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Acura · Full-Size SUV · 2007–2013

Acura MDX YD2

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Acura MDX YD2 is available with one engine variant at 252 hp.

3.5L V6 · Petrol· 300 PS
2007 2013
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Acura 3.5L V6 (Petrol, 300 PS) has the J35 (3.5L V6) — rated: "Stay Away!", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖J35 VCM Oil Consumption — Model-Specific

VCM system particularly problematic in MDX YD2. Cylinder deactivation creates uneven piston ring wear. VCM disabler recommended as prevention.

Symptoms: Oil consumption 1 qt/1,000 miles, faint blue smoke on cold starts, oil light before service interval
from 130,000 km
Ad VCM Muzzler MDXpiston rings J35 MDX YD2
 High
✖Sunroof: Spontaneous Glass Shattering

Panoramic sunroof glass shatters spontaneously without external impact. Temperature changes and material stress suspected as cause.

Symptoms: Sudden loud pop, glass shards in cabin, sunroof completely shattered with no visible impact point
Ad sunroof glass Acura MDX YD2panoramic roof MDX 2007-2013
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
412 complaints · 2007–2013
Electrical
112 ⚠ 1
Engine
90 ⚠ 1
Powertrain
49 ⚠ 2
Other
38 ⚠ 2
Airbags
35 ⚠ 4

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Electrical (112 complaints)
⚠ Engine (90 complaints)
⚠ Powertrain (49 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 YD2 (2007–2013) — 3 engine-related and 3 vehicle-related. One problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6). Typical issues affect Other, Electronics.

MDX (J35, 2007–2013) — Stay Away!: VCM-Induced Oil Consumption, Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (Recall 23V751), Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Recall 23V858). Power: 300 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 YD2 have? +
The Acura MDX YD2 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 3 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Acura MDX YD2? +
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 YD2 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Acura MDX YD2 — rated: "Decent". {description} The YD2 brought 300 hp and the first SH-AWD. Active torque distribution between rear wheels — real advantage on wet roads. VCM oil consumption is the issue, HandsFreeLink drains the battery. Cheap used and solid when both problems are understood.
Is the Acura MDX YD2 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Acura MDX YD2 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura MDX YD2? +
The Acura MDX YD2 is available with engine variants from 252 to 299 hp. Petrol: J35 (3.5L V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee