Used 2005 Acura MDX Consumer Reviews
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Yes , the transmission is a problem
Very good Suv. Love the AWD. Felt safe going down the road, it feels like driving a tank. But, the transmission failed at 160000 and we were left stranded on the side of the road. Also, some other little issues. Used regular gas. It did a good job towing. We finally did trade it in at 200000 miles and Lindsay Acura Cols. Gave us 5000 for it. It had a lot of bumps and bruises on it from towing and parking lots. Overall a good suv if Honda would solve the transmission problems that the MDX has.
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'05 MDX
Replacing Cadillac Eldorado and more than happy with the change. The MDX had 82,000 miles when I got it, 97,000 six months later without any trouble, except with an a/c vent cover. Early on I had the opportunity to drive for several hours in a blizzard with complete confidence. I have also had it on unimproved old logging roads with equal confidence. I would not take it where I would take a 4Runner, but I prefer cabin comforts. The cabin is awesome and the toys are awesome. Front seats are 5 star. This is my favorite car ever. I installed after market transmission and power steering filters as a precaution. The tranny's are suspect. I drive in D4 around town and D5 only over 60 mph.
- Base 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,000171 mi away
- Touring 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,500251 mi away
- Touring 4dr SUV w/NavMSRP: $6,495351 mi away
Love my Acura!
I am the original owner of my 2005 Acura MDX. Love my car! I have owned this car for over 10 years with no problems. The only thing has been the electric door locks that needed the actuator replaced. Other than that issue, this car is so reliable and comfortable to drive. Love my Acura!
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Lots of mechanical issues
I am the original owner of my 2005 MDX, and currently have about 130,000 miles on the car. We have had many mechanical issues with this car, including: - failed torque converter at about 55,000 miles - failed transmission cooler at about 85,000 miles which caused intermingling of transmission and radiator fluids - not good - failed electrical harness unit - had to wait to get one from Germany! - numerous suspension issues - rust appearing on front of hood and in all four wheel wells starting at around 100,000 miles Even my 15-year old Saab has had far fewer, and less expensive, mechanical issues. I am not sure whether I will buy another MDX.
Think b4 you buy your next Acura
Think b4 you buy your next Acura. My 05 MDX slammed and locked its brakes while doing 40mph and almost killed my family. It happened three times in less than a month. Dealership won't fix the modulator that is most likely the cause because it would cost them $1600. The seat belt locked on my 9 month old pregnant wife's belly and cause my other kids head to whip lash. They have had my car for over a week now and waiting on Corporate to take responsibility. It's sad that saving $1600 is more important than the lives of 6 people. Come on Acura/Honda. Update: After having my $50,000 luxury car for a week, the decided they will only replace a $100 part called a brake switch. But they refused to replace the other problem, $1600 abs modulator. Their diagnostic computer told them both were failing parts. The service manager told me they are not wear and tear parts and should not have gone bad. So they sent me off with my family hoping they guessed right. So now the car sits on my drive way. I refuse to put my family in danger. Had I been on the freeway or crossing our states snowy mountains, my family might not be here right now. I wouldn't be here to share this with others. I told the claim manage than my family has bought 3 accords, two civics, Acura RL and the MDX the past 20 years, while spending over $100,000. Yet, he said that wasn't enough of loyalty.
Excellent Vehicle
I have owned the car for seven years now. It had 54,000 on it when I bought it and now has 162,000. It is a pretty comfy car but can get uncomfy during long road trips. I have had zero problems with the vehicle since I purchased it. The only issue I have had is the torque converter started shuddering. Normally youd think oh typical Honda torque converter gone bad. But not the case! The fluid had not been changed since the car was new so I drained and filled the fluid once and the shudder disappeared. I did this 4 more times just to get most of the old fluid out with new genuine Honda fluid. Dont let someone tell you you need a new torque converter until you drain and fill the transmission WITH HONDA FLUID. Aside from this its been 100% reliable. I towed a 3000lb boat from Ohio to Florida at 160,000mi with zero issues. Overall I am really happy with the car.
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Trouble with transmission
Great car, but have had trouble with transmission. Has been replaced once already at 50000 miles, still makes hard shifts when shifting down.
Transmission vibrates/grinds at 35-40 mph
At approximately 30,000 miles, upon acceleration, the transmission would vibrate/grind until 45 mph. I have found this to be a common problem on many Acura forums and there are 11 reports of this exact same problem on the National Highway Transportation and Safety (NHTSA) website. The problem seems to be the transmission torque converter.
someone will sue Acura
second MDX, 7th Honda vehicle, last one had tranny issues, this one had the tranny noise slightly. 2012 I get a letter saying transmission software upgrade, so I took it in. Especially in case I had tranny issues in future they would say that I had not done this upgrade they suggested. The upgrade made the 5th gear come on at 45 MPH instead of the original 40 MPH. This removed the noise, but, the gas consumption is terrible now as 90% of my city driving is below 45 MPH! The should fix bad designs, not make us pay for it. Also, I cannot prove this yet, but another "recall software upgrade" has disabled my Vehicle Stability Assist". This is NOT how a luxury make should do things!
TRANSMISSION
I bought this from a used Honda dealership-in Marietta, GA, Aug. 2011. Was really excited to own my Acura SUV w/ 3rd row! Honda had a good reputation w/ reliability except for their transmission issue! I didn't realized it until it was too late! I had it checked out by Ed Voyles Acura-Chamblee. They said it was fine & they even did the transmission chip software recall. They found nothing wrong w/ it! They even took it upon themselves to do the FULL 105k service w/ timing belt w/ out getting my approval or trying to figure out what was wrong w/ the transmission. I was really upset! I even rode w/ them to see why it would vibrate at 50-60mph. Of course it wouldn't make that noise.
THIS IS A GREAT CAR FOR THE MONEY
This car is a great car, especially considering it's a 14 year old car. Mine has 186,000 miles on it and still runs like a clock! This was a great buy although I did have to get the transmission replaced at 140,000 but that was the only problem I have had. Also make sure to get the timing belt replaced at the regular intervals, this is an interference engine and the valves will bend if the belt breaks. Great sound system, great room, great comfort, and usability. Buy this car if your in the market for an older luxury SUV with a lot of life left in it! (Quick note, this car does require premium fuel, so take that into account when considering operating costs.) I average about 15 city, 21-22 highway so keep that in mind that gas isn't cheap for this thing.
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Great SUV
Great car. Plenty of room, hard to fit seven passengers and luggage. excellent fuel economy. 15-18 in town, we consistently get 25-26 on the highway. Average tank is always around 21. Super comfortable on the inside. Great in the winter.
2005 MDX Touring w navi & res - BEST SUV
All i can say is this is the greatest purchase ive ever made. They really made a beast with this one, i just revived a flooded tranni w/ busted radiator .. Few flushes & replacements later i still havent spent what its worth and it, honest to goodness i cant make this up, it runs. like. new @ 222,179 miles ladies and gentlemen. I could not tell you of another engine that would not only handle that kind of damage while driving with strawberry milk in my tranni oil for a week, unknowingly. Never once did it putter, squeek, squeel, tick, shake.. Just ran smooth, with a little less power. It still blows my mind that this is my daily driver now lol. I recommend this car because of its outstanding safety and reliability, not to mention cost of repairs are not an arm and a leg because they're Honda parts. (how brilliant) If i could give any advise, keep up with your maint. spend a few extra dollars to get better quality fluids/parts. Youll thank yourself later. :)
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2005 Acura
Love this vehicle. Have 77,000 miles on it and no problems whatsoever. Love the touchscreen navigation that can be operated on the go. Bluetooth and Address Book are great too. Leather still looks like new and gas mileage has been great. Averaging over 20 mpg in city and highway driving. Have taken on several long road trips and the seats are great! Best I've ever sat in.
Keeps on Ticking!
I bought my 2005 MDX from used car lot with 150,000 miles. It sat on the lot for long time, so I picked it up for $6,000. It was cosmetically beat up, but I wasn't afraid to own it as I have the greatest independent Japanese Auto mechanic. He said it was mechanically sound. I'm retired, so I've had time to upgrade: Suspension, Running Boards, Catalytic Converters, all LED Lights, Window Regulator, Starter, all dents removed, reupholstered front seat bottoms myself. It now looks and drives really nice! It now has 173,000 miles and I've spent a total of $5,000 in maintenance repairs and upgrades. This SUV hums along like a Japanese Clock! This is my 3rd MDX of this series (2001 to 2006). Frankly, I occasionally think of getting something sexier or newer, but you just cannot beat the reliability and comfort of this vehicle. Plus, the interior of this SUV is huge. The newer ones were reduced in size and I don't like the style as much. I know that my honest mechanic will keep me on the road no matter what. However, I recommend that everyone should buy a OBD2 scanner, learn to read codes and research fixes on Youtube. From what I've read, I know that a transmission may be in my future. But, I'm not worried, as I know a great transmission guy. At the price I've paid for this car, I can afford a transmission. Oh, the AWD is excellent in ice and snow. I run Bizzaks on spare wheels in the winter and it never gets stuck. All round great vehicle and I would drive it anywhere. Wish gas mileage was better, but then what SUV gets great mileage? Again, considering the price I paid for the car and I can afford gas.
a
great vehicle, very reliable and comfortable...great navigation and dvd system
I thought Acura/Honda's were relable?
I really liked the features of the vehicle. Drove it one week and started hearing a "rumbling" noise around 30-40 mph. Seemed like the transmission was having problems shifting. Dealer had it for two weeks, had to rebuild the transmission and replace the torque converter. Luckily I will have 3 years/36,000 mile warranty on the transmission. Besides that, nothing else to complain about so far. I thought Acura/Hondas were supposed to be very reliable?
Rear main seal - transmission
Barely out of warranty and the rear main seal (rear crankshaft seal) failed. The sad part is I just paid off this sucker. Transmission also started to develop problems. Replacing the rear main seal can cost upward $2000 (mostly labor) but this won't stop the other transmission related problems. I finally gave up and traded it in for a new car. This was a loss-loss situation for me. Acura quality is falling apart. Sadly, I am not the only ones being affected by this...avoid at all cost!
Not Luxury Quality
Purchased new two months ago, we have put 5000 miles on the MDX. At about 1500 miles the LCD display locked up (froze) causing loss of the ability to use the nav or to control the heating and air conditioning (a real bummer when you're lost in a strange city). After turning the car off for approx. 1/2 hr. it appeared that the electronics cooled off enough to start working again. The thermostat on the heater/air conditioner has never worked properly and the interior fogs up easily on humid days. Several other things, like loose retaining screws on some of the external body parts,etc. indicate a general lack of concern for quality.
Great after 4 years
I bought my pre owned MDX at 62000, driving it since then for 10 months I am a satisfied customer. I like the build quality and handling. at 69000 it still runs quiet on the road. during the recent snow it drives superb with great AWD controls and traction.
Loved this SUV
Bought MDX because it could be towed behind my RV and provide an upscale trim/features than other towable vehicles. Loved this vehicle. Never had a single problem in over 5 years of driving and towing, just scheduled maintenance. Interior has everything and well designed. I'd definitely buy a new one, but the new ones can't be towed - too bad. I highly recommend this vehicle - great family SUV.
Very Disappointed in my MDX
"Clunking" noises that "can't be fixed". Said MDX just makes these noises w/ no remedy <-NOT an acceptable answer!!! Poor design features: no continuous visible outside temperature readout; recirculating air setting does not stay on-must be constantly re-set; Navigation system NOT user friendly. Also, static in AM radio. Over-designed in some areas; under-designed in others. Manufacturer not willing to remedy problems. Spent over $40,000 for a car that does not meet expectations.
A piece of feces wrapped in gold
Its bright and shiny on the outside and completely unreliable on the inside. The transmission failed at 71000 miles - dealer wants $4,000 to repair. Paid $45,592 new for the vehicle and $6465 on repairs since 2005. If we pay for the transmission it will be over $10,000 - more than 22% of the original cost. Bluetooth stopped working at 50,000 miles Engine required $3,278 worth of repairs at 60,000 miles. We use this car as our primary family vehicle - nothing strenuous or abusive. I would never buy a Honda product ever again.
My MDX is a great vehicle
This is the best vehicle I've owned. Gas mileage is only 15-17 in the city but much better on the interstate, so it makes up for it. I've had no issues with this vehicle so far it's got 150k and I bought it at 130k so it's still kinda new to me, but it feels very put together and is great on the interstate. I'm 6'3" and I gotta say it's about 2 inches short height wise when I'm driving, If I sit all the way up the top of my vision is looking through the very bottom of the factory tint strip on the top where the rearview mirror is glued. So I'd say if you're under 6 feet tall you'll have no problems with this vehicle. Definitely recommend, and it's a unique vehicle not too many on the road because it's a fairly new model , relatively. The Japanese know what they're doing, let's face it why drive anything else when you're going to drop serious coin on a huge machine like this. I'm really glad I bought it, and takes care of everything I need without a pick-up truck payment.
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Acura
We've had vehicle for 1yr and it's only been back to dealership once due to a slip in transmission. Dealer checked it out and right away they decided to replace transmission because Acura wanted to disassemble and assess. We were impressed! Great family vehicle, it's much roomier than you would think by looking at it.
A great all-purpose SUV
Extremely comfortable, quiet ride with excellent performance. I purchased with all the bells and whistles, including DVD with rear speaker control - perfect for long trips with kids. Also, with two rows of seats that fold down, easily converts to a good SUV for hauling stuff. Bluetooth for the mobile phone is now a must-have. The voice-activated nav system seemed cool at first, but it was the one thing that didn't always perform perfectly. Still, this is my first Acura and the best vehicle I have ever owned.
Built Just For Me
I am a tall driver (6'4")and always must "try on" an automobile for fit in head,leg and foot room, steering wheel positioning and instrument and control visibility and convenience. The MDX fits me almost perfectly. I could use a little more room for my left foot, but head and leg room are great. instruments and controls are conveniently located and visibility is excellent. For me it has smooth acceleration, a firm but not harsh ride and a confidence building feel of the road. Cargo space is excellent and thirdf row seating comfortable for the occasional need to transport my four grand kids and two adults. Pleasing exterior styling that I think beats anything else on the road.
Borrow some minivan features
Not bad for driver, but third row passengers are very limited. Need more leg room and easy to get in/off. How about power sliding rear doors instead of traditional wings and power lift gate would be a good features to borrow from minivans. Automatic doors locking feature at the speed greater than 20 mph.
Best Vehicle I've Ever Owned
Reliable, smooth drive, great pick-up when needed. All I do is change the oil and rotate the tires. I'm following the maintenance program and I bet this vehicle will last forever!
Nice Truck
I test drove many many SUV's and none could compare to the price and features of the MDX. That's the reason I also drive a 2004 TL. Unfortunately, the MDX is not nearly as nice as the TL. The nav screen is smaller, no dual climate control, the buttons on the wheel dont light up, no power up and down feature for driver and passenger windows, and the stereo is anemic in comparison. This is just nit picking, but the MDX should have the same or better features especially since it is $10K more than the TL. Despite these very minor issues this is a great SUV. Space and workmanship are top notch.
Transmission Sucks
The SUV is amazing the transmission sucks it slips it will cause you get T-boned and killed. I’m trying to find somebody to rebuild my transmission right now started sleeping at 150,000 miles
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Awesome vehicle
Perfect driving and running condition, ver
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Great overall, minor issues
Still one of the best luxury SUV bargains out there. Great balance of performance, function, technology, safety and quality. Nice improvments for 2005. The one annoying problem that has been an issue for years is a brake "thud" when applying brakes backing up. Seems silly that Acura can't fix an embarrassing problem after years of feedback on this.
Expected a great car, but....
I purchased this vehicle one year ago and have had some problems with the exhaust system and acceleration. My MDX makes an annoying noise at the 2 rpm mark, and does not have very good acceleration at times; I have had it checked (with little success) at my Acura dealer. There are also some interior noises in the back doors, which is bothersome to listen to at times. I really expected a lot more from this vehicle, especially for the price that I paid. The gas mileage is not that great as well....getting around 14-15 mpg in the city and 17-18 mpg on the highway, and I drive fairly conservative.
I love this car
I have had my MDX for over 5 years it now has 126,000 miles. I have not had any problems and it runs great. I definitely would buy another.
Love my MDX
I enjoy the handling, the style and the comfort. It has been my favorite car purchase. Used to drive a Ford Expedition and this by far handles better. The service I get w/ Acura has been outstanding. Only one change, wish it had a little more storage hiding space near the driver .
Fun in my SUV
Love driving the SUV and the satellite radio is great!
