2011 Acura ZDX
The 2011 Acura ZDX is a luxury crossover coupe that was only offered with one engine and transmission option: a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While some appreciate its unique styling and comfortable ride, others criticize its limited rear visibility, sloping roofline that compromises rear passenger headroom and cargo space, and polarizing design. It also didn’t have a very long production run, so parts can be more difficult to come by.
Engine
3.7L V6
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust is a common symptom.
- Solution: Repair can include replacing valve seals, piston rings, or, in severe cases, a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the severity of the issue and the chosen repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- VTEC Solenoid Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the VTEC solenoid gasket. Oil can drip onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacing the VTEC solenoid gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Transmission slipping or harsh shifting.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, or the transmission getting stuck in a specific gear. Transmission may go into “limp mode.”
- Solution: Replacing the faulty shift solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Air Suspension Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The ZDX has an available air suspension. Owners have reported issues with the air compressor failing, air leaks in the lines or air springs, and the vehicle sagging or not maintaining the correct ride height.
- Solution: Replacing the air compressor, air lines, or air springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation System/Infotainment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, display failures, or issues with the GPS.
- Solution: Software updates, replacement of the navigation unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the repair required.
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Tailgate Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The power tailgate failing to open or close, or operating intermittently.
- Solution: Replacement of tailgate motor, latch assembly, or struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, leaking when closed, or making excessive noise during operation.
- Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, track repair, or seal replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Heated Seat Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The heated seats failing to heat up or heating unevenly.
- Solution: Replacing the heating element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per seat
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 Acura ZDX has several potential issues that owners may encounter. Engine problems like oil consumption can be costly to address, while transmission issues can affect drivability. Suspension and electrical problems can also be significant. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as engine rebuilds or suspension replacements, can be quite costly. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed to assess the vehicle’s condition before making a purchase.