Driving an Acura MDX means enjoying luxury, performance, and typically, reliability. But even premium vehicles face recalls. If you own an Acura MDX manufactured between 2014-2025, you need to know about several important safety recalls that could affect your vehicle’s performance—and your safety.
Let’s cut through the confusion and walk through what’s happening, which models are affected, and exactly what you should do if your MDX is on the recall list.
Major Safety Recalls Affecting Acura MDX Models
Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Failure (2016-2020 Models)
This is one of the most serious recalls for MDX owners. Approximately 248,999 Acura MDX vehicles with the 3.5L V6 engine could have improperly manufactured crankshafts leading to connecting rod bearing failure.
What’s happening: A manufacturing error during crankshaft production can cause excessive wear on the connecting rod bearings. If these bearings fail, you might experience:
- Strange engine noises (knocking)
- Engine stalling while driving
- Complete engine failure
- Risk of crash or fire
The problem was so serious that Acura issued a “stop sale” on affected vehicles in dealership inventory, including Certified Pre-Owned models.
Is your MDX affected? Check your VIN at the NHTSA website or through Acura’s official recall portal.
Tailgate Lighting Failure (2014-2020 Models)
Around 152,800 MDX vehicles have a serious lighting issue that could reduce visibility to other drivers.
What’s happening: Poor sealing on the tailgate allows moisture to get inside the tailgate light assembly and wiring. This can cause multiple lights to fail, including:
- Tailgate lights
- Position lights
- License plate lights
- Main taillights
This recall is particularly notable because it’s a superseding recall—meaning Acura’s first attempt to fix this problem (under recall 19V-256) wasn’t effective. All vehicles previously repaired need the updated fix.
Fuel Pump Module Failure (2019-2022 Models)
This recall targets the low-pressure fuel pump in certain 2019-2020 MDX and MDX Sport Hybrid models, with later expansions to include some 2020 and 2022 models.
What’s happening: The fuel pump impellers can absorb too much fuel, causing them to deform. This can lead to:
- Difficulty starting your vehicle
- Engine stalling while driving
- Increased risk of crash
For California owners, this defect is considered an emissions-related issue, and the DMV won’t renew your registration until you’ve had the recall repair completed.
Fuel Injection Software Error (2022-2025 Type S Models)
The high-performance MDX Type S models have a software error in the fuel injection electronic control unit that needs addressing.
What’s happening: A programming flaw can cause:
- Engine stalling
- Sudden loss of power while driving
- Increased crash risk
The fix involves reprogramming the fuel injection ECU software at your Acura dealer.
Brake Pedal Assembly Problems (2023-2025 Models)
This recall affects nearly 260,000 vehicles, including recent MDX models.
What’s happening: A critical pivot pin in the brake pedal assembly may not have been properly secured during manufacturing. If this pin comes loose:
- The brake pedal might shift out of position
- You could be unable to apply brakes properly
- Risk of crash increases significantly
Center Display Failure (2025 Models)
The newest MDX SUVs (9,221 vehicles from the 2025 model year) have a software issue with the center display screen.
What’s happening: Improper programming can cause the main display screen to go black, which means:
- The federally mandated rearview camera won’t work
- You’ll have reduced visibility when backing up
- Increased risk of crash while in reverse
How to Check if Your MDX is Affected by a Recall
Wondering if your specific MDX has an open recall? Here’s how to find out:
- Find your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Look for it:
- At the base of your windshield on the driver’s side
- On a sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb
- On your registration or insurance documents
- Check your recall status using one of these official tools:
- NHTSA’s Recall Lookup Tool
- Acura’s Recall Information Site
- Download the SaferCar app from NHTSA for automatic alerts
- Canadian owners should use Acura Canada’s recall portal.
Steps to Take if Your MDX Has an Open Recall
If you discover your MDX has an open recall, here’s what to do:
1. Schedule Your Free Repair
Call your local Acura dealer to schedule a service appointment. Important things to know:
- All recall repairs are completely FREE – Acura is legally required to fix safety recalls at no cost to you
- You can go to any authorized Acura dealer, not just where you purchased your vehicle
- Ask about a loaner vehicle if your repair will take multiple days
2. Know What to Expect During Repair
The time needed for recall repairs varies significantly:
- Simple software updates might take under an hour
- Brake component repairs could take several hours
- Engine bearing and crankshaft issues might require several days
After the work is complete, get documentation showing the recall repair was performed. For the fuel pump recall in California, you’ll need a specific “Proof of Correction” certificate for the DMV.
3. Smart Money-Saving Tip
If your MDX needs major recall work that requires extensive disassembly (like the engine connecting rod repair), ask your service advisor about performing routine maintenance at the same time.
Since Acura is already covering the labor to access these components, you might only pay for parts on maintenance items like timing belts or water pumps—potentially saving hundreds of dollars on future service costs.
What to Do if You Paid for Repairs Before the Recall
If you already paid out-of-pocket to fix a problem that was later announced as a recall, you might be eligible for reimbursement from Acura.
Contact American Honda’s Customer Support Center at 1-888-234-2138 to determine your eligibility and learn how to submit a reimbursement claim with your repair receipts.
What These Recalls Mean for MDX Owners
The nature of recalls affecting the Acura MDX has evolved over time. Earlier models (2014-2020) typically faced mechanical issues like improperly machined parts or material degradation. Newer models (2022-2025) increasingly show problems with software programming and supplier quality control.
This pattern reflects the changing nature of modern vehicles, which rely more heavily on complex software and electronic systems. For owners, this means being vigilant about software updates is becoming just as important as traditional mechanical maintenance.
Looking to Buy a Used MDX?
If you’re shopping for a pre-owned Acura MDX, take these steps:
- Check the VIN for open recalls before purchasing
- Verify completion of any recalls with service records
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic familiar with these models
- Factor in any outstanding recalls when negotiating price
Taking Action Is Critical
Don’t ignore recall notices. The defects described here aren’t minor inconveniences—they involve critical safety systems that could fail while you’re driving.
Remember: All safety recall repairs are performed FREE of charge at any authorized Acura dealership. This covers all parts and labor needed to fix the recall issue.
If you have questions or encounter problems, contact Acura Client Relations:
- Acura Recall Line: (888) 234-2138
- Acura General Client Relations: (800) 382-2238
- Email: [email protected]
Your safety—and your family’s safety—depends on addressing these recalls promptly.
