2011 Acura MDX Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant engine oil consumption is the primary reliability concern.
- Potential issues with the electrical system and airbags are noted.
- The vehicle has a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars.
- Expect average combined fuel economy of 18 MPG.
2011 Acura MDX
The 2011 Acura MDX offers a comfortable ride and a strong safety score, but its below-average reliability is a significant consideration for used car shoppers. With 87 complaints logged, the most frequent issues center around the ENGINE, particularly oil consumption, and the POWER TRAIN. While it boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, potential buyers must be aware of the documented problems that could lead to costly repairs.
Critical Failure Risk
The 3.7L V6 engine in the 2011 MDX is known for excessive oil consumption, sometimes requiring a quart of oil every 1,000 miles or less. This can lead to low oil levels, potentially causing severe engine damage or failure.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and a comfortable family SUV.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Acura MDX Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Acura MDX.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 28 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 7 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Acura MDX reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Acura MDX is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 87.
How practical is the 2011 Acura MDX for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 425 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Acura MDX?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Acura MDX is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Acura MDX?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000+).
What engine is in the 2011 Acura MDX?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.7.
What transmission does the 2011 Acura MDX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura MDX, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2011 MDX require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Acura MDX?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Acura MDX?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2011 Acura MDX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura MDX, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2011 Acura MDX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura MDX, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Acura MDX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Acura MDX, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Acura MDX?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2011 Acura MDX good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2011 Acura MDX is a luxury SUV with a 3.7L V6 engine and All-Wheel Drive. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, it has some aftermar...
What are the most common engine problems on the 2011 Acura MDX?
Top complaint category: engine (28 reports, 32.2% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Acura MDX?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Toyota Highlander and 2011 BMW X5.