Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Acura MDX - part 1

Acura MDX owners have reported 532 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Acura MDX based on all problems reported for the MDX.

1 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 12/18/2025

I was at a red light. My auto idle kicked in. I went to turn it off and either simultaneously or right before I hit the idle off button my car stalled. It took several attempts to turn back on and a bunch of codes threw. I almost got rear ended. This is a known problem. Ive contacted Acura / Honda via email as well.

2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 12/02/2025

This has happend twice in the past 2 months, I came to a red light and the auto stop/start engaged automatically. When the light turned green and the vehicle was supposed to engage it turned off completely, all lights on the dash came on and it and wouldn't restart. Had to open the drivers side door and try to restart the vehicle, it restarted after a few tries. Very dangerous intersection I was stuck in. I have informed Acura of both occasions, they tested the battery cells and confirmed the battery was okay, was told this is a "known" issue with no resolve.

3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 12/02/2025

Since the purchase of my Acura Mdx 2019, the following problems have been reported to the dealership and to Honda manufacturing inc. Without any resolution. The dealer shop has replaced recall parts, but the problems persist and have not gone away. The vehicle stalls and stops working while driving. The engine makes knocking/rattling noises upon becoming disabled while driving. The engine would randomly not start when turning it on. When car becomes disabled the dashboard lights up warning lights displaying messages intermittently of the following problems: anti-lock brake system problem (abs), vehicle stability assist (vsa), hill start assist, trailer stability assist, collision mitigation system, road departure mitigation system, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, brake system, brake hold system, electric parking brake, sh-awd, keyless start system and power steering system (eps) problems, while displaying acc and lwks codes. Additionally, the vehicle runs improperly and shuts down completely making the window, doors, etc, inoperable while passengers are inside locking me in and my entire family for long periods of time. A few times has left me either myself or with my children and dog inside. The only place where I take my car for services is where I purchased it (chevy chase Acura). The issues noted are the same reported by the recalls I have received, and I have not taken it somewhere else because of that reason. Nobody can fix them as the problems are manufacturing issues that even Acura/Honda cannot repair. This safety defect can kill or seriously injure me, my passengers, and other drivers on the road. As noted in one of the many recalls the fuel pump defect can cause the vehicle to stop in the highway and could prevent an engine from starting or cause a vehicle to stall while being driven, it potentially increases the risk of a fire, crash, or injury. My car continues to have these issues and nobody is helping me. Please help!.

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4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 12/02/2025

The idle-stop function would frequently malfunction. I would be at a stop, which would trigger the idle-stop function and the car would turn off, but when I released my foot off the break in preparation for needing to start moving, the car would stall and shut completely off. There was about a five second delay before I could get the car to turn back on and start moving, which was very scary with traffic all around me. After the malfunction occurred several times, I would try to remember to turn off the idle-stop function using dynamic mode. I called my local Acura dealership about this problem and the service manager said that he wasn’t sure what was wrong nor did he know how to fix it. He advised me to just wait and hope that Acura issues a recall for the issue. Then, I started noticing that there was a delay in my vehicle starting when pressing the start button. It wasn’t too long of a delay but enough for me to notice. Since the car would ultimately start, I didn’t think too much about it, until my car failed to turn on. It has happened when I turn off my car but then need to turn it back on soon after turning it off. I’ll press the start button and the lights on the dash come on and I can hear the engine trying to turn on but it doesn’t. The engine won’t crank up. I have to let it sit for a few seconds (30 sec?) and then try to turn it on again, at which time I have been lucky that it will turn on, but the initial start-up sounds like a struggle. It doesn’t sound like a healthy start up for 2025 vehicle.

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/28/2025

?on November 28th at 10:00 am, my 2016 Acura Mdx suffered a catastrophic and sudden engine failure that resulted in a total loss of motive power. I was driving on scott boulevard in santa clara, just after exiting the central expressway. ?I first heard a loud metallic noise, and the engine immediately seized and shut down. The vehicle started slowing rapidly on a busy street, creating a life-threatening safety hazard for myself and other drivers. The car spontaneously shifted into park and it was difficult to manually shift into neutral for towing. Thankfully, no accident occurred. ?the failure is due to a connecting rod bearing failure and engine seizure. This is the identical safety-related manufacturing defect acknowledged in safety recall 23v-751 and is currently the subject of the ongoing NHTSA preliminary evaluation (pe25008), which covers the same 3. 5l v6 engine in vehicles outside the original recall, including the 2016 Mdx. I feel responsible to report the incident to NHTSA to take precautions on the matter. Regards, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/24/2025

