Common problems include excessive oil consumption, transmission issues, and faulty electrical parts—although the 2011 Acura MDX is generally a safe bet.

The 2011 Acura MDX has no official recalls, but excessive oil consumption is a commonly reported issue.
Garage door opener problems and faulty backup cameras may occur.
In general, Acuras get above-average reliability ratings from safety critics and drivers.

The most common 2011 Acura MDX problems

Although the 2011 Acura MDX is one of the model years with the least number of issues, this midsize SUV is not without its problems. Since Honda introduced the MDX in 2000, it’s had a couple of tricky issues.

Here are two of the biggest issues with the 2011 MDX, according to the

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

(NHTSA):

Engine problems, especially excessive oil consumption

Excessive oil consumption: This can do major damage to your car’s engine, not to mention that frequent oil changes can cost a ton.

One driver discovered an engine oil leakage in the cylinders because of a faulty seal that resulted in their MDX visibly shaking as the burning oil odor seeped into the cabin.

One driver even claimed they have to change the oil out every 1,000 miles when

Acura

oil changes should be scheduled every 5,000 miles—that’s the opposite of a luxury SUV!

MORE:

The most common Acura problems

Other common problems with the 2011 Acura MDX model include:

Transmission shifting roughly due to mechanical failure

Failure of the clutch in the torque converter, which could cause stalling

Exhaust recirculation valve

failure

Idle air conditioning control system issues, which could inhibit climate control

Non-responsive

EVAP canister vent

solenoid

Minor malfunctions with the backup camera

Minor malfunctions with the garage door opener

Complaints aren't exactly uncommon for this model—22 drivers have submitted engine complaints to the NHTSA, and there are 59 complaints total. However, the 2011 Acura MDX has not received any formal recalls to date.

While some of these issues can just be annoying, others (like transmission problems) may pose a danger if ignored for too long. Look out for leaking transmission fluid, inconsistent electrical system performance, and fuel system issues like reduced fuel economy or a struggling fuel pump.

Some may be covered by warranty, but check your policy carefully to find out.

Is the 2011 Acura MDX reliable?

Yes! Even with these problems, the 2011 Acura MDX has received above-average reliability scores among the luxury midsize SUV class.

RepairPal: Above-average 4/5 rating for reliability, and #2 out of 14 among luxury midsize SUVs

J.D. Power: 83/100 rating for quality and reliability

Verified Acura MDX owners: 81/100 overall score

Average annual cost of repairs: $576 (about average)

Major issues are not common with the 2011 MDX, as the severity of

car repairs

remains low and the frequency of common issues is about average. If you’re buying a used Acura MDX, make sure to ask for maintenance records.

Overall, the MDX gets good mpg, offers attractive styling, and can accommodate plenty of passengers with third-row seating. AWD is available with Acura’s SH-AWD and a V6 powertrain to satisfy power-hungry drivers.

Car owners should stay on top of a

regular maintenance schedule

to help avoid preventable car problems. If your Check Engine Light—or any other warning light—comes on, go directly to a dealership or your local mechanic.

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