting around to having it fixed. That would be outright dishonest, as opposed to just mildly so by ripping me off. I hope I can find the remote/fob and programming cheaper somewhere else.
Kai Ming, you're quite welcome. You are indeed correct that, in general theory, cutting a hole in the roof does weaken the potential structure. But most manufacturers have ways of compensating for it while still maintaining solidity. Again, my benchmark is the MB M-class which seems to be excellent in rollover solidity (and in other types of solidity as well). It is available with a sunroof and has issues.
The MDX 1x rollover photos are on another MDX forum. Unfortunately, I believe I can't post the URL to it here because of Town Hall regulations on the promotion of competing web sites. Steve/Tidester?
As far as the X5 and RX300 rollover pictures, I used to have the links but they were in someone's PhotoPoint album, and PhotoPoint went out of business. I don't know if anyone else has them copied somewhere. It was Ken Yee, I believe, who originally pointed out the photos.
There's still not enough experience to demonstrate how the MDX (or Pilot) does in a rollover. Photos of a single accident don't give enough of a basis, especially a 1x rollover. If someone wants a vehicle that has proven or heavily documented roof crush resistance, the ML320 is a good bet, and likely the new Volvo XC90.
Of course, avoiding a rollover is as important. The MDX does well in terms of being wide relative to its center of gravity, hence its "4-star" rollover resistance rating by NHTSA. But that is a relatively static measurement that is of limited value that does not factor in vehicle dynamics. E.g. the MDX does not have stability control, which would help prevent some rollover circumstances. Perhaps the 2003 will add this (though Honda's VSA and Toyota's VSC are not as complete as the stability control systems from MB and other German manufacturers, but that's another topic!).
Anyone who is making an MDX web page, here is the first FAQ...
Transmitter Programming
Storing transmitter codes: The codes of up to three transmitters can be read into the keyless reciever unit memory.(If a fourth code is stored, the code which was input first will be erased.)
Note: It is important to maintain the time limits between the steps.
1.Turn the ignition switch ON (| |). 2. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex control unit. 3. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch OFF. 4. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch ON (| |). 5. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex control unit. 6. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch OFF. 7. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch ON (| |). 8. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex control unit. 9. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch OFF. 10. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch ON (| |). 11. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex control unit. 12. Confirm you can hear the sound of the door lock actuators. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button again. 13. Within 10 sec.,aim the transmitters (up to three) whose codes you want to store at the receiver, and press the transmitter lock or unlock buttons. Confirm that you can hear the sound of the door lock actuators after each transmitter code is stored. 14.Turn the ignition switch OFF, and pull out the key. 15. Confirm proper operation with the new code(s).
Took me 2 times to get it right. I messed up 12 and 13 (I got excited when I realized this was going to work). This is from a discussion group on how to program 2000 TL remotes, works for the MDX too. Double checked it and everything seems fine. $59.95 labor for this.
We ordered a black/black MDX touring with NAVI on June 1, put a deposit down for one that was coming in with target date of June 15. Since then, date was pushed to June 20. ANyway, the car came in today! BUT when we called today to check on status so we can pick it up...we were told that they sold the car to the owner's friend instead! Is this legal? Is there anything we can do?
Sure you can buy it somewhere else. Tell us who the dealer is and let everyone know what a great job of customer care they provide.
Unless you had a buyers contract signed with the VIN then I would have to say you are out of luck. A deposit means you are waiting for your SUV to come in. Was your deal under MSRP, did the owners friend pay more (not likely). They just treated you like a door mat.
I think we can use the Charleton Heston quote in the new "Planet of the Apes" movie as it relates to Sierra Acura. In case you are wondering, the quote goes something like, "Dam* them; Dam* them all to H*ll!
Maybe you can get Chuck to interview you for a "consumer spot" on your local TV station :-) Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
If I were you Connie, I would get my deposit back and go to another dealer (if that dealer closes, it doesn't mean that you can't buy another car). If they ask why, let me know your piece of your mind. Seriously.
LOL, so, you think you know Mr. Heston well enough to call him Chuck? Are you under the impression that Mr. Heston prefers to be called "Chuck"? Do you know he has friends at the NRA? Don't you realize that if this were the United Kingdom that he would be known as "SIR" Charlton Heston? HUH? HUH? HUH? Now, go away or I shall taunt you a second time!
Now my sunroof leaks. I was told it may be a plugged drain, which makes sense. I have yet to drive to the Acura dealer, 100 miles away. Has anyone else had this problem, and if so how long did it take the dealer to fix it (an hour, a day)? I would prefer not to have to drive down there twice...
FACTS: I am fortunate to live within about 10 miles of an Acura dealership, and I can order a MDX there to pay MSRP for a mid August delivery. Acknowledging I can't get a discount off MSRP, I am dissatisfied with the minimal effort my salesman put into the deal. Two quick test drives, but he never made any follow up contact. Until I called him today, I had planned to wait until he followed up with me to let him know I wanted the MDX. Regardless, the internet salesman at a dealership 200 miles away (in my old hometown) seemed super nice on the phone and followed up with a long email about upcoming availability and quoted me MSRP and $99 doc fees, with a refundable deposit. *My* dealership has a non-refundable deposit, $199 doc fees, and he says neither item is negotiable.
Here are my questions for the group: Am I just lashing out about paying MSRP and therefore nit-picking about the higer doc fees and nonrefundability? I haven't been treated poorly, but, at the same time, I haven't been treated the way (I perceive) a potential $40K car buyer should be. If I decide to visit mom and dad and save $100, should I anticipate hassles down the road trying to get service locally?
(Feel free to tell me to stop being petty and go buy the MDX.)
You should be able to buy your vehicle anywhere and then get it serviced anywhere. However, if you think the local shop isn't reputable, you may find out their service department has the same attitude as the sales department. Sometimes it is just a dealership manager issue?
I would buy it where you like the experience best. I would pay $100 more for good service on the sale.
Before you make up your mind, stop in on the local service department, look around, are there frustrated customers storming around? Stop someone who is dropping their car off and ask them what they think about the service department.
If you want to buy local, best yet, ask your salesperson to refer you to another salesperson. You don't have to do business with that guy, there may be someone else who has a better sales mantra.
I just had the 30000 mile service performed on my 2001 GG Touring w/Nav MDX. The cost was $469 at a local Acura dealership. For all of you out there who've reached 30000 miles, how much did your service cost?
Do I understand this right? You are hesitating with the purchase because the salesperson wasn't applying high pressure tactics? Frankly, I'd welcome that! I agree with sbcooke - check out the service department.
Actually, the salesman's not bad, but just really low key and a little ambivalent. That, alone, isn't a big deal. I just think, in my mind, I am fighting the $100 higer doc fee when I am paying MSRP. Once I can get my wife to decide on a color, it'll end up being a availability issue.
This is the first car I have ever bought that I have had to look for it in parking lots and on the road to decide what each color looks best. With Envoys, at least they have all the colors on the lots (and parked over by the Service Department).
Based on the effort the internet rep has put into the deal, his attentive follow up and overall is genuine desire to 'earn' your business I would go that route.
Why? What hast the local rep done for you. Nada. He supplied a test drive (I believe Acura requires this somewhere) and he is unwilling to negotiate on the "fee's" they charge. He could care less if you get it from him and he figures who is going to drive 200 miles. Well me. I would go with the service before and after.
The service mangager will be concerned with making his bones with Acura Corp and will take care of the customer. Sales vs Service are two different business units of the same company. People will remember the unwillingness of Acura dealers to sell at legit street prices.
One thought is how funny the manufacturers says it is suggested MSRP and that they cannot control the pricing. I say that is a lie. Mercedes had issues and still does on some cars and so do other upscale brands. They should either rein them in or be forced out of business. I wonder if the NYS AG office would look into price gouging, bait and switch and in general unsavory sales practices.
For me I am still waiting to do a test drive to see if the MDX is for me. The seat is the decision maker.
My wife and I love the MDX but aren't happy with the colors available with the saddle leather. I like red rock - she doesn't like red cars ( maybe I can wear her down between now and purchase time). The white doesn't do it for us, beige is a maybe but just doesn't excite us too much. That leaves black. It is quite sharp on the MDX but we are wondering if it would be wise in the blazing 100 degree summer. Having a strong A/C and rear unit might help. Maybe it is myth that black cars are hotter?? After all it seems most of the heat that enters in is through the glass. Any advice would be appreciated.
I am hoping the new color with saddle leather for 2003 is a dark green or blue. If not, might have to go with the black.
I have a 01 Black/Black MDX Touring. The auto climat control does a great job of cooling the hot interior down. But the black is hotter than the other colors. I crack the moon-roof and a window to get some convection and that helps on the hottest of days. But it's not a show stopper.
My wife and I have moved into the hills in the Bay Area, CA. I have a '01 Touring. Now that my commute starts and finishes with winding hill driving, I'm becooming familiar with the handling limits of the MDX. For it's size, it's pretty good IF you set it up for a turn BEFORE the turn. If not, the weight transfer can be a bit hair raising! Not bad for a vehicle it's size but not tight as it could be. In talking to my tire/wheel guy, he says that Acura uses skinny wheels so that the tire compliance helps smooth the ride. Looking at the tires (235s or 9" wide) and the rims (7" or 7.5" wide, I don't remeber) he may have a point. Has anyone gone to a wider wheel with the Michelin Cross-Terrains? This would be much cheaper than going to 18" or 19" wheels with new tires. Has anyone gone to upgraded sway bars? My friend has some 17"x8" BBS wheels that will fit that he'll let me have for cheap. Any thoughts out there?
I have never been able to see a base model MDX at any dealership. Dealer reps have told me that the seats are identical to those in the Touring version. Also the MDX brochures only show interiors for the Touring.
The interior of both the base and touring are essentially the same. While there are some differences (memory, stereo), the seats are definitely the same. The center screen is identical on all models as well. If you purchase without navigation it simply becomes your message center displaying temperature, fuel consumption, direction of travel etc. By calling it a touring package you would think that the suspension would be slightly different, but I have had 2 salesman tell me the suspension is the same, but base has Goodyear tires while touring has Michelin. I have had problems with Goodyear on my existing car (300M) and Chrysler has even replaced. I have ordered a 2003 Touring w/o navi and am told to expect somewhere between Oct-Nov.
Has anyone heard of any definite changes on the 2003 model? I have heard rumors of a larger engine (3.8L) which most local acura dealers indicate that they believe that to be true. Also, possible addition of side curtain airbags and rear sensing device. I'd like to see a few changes or additions to colors. Hoping for a green similar to Sage green on VW Passat or Nissan Altima available with saddle interior. Currently awaiting arrival of 2003 Touring w/o navi in Havasu Blue but salesman will notify me if he hears of any changes in time to modify order.
I spoke to a salesperson at Courtesy Acura in Longwood, Florida about 2003 changes, and they are being told by management that allegedly there will NOT be a 3.8 in the '03 model. Dosen't sound real reliable to me, does anyone have inside information?
After much looking and driving, I went ahead and ordered my Silver 2002 from my local Acura dealer. They matched the other Acura dealers' doc fees ($100 less), and the salesman was really excited about the sale and seemed like a nice guy.
In that regard, I would encourage anybody in the Southern states to get in touch with Lynwood Garrett, the GM at Harper Acura in Knoxville, TN (800/590-1727). I didn't buy mine from him, but we talked about the Acuras a good deal, and he seemed very straight-forward and honest...and he has a ton of MDXs coming in at the end of July.
I spoke to my local dealer and he told that the engine is definitely going to increase to 3.8L and the other significant addition (that he knew for sure) would be a rear seat entertainment system (they have to catch up with the Pilot). They have discontinued the Granite green color and I'm hoping they add ebony interior to the white. I have a 2003 on order with the DVD option. Not knowing the color scheme, I've ordered silver (to get the ebony interior);however, if the white comes with the ebony I will change my color choice. I've also heard, but not confirmed, that the leather will be upgraded and they made add color coded fender flares. I'm eagerly waiting for the official word on changes. If anyone has heard anything different, please post.