My 2017 Acura Mdx has an engine failure due to connecting rod bearing seizure in the 3. 5l v6 engine. Recall 23v-751 covered model year 2016-2020 Acura Mdx vehicles and mine is a 2017. But, my VIN is not in Honda's recall range. The odi had apparently received 414 reports of connecting rod bearing failures in the 3. 5l v6 engine that are outside of 23v-751. There is now an odi resume with number pe25008. See the two linked pdf documents below. [xxx] [xxx] the Acura dealer said that this is definitely the same problem they have seen on vehicles under the recall range. In their computer system where it says "cause" they wrote "cylinder 6 spun causing the knocking noise. Excessive material in oil pan. If under the rod recall, it would need a long block. " I have a screenshot of this if you would like it. My service representative at the dealership texted me the following "the engineer from Acura was here today and our district manager - the engineer said they will not be expanding the recall on the Acura side. Just thought I'd let you know. " I have this text message if you would like a screenshot of it. So, it sounds like Acura will not voluntarily expand the recall. This is going to cost me about $12k to fix. Is the NHTSA odi investigation still ongoing? when will I know if the VIN range will be expanded as I would like to get reimbursed by Acura for these repairs. Thanks, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/16/2025

I want to say that the engine or transmission is faulty. Sometimes while at a complete stop, the car will not advance and tries to stall or lose power. It takes about 2 or 3 seconds to finally go after I push the accelerator pedal almost 3/4 throttle. No it has not been reproduced at the dealer. I took it may of 2024 for the engine recall repair. They said that the repairs should fix the problem but it has maybe even worsened. No warning lamps appear when the problems happen.

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8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/15/2025

I was driving on the interstate when suddenly the check engine light began to flash and the car lost power. I was traveling at 70 mph and the sudden loss of power caused the vehicles behind me to move into the other lane to prevent rear ending me. While there was no accident, there could have been if the other drivers were not reactive. There was no advanced warning. This could have been deadly for me and my family. I was several miles from home and needed to have the vehicle towed to a mechanic who stated it sounded like a rod bearing and suggested we take it to an Acura dealer. We are yet to have a resolution.

See all problems of the 2020 Acura MDX 🔎.

9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/12/2025

When at a complete stop at a stop light or stop sign and ready to press the gas to accelerate, there’s a delay for the car to even start moving. It doesn’t want to go when pressed on. Which can cause the person behind me to hit the back of the car. It nearly came to that. There’s sudden fast movement when accelerating to get the car to move forward. It’s been happening numerous times where the gas pedal isn’t recognizing the acceleration part. I’ve read plenty forums about this issue with this vehicle and still not enough complaints for a recall? can we look into this as this is a safety issue. The car won’t accelerate when you want it to.

10 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/10/2025

The Mdx drove perfectly until out of sudden there as a stall, knocking and ticking sound in the engine. It is diagnosed with the connecting rod failure and needs a new engine replacement. The car was well and regularly maintained with oil changes and services as recommended. The following codes were pulled from the ecm: code p0301, p32638.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/08/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Acura Mdx. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 mph, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. There were no warning lights available. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with a fractured connecting rod bearing, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

12 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2024 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/07/2025

The start/stop switch stalls the vehicle and will not restart after several tries for up to 5 minutes. We get a message during this time to "continue to drive, depress brake pedal and push switch" and even after then it still will not start for several tries. This has happened several times. One time my wife was on a heavily traveled two lane farm road at a four-way stop and it did it and was almost hit by 18 wheelers trying to navigate around her. This was not only a safety issue for her but also those trying to get around her with all the traffic coming in all direction. Took back to the dealer but it did not do it while they tried to recreate the issue. No warnings prior to the issue of dying and not re-starting. This was the latest occurrence, it had happened a couple of times before.

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13 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/07/2025

My 2020 model Acura Mdx is experiencing unexpected engine shutdowns while braking during motion. The issue has been reported multiple times to the vehicle manufacturer and their authorized dealers; however, their responses have been consistently unhelpful and have not resolved the problem. I currently have an open complaint with american Honda motor CO. , inc. Since December 2023 case number: 14329512 additionally, I have found numerous reports online from other owners of the same model experiencing the same issue, as documented here: ?? 2020 Acura Mdx engine complaints – carcomplaints. Com this recurring malfunction presents a serious safety risk, especially in moderate traffic conditions, where sudden engine failure during braking could lead to collisions or injuries.

14 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/05/2025

I have a 2016 Acura Mdx with 87,000 miles that has bad rod knock. Service bulletin 23-036 talks about it. Even though my Mdx's VIN is not listed in the recall, I am having the exact same problem the recall is supposed to be for. I feel this recall should be expanded to cover my vehicle as it is listed in several places that the recall is for all 2016 Acura Mdx's which is what my vehicle is. ------------------------ subject: safety recall: 2015–20 multi-model connecting rod bearing stop sale. Affected vehicles: certain 2015–2020 Acura tlx v6 and 2016–2020 Acura Mdx models. Cause: a manufacturing defect in the crankshaft can lead to connecting rod bearing wear due to lack of lubrication and excessive heat, potentially causing engine damage and failure. Action: the bulletin initiates a stop-sale order for affected vehicles and provides instructions for inspection and repair, which may include replacing the connecting rod bearings, crankshaft, or short/long block. Status: the bulletin has been revised. Version 1 was issued on November 9, 2023, and was replaced by version 2 on February 9, 2024. Parts availability: parts and repair kits became available in early 2024, with repairs being prioritized for vehicles showing symptoms like engine rod knock or stalling.

15 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/05/2025

Started hearing a "knocking" sound from the engine compartment, whose frequency clearly was proportional to engine rpm. Took vehicle to local trusted mechanic who diagnosed that it was likely related to known crankshaft bearing issue, which is the subject of a widespread recall on Acura vehicles. Found that the vehicle does not fall within the recall window. Sent vehicle by tow truck to nearest dealer who confirmed diagnosis. They claim poor maintenance, but all required maintenance, and definitely all engine oil changes were completed at required intervals with proper fluids and filters. Since dealer is 60 miles away, most maintenance was done with local trusted mechanic, although some oil changes were done personally or at a quick lube service. The vehicle is a 2016 model year, consistent with the model years affected by the known defect and recall. Dealer is advising that a new engine is required. There is no reason a properly maintained vehicle with only 150,000 miles should have a failed engine.

16 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/04/2025

Please see attachment:.

17 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/02/2025

When car is started, attempting to slowly accelerate in reverse or forward you will experience a loss of drive power, transmission does nothing. Then all of a sudden transmission responds and you lurch forward or reverse. Very unsafe situation. Other cars not sure if your moving or stationary.

18 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 11/01/2025

I purchased a 2016 Acura Mdx during the summer of 2025. I am the second owner. In November 2025, the engine starting experiencing engine knock later to be confirmed as rod bearing knock. This vehicle if a 2016 Mdx and the manufacturing date is October 2015. There is a rod bearing recall for 2016 Mdx's however, my VIN is not included in this recall which is ludicrous as it is experiencing the same issues as the recall with only 80,000 miles on the engine. I urge you to widen the recall to include 2015 Mdx vehicles as there is no way this Acura Mdx should be experiencing rod bearing issues on a well taken care of vehicle.

19 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/30/2025

2025 Acura Mdx aspec advanced - experienced 3 instances of failure to restart after engine idle shutoff or normal shutoff. Periodically starting the vehicle makes a buzzing or resistance type of sound, but usually will start. 1) 8/8/2025 returning from shopping turned off vehicle in driveway to open hatch to unload items. Upon re-entering the vehicle (~5 mins) the push start failed to start - engine sounded sluggish first attempt and failed to start. Subsequent button presses just made a clicking sound. Had to fully turn off vehicle and back on and it started. 2) 10/10/2025 returning from a wedding and getting off the expressway to a traffic light the auto stop/idle stop turned off the engine. Once the light turned green the vehicle failed to restart multiple times. Had to fully turn off vehicle and back on to get it to start 3) 10/30/2025 after parking for shopping, upon returning to the vehicle it failed to start from off. Any subsequent repress of the start button would make a click and starter failed to engage. After turning off vehicle and back on it started vehicle was taken to dealership and notified of issues - they checked the battery and it was fine, no trouble found.

20 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/29/2025

When the auto idle stop system is enabled my Acura will shut down completely when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and the idle stop system will not reengage as it should when your foot comes off the brake and the car shuts completely off and goes into park. This has happened 3 times, the last one occurring on a very busy highway, and I'm thankful I wasn't rear ended by the car behind me. Traffic had to go around me which caused quite a hazard pulling out into a fast moving lane. It finally responded, restarted and I was able to move forward. It was taken into the dealership and they weren't able to recreate the occurrence for the short time that they had it (one week). There was no warning prior to failure. I have called Acura client relations and they turned it over to their management team, gave me a case number and I haven't heard from them as of this complaint. Reading your website I see many others having and reporting this same dangerous experience with their 2025 Acura Mdx.

21 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/28/2025

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 pan needed to be replaced. The dealer recommended that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact learned of NHTSA campaign number: 23v751000 (engine and engine cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

22 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/28/2025

When the automatic engine start/stop is enabled, my car will shut down. To the point where it has to be completely off, then restarted. This has happened twice, the first time was on 9/28/2025 and the second time was on 10/29/2025. We were in traffic, and the car behind me, almost ran into me, as I stalled. The lighted symbols on the dashboard were illuminated during this experience, but I am not sure which ones, as I was in a panicked state given that my child was in the car with me and this almost caused me to get hit by car behind me. I have not had this checked by the dealer yet, but I am scheduling the appointment for as soon as possible.

23 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/26/2025

Car broke down driving from dallas to oklahoma on the highway while at cruising speed. We were able to pull over safely and after towing the car home, the engine produced a knocking sound. Upon further investigation, there is a recall for rod/bearing issues with 2016-2020 Acura Mdx's and other various models like the Acura tlx, Honda pilot, etc. This only extended to certain models and there has been more affected by it than what the recall covers. Maintenance such as regular oil changes to big services like timing belt and water pump was done according to the service manual interval. Investigation rq24013 was open on 11/08/2024 by investigator richard lawrence, reviewer sharon yukevich, and approver tanya topka. There have been about 173 incidents and pose a great safety hazard. Once the car is stopped, the car is not able to go into neutral without the engine on. The only way to override this is through the engine bay with a tool of some sort to manually engage the neutral switch. If the car stops in the middle of the road with this engine failed, this could lead to a more severe casualty.

24 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/21/2025

I was driving my vehicle on the highway at 65 mph when the engine light came on and began blinking- no other issues. I tried to pass a vehicle, and my vehicle would not accelerate, I was less than a mile from work. I called the dealership the same day and was able to take it in. When I called, I explained everything the dealership told me I could either tow it or try to drive it in. I went out to the car later and moved it from one parking lot to another and had no issues and no lights came on alerting something was wrong. Later in the day as I was driving 65 mph again on interstate, just as I was slowing down to get off all of the lights for everything came on and the engine was making a terrible knocking sound. I slowly pulled over and put my hazards on while driving 15/20 mph. I was near the dealership and was able to coast into the repair shop. Was informed the engine needed to be replaced due to a misfire on cylinder 2 and rod knock- most likely rod bearings and crank shaft issue with broken rod. We have an extended warranty so for a used engine found at a salvage yard won't cost much out of pocket with a similar amount of miles. Used engine will have 12k mile warranty/12months. The dealership has the engine- that info can be given upon request.

25 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2026 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/21/2025

2026 Acura Mdx with 3. 5 l v6 (j35y-series) experienced connecting-rod bearing failure and total engine loss at 1,920 miles. Vehicle currently at dealer. Appears identical to failures under NHTSA pe25-008 (2016-2020 models).

26 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/19/2025

I am filing this report regarding my 2018 Acura Mdx that has experienced complete engine failure directly related to the connecting-rod bearing safety recall (NHTSA recall 23v-751) and Acura’s failure to perform the recall when I first reported issues. In 2024, my vehicle began showing engine trouble codes (p0159) and experienced reduced acceleration and check engine light warnings. I contacted Acura corporate and opened a case, explaining that the vehicle was exhibiting symptoms similar to those described in the recall, including engine hesitation and performance issues. I also took the vehicle to Acura of chattanooga on chapman road, where I worked with tara, a service advisor who acknowledged remembering my repeated attempts to get the recall addressed. Despite this, the recall repair was never performed, and I was treated rudely and dismissed each time. Over the past two years, I have made multiple documented attempts to have the recall completed. Each time, Acura failed to take action or stated that parts or authorization were unavailable. In 2025, my vehicle displayed code p0430 (catalyst efficiency below threshold, bank 2) and ultimately suffered complete engine failure. The issues with oil circulation, catalytic converter performance, and acceleration are consistent with the rod bearing defect Acura has acknowledged as part of this recall. Recently, Acura informed me that my recall was “completed,” even though the engine is now inoperable. This is unacceptable, as the recall was meant to prevent this exact type of engine damage, and Acura had two years of opportunity to address the issue before failure occurred. The current situation has left me with a non-functioning engine, significant repair costs, and a serious safety concern that could have been prevented if Acura had honored its recall responsibilities in a timely manner. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate Acura’s handling of this recall and their pattern of delaying or denying recall repairs.

27 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/19/2025

I submit this complaint because my 2018 Acura Mdx, covered under NHTSA recall 23v-751 for connecting-rod bearing defects, has suffered progressive engine damage and final engine failure that I believe was caused by the manufacturer’s recalled defect and by the dealer/manufacturer’s failure to timely perform the recall repair. Timeline & key facts: 2024: vehicle displayed code p0159 (o? sensor slow response). I contacted Acura corporate and opened a case. The o? sensor was replaced under warranty. I continued to report reduced acceleration and intermittent check-engine illumination to the dealer and to Acura corporate. I repeatedly requested that the recall inspection/repair be performed, but the repair was delayed or not scheduled despite the vehicle’s symptoms and my repeated follow-ups. 2024–2025: over the following months I repeatedly requested recall service and documented those requests with the dealer and Acura corporate. On many occasions I was not scheduled for the recall or was told to wait for parts/authorization. I was also treated rudely by dealership staff (identified service advisor: tara at Acura on chapman road), and my case was not escalated appropriately despite my persistence. 2025: vehicle later displayed p0430 (catalyst efficiency below threshold, bank 2), and within [insert timeframe] the engine experienced complete failure requiring immobilization. Dealer notes show an oil-pump leak and catalytic converter symptoms consistent with oil/fuel contamination and bearing-related engine issues. I have service records documenting the sensor replacement, subsequent dx, and the dealer’s findings. Effect: I have been WI/o a vehicle since the engine failure, incurred hotel cancellation charges $116 and other consequential damages. I believe the engine damage was preventable and is directly tied to the acknowledged defect in the recall; the catalyst and o? sensor failures were downstream consequences of recall-related engine problems (oil consumption,.

28 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/12/2025

Engine cut out on the middle of a pitch black highway in virginia. Few seconds lights flashing on dashboard check engine light started flashing then low engine oil and then the rest of the standard "christmas tree lights" experience as I was finally able to pull the vehicle over. Vehicle seemed as if it was dead. When got vehicle jumped 2 hours later I started engine because it wouldn't start. It was making all the noises consistent with engine recall that my engine was so conveniently not included in the recall. Acura won't do anything for me. I was stuck on the side of the highway in the pitch black with cars and trucks flying by at 70+mph with my 3 kids and spouse. Engine is chattering and has no power. Almost about to seize. I was stranded in a small town for 2 days with no way to get home no rental companies with cars available. All videos online consistentfor engine recall consistent with my experience. No lights no hestitation perfect engine oil level filled tank of gas minutes with 93 as always not even 2 minutes before this situation. Engine was perfect. Was glad I wasn't apart of recall initially. I thought I had a "good one" then boom complete catastrophe. Nhtsa needs to expedite this. This is not rocket science! Acura knows the issue they are running form it. I spent over $1,100 to tow my vehicle home and get my family home safely.

29 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/08/2025

My 2017 Acura Mdx with only 87,000 miles has suffered catastrophic engine failure. The vehicle has been properly maintained and all repairs recommended by the dealership where the performed since it was purchased new. While the dealership has confirmed the engine failure cause is exactly what is feared by the recall report 23v-751, Honda has refused to acknowledge their responsibility since my VIN does not fall within their "identified" inventory. The engine is currently at the dealership and will be maintained as evidence for the "to-be-filed" lawsuit that will be required to recover the repair costs. The engine seized while driving and had to maneuver the vehicle to a safe location. Had I been travelling on the highway at the time. The outcome would have been disastrous. The problem is described in detail in recall report 23v-251. There were no warning lights or issues other than a clunking sound the night before. I was driving to the dealership at the time the engine failure occurred.

30 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/04/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Acura Mdx. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The contact was unable to veer to the side of the road. The contact was able to push the vehicle to the side of the road with assistance on each occasion. The vehicle was able to restart, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to resume driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic several times, and the vehicle was diagnosed with emissions failure. The mechanic reset the computer and the check engine warning light; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a related recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

31 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 10/01/2025

Car engine sometimes does not restart when the auto start-stop feature is engaged. Car engine is also sluggish to restart when it does work. My local Acura dealer evaluated the car on 10/15/25, found battery was low. Battery was replaced that day, and things seemed okay for about a week. Today (10/21) when I was stopped at a traffic light, the issue returned and my car would not restart after going into auto start-stop. The car had been on for about 30 minutes. When I tried to restart the engine, it took three tries before finally turning over. Fortunately, this has only happened thus far for me at stoplights, but safety could definitely be impacted if the engine does not turn back on and the car needs to be maneuvered quickly. No warning lights or messages appeared prior to the issue. This started for me about 3 weeks ago. No accidents or known issues with the car prior to the issue. There does not seem to be a predictable pattern to the auto start-stop feature failing.

32 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 09/25/2025

Hello. I went to the Acura dealership because I got a recall letter. I lost the letter itself a few days ago. I also had the check engine light come on once while driving. But then it went out on its own during the same trip. At the moment of checking my car by my foreman, he heard a knocking noise in the engine. He said that they will check my car on the recall and see what's wrong with the engine. After some time, he called me and said: I am very sorry, but you need to replace the complete motor as this knock is caused by a problem in the bearing. And alas your car does not fall under the recall to replace this bearing. I asked him which bearing he was talking about. And they answered that it was the one that goes into the recall under which my car did not fall. I clarified that its name sounds like: connecting rod bearing? he said: yes. I've had all my maintenance done on time. Engine oil changes every 5,000 miles. Even before the 8,000 to 10,000 miles. I have all the paperwork with receipts and dates in my car paperwork bag. At every oil change no one has ever told me there was an engine problem. The car was purchased from a dealership in libertyville, illinois. The car is currently at a dealership in naperville, illinois. I wrote a complaint to Acura of California on 9/26/2025. To date, all I have gotten is a response: we have a lot of work to do, we will respond when we can. Very rude and disrespectful. Considering I could have been in an accident if the engine had seized up. That's what my foreman at the dealership said. Or even worse, my daughter could have had an accident. I was planning to give this car to my daughter since she got her driver's license. She really liked this car. Now I don't know what to tell her. I am asking for your help to resolve this problem. They still haven't contacted me or told me what to do. Appreciate it.

33 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 09/24/2025

At a red light or stop sign, my Mdx switches into neutral without me knowing it. When I press the gas to go, my car won't move. Other vehicles behind me almost hit me as they expect me to go. I can't switch into drive. I must turn off car and then turn it back on. I feel this is very dangerous. This happens about once a week now. The Mdx was just in for service and recalls a few months ago. Nothing was noted about the engine on the reports.

34 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2025 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 09/21/2025

When driving and the stopping the auto start/stop feature does not rengage and the car places itself in park and becomes disabled and difficult to restart. When driving on a major highway when I was in traffic the car shut down, put itself into park and would not restart upon removing my foot from the brake. It then gave numerous error messages and would not respond to any commands. Traffic started moving and cars were then needing to go around my disabled vehicle. It finally responded to me trying to restart it. We had the car checked the week before it happened due to it being slow to re-engage when the auto start stop would be used. The dealership reported that there was nothing wrong. Brought it back after is was disabled on the highway for 5 minutes and they are still saying there is nothing wrong if they do not see it happen themselves. It is a danger to drive.

35 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Acura MDX

Failure Date: 09/20/2025

No prior issues with vehicle when all of a sudden/out of the blue the check engine light started flashing and felt decreased power. Pulled over, had it towed to dealership. After it was diagnosed they advised of a rod bearing failure, crankshaft failure and metal shavings in the oil which went through the engine. There is a recall for 2016 Acura Mdx for this exact issue, however for some reason my VIN is not included?? the recall was effective Nov of 2023. I purchased vehicle Feb of 2023. Vehicle is still at shop as a complaint has been filed with Acura.


Other Common Engine And Engine Cooling related problems of Acura MDX


MDX Service Bulletins
MDX Safety Recalls
MDX Defect Investigations