Used 2002 Acura MDX Consumer Reviews
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LOVE LOVE LOVE this 2002 ACURA MDX TOURING
I drove this, loved the looks of it, and it has 187,000 and counting. I would buy another one just like it...got it at 54000 at dealer certified and have had no issues whatsoever. I love my Acura. My only question...I just drove to work and for the first time I clicked the four wheel drive VDX button, how can you tell if it goes off...I clicked it and no change...got me to work in 13 inches of snow...
02 MDX
The MDX has been great although the 02 is well known for transmission failure. Mine gave out at 60K. There are hundreds and hundreds of similar stories, even at much lower mileage levels. You will here a "burr"ing sound between 40 - 50 MPH while traveling in 5th gear. Talk to your dealer and to Acura customer service in order to get a new transmission heavily discounted or best case, for free, even when you are out of warranty.
- Touring 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,971370 mi away
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,995379 mi away
- Touring 4dr SUV w/NavigationMSRP: $1,500411 mi away
Don't be a Dummy from 3 Transmissions
Bought this MDX new with all options. At 55,000 had the transmission replaced using my extended warranty (1 month shy of expiration and any work done under the warranty or extension it is only good thru the end of the extension date, meaning I only had one month of warranty on the new transmission). This transmission died at 88,000 mi. 6k replacement from the dealer, which was whittled down to 2 thousand. This car has been babied thru the dealer servicing since purchase. Service managers admit the design is faulty. And mentioned I was lucky to get this much use before the transmissons died ! DO NOT PURCHASE THIS CAR USED !!! YOU WILL HAVE A PROBLEM !!!
Transmissions
Stay away from this vehicle. Buyer beware. I had my tranny replaced at the dealer after numerous issues, in fact I had to take it to a different dealer who said yes after 109KM it needs a new tranny. Now I need another 139 KM it died. I called Acura? Honda Canada only to be told too bad it is past warranty (which it is). I repeatedly told them that there have been major issues with this model and specific problem to which the reply was. No there hasn't! Please Google 2002 acura mdx transmission issues before you make a major mistake.
Worried after reading......
I love my MDX. I am worried now that I have read the significant issues people have had with their transmission. I pray that I will not. I have over 163,000 miles on my car now and have never had any major issues. I changed the timing belt just to avoid future problems when I did a major maintenance. I will say with regard to safety that this vehicle has been safe. I have six children and I have had several people hit me and I rear ended someone once. The only damage to my car were mere scratches. It is built like a tank. Maybe I will be one of the lucky ones but so far I cannot complain. This is the best car that I have ever driven.
BEWARE: Bad Transmissions
Nice vehicle but not withstanding of the reputation of Honda's reliability. Transmissions have known issue under NHTSA recall 04V176000 of gear failure that could result in transmission lockup. This happened to me at 113k miles after Acura said they fixed the issue. While driving 35 mph the front end of the vehicle seized and skidded 5-7 feet. Luckily there wasn't a car behind me. They tried to charge $7k to fix the transmission. It appears there are 100's of similar cases reported online and Acura is using plausible deniability to avoid litigation issues. I logged a complaint w/ NHTSA & sold vehicle due to safety concerns.
The wonder car
Our family was in an accident on the freeway, where we lost control of the car due to slick road surface and were hit 2 times by other cars as we spun toward the fast lane. When we took stock of each one of us in the car, we were all okay. One of the airbags went off and the car was totaled. The next day, we found another Acura MDX and are very glad to drive such a safe and reliable car. We are certain many other cars would not have protected us in that situation.
Great Car!
I bought my 02 MDX new from the dealer. I have had it now for 10 years and have over 235K miles on it. No major repairs at all. I read about transmissions, struts repairs, etc but I have seen none of it. A great family car. Very reliable. Never failed me. The transmission finally went recently (no complaints after 235K miles) and I want to get another one. I do get worried from what I am reading here at times but for me the car was well worth the $$$ spent.
A little old ladies darling
I wouldn't even consider selling it accept for wanting all the new safety equipment that is now available. No issues with repairs other than scheduled maintenance. We liked it so much that we purchased a second one just like it accept it is a 2005 model. I don't like that you must use premium fuel in it.
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
Very Happy With Purchase So Far
My dad and I found this 2002 Acura MDX with around 101,000 miles on it for around $12,000. Was a little off-put with the miles at first, but after I drove it I absolutely loved it. Luxury cars' engines last better than normal cars, you get a better car for the buck too. It provides smooth acceleration and provides an overall very comfortable ride. Was using unleaded-plus fuel at first, but then the ride got a little shaky. Switched back to straight-up premium and the engine performance and fuel economy became much better. I love the Bose sound system in the car, good and clean audio deliverance. Very happy with this car. As long as you do regular maintenance, you shouldn't have problems.
Three transmissions!
My wife really liked the Acura's size and features. When we first got it, it certainly was smooth and quiet; much more refined than the 1996 Grand Cherokee we had before. It was a good size and she loved the touchscreen navigation. It was a little disappointing that the MDX didn't have some luxury features that the six-year old Jeep did, like automatic headlights and day/night outside mirrors. Overall she and I liked the car. The trouble started at 37000 miles when the first transmission went out. It was replaced. It broke again and was replaced at 87000 miles and we discovered this is a well-known and chronic problem with Acura's transmissions. I cannot recommend early decade MDX's.
decent car...Terrible transmission
This car is a good car short term. After my second year owning this car a bunch of lights came up on the dashboard. After getting it checked, weeks later the transmission starting to fail. acura has honda products including the transmission, and honda is known for the worst transmission. The car starting bucking and did not get into gear, and would have trouble reversing. Very comfy, nice options, but just bad transmission, and sunroof.
Transmission blew at 170K.
At the purchase price (could have bought a houseboat for the price), it should go 300K miles, IMHO! Apparently Honda had trouble with the 'hydraulics' on automatic transmissions at the time they did this one. If they had not, this review would not be clouded by a transmission failure.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Best mid-size suv on the market period!!
I love my MDX and would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone. The styling, features, performance capabilities on this vehicle was everything I could have hoped for. Driving the MDX you feel like your in control of the road. It hugs the turns like a race car. The MDX is sporty, safe, and very roomy inside. I love my MDX!!
I have better cars.
We currently have 133,000 miles. We have replaced far too many things to say this is a used car best buy. The tranny went at 99k, motor mounts at 110k, wheel bearings at 99k, shocks and struts at 115k, rear heater stopped working at 80k, it's starting to rust in the wheel wells and the list goes on. The motor mounts and tranny are a known issue on these cars. RECALL IT! Dealer said to me "Hey, you got your use out of them". I didn't realize parts expired..
Disappointing
This was one of the more disappointing vehicles that I have owned. Vehicle clunks when shifting from forward to reverse (dealer says it cannot be repaired). Can't drive with the windows down as it creates pressure inside vehicle. The list goes on.
Honda should stick to motorcycles
What a joke. Service, and all dealers just downright rude. So you wait four months to find out the thing starts sometimes and not others. I can see why Toyota is the largest and richest automobile producer in Japan. This overpriced mini Van (what was I on when I bought this?) is just that. Buy a RX300 and be done with it. If you need to haul anymore than that wait for the new bigger Lexus. The service and car is much better.
Really nice SUV
The best vehicle that I have ever owned. Lots of cargo space. Good fuel mileage and range considering how powerful the engine is. Great AWD system for driving on wet or icy asphalt roads. Excellent turning radius. I like the ride and I find the seats to be comfortable. Can tow up to 4,500 pounds (boat) or 3,500 pounds if any other type of trailer towed, but requires the addition of transmission and power steering fluid coolers.
Buyer Beware
Tranny went at 66,000, and I am having problems again at 140,000! If not for this major issue I love it. Gas mileage OK
Good SUV, crunchy brakes
Overall, this is a great vehicle. I noticed when it had about 6,000 miles that when I would come to a stop (mostly after it sat idle for a bit) that the brakes make a "crunching" noise. I took it in for it's 7500 mile check and it passed. I recently took it back in for the 15K check and verbalized the same concern. They could find nothing wrong and said that even some of the sedans made the same noise and that was typical for Acura's. There have been no safety issues, but that same noise continues.
Good vehicle but not a great vehicle.
My wife drives the MDX primarily for shopping and shuttling around our 3 children. I drive it primarily on weekends. Like all Hondas, the MDX offers good reliability and value (dealer price gouging notwithstanding). The MDX is built well and has a very good engine and drivetrain. The MDX's interior quality and ergonomics are also very good. However, performance is average, handling is unimpressive and the vehicle is noisy at highway speeds. Braking is HORRIBLE, the MDX takes forever to stop! Additionally, the MDX is not very stylish when compared to other "luxury" SUVs such as the BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz M-Class (regardless of the price difference).
Fun to Drive, but Expensive
My first time with a luxury SUV, which I researched prior to buying. At 40K miles, the transmission needed to be replaced!!! But they did it thanks to buying it pre-owned, pre-certified - would have cost 7K. This car handles very well and has gotten me out of more than a few accidents. Power about right and handles extremely well, is extremely comfortable.
Disappointed
Waited 6 months, had to bring back at 350 & 1500 mls for noisy front end. It appears it's inherent to the X. Wind noise, tail gate slight bend and e-brake doesn't hold without extreme pressure. I'm disappointed with the build quality. It wasn't worth the wait. Make sure to take a good test drive if you can. I do love the look, the interior layout and it does cruise very nice on the highway, but at $44K delivered, knowing what I know now, I don't think I would buy again with these problems.
It has it's quirks
When I bought my MDX I thought I was getting quality that you would expect with the Acura name. I have never spent this much on a vehicle before and had high expectations. There are too many quirks for a $40k car. Rattling noises from every where, doors, rear seats, dashboard and some places that I just can't figure out. The driver seat back squeaks if pushed back on slightly. After a rain or car wash if you roll your window down the inside window gets wet and must be wiped off. Sometimes there is this low ringing noise that I can't figure out where it's coming from. Not to mention the annoying brake clicking and gas tank sloshing.
2002 Acura MDX Touring
After owning 9 vehicles this being the 10th, I find it to be the best yet. Considering I was hell-bent on buying a hybrid suv, I'm pleasantly surprised how easily I changed my mind after taking mine for a test drive. I love it more each time I get in. Hate to get out when I get home, could drive it forever. All the interior controls are placed well for easy access. Roomy interior. The ride was a tad stiffer than an Equinox but I do love the way it handles. May be due to too much air in the tires. Great on icy roads. Nice tight turning radius. Unless they make drastic changes, I'm fairly certain I'll buy another in 3 yrs. All the bells & whistles are great. The MDX fits me like a glove.
Great Vehicle
I have read the most recent reviews (from Aug 2003 to present) and I agree, there is a 'clunking' sound with the brakes when changing gears. Concerned me at first but realized it was 'normal'. However, something should be done about it in future models.I have had no problems with paint-thankfully! We did purchase this vehicle based on Consumer Guide. It has met all of our expectations. It is pricey and you will pay full sticker for one. But very enjoyable to drive.
noisy ride
We purchased this vehicle for the supposed reliability and extra seating capability. After approximately 1,000 miles I began to notice a high pitch ringing noise when going over 30mph. I have taken the MDX back to the dealer 3 times for repair to no avail. Also, whenever I change gears (i.e. go into reverse after being in park) the is a loud thud when braking. Dealer tells me this a normal characterisitc of the MDX's brake callipers (sp?) adjusting. Who knows? What I do know is that I am unhappy with the entire Acura experience. I paid close to $40,000 for a noisy vehicle which I do not enjoy driving.
