Acura MDX (pre-2007)

sbcooke · February 2003

I have used it. It is tough to maintain, but really cool when you are driving through a rainstorm and don't need your wipers. The main problem I found with it is that it smears dead bugs and other stuff that hit the windshield. I am not sure if it is the chemical makeup of bugs or not, but you get a lot of smearing.

sbcooke · February 2003

none in 7500 miles. Knock wood.

ch05e · February 2003

Just received my Acura MDX and I love it. After coming from a dogde caravan, this car is heaven. I love how the engine is setup and seat heaters. I have running boards on mine and tinted windows on all of the windows. It is silver with black leather and it rides so smooth. I actually thought of purchasing an Infiniti FX35, but after test driving it realized that the ride way very harsh and the limited storage capacity would not be very practical with my family. Well just want to let everyone know, keep everyone posted on it.

fishhead2 · February 2003

Acura makes a fine vehicle, but they don't have the hang of defrosting in extreme conditions. My Cl has 137,000 on it, wifes' MDX has 18,000. Only real complaint is with icing around the blades and edges, but I consider that a small price.
And then there was the post from somebody grousing cause they got stuck in 20 inches of snow. Unless you were on your way to the emergency room you should not have been out there in the first place. I don't take the snowplow out until that much snow has been plowed off the road here in Bflo.

eddiemac · February 2003

There are three certified Dark emerald pearl mdx's for sale as I type this in the Washington, DC area. Go to www.acura.com, click pre-owned, put in zip code 20019(Washington Dc) with a 50 mile search, and you will find them.

pjreporter · February 2003

I'm a reporter with a major business daily and I write a weekly auto feature. I'm looking for Acura MDX drivers/owners to share their experiences with me -- which could get you a quick mention in the paper. Person[s] must be willing to answer about 5 questions on their personal experience with the car, give their job title and where they work. Interested? Please email me at LANETEF@YAHOO.COM

golfgod2 · February 2003

Live in LA and just starting to research leases on a base MDX for my wife. If anyone can share their info w/ me I'd really appreciate it. The dealer says that the residual on a 48 month lease is 60%. Based on this along with the MSRP of about $36k for a base MDX, my calculations are putting the monthly payment with tax at about $500-$525 for a 48 month/15k year lease. Does this sound about right? Thanks for your input.

stever · February 2003

We have lots of lease calculators on the main edmunds.com page too.

Steve, Host

lenij · February 2003

If you have $2,500 down, you can lease top-of-the-line MDX Touring Nav for $550/month for 48 months. However, they will limit your annual mileage to 12,000 miles. This lease is offered by Springfield Acura in NJ. There should be a similar lease program in L.A.

mhenderson1 · March 2003

With all of the snow that we had in the last few weeks, we are now going through a period having day long fog. I've been using my fog lights at night, but for some reason they do not seem to be effective at all. Has anyone replaced their fog lights with another kit or bulb to make them brighter? And did you see a before and after difference?

hoover94 · March 2003

greenmdx1,

Regarding a dark green MDX, try Acura of Brookfield, WI (an Acura Precision Team Dealer). Their website does not show the vehicle in stock, however I was there on Wednesday & Thursday ( 3/26 & 27) and it was parked on their "Used" lot. It has many accessories including wheel well trim and the rear window deflector. Their sales department and overall customer service is exceptional. Good luck.

fndlyfmrflyr · March 2003

The fog lights on my MDX don't project very far in front of the car, but they do illuminate a much wider path than the low beams. There are many brighter bulbs that can be used that will give a whiter light and put out more light, but they won't significantly increase the distance down the road that the fog lights illuminate.

Like my PT GT, the MDX fog lights take the same bulb as the low beam lights take. Changing to an 80 W bulb might be all you need. There are a number of bulb manufacturers, with prices starting as low as $20 per pair.

eharrison2 · March 2003

Just picked up my new MDX on Thursday and I'm very happy. What do you recommend about service? I know it says 3750 for the oil change and some type of major service at 7500. Do I bring it into the dealer or can I go to my local service station. I've never met a dealer who said take the car any place you want. I was led to believe that the dealers jack up their prices. I've leased my past two cars and have always taken them to Jiffy Lube for service, but since I sprang the big bucks and bought the MDX I don't want to take any chances.

mhenderson1 · March 2003

I know when I purchased my new MDX, I was told to wait until I reach 7-7.5K miles before changing the oil. The dealer stated that the oil had some type of special ingredient that is used for new engines to gather loose particles. I was told that my first service would be around $171 dollars for oil change and engine checkup and the services after that would be around $35. I am a little skeptical about this inital service cost, but i figure it will only happen one time. My problem with Jiffy Lube is that if something is installed on your MDX which causes it to breakdown and the part is not a genuine Acura part, your warranty could be voided. In the DC area, there is a consumer magazine called CHECKBOOK magazine. In one of the past issues they gave a list of the top repair shops in the MD, VA and DC area. Many of the repair shops were categorized by the manufacture that they repaired. They also installed genuine manufacturer parts. I found my mechanic for my Toyota Camry this way and i can say that this has worked out for my wallet tremendously. My mechanic has taken real good care of my car. So you may want to find a good mechanic who installs genuine Acura parts and products.

sbcooke · March 2003

With regular driving you are supposed to wait until 7500 miles for oil change, I believe that is what it says, and I think all oil changes can go 7000 miles on it. The best way to check oil change needs is to pull the dipstick and check the oil color...black, time for a change, clear and brown, keep going.

I believe the additive is in the VTM fluid, and that is why there is a change at 7500 miles.

Service in general is best at a trusted shop. I don't tust jiffy lubes, although I go there once and a while, however I always pull to the side of the lot immediately after and check oil levels, and for leaks underneath (i.e. they forgot to fill it or out the drain plug in properly) before pulling away.

I recommend doing the first 7500 mile maintenance at the dealer for the VTM flush. Regular oil changes I would go where you trust them to do it right...dealers aren't always good. Some shops list 25 things they do at a checkup, yet they probably just change the oil and air filter.

hopeitsfriday · March 2003

They call the secondary lights on the MDX fog lights, but in fact, they are driving lights. All lights will reflect in fog unless you have enough candle power to overcome it. If you are looking into changing your bulb, be careful of what to buy. There are state laws in many states which have restrictions for automotive lights. In my state, it is illegal to install a 80 watt bulb in the fog lights, or at least I can't turn it on while I am driving on road, its the equivalent of having your high beam on. I have tried color lenses before, they just plain old don't work. The only fog light I have seen that was effective was on one of my friend's pick up truck. He actually has a light bar on top of his truck with four 150 watt hella lights on them, but thats for off road only. In my option, you have to get way up there in wattage for any lamp to be effective in thick fogs. We are talking 150 to 200 watts. I wonder how HID performs in the fog? Does anyone have any input on that?
For the first oil change on the MDX, my dealer told me for mix driving, I should change it around 5000 miles. Since I drive it mostly in the city, I plan to change it at 4000 miles. He also told me that the factory shipped oil has a additive in there that collect metal shavings and also provide a slippery coating for the engine parts.

djocks · March 2003

getting into the SUV game here and have only driven my father's 2000 Lexus RX300. I am going to lease this for my wife. She puts on about 10K a year and because of work, half can be written off.

Here is where I need help.
The comparison includes:
1. Mercedez ML320
2. Lexus RX300
3. Acura MDX
4. Nissan Murano
6. Infiniti FX35
7. VW touregg
8. BMW X5 3.0

Here are the factors important for her:
1. Easy to drive
2. appeal (she loves the interior of the fx and the exterior of the Jeep GC)
3. No need for a third seat, just a little extra storage
4. leasing programs (residuals, price, maintenance)
5. Safety (no need for off road capabilities)
6. The standard 6 cyl. engines in all of these are plenty

What should be my first move?

sbcooke · March 2003

You are in the MDX forum...get an MDX it is the best SUV on the road.

fndlyfmrflyr · March 2003

Interesting you left out the Volvo XC90.

Of those in your list only the MDX is a seven seat vehicle. The Mercedes can have a third row, but using it makes the middle row very tight.

All are easy to drive.

All are reasonably safe, though safety features vary between brands.

The RX300 is about to be replaced by the upgraded RX330.

The BMW is a true "sport" vehicle, but has very limited carrying space inside compared to the others.

It appears from your post you wife has already decided on the Infinity.

clpurnell · March 2003

I am looking at similar cars. Here are my Opinions on what you have suggested.

1) ML320 - Nice too minivan look and poor reliability

2)Lexus RX300 - Old Model underpowered Urinal like shifter (RX330 Might be a winner though)

3) Acura MDX - Good value, So So interior great reliability and resale (Probably my second favorite in your list)

4) Murano - Nice ride, cheap leather #3 on my list

5) Infiniti FX35 - Definately on the sporty side a little more engine noise and harsher ride than the others #1 on my list

6) VW - Looks nice but is still 6+ months away. Probably the most off road capable. ? reliability on first year VW

7) BMW x5 3.0 - waste of money now the fx35 is around unless you lease or must have a BMW

crikey · March 2003

Seems like #2 is missing on your list? Is it the Acura MDX?

5) Infiniti FX35 - Definately on the sporty side a little more engine noise and harsher ride than the others #1 on my list

I would agree on this assessment as I have testdriven the FX35 also. If I may add, the FX35 is also a little short on cargo space, about 27 cu.ft.

4) Murano - Nice ride, cheap leather #3 on my list

I have not testdriven the Murano so I can't pass judgment at this time.

Right now, my list is like this:
1. Infiniti FX35 -- small cargo is holding me back, I have twin toddlers to lug around and this will be the wife's mommymobile. Not sure if it's practical. I could always get a cargo box for those long, extended trips, though. But for sure grins per mile, this is the SUV to get.

2. Volvo XC90 -- no discounts, can't get one as there seems to be no stock. Safety is priority here, not driving excitement.

3. Acura MDX -- like you said, good value. Lacking in safety features though, in comparison to the first two. Add to that, Acura dealer attitude is not that attractive. However, crash tests are exemplary. Hopefully, the 2004 model adds HIDs, side-curtain airbags, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, and headrest protection. Then, this will be the best, IMO.

4. Nissan Murano -- since I drive a Pathfinder and that jewel of an engine is in the Murano. A lot safety features much like the FX35 and a bit more cargo room. And styling is great to me, although, looks are subjective.

5. Honda Pilot -- great value also but lacking in safety features like MDX and some options like moonroof. And wife does not like styling at all.

clpurnell · March 2003

The MDX is #2 on my list. The attitude you explained is dead on. Actually even though the XC90 is a nice vehicle the lack of power and some features (plus the wife does not like the design all that much) has pushed it way down my list. Drive the murano if you can get by some of the design elements (gauges, center stack, blind spot etc.) It is a great value plus they are going for about 500-700 over invoice.

onelgs · March 2003

for it to get here from Canada because I want the Sage Brush color.

The dealer gave me $1,600 under MSRP for the 189 model (touring package, navigation and DVD) so I don't have a problem waiting a few weeks.

I'm excitedly looking forward to driving it!

inky · March 2003

I have a 03 premium and would like full size alloy with tire spare. Anyone purchase Acura wheel and tire. How much? Someone is selling with 300 miles for $200. Fair?
INKY

mugengsr · March 2003

where can I buy a base MDX under MSRP?

crikey · March 2003

I will definitely try to get a testdrive since my employer gives us the benefit of purchasing Nissan products for below invoice under the Nissan Vehicle Purchase Plan. So, this makes them more attractive to me.

The FX35 AWD with sport package that I testdrove was going to cost less than $37K + TTL, MSRP for this was $40,515.

A Murano SE AWD with Popular Package and Dynamic Control Package will cost around $32K+TTL for me. MSRP around $35+.

I still like the XC90 because of the safety features. However, it's hard to come by and I'm not one to order vehicles. I think Volvo really flubbed on releasing this product. They advertised it profusely but really had no units to sell. The 2003 model was released November, and the 2004 model is being released in May, a real short 2003 model year and of course a price adjustment for 2004 models.

