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2011 Acura MDX Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2011 Acura MDX Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

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.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

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.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

87
Engine28
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.7/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

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.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

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 reported

Usage: 28 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 7 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

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.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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