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Last post on May 06, 2013 at 9:22 AM
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Acura MDX Forum.
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Acura MDX, SUV
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#874 of 967 2003 MDX Transmission
by toothfairy55
Jul 17, 2012 (6:00 pm)
Well - I just received the bad news that my transmission has to be replaced in my 2003 MDX.
I was out of town driving & after stopping at a stoplight - my MDX would not go into gear. I turned off the vehicle & then turned it on. I was able to drive home the 35 miles & now it is at my mechanics. 127,000 miles a little disappointing but cheaper than purchasing a new car.
In Feb had the timing belt, etc replaced.
It sure seems that transmissions are a big issue with the Acura MDX with following these postings!
#875 of 967 Re: 2003 MDX Transmission [toothfairy55]
by jga5
Jul 18, 2012 (6:25 am)
I read something about a recall on the 2003 transmission. You might want to check into that. What is the estimate for the repairs?
Thanks,
04 MDX owner
#877 of 967 Re: 2003 MDX Transmission [toothfairy55]
by wwest
Jul 21, 2012 (9:00 am)
Just goes to prove you can't "drive" both the front and rear drivelines even part time, especially on a highly tractive surface, without something eventually going.....
BANG
#879 of 967 03 MDX, 85k miles NEEDS 3RD TRANSMISSION?
by arthankful
Jul 24, 2012 (10:32 am)
My 03 Mdx has 85k miles. I am 2nd owner, only driver, woman, never towed or misused. Purchased from Keyes Mercedes dealership in 2005 with 28k miles. Shortly thereafter it was making a squeaky noise like a loose belt. Santa Monica acura diagnosed bad transmission and replaced it. Now 57k miles later, the transmission slipped without warning on the freeway for the first time. Santa Monica Acura wants $150 to diagnose...$4500 -5.000 to replace. Acura care says out of warranty and the car is too old, I am first time Acura /Honda owner..no history/loyalty and because I serviced at non Acura dealer It is likely they will provide little to no assistance. Please help if you can recommend a place in Los Angeles area that does good transmission rebuilds and reasonable.
#881 of 967 Re: 2004 Acura MDX Transmission Problems [mistat]
by maikolo
Aug 13, 2012 (10:27 am)
I am thinking of purchasing a used 2004 Acura MDX with about 85,000 miles. I have read lots of good things about the car and also lots of bad things (transmission, etc). What is your take on the 2004 and if 85,000 miles is good for the year? Thanks, Mike
#882 of 967 Re: 2004 Acura MDX Transmission Problems [maikolo]
by jslivon
Aug 13, 2012 (10:59 am)
We own a very well maintained 2003 MDX and had it for a number of years. We bought it with 60k miles and now it has 160k miles. My wife took out the extended warranty when she bought it from a local Acura dealer. The transmission failed at 108K miles. We argued extensively with Acura and they paid 90% of the $4,500 cost.
At 110k miles you will need a timing belt, water pump, spark plugs and valve adjustment. Two motor mounts will also fail by then. At 150k miles, you may need new front ball joints and rear control arms. Except for the transmission problem, this is all normal wear and tear. Except for what we've read about Acura putting the screws to many people over this transmission problem, we loved the car. Gas mileage isn't very good considering what the new cars are getting. However, I won't buy a new Acura. I think there are better cars out there now.
You'll have to make your own decision. 85k miles is a little low for the average vehicle. It all depends on how well the '04 has been maintained. I wouldn't pay more then the "trade-in" value based on the "Blue Book". You should be able to buy an extended warranty because it's under 100k miles. Check with your local Acura regarding a reliable company to by the warantee from.
#883 of 967 Re: 2004 Acura MDX Transmission Problems [maikolo]
by jga5
Aug 13, 2012 (12:31 pm)
I own a 2004 MDX with about 119,000 miles now. I have performed all of the required maintenance to date and have not yet had a transmission issue. If the vehical you are looking at has had its service and test drives well (smooth), i would say it may be a good deal.