DVD is available in the 2002. Just not as a factory installed option. A couple of the demo's we test drove were all tricked out...including DVD with wireless headsets.
I agree with your dealer about the engine change, however, I doubt he has concrete evidence.
What I heard from my dealer was that Honda is still perfecting the curtain airbags for the 2003.
He also said that the engine upgrade to 3.8L is a done item.
Other notes from others are high intensity headlights, better leather than the Pilot. I haven't heard if they are doing the stablity control for 2003.
But the Lexus RX300 commericals are touting that stablity control is needed for safety and they have it while others (like Honda) doesn't. One can argue that the track is a lot better than the RX300's track and wouldn't need it also.
Most recent issue of Motor Trend indicates a definite 3.8 Liter engine for 2003. My salesman indicated he had heard about DVD entertainment option and high intensity headlights. Also, deep mahogany is being discontinued.
I hope they bring back the Emerald Green. I like the limited production colors...it keeps some uniqueness to different years and the vehicle in general.
Well, Acura dealers officially ordered their last 2002 MDX's yesterday. The last Month Acura will produce the 2002 will be September. You should expect the 2003's to begin being built in October, with October or early November deliveries, depending on delivery times in your part of the Country.
I took delivery of my MDX today, after a 12 week wait. There is a clicking noise that appears to be coming from the dashboard in front of the driver. The dealer is 80 miles away, so it is not so simple to bring it back this soon, for something that is probably minor. Has anyone else experienced this problem or know what it is? Thanks.
I would check everything else first. I had a rattle in my old altima, took the entire dash apart, couldn't find a thing. Turns out it was a rusted clamp on the exhaust system. Check engine compartment, exhaust system, see if a stick is caught near one of the fans?
- Driver's side fuse panel cover, on side of dash next to door/speaker. See if it's loose, or put the fuzzy side of velcro over the "seam" to see if that works
- Grind down (de-burr) body (spot) welds near left strut tower area
It's dead on. I placed the last of the 2002 MDX orders on Tuesday. We should be able to place the first 2003 orders about 30-45 days from now. Let me know if there's any other info. you need.
That's good to know. It's probably just me, but I find prop rods look cheap and they tend to get in the way sometimes too when you're moving around under the hood.
There isn't much moving around under the hood in the MDX. The washer fluid and oil dipstick are located near each other. There is little if no maintenance you can do.
Comments
With the price of 02-mdx dropping, (texstim MSRP-$500, woodard1 -$800 and tom208 -$1000 plus) there is reason to re-compare the two. Below is
my understanding and personal opinion.
advantage
mdx pilot mdx($)
cost: $35.2K, $31K(?)
safety: proven, expected to be
good but not proven 2K
2nd row
middle
seat: uncomfortable, very
uncomfortable 0.25K
exterior
look: better, good 0.5K
interior
look: much better, good 1K
spare: normal, small
moonroof yes no 0.4K
resale: better, good $2K
model yr: 1 yr old, just born -$2K
------
tot: 4.15K
If the $ amount is reasonable and if one could
afford either one, mdx is preferred. In order to
know other opinions, I will post
this in both pilot and mdx boards.
He did not release any major details but he said that there will be "drastic impovements". The engine at 3.8L is a very warm rumour as well as the RES option.
This maybe why lots of people are waiting for the '03 and leaving those '02 at the lots to sell.
Curtain airbags are in the works for '03 but the last I heard was that it is not perfected yet.
I think the cost differences are decently justified between the features each model has...so it really comes down to what you want. If you are in the $30K plus range, affording either doesn't seem like the problem.
Again, go test drive them both and make up your own mind. Complex calculations between market values and feature values will only get you so close to a decision.
However, this will not work if the car thieves load the MDX on a flatbed tow truck.
Thanks. You always give good answers to questions
supported by facts. I would appreciate for the urls of the photos you mentioned if available.
I am surprise to hear that cutting a hole in
a metal sheet does not weaken the structure.
