Last updated: 2026-04-20

2025 Acura MDX Reliability Report
The 2025 Acura MDX scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 32 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
32
Complaint Rate
8.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$571
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,150–$3,650
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11)
- ENGINE (5)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
Should You Buy the 2025 Acura MDX?
At 76/100, the 2025 Acura MDX lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.
Its complaint rate of 8.1 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 4.1. The most common reports involve electrical system (11).
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (11). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2026 Acura MDX. See also the 2024 Acura MDX for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$236 cheaper to maintain than avg luxury midsize SUVs
- +Low major repair risk (8%)
- +Low recall count
Cons
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (11 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (7 complaints)
Compare 2025 Acura MDX With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2025 Acura MDX carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
8.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 4.1
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2025 Acura MDX Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Acura MDX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Acura TLX, 2023-2025 Acura MDX, and 2023-2025 Honda Pilot vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin was not secured properly, which can cause the pedal to shift out of position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence
A brake pedal that shifts out of position can prevent the driver from applying the brakes as intended, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the brake pedal assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 29, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are FLX and XLY.
BACK OVER PREVENTION, EQUIPMENT
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2025 Acura MDX vehicles. The touchscreen in the center console may go blank, resulting in the rearview camera image not displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the center information display unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's number for this recall is RKZ.
Buying a used 2025 Acura MDX? Check its history first
Every 2025 Acura MDX has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2025 Acura MDX NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.1%
Safety Technologies
Acura MDXRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$571
vs $807 avg for luxury midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
8%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
19–22 MPG
Running cost: $3,700–$4,200/yr
Fuel + repair
17–19 city / 21–26 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2025 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDX FWD 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 19 | 26 | 22 | $3,150 |
| MDX AWD 3.5L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 19 | 25 | 21 | $3,300 |
| MDX AWD Type-S 3.0L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 17 | 21 | 19 | $3,650 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 Acura MDX.
Test auto idle-stop system for failure to restart
Inspect front parking sensors for secure mounting
Check moonroof operation for motor and sunshade issues
Verify infotainment system functionality for freezing or connectivity problems
Ensure brakes engage smoothly without excessive pedal travel
2025 Acura MDX Common Problems by Component
32 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
11 complaintsOwners report that the 2025 Acura MDX frequently experiences issues with the auto idle stop/start system, where the vehicle fails to restart after the system engages, often requiring a full shutdown and restart to resume driving. Symptoms include the vehicle shutting down completely at stoplights or in traffic, with some owners noting the car automatically shifts into park and displays multiple error messages. Complaints often describe these incidents occurring in potentially hazardous situations, such as busy intersections or highways, posing safety risks due to the sudden loss of power and control. These issues appear to occur regardless of mileage, with some owners experiencing them shortly after purchasing the vehicle. Additionally, a few reports mention problems with the moonroof motor and unexpected braking behavior, though these are less common.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Acura MDX frequently report issues with the auto start-stop function, where the engine fails to restart after stopping, leaving the vehicle immobilized, particularly at stoplights and in traffic. Symptoms include the engine shutting off unexpectedly and difficulty restarting, often requiring multiple attempts, without any warning lights or error messages. One incident involved a sunroof explosion that led to an injury, while another report describes a sudden unintended acceleration in a dealership loaner vehicle. The complaints suggest these issues occur intermittently and are not easily replicated by dealerships, which complicates diagnosis and resolution. Safety implications are noted, as these malfunctions can occur in traffic, potentially leading to hazardous situations.
ENGINE
5 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the automatic idle stop-start system in the 2025 Acura MDX, where the engine fails to restart after idling at stoplights or in traffic, leaving the vehicle stalled. Typical symptoms include the engine shutting down and not restarting upon releasing the brake, with some owners experiencing delays before the vehicle can be restarted. Complaints frequently mention these issues occur at low mileages, often under 10,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as several owners describe being stalled in traffic, posing a risk of rear-end collisions. Multiple owners note the need to turn the vehicle completely off and back on to continue driving, and some report a delay or struggle in starting the vehicle even outside idle-stop scenarios.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintThe auto start/stop system failed to restart at a stop light. This was an issue on the older MDX and TLX vehicles with the 3.5L V6 which resulted in a large recall. The recall has not been extended to cover the 2025 MDX and the dealership is refusing to fix the issue or acknowledge it despite having a video to prove it occurred. Acura is knowingly selling these vehicles with a dangerous safety defect that will occur at random. Please consider investigating this matter further as I am concerned for my safety and the safety of my passengers.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintI am a three-time Acura owner currently leasing a 2025 Acura MDX through Honda/Acura. On or about 12/02/2025, at approximately 16,297 miles, a front parking sensor fell out of the front bumper while I was driving. I am concerned that this reduces the reliability of the front parking/safety system and could put safety at risk if a driver relies on the sensors to detect obstacles at low speeds (parking, maneuvering, etc.) while the hardware is no longer properly secured. There was no crash or injury in this incident, but the failure affected a safety-related system on a low-mileage vehicle. Before I noticed the sensor was missing, the front alert on the dashboard began going off repeatedly while I was driving, even though there was nothing in front of the vehicle. That was the first indication that something was wrong with the system. Only after I parked and inspected the front of the vehicle did I see that the front parking sensor had come out of the bumper, which confirmed the source of the problem. The problem was inspected and confirmed by an authorized Acura dealer, who diagnosed broken internal mounting clips on the front sensor. The dealer and manufacturer attributed the failure to “outside influence” (implying that I must have hit something), but no impact damage or other physical evidence was found on the front of the vehicle. The front remains normal and pristine with no dents, cracks, gouges, chips, or distortion of the bumper, paint, grille, or sensor area. I am concerned that a likely part or installation failure on a low-mileage vehicle is being dismissed as “outside influence” based purely on assumption rather than documented physical evidence. In effect, an unproven assumption is being treated as fact, which could allow similar front sensor or mounting failures on other vehicles to be written off as external damage instead of being investigated as a potential durability or design issue with the front sensor mounting.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintWhen the car comes to a stop, the engine will shut down after idling. This is by design. The problem is that the engine shuts off and does not start up again. This is very dangers when turning across traffic. I took the car in for maintenance and they said this is a known issue but there is no fix. The internet has many complaints and some people are having their starters replaced. This problem has occurred in other model years of this car. Please issue a recall and make Acura accountable for this known issue.
FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2025 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended, causing the vehicle to decelerate unintendedly. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed, and determined that the throttle body was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified on the failure and suggested that the vehicle be taken to the dealer for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 6,000.
EQUIPMENT (1 complaints)
EQUIPMENT
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2025 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse(R), the rear-view camera display failed to function as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to respond while shifted into reverse (R). The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure or determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V032000 (Back Over Prevention, Equipment); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintTires have 3k miles . For the past 2 weeks, we have had a slow leak. Must refill air every 3 days. Spent one day at Tire Kingdom, but they could not detect anything. Then the Acura Dealer says there is a leak, but can't find it. We have no choice but to purchase a new tire. This is wrong - th I am retired on a fixed income and must buy a tire for a 3-month-old vehicle!
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-related(1) My airbag's did not deploy when an another car drove into the front of my car causing extensive damage. It has been deemed a total loss by Liberty Mutual (claim #[XXX]) and will be towed in a day or two to their salvage yard from the auto body shop. (2) Based on what I was told by the claim adjuster, body shop and police they didn't understand why they didn't deploy, especially since one of the air bag sensors was directly in front of the impact. (3) No - Acura has not been easy to communicate with and assigned me a case #[XXX] but after I answered their questions by email a few days ago they have stopped communicating with me. (4) The car has been inspected by the body shop and Liberty Mutual. (5) No INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
When Do 2025 Acura MDX Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Acura MDX Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Acura MDX Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Acura MDX year is 2024 with a reliability score of 79/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (79/100) and 2025 (76/100).
2024
2023
2025
(Current Model)
Acura MDX Years to Avoid
The worst Acura MDX year is 2020 with a score of 62/100, primarily due to engine (38) issues. Also avoid 2019 (64/100).
Acura MDX Reliability Score Trend
Acura MDX reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 77/100 compared to 63/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 76/100 | Good |
Acura MDX Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Acura MDX reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Acura MDX?
How many recalls does the 2025 Acura MDX have?
Is the 2025 Acura MDX expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2025 Acura MDX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Acura MDX.
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