2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX is a luxury three-row SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliability. It’s powered primarily by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Some models also come with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. While generally well-regarded, some owners have reported certain issues. Owners typically like the vehicle’s reliability, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. Common dislikes include the lack of a traditional gear shifter, the outdated infotainment system graphics, and occasionally clunky transmission shifts.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. This may become apparent after approximately 50,000 miles.
  • Solution: In some cases, Acura has recommended performing an oil consumption test. If consumption is excessive, replacing the piston rings may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, check engine light. Could be caused by faulty fuel injectors that are not properly spraying fuel into the engine.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or hesitant shifting, especially between lower gears. This can manifest as jerky acceleration or a noticeable “clunk” during gear changes.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a transmission replacement has been necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $100 - $300, Transmission replacement $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to accelerate, the vehicle getting stuck in gear, complete transmission failure, or the vehicle turning off.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can occur, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can result in difficulty starting the vehicle or requiring jump starts.
  • Solution: Testing the battery and charging system is recommended. Replacing the battery with an OEM battery might be required. Look for parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement $200-$400, Diagnosis of parasitic draw $100-$200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including freezing, lagging, or unresponsive touch screen controls.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or updating the software may resolve the issue. In some cases, the infotainment system unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update $0 - $100, Infotainment system replacement $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch failing to open or close automatically. The power liftgate actuator may fail.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear hatch actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locate the source of the rattle and secure the loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may stop working or become inconsistent.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat heater element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Acura MDX generally has a good reputation for reliability, but some owners have experienced issues. The most concerning problems relate to the 9-speed transmission, with reports of rough shifting and, in rarer cases, failure. Engine oil consumption is another notable issue. Electrical gremlins such as battery drain and infotainment glitches are also present. While the cost of repairs can be significant, especially for transmission or engine work, many of the issues can be addressed with software updates or component replacements. It would be wise to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic before buying one, especially the transmission.