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2017 Acura MDX Problems & Owner Complaints

247 NHTSA owner complaints
7 crash 3 fire 4 injury

Age-normalised, this year draws ~24.7 complaints per year on the road — ranking 4 of 14 Acura MDX years we track (1 = most complaints per year).

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What owners report

Engine is the most-reported problem area on the 2017 Acura MDX, cited in 76 of 247 filed complaints (31%).

Power Train is next (63 complaints, 26%), followed by Electrical System (43), Forward Collision Avoidance (31), Vehicle Speed Control (21).

Across all complaints, 7 report a crash, 3 report a fire, 4 report injuries.

The most safety-critical cluster is Electrical System: 1 crash, 1 fire, 3 injury report(s).

Complaints by vehicle system

Owner complaints filed with the U.S. NHTSA for the 2017 Acura MDX, grouped by the vehicle system each cites. A single complaint can name more than one system, so the group totals can add up to more than 247.

Engine 76 1 fire

“I was merging onto the highway and when I attempted to accelerate, the engine warning light began to flash and the car could not accelerate. The engine began to make a rattling noise. I called the dealer and they asked if I could make it there (it was about 25 miles away). I said I would try. As I got about 10 miles away the noise grew louder and the oil light came on. I immediately pulled over. The dealer said the engine blew the connecting rod and destroyed the engine and the engine would need to be replaced. The car just had all the fluids replaced by the dealer 3 weeks prior. All service w…”
NHTSA complaint #11754357, 2026

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle lost power and stalled in the middle of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. Additionally, the transmission failed to shift out of park(P). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11747136, 2026

“The contact stated that while driving, the engine made clunking noise, sudden loss of power and the check engine light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a connecting rod bearing failure and engine replacement is necessary. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 180,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11742127, 2026

Power Train 63

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle lost power and stalled in the middle of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. Additionally, the transmission failed to shift out of park(P). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11747136, 2026

“There were several instances where my vehicle either accelerated or decelerated while I was driving. I first noticed the issue about a week after I purchased the car in May 2022. I took it back to Acura of Brookfield, and they said they couldn’t replicate the issue. I also took my car to Acura of Brookfield in September 2023 for the same jerking issue. They charged me for an update, but the issue did not change. I continued noticing the problem over the years, but it happened more frequently in 2025. In May 2025, I was driving down a hill in Brookfield, Wisconsin, when my car jerked aggressi…”
NHTSA complaint #11716599, 2026

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, the transmission system error message displayed. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road and turned off, and attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to respond. A local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall and suggested that the failu…”
NHTSA complaint #11702825, 2025

Electrical System 43 1 crash 1 fire 3 injury

“On 11.25.25, my MDX was involved in a multi-car hit and run on highway 101 SB at the Laurel Drive off ramp. The vehicle sustained two points of impact: (1) substantial front/driver side impact (2) rear-passenger side impact. Despite the severity, location of impact and speed of travel at the time of the collision, all airbags deployed except for the driver side curtain airbag. Importantly, at the time of the crash, the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and associated AcuraWatch driver assist systems were activated. The vehicle’s safety assistance technology was engaged and functioning immed…”
NHTSA complaint #11725140, 2025 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 ACURA MDX. WHILE THE LIFTGATE WAS CLOSING REMOTELY, IT FORCEFULLY CLOSED AND STRUCK THE OCCUPANT'S BODY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TWO LOCAL DEALERS: AUTONATION VOLVO CARS SAN JOSE (4600 STEVENS CREEK BLVD, SAN JOSE, CA 95129, (408) 758-5501) AND HOPKINS ACURA (1555 EL CAMINO REAL, REDWOOD CITY, CA 94063, 888-606-5810) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS WORKING AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11192244, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“I OWN A 2017 ACURA MDX. THE VIN IS [XXX]. ON SUNDAY JANUARY 13, 2019 MY WIFE WAS PULLING INTO OUR DRIVE WAY WHEN SHE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. SHE GOT OUR KIDS OUT OF THE CAR JUST BEFORE THE CAR BURST INTO FLAMES. IT?S AMAZING NO ONE WAS HURT. THE CAR, HOWEVER, IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE FIRE DESTROYED OUR OTHER CAR IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE GARAGE DOOR, THE GUTTERS, WINDOWS, THE FRONT DOOR AND A LARGE PART OF THE ROOF. ALL FOUR TIRES EXPLODED AND FLAMING PIECES OF RUBBER WENT ALL OVER OUR HOME AND DRIVE WAY. THE CAR LEFT AN OIL STAIN ACROSS OUR ENTIRE DRIVEWAY. THE CAR…”
NHTSA complaint #11255226, 2019 · fire

Forward Collision Avoidance 31

“Problem Description: I am reporting a safety-related issue affecting multiple driver assistance systems on my 2017 Acura MDX. While driving, the vehicle displays several warning messages at the same time, including: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Problem Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) Problem Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System Problem Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) Problem When these warnings appear, all of these safety systems become unavailable. The warning indicators remain on, and the systems do not function even after restarting the vehicle. The 12-volt battery was…”
NHTSA complaint #11754620, 2026

“I am reporting a severe safety defect regarding the sudden, unprovoked failure of the AcuraWatch driver-assist camera system (affecting LKAS, ADAS, and the Collision Mitigation Braking System), which directly and unexpectedly alters the vehicle’s powertrain and driving dynamics without driver input. While driving, the front windshield monocular camera module experienced an internal electronic failure, immediately lighting up multiple critical safety warning indicators on the dashboard and permanently disabling all forward collision prevention and lane-keep capabilities. I urge NHTSA to open a…”
NHTSA complaint #11748193, 2026

“Various warning lights appear randomly for collision system, lane departure system and brake system and the radio power glitches on/off while driving on highway. I tested the battery and it's good. At one point I was just about to enter a car wash and the radio power glitched off and then a transmission warning appeared and the car shifted to N and I couldn't shift to Drive. I pushed the P button and the dash just showed a blinking P with the transmission warning. With a whole line of cars behind me for the car wash I was in a panic of course. I turned the car off for about a minute and restar…”
NHTSA complaint #11747695, 2026

Unknown Or Other 30 1 crash 2 fire 2 injury

“On 11.25.25, my MDX was involved in a multi-car hit and run on highway 101 SB at the Laurel Drive off ramp. The vehicle sustained two points of impact: (1) substantial front/driver side impact (2) rear-passenger side impact. Despite the severity, location of impact and speed of travel at the time of the collision, all airbags deployed except for the driver side curtain airbag. Importantly, at the time of the crash, the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and associated AcuraWatch driver assist systems were activated. The vehicle’s safety assistance technology was engaged and functioning immed…”
NHTSA complaint #11725140, 2025 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. I WAS INSIDE OF THE CAR WITH MY THREE KIDS, MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING, THE CAR STARTED SMOKING, WE STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD AND EVERYBODY RAN OUT OF THE CAR AND THE CAR CAUGHT UP IN FLAMES, WE HEARD AN EXPLOSION, THE POLICE OFFICERS AND FIREFIGHTERS ARRIVED AND THEY STOPPED THE FIRE. THEY FILED A REPORT WITH CITY OF ISSAQUAH #18-09696. WE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND ACURA CUSTOMER RELATION AND THEY DIDN'T WANT TO GO SEE THE CAR AND CHECK WHAT CAUSED THE FIRE. FIREFIGHTER MENTIONED IT COULD HAVE STARTED IN THE ENGINE. FROM MY POINT OF VIEW, THIS…”
NHTSA complaint #11120680, 2018 · fire

“Safety Recall# AOT 2014-20 MDX REAR SUBFRAME REPAIR SAFETY RECALL June 2026 we were made aware that our 2017 Acura MDX SH – AWD had a recall for the rear subframe Safety repair. We immediately contacted Acura Joe Rizza Orland Park, Illinois at the time they said they did not have the Safety recall parts available for the rear subframe but they were on order so they scheduled us to bring the vehicle in on July 1, 2026 to complete the safety recall. invoice included. Just prior to this in May 2026 we were experiencing safety issues with our vehicle, vibrating very severely and pulling when we br…”
NHTSA complaint #11747996, 2026

Vehicle Speed Control 21 1 crash 1 injury

“ON AUGUST 21, 2018 I PULLED INTO A PARKING STALL, AND REALIZED I WAS NOT ALIGNED PROPERLY. I CLICKED ON REVERSE SO THAT I COULD REALIGN WITHIN MY DESIGNATED SPACE, AND THE CAR LUNGED FORWARD JUMPING THE CURB AND HITTING THE BUILDING APPROXIMATELY 4-5 FEET IN FRONT OF ME. BOTH DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. $13,000 WORTH OF DAMAGE TO MY CAR. WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK OF GETTING THIS CAR IS 2017, I'VE HAD MANY ISSUES SUCH AS FAILURE TO START AND BRAKE WARNING LIGHT COMING ON RANDOMLY WHILE DRIVING. HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED AT LEAST 3X TO THE DEALER, FOR WHICH THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE ISSUES.”
NHTSA complaint #11128100, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“While driving on the interstate over 2 hours from home the car put itself into neutral and almost caused us to get into a collision. While accelerating after a construction zone, the lights on the dash of the vehicle lit up with transmission, emissions, electronic parking brake, and more codes. The car shifted itself into neutral while running between 65-70 mph on the interstate. Multiple vehicles were accelerating after the 55 mph work zone area was over, and we had to swerve between cars to get to the shoulder of the road because the vehicle lost all acceleration capabilities. We have taken…”
NHTSA complaint #11736956, 2026

“My 2017 Acura MDX unexpectedly shifts into neutral while I am driving, specifically when slowing down approaching stop signs. When this happens, the vehicle loses power and will not accelerate, creating a dangerous situation in traffic. I have to manually press the Drive button to put the vehicle back into gear while still on the road. This has happened multiple times without warning and no recall exists for this issue. This is a serious safety hazard because the vehicle can lose power in traffic or intersections.”
NHTSA complaint #11729196, 2026

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Service Brakes 20 3 crash 1 injury

“ON AUGUST 21, 2018 I PULLED INTO A PARKING STALL, AND REALIZED I WAS NOT ALIGNED PROPERLY. I CLICKED ON REVERSE SO THAT I COULD REALIGN WITHIN MY DESIGNATED SPACE, AND THE CAR LUNGED FORWARD JUMPING THE CURB AND HITTING THE BUILDING APPROXIMATELY 4-5 FEET IN FRONT OF ME. BOTH DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. $13,000 WORTH OF DAMAGE TO MY CAR. WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK OF GETTING THIS CAR IS 2017, I'VE HAD MANY ISSUES SUCH AS FAILURE TO START AND BRAKE WARNING LIGHT COMING ON RANDOMLY WHILE DRIVING. HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED AT LEAST 3X TO THE DEALER, FOR WHICH THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE ISSUES.”
NHTSA complaint #11128100, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WE WERE TRAVELING ON A THREE-LANE ROAD (CENTER TURN LANE) IN OUR 2017 ACURA MDX GOING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AND FOLLOWING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF US AT THE NORMAL 4-CAR LENGTH DISTANCE. THE CAR IN FRONT OF US SIGNALED FOR A RIGHT TURN OFF THE MAIN ROAD AND BEGAN TO SLOW. I APPLIED OUR BRAKES TO SLOW AS WELL. WE WERE STILL AT LEAST 3 CAR LENGTHS BEHIND WHEN THE CAR IN FRONT OF US TURNED OFF THE MAIN ROAD. I MOVED MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE TO ACCELERATE BACK TO THE NORMAL SPEED. THE COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM ACTIVATED, BRINGING OUR VEHICLE TO A SUDDEN STOP IN TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE THAT…”
NHTSA complaint #11051659, 2017 · crash

“GOING ABOUT 20 MILES AN HOUR IN TRAFFIC A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME AT A DISTANCE OF ABOUT 2 CAR LENGTHS STARTED TO TURN RIGHT INTO A GAS STATION LOT UNEXPECTEDLY. THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM DETECTED A POTENTIAL FOR COLLISION AND WARNED ME. I PRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND SLOWLY ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKES AS THE SITUATION WAS NOT CRITICAL. THE CRITICAL BRAKE INDICATOR DID NOT GO AWAY, AND THE CAR IMMEDIATELY FELT AS THOUGH IT DEPRESSED THE BREAK FULLY AS IF A COLLISION WAS IMMINENT. THE DRIVER BEHIND ME WAS FOLLOWING VERY CLOSE AND COLLIDED WITH ME. THOUGH THE ACCIDENT WAS PROBABLY UNAVOIDABLE…”
NHTSA complaint #10955198, 2017 · crash

Engine And Engine Cooling 18

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH the engine seized. All the warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was due to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined there was an internal engine failure. The local dealer was contacted, where it was diagnosed that there was rod bearing and engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The claim was denied. The failure mileage was approximately 122,220.”
NHTSA complaint #11735497, 2026

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated that the dealer recommended that the timing belt be replaced. After the timing belt was replaced, there was a ticking sound coming from the vehicle while being started. The sound occurred while driving at various speeds or while the vehicle was idling. The check engine warning light was illuminated while driving approximately 60 MPH. The contact pulled over, turned off, and restarted the vehicle, and the warning light was no longer illuminated. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, who diagnosed that the short block, bearings, and the oil…”
NHTSA complaint #11699328, 2025

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotlin…”
NHTSA complaint #11663630, 2025

Fuel/Propulsion System 17 1 crash

“THE 2017 ACURA MDX HAS AN UNINTENDED SUDDEN ACCELERATION FAILURE CONDITION. THIS ANALYSIS PROVIDES EVIDENCE OF THIS ISSUE, AND THE SUBSEQUENT COMMUNICATIONS WITH ACURA CLIENT RELATIONS WHICH ENDED WITH A REFUSAL TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE ISSUE. THE PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT IS TO PROVIDE DATA AND EVIDENCE IN ORDER TO INFLUENCE ACURA TO INITIATE A ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS; WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF IMPLEMENTING A SOLUTION FOR ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES.”
NHTSA complaint #11172067, 2018 · crash

“When I have already started to go in motion, for example when turning left, and I let go of the gas pedal and then press the gas again once I decide its safe to turn, my car doesn't respond to the gas for about a couple of seconds. This has also happened when I am driving on the highway and I am already in motion and I want to go faster to pass another vehicle, my car hesitates for a couple of seconds before it responds to me pushing the gas pedal.”
NHTSA complaint #11728655, 2026

“I noticed a whirring sound while driving my MDX. The repair shop investigated and noted that the bearing in my transfer case assembly is failing and needs immediate replacement to prevent total power loss to the propulsion system of the car. Current milage of the vehicle is 99,500.”
NHTSA complaint #11726033, 2026

Lane Departure 17

“Problem Description: I am reporting a safety-related issue affecting multiple driver assistance systems on my 2017 Acura MDX. While driving, the vehicle displays several warning messages at the same time, including: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Problem Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) Problem Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System Problem Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) Problem When these warnings appear, all of these safety systems become unavailable. The warning indicators remain on, and the systems do not function even after restarting the vehicle. The 12-volt battery was…”
NHTSA complaint #11754620, 2026

“I am reporting a severe safety defect regarding the sudden, unprovoked failure of the AcuraWatch driver-assist camera system (affecting LKAS, ADAS, and the Collision Mitigation Braking System), which directly and unexpectedly alters the vehicle’s powertrain and driving dynamics without driver input. While driving, the front windshield monocular camera module experienced an internal electronic failure, immediately lighting up multiple critical safety warning indicators on the dashboard and permanently disabling all forward collision prevention and lane-keep capabilities. I urge NHTSA to open a…”
NHTSA complaint #11748193, 2026

“Various warning lights appear randomly for collision system, lane departure system and brake system and the radio power glitches on/off while driving on highway. I tested the battery and it's good. At one point I was just about to enter a car wash and the radio power glitched off and then a transmission warning appeared and the car shifted to N and I couldn't shift to Drive. I pushed the P button and the dash just showed a blinking P with the transmission warning. With a whole line of cars behind me for the car wash I was in a panic of course. I turned the car off for about a minute and restar…”
NHTSA complaint #11747695, 2026

Structure 8 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 ACURA MDX. WHILE THE LIFTGATE WAS CLOSING REMOTELY, IT FORCEFULLY CLOSED AND STRUCK THE OCCUPANT'S BODY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TWO LOCAL DEALERS: AUTONATION VOLVO CARS SAN JOSE (4600 STEVENS CREEK BLVD, SAN JOSE, CA 95129, (408) 758-5501) AND HOPKINS ACURA (1555 EL CAMINO REAL, REDWOOD CITY, CA 94063, 888-606-5810) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS WORKING AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND…”
NHTSA complaint #11192244, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“THE CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED (CPO) 2017 ACURA MDX I PURCHASED ION 07/24/20 FROM DAVIS ACURA IN LANGHORNE, PA SHOULD NOT BE CLASSIFIED AS A CPO! I PAID MY AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP OF 20 YEARS THAT MAINTAINED MY LEXUS SUVS TO DO THEIR OWN 83-POINT DETAILED INSPECTION ON THE ACURA MDX.I WAS SHOCKED IN THEIR REPORTING WHEEL ALIGNMENT NEEDED - RECOMMENDED LEFT REAR TIRE EDGE WEAR & BODY ' EVIDENCE OF PREVIOUS ACCIDENT DAMAGE TO REAR BUMPER, RIGHT FRONT DOOR, LEFT SIDE DOORS, LEFT REAR QUARTER PANEL & LEFT FRONT FENDER. I WAS INFORMED THAT AT LEAST 50% OF SUV HAS BEEN REPAINTED & THERE WAS DIRT UNDERNEATH…”
NHTSA complaint #11354825, 2020 · crash

“The paint on the roof between the sunroof and front windshield is peeling. I took it to local dealership and was told paint is covered under Acura's Rust Perforation Limited warranty which is 5 years from the of original purchase. I do not have an extended warranty so I would need to pay out of pocket. I believe the classification of this issue under the "Rust Perforation Limited Warranty" is incorrect. The issue is not corrosion originating from the inside out. This is a premature failure of the paint adhesion to the primer, which is a manufacturing defect. This is a known, widespread issu…”
NHTSA complaint #11736582, 2026

Exterior Lighting 5

“Manufacturer has not reimbursed recall repair paid out-of-pocket despite complete documentation and extended delay. Which was opened on 10/3/2025 the repair was done back in Feb 2024 !”
NHTSA complaint #11718864, 2025

“We are asking for your assistance and getting our reimbursement back from Acura/Honda automotive for a safety recall for our rear tail light which had moisture which was an NHTSA safety recall We purchased and had replaced the rear tail plate that had been recalled prior to the recall coming out. We have given them all this information and they still have not provided us with a refund for the safety recall on the tail light on our vehicle this has been going on for a couple years. The individuals at Honda automotive corporate are very disrespectful and as a handicap woman who uses this vehicl…”
NHTSA complaint #11748123, 2024

“NHTSA Recal #19V-256 So according to Acura, this vehicle had the tail lights replaced in 2019 but the tail lights broke again in 2023. How do we know if Acura just replaced with same OEM tail lights but didn't fix the problematic tail lights. These lights are not a simple bulb replacement, it is costly in $600/Ea range to replace whole assembly.”
NHTSA complaint #11563770, 2023

Wheels 4 1 crash

“THE CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED (CPO) 2017 ACURA MDX I PURCHASED ION 07/24/20 FROM DAVIS ACURA IN LANGHORNE, PA SHOULD NOT BE CLASSIFIED AS A CPO! I PAID MY AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP OF 20 YEARS THAT MAINTAINED MY LEXUS SUVS TO DO THEIR OWN 83-POINT DETAILED INSPECTION ON THE ACURA MDX.I WAS SHOCKED IN THEIR REPORTING WHEEL ALIGNMENT NEEDED - RECOMMENDED LEFT REAR TIRE EDGE WEAR & BODY ' EVIDENCE OF PREVIOUS ACCIDENT DAMAGE TO REAR BUMPER, RIGHT FRONT DOOR, LEFT SIDE DOORS, LEFT REAR QUARTER PANEL & LEFT FRONT FENDER. I WAS INFORMED THAT AT LEAST 50% OF SUV HAS BEEN REPAINTED & THERE WAS DIRT UNDERNEATH…”
NHTSA complaint #11354825, 2020 · crash

