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2019 Acura MDX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·74 Critical Recalls
2019 Acura MDX Report

Overall Score

6.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

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

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.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls80
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

260
Engine42
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
290HP
Torque
267 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

4.3/ 10

Practicality

5.4/ 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 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.

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

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 reported

Usage: 42 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 32 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 and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
80 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

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.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

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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