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Acura · Full-Size SUV · 2014–2020

Acura MDX YD3

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations

Engine Overview

The Acura MDX YD3 is available with one engine variant at 252 hp.

3.5L V6 · Petrol· 290 PS
2014 2020
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Acura 3.5L V6 (Petrol, 290 PS) has the J35 (3.5L V6) — rated: "Stay Away!", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!ZF 9AT: Jerky Shift Behavior

ZF 9HP nine-speed automatic shifts erratically, hesitates on downshifts, and hunts for gears at low speed. Software updates improve but don't fully resolve.

Symptoms: Jerking at low speeds, shift hesitation, lurching when maneuvering, occasional grinding feel
from 60,000 km
Ad ZF 9HP transmission MDXtransmission fluid ATF MDX YD3
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,314 complaints · 2014–2020
Engine
393 ⚠ 4
Powertrain
279 ⚠ 6
Electrical
214 ⚠ 5
Other
171 ⚠ 3
Fuel System
110 ⚠ 3

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (393 complaints)
⚠ Powertrain (279 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (214 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 YD3 (2014–2020) — 3 engine-related and 3 vehicle-related. One problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Body, Electronics.

MDX (J35, 2014–2020) — Stay Away!: VCM-Induced Oil Consumption, Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (Recall 23V751), Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Recall 23V858). Power: 290 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 YD3 have? +
The Acura MDX YD3 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 3 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Acura MDX YD3? +
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 YD3 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Acura MDX YD3 — rated: "Decent". {description} ZF 9AT was Acura's biggest gamble — jerky shifting plagued the YD3 for years. Software updates helped but the character remains. Otherwise spacious, well-built, and SH-AWD still superior in snow.
Is the Acura MDX YD3 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Acura MDX YD3 — 1 of 1 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura MDX YD3? +
The Acura MDX YD3 is available with engine variants from 252 to 299 hp. Petrol: J35 (3.5L V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee