2019 Acura MDX Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2019 Acura MDX, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Engine7829.2%
- Fuel system4316.1%
- Electrical4215.7%
- Powertrain (other)3212.0%
- Driver assistance3011.2%
- Brakes93.4%
- Visibility93.4%
- Exterior lighting51.9%
- Steering51.9%
- Interior & seats31.1%
- Body & structure31.1%
- Other / unspecified31.1%
- Suspension31.1%
- Tires & wheels10.4%
- Airbags10.4%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2019 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine failed to restart after the Auto START/STOP was engaged. The contact stated that while at a stop light, the engine failed to automatically restart after releasing the brake pedal. The contact shifted to park(P) and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. Additionally, while the contact’s wife was driving, the vehicle stalled and had to be manually restarted. The local dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Action Number: EA25004 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The failure mileage was 90,000.
Dec. 16, 2025, took Acura into the dealership because Check Engine light kept coming on. They did a full inspection and said I needed to have the purge valve replaced and that it was nearing time to have other services: transmission service, front transfer case, rear differential, brake fluid, timing belt, spark plugs, fuel service. Took the diagnostic to my brother who is a mechanic and he started the work starting with the purge valve. He had already done spark plugs with oil change in Oct. 2026. Fast forward to Apr. 2026 my car starts making a weird knocking sound upon accelerating. My brother was in hospital at this time so I didn't want to stress him so I just stopped driving it. I had the other stuff done at shop he recommended but the knocking sound didn't stop. Brother told me to get it diagnosed again. Now Sept. 2026, they said I need a whole new engine, and that Acura would not cover it! What!? They felt so badly they didn't even charge me for the diagnostic. I took it to two other shops just to see if there was anything else that could be done but they all told me the same thing. It's a 2019 how on earth could it need a new engine. I've gotten ALL the work done that is recommended. I didn't even drive it when it started making that noise. My husband and I have been sharing 1 vehicle! I have not missed an oil change and had all recalls repaired there but the dealership told me since I didn't do the services in the dealership at a premium that Acura would not extend me a Goodwill to replace their faulty engine. Why would I do the work at the dealer when my brother is a mechanic and owns his own shop? I believe my engine is suffering the same issues that are causing millions of Acura owners the same dangerous recall. The last place I took the car was the Acura/Honda Specialists shop in the city where I live and this guy told me everything that was serviced looked good but the car needs a new engine and there's even metal in the oil but my VIN doesn't count!
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
issue occurring with automatic start/stop function. car stalls on occasion trying to restart, goes into neutral, even though battery is new and in good condition. hard to replicate and occurs randomly. car has to be turned off and on again. this is the 4th time this has happened over the course of 3 years. seems to be happening to others based on forums as well.
The contact owns a 2019 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to drive to the residence after the failure. An independent mechanic was contacted and attributed the failure to the fuel pump. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); but the vehicle was repaired under the recall approximately 2 years ago. The contact stated that the failure was caused by an improper recall repair. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle with fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump replacement only had a 12-month warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
On Saturday 10/24/26 at approximately 6:45 PM I pulled into my garage and pressed the engine button to shutdown the car after parking in my home garage. I was about to open the door and exit when the engine started again. I shutdown the engine once again and safely exited the car with my 13year old daughter. I returned within 15 minutes and attempted to restart the car to examine the dashboard engine lights, it was then I discovered that I was unable to start the car and a warning was displayed on the dashboard that no KEY FOB was present although I was holding it near the start button. I retrieved my spare key fob and attempted to start the engine and noted the same error. The battery on both key fobs had been recently replaced with new batteries. I waited about an hour and attempted to start the engine unsuccessfully once again, the same error displayed "NO KEY FOB present, please place the fob near the start button to engage the engine. I waited approximately 8 hours and was able to restart the engine with no error or issue. This was a very dangerous incident as my daughter and I were in the process of existing the 2019 MDX when the engine started and could have potentially driven through the garage wall.
the camera system located above the rear view mirror failed and caused a warning light for the lkas system. adaptive cruise control, lane keeping did not work because of it. the unit had to be replaced. this seems to be a fairly common issue with this mdx version, based on forums
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
On Saturday 10/24/26 at approximately 6:45 PM I pulled into my garage and pressed the engine button to shutdown the car after parking in my home garage. I was about to open the door and exit when the engine started again. I shutdown the engine once again and safely exited the car with my 13year old daughter. I returned within 15 minutes and attempted to restart the car to examine the dashboard engine lights, it was then I discovered that I was unable to start the car and a warning was displayed on the dashboard that no KEY FOB was present although I was holding it near the start button. I retrieved my spare key fob and attempted to start the engine and noted the same error. The battery on both key fobs had been recently replaced with new batteries. I waited about an hour and attempted to start the engine unsuccessfully once again, the same error displayed "NO KEY FOB present, please place the fob near the start button to engage the engine. I waited approximately 8 hours and was able to restart the engine with no error or issue. This was a very dangerous incident as my daughter and I were in the process of existing the 2019 MDX when the engine started and could have potentially driven through the garage wall.
While driving, the vehicle experienced a sudden internal mechanical and electronic transmission failure. Without warning, the vehicle shifted itself directly into Park while navigating the busy intersection of [XXX] and [XXX]. This caused a complete loss of propulsion and left the vehicle entirely immobilized in the middle of a high-speed junction. The vehicle could not be moved, creating an immediate, severe highway safety hazard that required an emergency 911 police response to manage traffic and protect the vehicle from being rear-ended. The dealership scan tool later pulled diagnostic code P0730 (Incorrect Gear Ratio) along with multiple clutch performance failures (P07A4, P07A2, P07A8). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
Many customers complained about the LKAS Camera overheating and faulty.
the camera system located above the rear view mirror failed and caused a warning light for the lkas system. adaptive cruise control, lane keeping did not work because of it. the unit had to be replaced. this seems to be a fairly common issue with this mdx version, based on forums
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
Under normal driving conditions warning lights for "electric parking brake" and "emissions system problem" came on the dashboard and the 'brake' light began flashing. No change in performance. Auto parts store diagnostic indicated EVAP valve as the possible problem code, along with two other unrelated codes - none connected to brakes or emissions. The 12-volt battery tested strong. Drove another 100 miles with lights still on, but the 'brake' light would turn off after about 5 mins of highway driving/no braking. The next day the warning lights continued. After normal city driving I shut the car off, waited 30 seconds, pushed the start button twice (accessory mode) and held the brake pedal down while pulling up on the brake release button for 10 seconds. Started the car without any error messages.
Turned on my car last night and many lights appeared including emissions system problem, electronic brake problem and SH-AWD malfunctioning. All the lights came on at once. According to forums, this is happening with many Acura RDX, MDX models and manufacturer does not have a clear way to repair or resolve the issue. My car has had all the routine maintenance and is scheduled for the 2 recalls to be repaired next week.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
We just got into the vehicle and was driving down the road when the sunroof exploded. Nothing hit it and nobody was around us when it happened. I about went off the road. Didn't know what happened. Very scary that a sunroof can just explode on its own with nothing hitting it.
The contact owns a 2019 Acura MDX. The contact stated while driving or while the vehicle was parked, during inclement weather, there was water seeping through the sunroof of the vehicle. The floor in the front of the vehicle had been accumulating water. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
The taillights on this vehicle are defective. I have already had one taillight replaced and now the other side needs to be replaced. These taillights are $300 each for parts only.
The headlight assemblies to my vehicle have become defective. The headlight assembly, both right and left, has moisture intrusion within the headlight assembly, creating condensation build-up inside the housing. This issue also caused the headlights to become white and hazy in appearance. I was advised by the dealer that this would lead to failure with the lighting and would have to be replaced. I purchased a certified used vehicle with Tustin Acura in August of 2022 and also purchased an extended warranty for piece of mind. In the 2 1/2 years that I have owned the vehicle, I have added about 25k miles and have always garaged the vehicle. When the issue was reviewed by the dealer, they refused to cover the problem under warranty and requested that I reach out to American Honda for further assistance. I did that but was denied and told the issue was caused by "outside influence," but provided no explanation as to what this meant. To me it felt like I was being blamed for clearly a defective issue. A Google search of this issues revealed to me that this was a common issue with 2019 Acura MDX vehicles. To replace the headlights would be a cost to me of nearly $3,000. it seems almost ridiculous to pay for clearly defective equipment. I fear that my inability to afford this great expense with lead to headlight failure that could result in a collision if this failure were to occur at night.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
Loud clunking noise when steering, possibly the rack and pinion. Control arms and struts have been replaced.
Two recalls outstanding from November 2023. Parts not available to fix the problems until April 2025.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2019 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the driver’s and passenger’s side front seats shifted unexpectedly. The contact stated that there was an abnormal popping sound coming from the center of the seat backrest, which was felt in the seat. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was notified of the issue and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
The drivers seat is lose and can be felt and heard making noise when driving, even at low speeds. It shifts back and forth upon acceleration and deceleration. Ive had a mechanic look at it and determine it is in fact shifting around while driving, which is extremely unsafe. Upon further research found that many othet Acura/Honda users have had the same issue especially in the MDX model mentioned here. Its even been reported by dealers in brand new, still in the showroom MDX. It is clearly not a wear and tear issue and needs a recall to be addressed.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2019 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while the dealer was performing a State Inspection on the vehicle, it was discovered that the front sub frame and control arms were severely corroded and were fractured. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V365000 (Structure, Suspension); however, the recall scope was restricted to the rear sub frame and components. The vehicle remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance.
Rear tail gate lift motors are overheating and won't open rear hatch. The motors will lift the gait for about 5 or 6 openings, then the gate will not lift at all. The vehicle has to sit overnight for the system to "cool down". Once it cools down, the tailgate will operate the next date, but will operate only once. The car has to once again, sit overnight, in order to lift the tailgate 1 time. If the motors of the gate are overheating, this is a safety potential fire issue. At this time I am being told the motors are on back order, and I have no manual override in this vehicle to lift the tailgate hatch. If the same motors are being put back in the vehicle, without any modifications, this will not suffice.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
Factory wheels on Acura MDX cracking at low mileage under normal driving conditions. Structural failure concern.
I WAS IN A DRIVE THROUGH WAS ASKED TO PULL FORWARD AND PARK AT CURB AS I BRAKED MY VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN STRIKING THE CURB AND DAMAGING MY LEFT FRONT WHEEL AT THE TIME OF THE FALSE ACCELERATION I WAS IN DRIVE IDELING FORWARD
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2019 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while the dealer was performing a State Inspection on the vehicle, it was discovered that the front sub frame and control arms were severely corroded and were fractured. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V365000 (Structure, Suspension); however, the recall scope was restricted to the rear sub frame and components. The vehicle remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance.
Clunking or Looseness in the Outer Tie Rod. The issue is related to TSB-B23-019 Bulletin. The exact same issue is occurring that has happened with years 2022-2023. I have had at the dealership to fix the issue and they never mentioned the outer tie rod cotter pin or castle nut loosening.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Continental Crosscontact LX Sport 265/45R20 104H Tires have about 33,275 miles on them (rotated regularly) and one of the tires has a huge bump in the tread. The belt has separated from the sidewall. From what I've read, there are recalls on this tire, but not for this particular date that these tires were made. With it being on the front, it makes the steering wheel shake and I'm scared to drive it anywhere except to the tire store.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
While driving at 25 miles an hour on a smooth curving road out of a housing area my wife who was driving and my grand daughter in the front passenger seat heard a loud boom that sounded like somthing hit the roof. My grand daughter looked into the back passenger area and said she saw a large buldge in the headliner near the back window on the drivers side. My wife continued driving saftly to the nearest parking lot and parked the vehicle, she got out and inspected the roof and found no dammage of any kind. she opened the back window tail gate and saw a large fist size buldge in the headliner near the open area on the drivers side. She had no idea what happened. There were no waring lights or indicators that indicated a problem and she drove home and showed it to me. When I saw it I thought it was a rear window or curtian air bag that tried to deploy but did not break through the headlinner. I have called the dealer and scheduled an appointment to check it out on thur March 26 at 09:00 2026. I verified that there are no indicators or warning lights that indicate a problem. The service department said it should be safe to drive until then.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .