2004 Acura MDX

Introduction

The 2004 Acura MDX is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a well-balanced combination of performance, comfort, and utility. It is available with two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 with 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque or a 3.7-liter V6 with 300 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The MDX has a reputation for reliability and durability, but like all vehicles, it can experience some common issues.

Engine

3.5-liter V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt tensioner failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve cover gasket leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve covers, check engine light (if severe)
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7-liter V6

• No engine-specific issues found.

Transmission

5-speed automatic

• Torque converter shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration or at low speeds
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission fluid leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaking from transmission, slipping gears, check engine light (if severe)
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission seal or gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut mount bearing failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise or vibration from front suspension, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower control arm bushings worn:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from front suspension, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ECU failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, check engine light, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace ECU
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle mechanism failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle becomes loose, difficult to operate
  • Solution: Replace door handle mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate latch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate will not open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace tailgate latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from dashboard during driving
  • Solution: Add foam or sound-dampening material to dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window will not operate or operates slowly
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2004 Acura MDX is a reliable and well-rounded vehicle. However, like all cars, it can experience some common issues. The most severe issues, such as torque converter shudder and ECU failure, can be expensive to fix, but the majority of issues are relatively inexpensive and straightforward to repair.