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2022 Acura MDX Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2022 Acura MDX Report

Overall Score

5.7/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • Significant power train issues, including transmission problems and loss of acceleration, are the most frequent complaints.
  • Steering system failures, such as loss of power steering or steering wheel lock-up, are a major concern for owners.
  • Electrical system faults and service brake issues also contribute to the below-average reliability rating.
  • A critical recall for the front passenger seat weight sensor requires verification of completion.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX, while offering a premium experience, carries a reliability verdict of 'Below Average'. Buyers should be aware of a substantial number of complaints, particularly concerning the power train and steering. These issues can manifest as sudden loss of acceleration or steering lock-up, sometimes at very low mileage. The vehicle also has two recalls, one critical for the front passenger seat weight sensor affecting airbag deployment. Its 19 MPG combined is average for its class, but potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections of its core mechanical and electrical systems.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints include sudden loss of acceleration, transmission errors, and rough shifting, sometimes reported at very low mileage. These issues can significantly impact drivability and safety.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

131
Power Train19
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.6/ 10

Practicality

4.1/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing luxury features and willing to accept a higher risk of mechanical issues.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience and maximum long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Acura MDX Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 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 (S10)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 19 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 17 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Acura MDX reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Acura MDX is 6.6/10. Reliability score is 6.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 131.

How practical is the 2022 Acura MDX for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Acura MDX is 5.7/10. Overall score is 5.7/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 4.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $5,000).

What engine is in the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.0.

What transmission does the 2022 Acura MDX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Acura MDX, transmission is Automatic (S10). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2022 MDX require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

16 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2022 Acura MDX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Acura MDX, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Acura MDX, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Acura MDX use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Acura MDX, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S10).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

NHTSA ratings: Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

Top complaint category: power train (19 reports, 14.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2022 Acura MDX?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2022 BMW X5.

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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