Great car in more way than one.
I have been driving several luxury cars in the past and I have never like any of them as much as I love my MDX. This car is just awsome. So much space and it drives so smooth handles great in the snow and rain. It is just a wonderful car. Thank you Acura for making it.
Smooth rider
At first, I felt that it was big for me to drive, but then when I got used to it, I honestly prefer to drive my Acura MDX instead of Honda Accord/ Coupe. What I like about this car it is very quiet and runs really smooth. I am very happy that we had selected this vehicle.
Acura MDX
Vehicle rides outstanding in all conditions. easy manuevering in city. Good gas mileage. Great in rain, snow or ice.
Comfort in driving
I love driving my MDX. It is a smooth and comfortable SUV. It has power to get you where you want to go. The visiblity is also great.I am able to see a lot more of the country side than with my sedan. I also like the seat warmer during this winter season. Over all it is a great SUV for the price.
Extended warranty
I have this truck for over 4years, I took to dealer at least 5 times for various problem.... Nice design, need to improve quality... Starter, Valve, Transmission, shock-- etc some of the few problems that have with this truck....
Crash Tested
I recently totalled my 2004 in an unavoidable accident. The car safetly features are amazing. Everything worked perfectly saving my and my 7 year old from serious injury! I can say this car performed amazingly under the most important of all curcumstancies and I have orded a new 2005 to replace it!
Been a Good SUV
Overall this has been a solid vehicle. The only problem has been the torque converter at 57,000 miles. Acura paid a large portion of the repair cost though. I really love the MDX and can't seem to find anything worth selling it for. I usually keep cars for three years but after 5 I want to hang on to it for a while longer. I really like the design and interior technology.
Acura MDX
I have had my MDX for 2 months. So far I love driving the car. It's comfortable and reliable. I just wish the gas milage was better. One thing that came standard with all my previous vehicles is automatic door locks when the car is being driven, which is not available on the MDX. I also would like to see keyless entry and a more sensitive automatic headlight mechanism.
A Little Overrated
I find the MDX to be more hefty and top heavy in driving dynamics than I expected. It's pretty thirsty at 15 MPG city. Engine seems rock solid and smooth. Ride suspension is tuned nicely -- not too firm, not too mushy. Should have HID and lane change signal without having to clicking on the signal arm. Stereo is pretty good quality. XM is nice. Navi and Handsfree link are a little awkward to use.
Biggest mistake of the decade
If you are buying an Acura MDX of 2005, big mistake, we bought it, used it for a decade just fine, don't get me wrong, there was no issues with her from 2010 ( we bought her used) till 2014. We paid and kept updated for everything we possibility can. In last 2 years, we have spent for transmission, brakes, spark plug, coil, batteries, tires and brakes, some of these are repeated expenses. Total of approximately $11,000 in last 1 year and she stopped on me again this morning. I wish I had taken a new one instead of investing so much on her. What a rotten piece of machine. Yes I don't have a right to complain because she did fine for the first decade, but what is the point of keeping a constant flow of expenses if this is what we have to deal with.
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Great Automobile
In a nutshell, this is the best value for your money out of all the SUVs I test drove. This vehicle is beautiful to look at and drive. It is the best experience I have ever had in an automobile. For the money you pay for this vehicle, everything is standard. The braking and power is unbelievable and it also has a tight turn radius. I am extremely satisfied and would recommend this vehicle to anyone.
MDX
I test drove a number of vehicles and did a lot of homework prior to deciding on the MDX. I do mostly in city driving and have been amazed at the smooth, quiet, drive and supurb handling. On the highway, it handles equally as well. It's comfortable and provides everything I need. I only wish I got the Navi system!!!! Although Edmunds states the MDX is bland and ho hum, I think it's a classy and understated look of quality.
Great Car
Bought this car new in March 05 and have loved every minute of it. My only regret was not talking the wife into getting the Navi. Test drove all the competitors, but the MDX blew them all away. I love the car-like handling. The bluetooth can have trouble picking up my voice when the air or heater is on. It has led to some frustrating exchange (me--"dial 911" MDX--"now calling 753." Also, there is a sloshing sound from the gas tank. I took it back to the dealier shortly after purchase, but there was nothing they could do about it. Eventually, I just got used to it, and I no longer notice it.