Your thoughts on '03-'05 Acura MDX's

[Islandvic]

What are your thoughts or experiences on '03-'05 Acura MDX's. I'm looking at one's with the trailer towing package.

Does anyone own one?

Anyone know real world MPG? Do they require premium gas?

How much are they based on the Honda Pilot?

Your comments and experiences please.

Thanks!

 

[faqulars]

As long as you get the dealer/oem installed towing package you are ok. They added a transmission cooler to help cool things down. The transmission does not have a filter like most new honda/acura with a 5 speed auto. I recommend changing the atf with oem honda atf fluid on a regular basis if towing. They require premium gas although like most cars it can take regular but whats the point.

They are not NOT based on the Honda pilot. The diff is from the Ridgeline which is a heavy duty unit than that of the Pilot. It uses Hondas Dual Pump fluid which I would also change on a regular basis. The funny thing is that the 04 and above use 5w20 don't know about the 03 models. My brother is a Honda mechanic down in South Carolina so I love to hear stories about cars coming in for maintenance. My brother is a Honda mechanic and my uncle drives the 04 MDX. Overall just please use Lexol or some type of leather cleaner/conditioner on the leather. I caught my uncle using that amrmor all stuff. Sigh, old ways will never change.

 

[rotorray]

I've had an '03 touring since new (37K miles). No problems other than a leaky water pump which was fixed under warranty. Because of previous year's tranny problems (they were changed in '03) I do change my ATF every-other oil change (3 quarts). It's probably overkill but it's cheap and I do it myself. Comes out to about once a year. A site you might check out is www.acuramdx.org. Do a search for '03s, or anything else. Lots of subject covered in their "forums." Ask them questions. Bunch of good folks on that board more than willing to assist you. Good luck!

 

[The Critic]

03+ have a fine transmission. 15-18 is probably typical with this class of vehicles.

They do require premium fuel, but the "requirement" is quite loose as I doubt any serious damage will occur in the long run, just loss of power.