Hopefully, with the influx of thee new SUVs, Acura dealers get humbled. However, demand is still strong for the MDX. And I, for one, think it's not getting long in the tooth.

mhenderson1 · March 2003

I got my Base MDX for 35,200 not including TTF. I bought it last November at Radley Acura in VA, and I 'm sure you could probably get an even lower price now with even more competition out. If you call around to various delearships and ask for a manager, not the sales person, you could probably get a firm quote over the phone.

One point to make though is that if you visit a dealership that is located in a very high income area, they will not make any deals whatsoever. I went to the acura dealership in Annapolis, MD and the dealer wanted to sell me a used 2001 MDX -Touring with 8, 000 miles for $43K, and he was not willing to negotiate. I didn't even say anything else, i just laughed at him and walked out.

bigcpa · March 2003

Does anyone recall when the 2001's first hit the streets? I want to get a 2001 with <35k miles, and I'm banking on a flood of them hitting the market this summer.

transpower · March 2003

I ordered my Acura MDX, Granite Green, Touring w/Navigation system, in July of 2000 and received it on November 28, 2000. I think the very first ones were picked up early in October, 2000. I currently have over 45000 miles on mine and will probably keep it until I reach 200000 miles! I'm going to wait until a hybrid vehicle is available with CVT, true four-wheel drive (say with a Quaife or similar differential in front, center, and rear). In the meantime, I'm enjoying the MDX very much--it's very reliable and fun and safe to drive.

Transpower

eharrison2 · March 2003

I have my MDX for two weeks and I'm just waiting for the mileage to improve. I'm in Syracuse, New York and needless to say its very cold and I know that effects the MPG. I driven 500 miles and I'm at 13.4 MPG. I'm sure it will get better. How is everyone else doing?

daones · March 2003

I would love a MDX, but cannot afford a new one. There are very few used ones to be found. I'm trying to hold out until they begin showing up after a 36 month lease. Does anyone know exactly when they hit the streets in early 2001 or late 2000, so that I may plan on looking for a used one.

wmquan · March 2003

The first MDX's were delivered very early in October of 2000. Some folks may have actually got their's on the last day of September but it's pretty much October.

fndlyfmrflyr · March 2003

It doesn't get cold where I am. My 02 MDX gets about 14-15 mpg in local driving and 20-22 mpg on freeways. Freeway speeds are very high around here and A/C is used almost year round. Trip computer says mpg is about 10% higher.

For the first 12,079 miles the average is 16.57 mpg. Best tank - all freeway - was 23.2 mpg. Average for the first 2622 miles was 15.7 mpg and has been about 16.8 mpg since.

Your driving conditions are different than mine and freeway speeds where you drive are probably lower. Lower freeway speeds and less A/C use could increase the average mpg, maybe by as much as two mpg.

The MDX is no mpg champ, but it does okay for a vehicle of this type. Only premium fuel has been used.

eharrison2 · March 2003

Before I purchased my 2003 I looked into buying a used one. The best deal was a 2001, Touring, with 31K for $32900. I'm in Upstate, New York and the supply is low. I was able to obtain a car loan at 4.39% so to me buying a used one was not a good investment. Good luck..

wmquan · March 2003

Agreed; thus far resale values on the MDX have been strong. So good used deals have been low. I'm sure that'll change as the model years progress but it may be too soon for a three-year old model.

spfotey · March 2003

Am i the only mdx owner who has a hard time finding a comfortable seat position?? I either seem to be sliding forward when i go to brake or i'm not getting decent lumbar support. I've been tweaking it for 3 months since i got it but haven't found the right spot -- frustrating because my ML was comfortable from day one until day i sold it. Might be that i just need to buy one of those lumbar support things to put on the bottom of the seat, but wondering if anyone else has the same opinion -- and was able to "fix it".

thx.

djocks · March 2003

I am in the market to possibly lease an MDX. It is between the Lexus RX300 and the MDX.

I am quoted $1005.00 out of pocket and $499 a month for the lexus. Can Acura come under this or will it be more. I understand the MDX has more room but we do not need it. I just like the looks of the mDX a little more.

Can any one help?

wmquan · March 2003

Overall I think the majority of folks find the MDX seats comfortable or at least acceptable. However, in the last couple of years I've noticed more complaints about the MDX's seats than I have for its competitors.