Best SUV
The MDX handles and drives so much better than any other 7 passenger+ suv it's not even funny. Great convenience not having to remove the seats - we can still put 3 kids in the middle row - and fold down the rear row if need be.
AcuraMDX
I live 100 miles from my nearest Acura dealer. As I had hoped, I have never had a need for service on my MDX except for oil, tire rotations, and wiper blades. My only significant complaint is the wind noise from interstate crosswinds are magnified by water channels on both sides of the windshield.
I Would Buy Another
My husband and I test drove several SUVs before selecting this one. We selected it in part because it has the drive and comfort of a car unlike the truck feel of many others. The body style is great (didn't change for a few years). We like the reliability, overall style, navigation system, and mileage (is still very good). After 143,000+ miles & over 7 year it still looks and drives great. A new transmission was installed a few months before the extended warranty expired so we incurred no extra cost. No other major work has been needed. Two times the navigation malfunctioned but shortly corrected itself. We need to update our navigation CD because some locations can't be found.
Get One!!
I love my MDX!! Considered Pilot, but interior/exterior quality were not the same. No sunroof or heated seats in the Pilot either! MDX does not have some features you'd expect for the money - auto/HID headlights especially, and it needs the touring pkg for power passenger seat, 6 disc CD, and without it roofrack is a $300 option. Tall folks will have trouble finding a place for their left foot, and the transmission hunts for its gear on only slight upgrades. Overall, I LOVE IT!! (Build more, please!)
Not a Good Car !
So many Transmission Problem !! Noise all over the place.. Paint Quality.
Not Buying an Acura
For sure, this vehicle is fantastic in terms of price, but the quality and the detail of this vehicle is second to the bottom when compare to anothers SUVs like (Highlander, RX300, ML3s and X5). Fake wood trims, unacceptable wind and road noise, unprofessional Acura salesmanship (went to 3 of them, they are all like that, basically Leave it or Take it attitude), lack of feature and feel of a luxury vehicle. Though it is my parent's car, but I will definite will not consider an Acura.
Wind noise is ATROCIOUS
My 2001 MDX has been a DISASTER from the second week. I get TERRIFIC wind noise at speeds in access of 60 miles per hours. The dealership smiles and works on the MDX, but they wind noise continues. I have had the RUN AROUND from the Acura National folks. I would DEFINETELY NOT buy another ACURA.
I feel betrayed
Let me start off by saying I loved my Acuras. Had an RL that was the best i owned. It failed on me and traded for the MDX. Loved the MDX, best in class, dream car. Then the probs w the tranny started. Thank God I bought it certified. 100 mi before expiration they replaced it free, but right at 12 mos later it's crapping again. I feel like my spouse cheated on me. For something I love to cause me this much pain, I'll never buy another Acura. To fix it will cost more than I owe it. They may have gotten better, but they lost me for good this time. The RL was bad enough when I replaced the window motor on 3 windows and at 105k the engine died. Can you tell I'm bitter? Sorry, i don't want to be.
Too many unexplained noises
I like the MDX, like the way it looks, like the gas mileage (but not the required premium gas). The only complaint I have so far is the noise the brakes make (which we're told is normal) and little rattles that appear out of no where. It sounds like it's metal hitting metal somewhere in the second row seats. The slighest bump in the road brings on the rattle. The dealership was unable to find anything. Currently I have an old towel rolled up between the seat the metal piece that it locks onto. So far this week, I haven't heard the noise again. If I don't get rid of this noise, the car will have to go because it drives me nuts!
Hope This Helps
I did a lot of research before buying this car. I got the list down to MDX and Pilot, the Honda version of the same car, because I carry large speakers and needed a 49" wide car. There were no used Pilots at the time, so the MDX was it. Like everyone else, I had the transmission problem and eventually had it replaced under warrantee with no questions asked. Make sure you buy a certified car with an extended power train warrantee. Great highway cruiser. 4 hour trips are no problem. If it got stolen, I'd get a Pilot to replace it.
Lemon from the factory
Bought the vehicle brand new off the lot and from day 01 the vehicle had issues, i.e. bubbles in the paint, EGR valve recalls (numerous), etc. The latest is the transmission. This is the second one in 160K miles. The first one was under warranty & the second was while still under warranty as well, however the Sunnyvale Acura dealership did not identify it and has now changed ownership & they're not taking responsibility. The repair will be between $5K~$7K. This is the 1st and last Acura which I will ever buy. They use the term "Luxury Vehicle" - don't be fooled. My prior Lexus was a true Luxury Vehicle, over 250K miles on the trannie w/ no issues.
Stuck on a Hwy.. Engine Check
How can a new MDX like my just stuck on a Hwy.. The engine just let go while I am driving around 130km/hr.. The engine check light is on and I just got enough time to direct my car to the ramp.. This is not fun and a major safty issue.. I WON'T buy ANY ACURA anymore ! The roadside assistance and dealership services is nothing compare to Infinit provide..
Smooth sailing
I purchased this vehicle after comparing with other SUV's. I particularly liked the ride quality and luxure amenities vs. other SUV's I drove. Acura has put together a nice blend of funtionality and luxury.
3 years and still going strong
I bought my '02 MDX in '06 with 64,000 miles on it. I have not had any problems with it in the last 3 years. I keep up with regular maintenance - that's it. I can regularly get 20-22mpg around town, and up to 26 highway. Pretty good for an SUV. I'm up to 120,000 miles and it still drives and looks great. There's a weird 'pop' noise when going back into drive after being in reverse, but it's been there since I bought it and has never caused any problems. To my understanding, it is common to most '02 MDXs.
Much better than ML320
I had a Mercedes ML 320, this car is so far superior to that truck I cannot begin to think of the ways. The many visits to the snotty Mercedes dealer are a thing of the past (thank god!). My MDX is three months old, I had already been back to the Mercedes dealer three times with the ML 320. More room, better interior, quieter AC, no wind noise, no pieces falling off, no comparison!
Happy with decision
I picked up the MDX on Monday and left for a trip on that Friday. Extremely pleased with feel, ride (smooth), the handling and I love the navigation system. My two children think it is great. Quite a few admiring looks on I- 10. So far I am very pleased.
188 MDX
Had a chance for a long drive from the SF area to L.A and comfort and driveability was excellent. Engine was strong in passing as well as climbing the "Grapevine". The seats were comfortable during the 6+ hours of driving. HVAC was set and forgotten and kept the cabin nice a cool, navigation system helped to find my hotel. Bose system, I enjoyed it immensely during the trip. However, it seems the radio was weak in getting and holding onto radio signals. The road noise was kept to minimum but the wind noise was annoying. It was not "LOUD" but loud enough force me to turn the volume up on the stereo to enjoy Eric Clapton.
Excellence
Acura has outdone themselves! The recent (and moderate) design changes clearly state that Acura has made a superior SUV with little room for improvement!
Excellent
The best car in the world
Exceptional Vehicle for the money
Superb interior, fun to drive, drives like a car not a truck.
mdx
caris btter thanmeedes benz, bmw and toyota but needs additional improvemnets to make it even better as ided in comments below.
Best 7-passenger SUV
The MDX is the perfect combination of reliability, versatility, and fuel economy, with seven-passenger seating. This vehicle has all the advantages of an SUV, all the features of a minivan, and a smooth, comfortable ride. It's fun to drive with great acceleration, and handles very well in all weather situations. We love it!
Nice Ride
I can easily hold a conversation with passengers while going 80 MPH, so it is plenty quiet. I fly with ease through intersections with drainage dips, high crowns, and ruts, that slam others, car or truck. Where others loose traction on rough pavement, bouncing left, and then right, the MDX rides through just fine. Maybe that is why the others need the off-road low range gears :-). They have two hands on the wheel, hitting the headliner with their heads, while I'm honking to pass. Nice ride Acura, you've tamed the SUV.