Install Chrome Extension Chrome Extension
Acura · Full-Size SUV · 2022–2025 Custom Search

Acura MDX YD4

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants · How we rate

Generations


Engine Overview

The Acura MDX YD4 is available with 2 engine variants — from 252 to 366 hp.

3.5L V6 · Petrol· 290 PS
2022 2025

Honda J35 V6, workhorse of the Acura fleet. Runs solid when VCM is disabled or dead. Variable Cylinder Management causes progressive oil consumption from ring wear — a VCM disabler or oil catch can is the community's standard countermeasure.

  • !! VCM-Induced Oil Consumption from 130,000 km

    Variable Cylinder Management reduces ring seal pressure in deactivated cylinders, causing progressive ring and valve stem seal wear. Typical consumption 1 qt per 1,000 miles by 80k miles.

    Symptoms: Oil level drops between service intervals without visible leaks, oil warning light before service due, faint bluish smoke on cold starts
    300–8,000 $
  • !! Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (Recall 23V751) from 145,000 km

    Manufacturing defect in connecting rod bearings causes premature wear and catastrophic seizure. Recall 23V751 covers only select VINs.

    Symptoms: Metallic knocking from engine, sudden power loss, metal shavings in oil pan
    6,000–24,000 $
  • !! Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Recall 23V858) from 50,000 km

    Low-pressure fuel pump fails due to particulate contamination, causing engine stall at speed. Three consecutive recalls (2020-2023).

    Symptoms: Sudden engine stall during driving, hard start or no-start, power loss during acceleration
    0–800 $
Type S · Petrol· 355 PS
2022 2025

Twin-scroll turbo V6, 355 hp in Type S. Too young for reliable long-term data, but Honda turbo tech is solid so far. Check motor mounts at higher mileage.

No known weaknesses documented.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
SH-AWD Transfer Case: Spline Wear

Spline connection in SH-AWD transfer case wears silently. AWD function fails without warning — only noticeable during traction loss.

Symptoms: No obvious symptoms until AWD traction loss, clunking during tight turns, occasional vibration during load changes
from 50,000 km
High
!ADS height sensor corrodes

Height sensor connectors corrode from moisture ingress. Design flaw allows water entry. Sensor plus wiring harness replacement needed.

Symptoms: Suspension warning, vehicle pulls to one side, suspension stuck in one mode
from 60,000 km
High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below average
214 complaints · 2022–2025
  1. 01 Electrical
    50 ⚠ 1
  2. 02 Powertrain
    43 ⚠ 1
  3. 03 Other
    38 ⚠ 2
  4. 04 Engine
    37
  5. 05 Brakes
    36 ⚠ 4

Top Reported Issues

Electrical (50 complaints)
Powertrain (43 complaints)
Other (38 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

Alternatives

Same Segment

Mazda CX-90 TY

Full-Size SUV (2023–2025)

Same Segment

Toyota Sequoia XK80

Full-Size SUV (2023–2025)

Same Segment

Volvo EX90 I

Full-Size SUV (2023–2026)

Same Segment

BMW XM G09

Full-Size SUV (2022–2026)

Same Segment

Land Rover Range Rover Sport L461

Full-Size SUV (2022–2026)

Same Segment

Rivian R1S Gen1

Full-Size SUV (2022–2024)

Explore more

Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 9 weaknesses have been documented for the Acura MDX YD4 (2022–2025) — 3 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6). Typical issues affect Suspension, Gearbox, Electronics, Body.

MDX (J35, 2022–2025) — 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 YD4 have? +
The Acura MDX YD4 has 3 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Acura MDX YD4? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: J30T (3.0L V6 Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the J30T (3.0L V6 Turbo). Problem engine: J35 (3.5L V6) — stay away!
Which Acura MDX YD4 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Acura MDX YD4 — rated: "Decent". {description} Air suspension, Brembo brakes, real torque vectoring. Infotainment is the weakness: no touchscreen, Apple CarPlay is mandatory.
Is the Acura MDX YD4 worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Acura MDX YD4 — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura MDX YD4? +
The Acura MDX YD4 is available with engine variants from 252 to 366 hp. Petrol: J35 (3.5L V6), J30T (3.0L V6 Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee