2019 Acura MDX Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The engine is the most frequent complaint area, with reports of stalling and potential seizure linked to connecting rod bearing wear.
- Fuel system issues, specifically fuel pump failures, are a major concern, leading to engine stalling and loss of power.
- Electrical system problems, including infotainment glitches and issues with the auto idle stop feature, are also common.
- The auto idle stop system has been linked to engine stalling and unexpected shifts to neutral, posing a safety risk.
2019 Acura MDX
The 2019 Acura MDX offers a comfortable and capable three-row SUV experience, but used buyers should proceed with caution. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings (5-star overall), a high number of recalls (80) and complaints (260) point to potential ownership challenges. The primary concerns revolve around the engine and fuel system, with a critical recall for connecting rod bearings and widespread fuel pump issues. Delays in recall parts availability have further complicated these repairs. Buyers should prioritize thorough inspections and verification of completed recall work.
Critical Failure Risk
The auto idle stop system can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, often at critical junctures like intersections or highway on-ramps. This is frequently linked to electrical system interactions and powertrain control modules.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 290HP
- Torque
- 267 lb–ftLB-FT
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 interior over long-term mechanical certainty.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair bills.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2019 Acura MDX Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Acura MDX.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 6
- Horsepower
- 290 hp
- Torque
- 267 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic (S9)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 42 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 32 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2019 Acura MDX reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Acura MDX is 4.3/10. Reliability score is 4.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 80. Owner complaints: 260.
How practical is the 2019 Acura MDX for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 6. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 447 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2019 Acura MDX?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Acura MDX is 6.1/10. Overall score is 6.1/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Acura MDX?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).
What engine is in the 2019 Acura MDX?
Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.5. Output is 290 hp • 267 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2019 Acura MDX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Acura MDX, transmission is Automatic (S9). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2019 MDX require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Acura MDX?
EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Acura MDX?
13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2019 Acura MDX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Acura MDX, seating capacity is 6.
What body style is the 2019 Acura MDX?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Acura MDX, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2019 Acura MDX use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Acura MDX, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S9).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Acura MDX?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Acura MDX?
Top complaint category: engine (42 reports, 16.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Acura MDX?
This model year has 80 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Acura MDX?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Lexus RX and 2019 Volvo XC90.