The MDX 1x rollover photos are on another MDX forum. Unfortunately, I believe I can't post the URL to it here because of Town Hall regulations on the promotion of competing web sites. Steve/Tidester?
As far as the X5 and RX300 rollover pictures, I used to have the links but they were in someone's PhotoPoint album, and PhotoPoint went out of business. I don't know if anyone else has them copied somewhere. It was Ken Yee, I believe, who originally pointed out the photos.
There's still not enough experience to demonstrate how the MDX (or Pilot) does in a rollover. Photos of a single accident don't give enough of a basis, especially a 1x rollover. If someone wants a vehicle that has proven or heavily documented roof crush resistance, the ML320 is a good bet, and likely the new Volvo XC90.
Of course, avoiding a rollover is as important. The MDX does well in terms of being wide relative to its center of gravity, hence its "4-star" rollover resistance rating by NHTSA. But that is a relatively static measurement that is of limited value that does not factor in vehicle dynamics. E.g. the MDX does not have stability control, which would help prevent some rollover circumstances. Perhaps the 2003 will add this (though Honda's VSA and Toyota's VSC are not as complete as the stability control systems from MB and other German manufacturers, but that's another topic!).
Transmitter Programming
Storing transmitter codes:
The codes of up to three transmitters can be read into the keyless
reciever unit memory.(If a fourth code is stored, the code which was
input first will be erased.)
Note: It is important to maintain the time limits between the steps.
1.Turn the ignition switch ON (| |).
2. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with
the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex
control unit.
3. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch OFF.
4. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch ON (| |).
5. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with
the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex
control unit.
6. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch OFF.
7. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch ON (| |).
8. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button with
the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's multiplex
control unit.
9. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch OFF.
10. Within 1 to 4 sec., turn the ignition switch ON (| |).
11. Within 1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button
with the transmitter aimed at the reciever in the passenger's
multiplex control unit.
12. Confirm you can hear the sound of the door lock actuators. Within
1 to 4 sec., push the transmitter lock or unlock button again.
13. Within 10 sec.,aim the transmitters (up to three) whose codes you
want to store at the receiver, and press the transmitter lock or
unlock buttons. Confirm that you can hear the sound of the door lock
actuators after each transmitter code is stored.
14.Turn the ignition switch OFF, and pull out the key.
15. Confirm proper operation with the new code(s).
Took me 2 times to get it right. I messed up 12 and 13 (I got excited when I realized this was going to work). This is from a discussion group on how to program 2000 TL remotes, works for the MDX too. Double checked it and everything seems fine. $59.95 labor for this.
Unless you had a buyers contract signed with the VIN then I would have to say you are out of luck. A deposit means you are waiting for your SUV to come in. Was your deal under MSRP, did the owners friend pay more (not likely). They just treated you like a door mat.
In case you are wondering, the quote goes something like, "Dam* them; Dam* them all to H*ll!
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
This dealer doesn't deserve your hard earn money.
Are you under the impression that Mr. Heston prefers to be called "Chuck"?
Do you know he has friends at the NRA?
Don't you realize that if this were the United Kingdom that he would be known as "SIR" Charlton Heston? HUH? HUH? HUH?
Now, go away or I shall taunt you a second time!
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I thought TOU says we check guns at the door!
tidester
Host
SUVs; Aftermarket & Accessories
Here are my questions for the group: Am I just lashing out about paying MSRP and therefore nit-picking about the higer doc fees and nonrefundability? I haven't been treated poorly, but, at the same time, I haven't been treated the way (I perceive) a potential $40K car buyer should be. If I decide to visit mom and dad and save $100, should I anticipate hassles down the road trying to get service locally?
(Feel free to tell me to stop being petty and go buy the MDX.)
I would buy it where you like the experience best. I would pay $100 more for good service on the sale.
Before you make up your mind, stop in on the local service department, look around, are there frustrated customers storming around? Stop someone who is dropping their car off and ask them what they think about the service department.
If you want to buy local, best yet, ask your salesperson to refer you to another salesperson. You don't have to do business with that guy, there may be someone else who has a better sales mantra.
