Key strengths: Reasonable fuel economy
Areas for improvement: Transmission
I purchased my MDX with 62000 miles on it. In 'cream puff' condition and running like a top, I had never been happier with a vehicle! I had been a loyal HONDA owner - having two ACCORDS and incredibly happy with both previous cars. I thought I'd 'trade-up' to treat myself to an 'upscale' SUV, as I wanted more room to tote things around.
This MDX was just the ticket. I got reasonably good fuel economy, comfort and a great ride.
- I had the vehicle serviced at the dealer for the necessary service intervals, EGR VALVE, TRANSMISSION SERVICE, ETC. Thought I was being the diligent auto owner taking care of the vehicle I loved.
Well, when the tranny started to slip and make really hard clunking noises a couple of nights ago, I checked GOOGLE and the search turned up lots of company on the subject of a failed transmissions for the 2001 MDX.
I called the service department inquiring about a new tranny- or at least a re-built one from the dealer. I have read of more than one ACURA dealer willing to take the replacement tranny on the chin for loyal customers. Not knowing just how loyal the dealer will treat me, I do know that they had been more than reasonable in the past. They advertise a free replacement car to use during repair work done on vehicles purchased from their dealership. Not being a rich man I can only hope that they can be sympathetic to a guy with a failed tranny with under 100K MILES. I'll keep this venue posted on my results.
I do know one thing: I WOULD NOT think a transmission should fail on a luxury SUV with under 100K miles. The running costs for Acura MDX Automatic are normal
Safety: 73
Equipment: 75
Reliability: 58
Driving: 81
Comfort: 76
Design: 73