Some folks have fixed their problem with the right adjustments. Some folks have added a lumbar cushion. Others have added expensive sheepskin covers.

sbcooke · March 2003

I find them comfortable. I did 9 hours one day on a road trip and had no problems.

mhenderson1 · March 2003

I am also finding my seats uncomfortable when taking long trips. I am 6' 6" and I fell that I need a little more thigh and back support. What could someone like me purchase to relieve this problem. For thigh support I've been placing my thick winter gloves under my right leg to releive the tiredness.

sanel6599 · March 2003

I want to get an MDX and wonder if I should wait 6 months and get a 2004 model. I understand that the 2003 had quite a few changes, but were there any material changes from 2001 to 2002? Thanks, Sanel

sbcooke · March 2003

I would get the 2003.

Changes aren't always good. Honda has a good track record for implementing new technology/autos, however sometimes new model years have issues. I am happy I got my 2002 when I did...2001 gremlins had been worked out, It was the best of its class at the time, and still better than most.

The 2003 model is very good, check out edmunds most recent road test on the main page. 2004 may be better, may not...honda is usually very tight lipped out changes so you may be waiting a while for nothing. I don't think there has been any confirmation on changes for 2004?

michelangelo · March 2003

I got my new MDX 2 weeks ago and am delighted with every aspect of it--until today. I drove in the rain for the first time and found the moonroof leaked in the front LH corner directly above me. It dripped and I could feel water in the cloth lining around the area of the leak. Has anyone had this problem? I have had several other cars with roofs and no leaks. I have an appointment with the dealer next week to let them see what the problem is and how to repair it.

stever · March 2003

An SUV for All Seasons

Road Test: Follow-Up Test

Steve, Host

fndlyfmrflyr · March 2003

I find the seat back does not have enough forward travel (tilts too far back when in full up position). This then requires raising the rear of the seat to compensate. The result is that the seat bottom is tilted forward - resulting in a tendency to slide forward under hard braking and reduced thigh support.

The lumbar adjustment doesn't have enough range to make much difference in feel, but back comfort has been okay no matter where the lumbar adjustment is set. It took a couple of months to get used to the seating position after I stopped raising the the rear of the seat.

In short, the seating position for me is not as good as my other cars or the car the MDX replaced. But, the seat has proven comfortable for non-stop six hour drives.

Also, the seat memory is poor in that over time the settings are gradually lost (doesn't move quite to where it is supposed to move and has be reset).

dverespey · March 2003

The number one benifit to the 2003 models for those of us who wrangle car seats is the latch system. It is so much easier to add and remove a seat now.

sbcooke · March 2003

has been available in all model years of the MDX.

wmquan · March 2003

LATCH was not added to the MDX until the 2002 model year (when NHTSA made them mandatory). So the 2002's and 2003's have it, but not the 2001's. Unfortunately there is apparently no retrofit available from Acura for the 2001's.

jasonvi · March 2003

I've got a 2003 MDX (Touring w/ Nav, Entertainment--& love it), and was surprised to find that the middle second-row seat does NOT have LATCH anchors. Apparently hardly any SUV's have anchors in this position (something to do with tranny space requirements, etc.). Fortunately, the seat belt in this position is locking, so a car seat can still be installed via the traditional belt. A bit less convenient, but every bit as safe IF installed correctly (have your local fire/police check for you, as with any car). I feel strongly that the center position is significantly safer than the sides, so will continue to put my baby there--without the LATCH strap.

wmquan · March 2003

The sad part is that there sure seems to be enough width in the MDX's rear seat to put a center LATCH position in. Only reason I can think of is cost-cutting, which unfortunately seems the case of a lot of vehicles where a center position is possible.

If the auto manufacturer says it's okay and if the child seat manufacturer says it's okay, it may be possible to install a child restraint in the center using the inner anchors of the two LATCH positions (obviously you wouldn't be able to use the two outer ones simultaneously). This according to the NHTSA. This is highly dependent on the vehicle and the child seat. E.g. I think Britax prescribes a maximum distance between the inner anchors for some of its seats.

Acura MDX (pre-2007)

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