Transpower
Then, go buy the MDX!
tidester
Host
SUVs; Aftermarket & Accessories
This is the first car I have ever bought that I have had to look for it in parking lots and on the road to decide what each color looks best. With Envoys, at least they have all the colors on the lots (and parked over by the Service Department).
Why? What hast the local rep done for you. Nada. He supplied a test drive (I believe Acura requires this somewhere) and he is unwilling to negotiate on the "fee's" they charge. He could care less if you get it from him and he figures who is going to drive 200 miles. Well me. I would go with the service before and after.
The service mangager will be concerned with making his bones with Acura Corp and will take care of the customer. Sales vs Service are two different business units of the same company. People will remember the unwillingness of Acura dealers to sell at legit street prices.
One thought is how funny the manufacturers says it is suggested MSRP and that they cannot control the pricing. I say that is a lie. Mercedes had issues and still does on some cars and so do other upscale brands. They should either rein them in or be forced out of business. I wonder if the NYS AG office would look into price gouging, bait and switch and in general unsavory sales practices.
For me I am still waiting to do a test drive to see if the MDX is for me. The seat is the decision maker.
I am hoping the new color with saddle leather for 2003 is a dark green or blue. If not, might have to go with the black.
My wife and I have moved into the hills in the Bay Area, CA. I have a '01 Touring. Now that my commute starts and finishes with winding hill driving, I'm becooming familiar with the handling limits of the MDX. For it's size, it's pretty good IF you set it up for a turn BEFORE the turn. If not, the weight transfer can be a bit hair raising! Not bad for a vehicle it's size but not tight as it could be. In talking to my tire/wheel guy, he says that Acura uses skinny wheels so that the tire compliance helps smooth the ride. Looking at the tires (235s or 9" wide) and the rims (7" or 7.5" wide, I don't remeber) he may have a point. Has anyone gone to a wider wheel with the Michelin Cross-Terrains? This would be much cheaper than going to 18" or 19" wheels with new tires. Has anyone gone to upgraded sway bars? My friend has some 17"x8" BBS wheels that will fit that he'll let me have for cheap. Any thoughts out there?
Thanks for any help,
Matt
I have never been able to see a base model MDX at any dealership. Dealer reps have told me that the seats are identical to those in the Touring version. Also the MDX brochures only show interiors for the Touring.
Is this the case, same seats, etc for both?
Thx
MT
I have purchased Honda's before at VERY good prices at dealers in the Portland Or area.
Has anyone here had experience purchasing an MDX through one of them like Tomkin or Dick Hannah?
Thx
MT
In that regard, I would encourage anybody in the Southern states to get in touch with Lynwood Garrett, the GM at Harper Acura in Knoxville, TN (800/590-1727). I didn't buy mine from him, but we talked about the Acuras a good deal, and he seemed very straight-forward and honest...and he has a ton of MDXs coming in at the end of July.
I agree with your dealer about the engine change, however, I doubt he has concrete evidence.
He also said that the engine upgrade to 3.8L is a done item.
Other notes from others are high intensity headlights, better leather than the Pilot. I haven't heard if they are doing the stablity control for 2003.
But the Lexus RX300 commericals are touting that stablity control is needed for safety and they have it while others (like Honda) doesn't. One can argue that the track is a lot better than the RX300's track and wouldn't need it also.
Well, Acura dealers officially ordered their last 2002 MDX's yesterday. The last Month Acura will produce the 2002 will be September. You should expect the 2003's to begin being built in October, with October or early November deliveries, depending on delivery times in your part of the Country.
I thought you'd like the update...
Jamie S.
Has anyone else experienced this problem or know what it is? Thanks.
- Driver's side fuse panel cover, on side of dash next to door/speaker. See if it's loose, or put the fuzzy side of velcro over the "seam" to see if that works
- Grind down (de-burr) body (spot) welds near left strut tower area
I hope that's true.
It's dead on. I placed the last of the 2002 MDX orders on Tuesday. We should be able to place the first 2003 orders about 30-45 days from now.
Let me know if there's any other info. you need.
Jamie S.