2001 Acura MDX

The 2001 Acura MDX marked Acura’s entry into the mid-size luxury SUV market. It came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 240 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the MDX for its reliability, comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively nimble handling for an SUV. However, some common complaints included issues with the transmission, particularly in the early model years, as well as some electrical problems and interior trim issues.

Engine

3.5L V6 (J35A3)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals. For more severe leaks, the rear main seal replacement may involve dropping the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter(s) may fail, triggered by the excessive burning of oil, leading to a check engine light with codes P0420 or P0430 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) or similar.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Failure/Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, harsh shifting, failure to shift, or complete transmission failure. This is a common issue in the early model years.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or fluid change might alleviate minor issues. However, more severe problems often require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ for fluid changes/software updates; $2,000 - $4,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. The vehicle may handle poorly, or the tires may wear unevenly.
  • Solution: Replace the rear struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings, or the entire lower control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump-starts.
  • Solution: Requires diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the parasitic drain. Common culprits include the Hands-Free Link system (if equipped), aftermarket accessories, or a faulty relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock(s) intermittently fail to lock or unlock with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Support Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear hatch will not stay open on its own and falls down.
  • Solution: Replace the hatch supports/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Non-responsive screen, the system freezes, or the navigation unit fails completely. This is primarily a problem with vehicles equipped with the optional navigation system.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Acura MDX is generally a reliable vehicle, but certain issues, particularly with the transmission, can be costly to address. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and check for signs of transmission problems such as slipping or rough shifting. Suspension and electrical issues are also common, and should be taken into consideration. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission replacement, can be quite expensive, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection essential.