The Acura MDX is a luxury SUV offered by Acura that’s currently in its 4th generation. Here are the top 2007 to 2013 Acura MDX problems owners run into with the 2nd generation.
Top 5 Acura MDX Problems 2nd Generation 2007 to 2013
1. Idle Air Control System Problems
Symptoms of Problems with the Idle Air Control System in the 2007 to 2013 Acura MDX
- Check engine light for code P0505
- Engine stalling
- Runability issues
Causes of Idle Air Control System Problems
Different parts like connectors and hoses can cause runability issues. Other parts in the idle air control system, like the throttle body, can also create problems with engine performance.
How to Fix Idle Air Control System Issues
Remove the connectors in the idle air control system and check them for excessive corrosion. Check from the throttle body to the MAF sensor. Check the hoses for tearing, looseness, brittling, or damage. See if the throttle body is dirty and needs cleaning.
More on how to clean the throttle body
2. Bad EGR Valve
Symptoms of a Faulty EGR Valve
- Runability issues like the car not starting
- Worse fuel economy
- Check engine light for code P0401
Causes of a Bad EGR Valve
The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve takes exhaust gases from the exhaust to reburn in the engine. This helps with emissions. Problems with it can cause noticeable drivability issues like the car not starting, or it can trigger a check engine light.
How to Fix a Bad EGR Valve
Check the EGR valve. You might need to only clean it with carburetor cleaner, or it might need to be replaced if that doesn’t fix the symptoms.
3. Check Engine Light Flashing
Symptoms of a D4/Check Engine Light Flashing
- Check engine light for multiple codes like P0700
- Shifting issues
Causes of Transmission Problems with the 2nd Gen Acura MDX
Sometimes problems with the transmission are due to bad transmission fluid, and sometimes they’re due to internal mechanical problems that can cause issues with shifting.
How to Fix Transmission Issues
If you find the vehicle driving fine with no shifting issues, you can generally drain the fluid and replace it to fix this problem if the old fluid is fine and you find no dirt or debris. If that doesn’t fix this issue, there may be an internal issue with the transmission that needs fixing, and that generally means having a professional fix it.
4. Transmission Shuddering
Symptoms of Problems with the Transmission
- Transmission feels like it’s shaking when driving
Causes of Transmission Problems
Problems with the transmission shuddering in the 2007 to 2013 Acura MDX is usually from a bad torque converter.
How to Fix Transmission Problems
Steps to fix the torque converter include removing the transmission, replacing the converter, and updating the computer or power control module (PCM). This is not an easy part to inspect or replace, so we recommend bringing your vehicle to a professional unless you have experience working on transmissions.
5. Problems Starting the Vehicle
Symptoms of Problems with Starting the 2007 to 2013 Acura MDX
- Check engine light
- Runability problems
- Worse fuel economy
Causes of Problems Starting the 2nd Gen Acura MDX
The computer controls the vent valve, which is a part of the EVAP system, and opens and closes it. If the valve is stuck open or closed, that is a typical cause for an EVAP-related code in this vehicle.
How to Fix Issues with Starting the Vehicle
The EVAP canister vent valve is underneath the shield under the car. You’ll need to disconnect it and check the vent valve for carbon or debris that may be blocking the valve. You’ll need to remove it from the canister and replace it if it’s defective.
6. Hood Lift Supports
Symptoms of Bad Hood Supports
- Hood won’t stay up
Causes of Bad Hood Lift Supports
The hood struts are gas-filled, and these can leak and loose strength and operation over time.
How to Fix Defective Hood Lift Supports
The hood struts will need to be replaced, but this is a DIY repair that can be completed easily with an assistant.
2nd Generation Acura MDX Model Years
