Model: 2014+ Acura MDX
Vehicle type: Luxury crossover
History/description:
The latest-generation of Acura’s top-selling MDX crossover hit the road in 2013 with a more efficient and powerful engine, new styling and feature content and core MDX attributes maintained in full.
Popular with shoppers after high resale value, high reliability and leading safety scores, the MDX is a considered one of the most no-nonsense machines in its segment and a strong long-term value.
Look for features including a punchy ELS stereo, LED headlamps, a motorized tailgate, heated and chilled leather, and nothing less than the market’s latest in outward-looking hazard-detection tech.
Navigation, a sunroof, remote start and a rear-seat entertainment unit were also available.
A 3.5-litre V6 was good for 290 horsepower and came with a six-speed automatic for 2014 and 2015, though a nine-speed automatic replaced it from 2016. The MDX was also available with a partially-electric sport hybrid powertrain, though limited sales volumes and reliability information mean we’ll focus on the standard powertrain for the remainder of this feature.
What owners like:
The MDX is highly rated for comfort, roominess, all-weather confidence and a flexible and easy-to-live-with demeanour. The ELS stereo, climate-controlled seats and the upscale interior are also highly rated. Good fuel mileage is also noted by many owners.
What owners dislike:
Common gripes include dated on-screen display outputs and graphics, unremarkable styling and a low-resolution backup camera system.
The test drive:
Start by understanding that even a vehicle highly rated for dependability can experience a multitude of problems if former owners have skipped or stretched maintenance intervals, or have failed to properly care for the vehicle.
Accordingly, seek out service records that prove that no maintenance or inspections have been skipped and remember that even the most reliable vehicles on the road require occasional servicing to keep them in tip-top shape for the long haul. The gist? Even though the MDX has a well-earned reputation for reliability, poor owner habits can cause plenty of headaches.
On the road, be on the lookout for a shake or vibration from the MDX’s front end, a tendency to pull to one side or another, or a steering wheel that rests off-centre while the vehicle travelling straight. These warning signs are your key to have the MDX’s alignment checked professionally.
Some owners have reported alignment issues, even from relatively low mileage. Out-of-alignment vehicles suffer reduced handing and fuel economy, accelerated tire wear, and more. At any sign of an alignment issue, have an Acura technician assess the vehicle before you agree to purchase.
If you’ll tow a boat or trailer with your MDX, you’re likely best to stick to a 2014 or 2015 unit from this generation. These years saw the MDX fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The nine-speed automatic that came online from 2016 has been the subject of some complaints from owners who say the newer gearbox may clunk, slam, or otherwise perform poorly, especially while towing.
The cause may be an improper transmission fluid level condition caused by the addition of the towing package on the nine-speed gearbox. Your local dealer may be able to perform Technical Service Bulletin #15-054 to try and address the problem if you wind up in a unit with the nine-speed automatic, though owners say success is limited. The gist? If you’ll tow frequently, you’re likely best with a 2014 or 2015.
Next, note that updated control software may be required to ensure the MDX’s idle-slashing AutoStop system works as intended. If this fuel-saving system doesn’t perform as outlined in the owner’s manual, or displays any error or warning indicators in the instrument panel, have a dealer investigate before you buy.
Check the brakes, too. Some drivers have been disappointed by the lifespan of the MDX’s factory-installed brake parts, reporting premature wear, warping and unwanted noises from the system.
If you note any unwanted sounds or sensations while braking on your test drive, or if the pedal feels soft and mushy, be sure to have a technician assess the braking system before you buy. Some owners have reported success in having dealers replace brake parts at low mileage under warranty.
Note that the MDX’s engine is direct injected, meaning that new owners should make plans to have all oil changes completed on or ahead of schedule and to be absolutely certain to adhere strictly to spark-plug-change intervals at all times. Consistent use of a high-quality gasoline at the factory-specified octane rating is also highly advised.
The verdict:
For this generation of MDX, the most concerning issues reported by owners should be relatively easy to detect on a test drive and should prove simple to address by an Acura technician. A well-maintained used MDX can be bought with peace of mind, more so after a good report from an Acura technician after a standard pre-purchase inspection.
