2001 Acura MDX

Introduction

The 2001 Acura MDX is a midsize SUV that was powered by a 3.5L V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable interior, and spacious cargo area. However, it also had some notable issues reported by owners.

Engine

• 3.5L V6 Engine
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating and loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn timing chain tensioner leading to engine noise, loss of power, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, causing hesitation and loss of power.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints causing excessive play in the front suspension, leading to alignment issues and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failed alternator leading to electrical system issues, such as battery drain and intermittent power loss.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
    • Recalls: None Found
• HID Headlight Ballast Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty ballast causing flickering or failure of the HID headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the ballast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Buttons Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control buttons stop working, causing issues with temperature control.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window motors failing, causing windows to become stuck or operate slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior (Excluding Paint Chips and Fading)

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gas struts supporting the liftgate wear out, causing the liftgate to lower slowly or not open at all.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Acura MDX has several common issues, including intake manifold gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner failures, and transmission slipping. While these issues can be costly to repair, the MDX remains a popular choice for its powerful engine and comfortable interior. The severity and cost of the issues vary, but owners should be aware of the potential problems before purchasing or owning this vehicle.