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2016
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Used 2025 2024 2023 2022 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Acura MDX

EPA MPG: 21 mpg
RECALL ALERT:
There are 7 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
View of 2016 Acura MDX Rear 3/4, facing to the right view of 2016 Acura MDX
Side Profile, facing to left view of 2016 Acura MDX Front (full) view of 2016 Acura MDX
Rear (full) view of 2016 Acura MDX Drivers Dash view of 2016 Acura MDX
Full Dash view of 2016 Acura MDX Driver’s Side with Door Open, Front Seat Feature view of 2016 Acura MDX

Reliability

Overall Reliability

The 2016 MDX is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

The 2016 Acura MDX has been recalled 7 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot
See all 2016 Potential Trouble Spots

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Acura MDX owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Transmission Minor

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

What Owners Say

Other minor transmission & clutch problem

"The problem with transmission was resolved by the dealership once I took it to dealership. I haven't had any problems since the transmission was replaced. Hopkins Acura of Fairfield has always treated me will repairing the transmission and taking into account the length of ownership of the vehicle and me always taking the Acura there for service. There also was a recall on the car, although I had to wait a long time for the service. Once it was repaired, everything so far is running well."

Anonymous, CA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Rough shifting

"Spent $4,500 on fixing an issue with ALL dashboard lights coming on. Took dealer a week to fix!!!!"

Anonymous, CA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

"!8 months ago"

Anonymous, KY (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Slipping transmission

"Clunking, rough shifting. We don't drive our cars hard. When the transmission was serviced there were fine metal particls in the fluid and it smelled burned."

Anonymous, WA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Load more

Suspension/Steering

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

What Owners Say

Alignment

"The front tires wear down quickly needing more frequent tire rotations and wheel alignment."

Anonymous, TX (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Other steering/suspension problem

"bushings wear started a few years ago. Had to replace entire control arm"

Anonymous, CO (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Shocks or struts

"had to replace struts"

Anonymous, AL (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Steering wheel vibration

"Was addressed by changing the brake pads"

Anonymous, TX (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Load more

In-car Electronics

Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

What Owners Say

Hardware replacement

""tire pressure gauge malfunction at about 58,000 miles, the cost of repairing the feature is over $1K, too much, so just left it broken. Other than that the MDX has been a joy to own, with just regular scheduled maintenance and it is holding up well with the durability and looks of interior/exterior.""

Anonymous A., MD (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
In-dash navigation system (GPS)

"GPS system would not always take me to correct address."

Anonymous, CO (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

"Bluetooth device broken. Phones wont pair. Repair costs are excessive!"

Anonymous, FL (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Rear entertainment system (e.g., DVD player, rear screen)

"Remote control stopped working. Its not a battery issue."

Anonymous, FL (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Load more

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

What Owners Say

Other major transmission & clutch problem

"Transmission shut down at highway speed. Limped home. Dealership said it was a software issue. Later learned there had been a class action lawsuit about this. Dealer mentioned it happens often but never warned me about it. Made me angry. No more acuras for me. They fixed it for free but charged $190 to diagnose."

Anonymous, GA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

"Same as before"

Anonymous, CA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Transmission rebuild or replacement

"The transmission started to slip, so we took to dealer. They found the problem and replaced the transmission, the cost was going to be in the thousands but since I bought the car not from them I always too it to that dealer for service. Also prior to my purchase the vehicle had always been serviced at an Acura dealer. The dealership I take it to get service since I've own the car decided to give me a break on the cost and replaced the transmission for a mere $1000. I was very pleased to say the least."

Anonymous, CA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

What Owners Say

Catalytic converter

"Warning light came on. Acura dealer advised converter needed replacement as well as sensor. Replaced at BCAA for several hundred less than Acura quote. No issues since replacement so far after 5000 km."

Anonymous, BC (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)
Other/unsure

""All diagnostic warning lights came on. The problem was a dirty battery connection. However, an Acura Service Tech misdiagnosed the problem and performed an inaccurate valve adjustment which rendered the car undriveable. I had it flat bedded to another Acura dealer who: 1)fix the original dirty battery problem, and, 2) completed the valve adjustment correctly. I am now getting the highest fuel economy at 150,00 miles that the car has ever achieved (26-28 mpg on interstates). It runs perfectly.""

Anonymous A., PA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

What Owners Say

Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

""Paint peeling on roof - white paint. Started in the last 12 mos, and its a patch of paint missing with protective coating still remaining underneath. This is known by Acura as part of TSB, but not within the window of time for Acura to repair under warranty.""

Anonymous, NY (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

"Roof paint peeled off in large pieces. Repair was made under warranty."

Anonymous, WA (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Brakes

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

What Owners Say

Rotors

"I have had yo replace otters once and will again in the near future."

Anonymous A., (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Electrical Accessories

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

What Owners Say

Other electrical system problem

"Two separate doors have had their automatic lock actuators fail within two months of each other. The door will not lock or unlock unless a key is used in the door OR the interior lock is manually toggled (not the lock button) The dealer fixed the first at a cost of roughly $800. I have not yet fixed the second because its the driver door and I have just gotten in the habit of locking it from inside when I exit. Very annoying since the remote start wont work as all doors must confirm locked to start."

Anonymous A., MN (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Climate System

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

What Owners Say

Refrigerant leaks

"Car was not cooling. Needed to add refrigerant. Has lasted for the past year without issue."

Anonymous, FL (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Noises/Leaks

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Air or water leaks

""Drivers side back has air leak. We replaced one part which took care of part of the noise, but havent found where the other leak is coming from.""

Anonymous A., (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Body Hardware

Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

What Owners Say

Mirrors

"Drivers side mirror would not stay as adjusted. Every trip had to be readjusted"

Anonymous, CO (2016 Acura MDX None 3.5-L V6)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

Fuel System/Emissions

Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

Engine Electrical

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

2016 SUVs Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Acura vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

See How Other Brands Stack up
Reliability History
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Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.

Learn more about car Reliability.

Recalls
PROVIDED BY Provided by NHTSA
STRUCTURE, SUSPENSION
Jun 04, 2026
Failure of rear suspension components, such as the rear control arm, can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
American Honda Motor Company (Honda) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Honda Pilot, 2017-2023 Ridgeline, 2019-2023 Passport, and 2014-2020 Acura MDX vehicles that were sold in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. The rear subframe may corrode at the suspension mounting points, which can result in rear suspension component failure.
What should you do:
Dealers will inspect the rear subframe and install a rear subframe reinforcement kit and, as necessary, repair or replace the rear subframe components, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in the fall of 2026. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are AOU and AOT. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning June 10, 2026.
For more information:
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 26V365000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 965561
Hide Recall Details
EXTERIOR LIGHTING, INTERIOR LIGHTING
Apr 17, 2025
Vehicle lights that fail to illuminate can decrease visibility and increase the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Acura MDX vehicles. Moisture may enter the tailgate lid light assembly and wiring harness, which can cause the interior and exterior lights to fail, including the lid lights, position lights, license plate lights and taillights.
What should you do:
Dealers will inspect the wiring and install a fuse harness, replace the lid light, and repair the body dust sealer, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 30, 2025. Owners may contact Acura's customer service at 1-800-382-2238. Acura's number for this recall is FLI. Vehicles included in this recall that were previously repaired under NHTSA recall number 19V-256 will need to have the new remedy completed.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V259000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 152800
Hide Recall Details
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Dec 18, 2023
Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
What should you do:
Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are KGC and KGD. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 21V-215 and 20V-314.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V858000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 2490460
Hide Recall Details
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Nov 13, 2023
A damaged engine may run improperly or stall while driving, increasing the risk of a fire, crash, or injury.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the connecting rod bearing in the engine may wear and seize, damaging the engine.
What should you do:
Dealers will inspect and repair, or replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 28, 2024. 2016-2017 Acura MDX owner letters were mailed November 1, 2024. 2016-2020 Acura MDX owner letters are expected to be mailed in mid-December 2024. Honda began mailing owner notification letters as of March 18, 2024. 2015-2016 Acura owner letters are expected to be mailed mid-December 2024, 2018 Acura TLX owner letters are expected to be mailed the end of March/early April 2024, 2019 Acura TLX owner letters are expected to be mailed mid-May 2024, 2020 Acura TLX owner letters are expected to be mailed mid-June 2024, and 2016-2020 Acura MDX owner letters are expected to be mailed January 27, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XG1 and GG0.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V751000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 248999
Hide Recall Details
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Mar 28, 2019
Loss of the taillights reduces the vehicle's visibility, increasing the risk of crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Acura MDX and 2017-2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid vehicles. Moisture may enter the tailgate lid lights, possibly causing a loss of the tailgate lid lights and the taillights.
What should you do:
Acura will notify owners, and dealers will modify the tailgate lid lights and install updated gaskets and a wiring sub-harness or will replace both tailgate lid lights. The repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 7, 2019. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is M49.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V256000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 322897
Hide Recall Details
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Jan 29, 2019
Reduced fuel pump performance can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of crash.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Acura MDX, 2015-2019 Acura TLX and 2015-2017 Honda Accord vehicles, equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine. Particulates in fuel may adhere to the internal components of the fuel pump, reducing its performance.
What should you do:
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will update the fuel injection engine control unit (FI-ECU) software and, if necessary, replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 25, 2019. Owners may contact customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's recall number for this recall is P3W. Honda's recall number for this recall is N3X.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V060000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 437032
Hide Recall Details
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Jun 09, 2016
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain model year 2015 Acura MDX 2WD and MDX 4WD vehicles, 2016 Acura MDX 4WD vehicles, 2015-2016 Honda Odyssey vehicles, and 2016 Honda Pilot 2WD and 4WD vehicles. The affected vehicles have fuel tanks that were manufactured with insufficient welds which may separate and allow fuel to leak out.
What should you do:
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tanks, free of charge. Owners may contact Honda/Acura customer service at 1-888-234-2138. The recall began on July 29, 2016. Honda's numbers for this recall are KA9 (Honda vehicles) and KB0 (Acura vehicles).
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V417000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 39
Hide Recall Details
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