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Acura · Full-Size SUV · 2001–2006

Acura MDX YD1

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
1.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Acura MDX YD1 is available with one engine variant at 252 hp.

3.5L V6 · Petrol· 252 PS
2001 2006
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Acura 3.5L V6 (Petrol, 252 PS) has the J35 (3.5L V6) — rated: "Stay Away!", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖5-Speed Automatic: Complete Failure

Honda's 5-speed automatic fails from 3rd gear clutch pack wear. Metal shavings contaminate entire system — rebuild uneconomical, replacement necessary.

Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifts, grinding during gear changes, transmission warning light, complete loss of drive
from 130,000 km
Ad automatic transmission MDX YD1Honda BGRA transmission MDX
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,094 complaints · 2001–2006
Powertrain
571 ⚠ 21
Airbags
165 ⚠ 28
Electrical
83 ⚠ 7
Engine & Cooling
77
Brakes
53 ⚠ 8

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (571 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (165 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (83 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 6 weaknesses have been documented for the Acura MDX YD1 (2001–2006) — 3 engine-related and 3 vehicle-related. One problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Cooling, Body.

MDX (J35, 2001–2006) — Stay Away!: VCM-Induced Oil Consumption, Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (Recall 23V751), Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Recall 23V858). Power: 252 PS.

What to watch out for with the Acura MDX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Acura MDX YD1 have? +
The Acura MDX YD1 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 3 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Acura MDX YD1? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
None of the available engines are rated 'Good Choice'. Stay away! The most fun to drive is the J35 (3.5L V6). Problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6) — stay away!
Which Acura MDX YD1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Acura MDX YD1 — rated: "Decent". {description} The YD1 was Acura's answer to the Lexus RX — with real AWD instead of front-drive bias. J35 runs reliably when VCM is disabled. The 5-speed automatic is the serious concern: premature transmission replacement is common. Ride comfortable, interior holds up for its age.
Is the Acura MDX YD1 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Acura MDX YD1 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura MDX YD1? +
The Acura MDX YD1 is available with engine variants from 252 to 299 hp. Petrol: J35 (3.5L V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee