2017 Acura MDX

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2017 Acura MDX, organized by category and component, following your specified format. The 2017 Acura MDX is a popular luxury SUV known for its reliability, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. It comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its fuel efficiency for its class and its array of available technology features. Common dislikes include the sometimes-clunky operation of the 9-speed transmission and the sometimes-frustrating dual-screen infotainment system.

Engine

3.5L V6 (J35Y6)

• Variable Timing Control (VTC) Actuator Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise upon cold start-up, typically lasting for a few seconds. This is caused by the VTC actuator not properly locking into place.
  • Solution: Replacement of the VTC actuator. An updated part is available to prevent recurrence.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak locations include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (ZF9HP)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears (1st to 3rd), or hesitation when accelerating from a stop. Sometimes accompanied by a “clunking” noise.
  • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM) can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, replacement of valve body or transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software update; $800 - $2500+ for valve body replacement; $4000 - $7000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, particularly when accelerating lightly. This is caused by the torque converter clutch failing to engage properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, the transmission may also need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises coming from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Often related to worn bushings or ball joints in the rear control arms.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings or ball joints. In some cases, the entire control arm assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side, depending on the parts replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days of the vehicle sitting idle. Possible causes include parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component. This could involve testing various circuits and modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (highly variable depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• AcuraWatch System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: False alerts from the collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), lane departure warning (LDW), or adaptive cruise control (ACC). Sensors may not function as intended.
  • Solution: recalibration or replacement of the affected sensors. Software update of the AcuraWatch system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1200+, depending on sensor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate fails to open or close properly, makes unusual noises, or gets stuck.
  • Solution: Replacement of the tailgate struts, motor, or latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The dual-screen infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors, or audio malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update, resetting the system. Replacement of the infotainment unit may be required in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ for software updates; $800 - $2000+ for infotainment unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Acura MDX has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most prevalent relate to the 9-speed transmission, which can exhibit harsh shifting and other drivability problems. Electrical glitches, particularly related to the infotainment system and AcuraWatch features, are also common. While some issues are relatively minor and can be resolved with software updates, others, such as transmission or sensor replacements, can be costly. Overall, while the MDX is generally considered reliable, a thorough inspection and test drive, focusing on these potential problem areas, is recommended before purchasing.