“Unknown Front left tire is rumbling. Ever since I purchased this vehicle I have had problems with the tires or suspension dealership replaced 2 tires since I purchased in July 2025”
NHTSA complaint #11723466, 2026

“MY 2017 ACURA MDX HAS HAD ALL SERVICE, INCLUDING VOLUNTARY EARLY REPLACEMENT OF OEM TIRES WITH BETTER HYDROPLANING TIRES, AT THE SAME ACURA DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED NEW. HAS HAD ALL ROUTINE MAINTENANCE THERE. NO EXTREME WEATHER, NO EXTREME DRIVING, NO FLOODS OR WATER EXPOSURE, NO ACCIDENTS, ONLY TYPICAL SUBURBAN DRIVING IN MID-ATLANTIC USA, NO WHEEL DAMAGE FROM ANYTHING I'M AWARE OF. PROBLEM ' RIMS ARE DAMAGED WITH HEAVY SCRATCHES, AT LEAST ONE ONE HAS A CRACK, REAR TWO SHOW CORROSION CLOSE TO WHERE THEY ATTACH TO THE AXLE. EITHER A MAJOR MANUFACTURING DEFECT, SOME KIND OF MIS…”
NHTSA complaint #11206273, 2019

Back Over Prevention 3

“The LKAS and Parking systems will randomly decide to cease functioning and express error messages. The car has not been in an accident.”
NHTSA complaint #11693159, 2025

“On highway and switching lanes. All of a sudden ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE AND ALL DRIVER ASSIST LIGHTS CAME ON. Pull over light came on as well. HIT ON LEFT REAR SYMBOL CAME ON. Was never hit just a close car on driver left rear side when switching lanes. Made it home and vehicle wouldn’t switch back into drive mode. Acura didn’t do its due process and assumed a new transmission was needed. Replaced and a month later ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE sign starts flashing again. Now dealership is saying I need a new catalytic converter. Refused as I believe Acura has been incorrect about the diagnostic. They…”
NHTSA complaint #11591912, 2024

“My car routinely sends a warning alert that there is an approaching object. It happens more frequently, when the temperature is hot, and it happens mostly when I am stopped at a traffic light. Occasionally, the alerts continue as I'm moving, which is really distracting, but even sitting at a traffic light is distracting and creating a safety issue. I listed yesterday's date, but this happens nearly every day that I drive this vehicle.”
NHTSA complaint #11481035, 2022

Seat Belts 3

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX. The contact stated that the second-row passenger’s side seat belt became stuck and failed to retract as needed, causing the seat belt to become inoperable. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11750292, 2026

“Copied below is my email to the Piazza Acura dealership. They will not provide a loaner. ________________________ My name is [XXX] and I purchased a new 2017 Acura MDX with AWD and the tech package from your dealership on 27 August 2016. In early April of 2022, the front passenger seat belt of my MDX stopped working. I was asked to come into your dealership to confirm that it was not working, and I did so on 12 April 2022. At that time a new seat belt was ordered, and I was told it would take about a month at most. For your reference, the part number, order reference number, and date of order…”
NHTSA complaint #11518896, 2022

“On Tuesday, November 8, 2022 I had my 20 month year old grandson in a rear facing car seat and he wrapped the middle seat seat belt around is neck and was choking and coughing. I was on my way to pick up my other grandson at school about 4 miles from my home and when I arrived at the school I opened the back door on the driver side where he was sitting and to my surprise and fear he had the seatbelt wrapped around his neck. I tried to remove it seatbelt when he was in the carseat and it was too tight there was no give. I yelled for help and a lady in her car helped me. The only resolution w…”
NHTSA complaint #11493325, 2022

Seats 3 1 crash

“on January 9, 2024 I was driving this car and was hit on the driver's side of my vehicle , other driver at fault. The driver's side door side curtain airbags appropriately deployed. The door itself was crushed, and I had to be cut out of the car. The malfunction was my seat, the driver's seat of the vehicle. It moved as far forward as possible and I was tightly wedged between the steering wheel and the seat. Even if my door had been possible to open, I would not have been able to escape. I was also not able to drive in that position, so the car remained in active traffic for some time. I b…”
NHTSA complaint #11641705, 2024 · crash

“The driver’s seat is loose. It became loose over time. It moves forward and back by about 1/4” during starts and stops. It gets worse each month. There is a recall for the same thing the next model year.”
NHTSA complaint #11570658, 2023

“WHEN I PURCHASE NEW CAR, THERE IS RUST ON BOTH SIDE FRONT SEATS.”
NHTSA complaint #11187436, 2018

Air Bags 2 2 crash 2 injury

“On 11.25.25, my MDX was involved in a multi-car hit and run on highway 101 SB at the Laurel Drive off ramp. The vehicle sustained two points of impact: (1) substantial front/driver side impact (2) rear-passenger side impact. Despite the severity, location of impact and speed of travel at the time of the collision, all airbags deployed except for the driver side curtain airbag. Importantly, at the time of the crash, the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and associated AcuraWatch driver assist systems were activated. The vehicle’s safety assistance technology was engaged and functioning immed…”
NHTSA complaint #11725140, 2025 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“THE CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED (CPO) 2017 ACURA MDX I PURCHASED ION 07/24/20 FROM DAVIS ACURA IN LANGHORNE, PA SHOULD NOT BE CLASSIFIED AS A CPO! I PAID MY AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP OF 20 YEARS THAT MAINTAINED MY LEXUS SUVS TO DO THEIR OWN 83-POINT DETAILED INSPECTION ON THE ACURA MDX.I WAS SHOCKED IN THEIR REPORTING WHEEL ALIGNMENT NEEDED - RECOMMENDED LEFT REAR TIRE EDGE WEAR & BODY ' EVIDENCE OF PREVIOUS ACCIDENT DAMAGE TO REAR BUMPER, RIGHT FRONT DOOR, LEFT SIDE DOORS, LEFT REAR QUARTER PANEL & LEFT FRONT FENDER. I WAS INFORMED THAT AT LEAST 50% OF SUV HAS BEEN REPAINTED & THERE WAS DIRT UNDERNEATH…”
NHTSA complaint #11354825, 2020 · crash

Parking Brake 2

“My 2017 Acura MDX has many issues with both the transmission and electrical. It has an issue shifting between gears, makes a loud sound like metal on wash board, then loses power for 3-5 seconds. I went to put the car in drive and it would not go in drive recently. I've now had to replace the transmission at 79,006 miles. The electrical system lights up when driving telling me my electronic parking brake has been engaged and also that there is emission system issues. My daughter was terrified and crying since i had a loss of power at the same time my dash lit up and I had to get across 5…”
NHTSA complaint #11487050, 2022

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AS THE EMISSION AND PARKING BRAKE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER EXPERIENCING THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION AS THE WARNING REMAINED ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO LINDSAY ACURA (5880 SCARBOROUGH BLVD, COLUMBUS, OH 43232) WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE OR DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MECHANIC CLEARED THE WARNING LIGHTS OFF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FA…”
NHTSA complaint #11408246, 2021

Tires 2

“Continental Cross Contact LX Sport 245 / 50 R 20 102 H tires. We had them installed at the Acura dealership on 7/14/2023. We noticed recently the tire tread on the front driver side in an area was peeling up in a small spot. At our oil change and tire rotation with Acura on 4/24/26, I notified them and they stated tire was okay. The tires currently only have about 15;389 miles on them. I contacted Continental Tire because I noticed the tread peeling or pitting on both tires that were rotated to the rear getting worse. Continental told me I could take to a tire center that sells Continental tir…”
NHTSA complaint #11735988, 2026

“The contact owns a 2017 Acura MDX equipped with Les Schwab Tires, Tire Line: Back Country Touring, Tire Size: 245/50/R20, DOT Number: UP76 DRW. The contact stated that while making a left turn, the front passenger’s side tire rolled over a plastic lane divider. The contact then heard air being released from the tire and immediately pulled over into a parking lot. The contact discovered side wall separation on the front passenger’s side tire and pulled into gas station to replace the tire with the spare. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 21T002000 (Tires) which t…”
NHTSA complaint #11553085, 2023

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 1

“I WAS PARALLEL PARKING MY CAR AND AFTER I GOT THE CAR IN THE SPACE WARNING LIGHTS STARTING COMING ON THE DASHBOARD. THE WARNING LIGHTS WERE; ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM, EMISSIONS SYSTEM PROBLEM, BLIND SPOT INFO SYSTEM PROBLEM, TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING PROBLEM, TRANSMISSION SYSTEM PROBLEM. I TRIED TO PUT IT INTO PARK AND IT WOULD NOT ENGAGE. THEN I THOUGHT MAYBE IF I DRIVE IT FORWARD SOME AND THEN PARK AGAIN IT WILL RESET. I DRIVE OUT OF THE SPACE AND NOTICED THERE WAS A RED FLASHING LIGHT THAT READ PARK AND THE D WAS FLASHING. I THINK THE CAR WAS TELLING ME I NEEDED TO PARK THE VEHICLE? I…”
NHTSA complaint #11023885, 2017

Fuel System 1 1 fire

“I OWN A 2017 ACURA MDX. THE VIN IS [XXX]. ON SUNDAY JANUARY 13, 2019 MY WIFE WAS PULLING INTO OUR DRIVE WAY WHEN SHE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. SHE GOT OUR KIDS OUT OF THE CAR JUST BEFORE THE CAR BURST INTO FLAMES. IT?S AMAZING NO ONE WAS HURT. THE CAR, HOWEVER, IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE FIRE DESTROYED OUR OTHER CAR IN THE DRIVEWAY, THE GARAGE DOOR, THE GUTTERS, WINDOWS, THE FRONT DOOR AND A LARGE PART OF THE ROOF. ALL FOUR TIRES EXPLODED AND FLAMING PIECES OF RUBBER WENT ALL OVER OUR HOME AND DRIVE WAY. THE CAR LEFT AN OIL STAIN ACROSS OUR ENTIRE DRIVEWAY. THE CAR…”
NHTSA complaint #11255226, 2019 · fire

Steering 1

“i bought new car in 2017 November and around over 2500k miles I heard engine chirping sound and if you're surrounded by wall you can hear it louder. took it to dealership several time but they said it's normal and show me another car to prove to me. Which it did had same sound. Then yrs go by I hear loud clunking sound underneath the car every time I reversed and when switching gear to reverse. also about 1-2 yr owning it I heard clunking sound on steering wheel so when mechanic looked at dealership they said it could have been air bag wires so they secured it and shouldn't have any more probl…”
NHTSA complaint #11561793, 2021

Visibility 1

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 ACURA MDX. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED WITHOUT WARNING OR AN IMPACT. SHATTERED GLASS FELL ONTO THE CONTACT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HOPKINS ACURA OF FAIRFIELD (877-360-1950, LOCATED AT 2459 AUTO MALL PKWY, FAIRFIELD, CA 94533) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE FAILURE WAS UNUSUAL AND WAS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD BE INVESTIGATED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT CALLED BACK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS AP…”
NHTSA complaint #11205864, 2019

Visibility/Wiper 1

“Wipers do not dispense water(front or rear) and wipers to not reset to original position when in use. Took it to Acura dealership in 03/20/2024 for a 60,000 factory service and problems started afterwards. On 05/16/2024 I had another service at Fountain Acura dealership and problems persist.”
NHTSA complaint #11648090, 2024

How we read this (methodology)

How to read this: raw complaint totals are not a clean reliability score — a model year with more cars sold, or simply more years on the road, accumulates more complaints regardless of how good it is. So this page leans on two signals that are not distorted by sales volume: the share of complaints falling on each vehicle system (the breakdown above) and NHTSA's own crash / fire / injury / death flags. When we compare model years of the same model, we normalise by years on the road (complaints ÷ vehicle age) rather than comparing raw totals. Age-normalised, the 2017 Acura MDX draws about 24.7 complaints per year on the road, ranking 4 of 14 among the Acura MDX model years we have ingested (1 = most complaints per year on road).

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Data source: U.S. NHTSA (nhtsa.gov). SaveVIN surfaces public recall data and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NHTSA.

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