Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common Problems: The 2018 Acura MDX may be prone to a variety of problems reported by owners, particularly regarding its electrical system, engine performance, and transmission.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued seven different recalls for this model, most frequently related to engine and electrical system concerns.
Below is a detailed look at the specific manufacturing issues and recalls affecting the 2018 Acura MDX.
Common 2018 Acura MDX Problems
- Electrical System: Warning lights coming on for no apparent reason; Starting issues (engine not starting or shutting off unexpectedly); Weak or failing batteries; Dashboard malfunctions; Potential Fire Hazard (vehicle battery or alternator)
- Engine: Stalling while driving; Starting issues; Excessive oil consumption; Engine misfires; Premature rod bearing wear; Potential Fire Hazard (vehicle battery or alternator)
- Transmission: Hard shifting at lower speeds); Jerking and hesitation when shifting gears; Dead pedal; Transmission failure
2018 Acura MDX Electrical System Problems
The 2018 Acura MDX has been reported to suffer from a variety of electrical system problems, affecting key vehicle functions and posing safety concerns for drivers.
Among the most reported issues by drivers include warning lights that illuminate for no clear reason, leading to confusion or unnecessary concern for drivers.
Some owners have also experienced starting issues, with the car either failing to start or unexpectedly shutting off while driving.
These issues can be particularly alarming, as they may leave drivers stranded or in dangerous situations.
Battery problems are another frequent complaint, with instances of weak or failing batteries that not only affect the car’s ability to start but can also lead to broader electrical malfunctions.
In some cases, dashboard malfunctions have been reported, including lights and displays flickering or shutting off, making it difficult for drivers to monitor vehicle performance and status. More concerning is the potential fire hazard related to electrical problems.
In rare cases, these issues have led to fires under the hood, often traced to overheating or faulty electrical components related to the starter or battery.
The 2018 Acura MDX has been involved in a recall concerning the loss of tailgate lid lights, which could compromise vehicle visibility.
Issued under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-256, the recall notes that moisture can enter the tailgate lid lights, potentially causing them and the taillights to fail.
The loss of taillights reduces vehicle visibility, significantly increasing the risk of a crash, especially in low-light conditions.
2018 Acura MDX Engine and Fuel System Problems
The 2018 Acura MDX has faced several engine-related issues that may affect vehicle performance and reliability.
These problems can range from fuel system malfunctions to engine component failures, each of which poses a potential safety risk if not addressed.
One common issue involves the fuel pump, where performance may be reduced due to fuel particulates adhering to its internal components.
Over time, this can lead to a decrease in fuel pump efficiency, potentially causing an engine stall.
Transmission problems may also arise, particularly if the transmission fluids are not changed every 30,000 miles.
In such cases, drivers may experience transmission slippage, leading to rough or unpredictable shifting.
The fuel system itself can also suffer from various issues, including faulty oxygen sensors, malfunctioning emission-control devices, and problems with the fuel-injection system.
Some owners have also reported difficulties filling the tank or inaccuracies with the fuel gauge.
The 2018 Acura MDX is subject to several recalls related to engine and fuel system problems, which are important for owners to be aware of.
One major recall, NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-858, is tied to a potential fuel pump failure.
Honda identified that fuel pump malfunctions could cause the engine to stall while driving, dramatically increasing the risk of a crash.
Another recall, NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-751, issued a month earlier, addresses engine damage caused by connecting rod bearing wear.
If the connecting rod bearings wear out, the engine may not run properly, which could result in stalling, and in severe cases, a fire.
A recall from April 12, 2019 (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-298) involves the separation of teeth from the timing belt.
If the timing belt teeth separate, the engine may stall unexpectedly, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
Lastly, a recall from January 29, 2019 (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-060) was issued due to reduced fuel pump performance.
A compromised fuel pump can lead to engine stalling, creating hazardous driving conditions.
The 2018 Acura MDX has also seen reports from drivers regarding engine overheating and, in some cases, fire-related incidents.
While these issues can be traced to various factors, they may be linked to engine malfunctions. Overheating can occur due to engine component failures such as malfunctioning cooling systems, worn-out gaskets, or issues with the radiator.
If left unresolved, overheating may not only affect the vehicle’s performance but also increase the risk of engine fires.
2018 Acura MDX Transmission Problems
The 2018 Acura MDX has several reported transmission problems that owners should be aware of.
MDX drivers have reported that the transmission shifts hard, especially at lower speeds (around 30-40 mph), which can feel like a jolt or bump from behind and be quite unsettling while driving.
Additionally, some drivers have experienced jerking or hesitation when the vehicle shifts gears, making the driving experience uncomfortable and indicating potential underlying transmission issues.
Drivers have also noted a “dead pedal” in official reviews of the 2018 Acura MDX, where pressing the accelerator results in no immediate response, followed by a sudden engagement.
This can be particularly dangerous when quick acceleration is needed, such as merging onto a highway.
In rare cases, there have been reports of complete transmission failure, often requiring significant repairs or even a full transmission replacement.
Issues Reported by MDX Drivers
“In San Diego on 11/15/2021, my daughter side swiped a parked vehicle in residential area driving about 30 miles. No airbags deployed. A minute later the car stopped and would not start and started to have smoke and flames come from under hood and through inside windshield and dash. My daughter was able to get out and take her 3 year old son out of his carseat and run for their lives as the car completely became engulfed in flames.Thank God they made it out alive. Police and Fire department showed up. Car was a total loss, everything was burnt.”
“On a regular basis, if accelerating to cross an intersection, car stops or hesitates for several seconds. We have almost been hit by cars several times in the past year. Dealership states everytime i have it serviced, they are unable to replicate and they have never heard of this. In a 5 minute internet search I have found many references to the same issue.”
“I’ve been robbed. Nine different electrical failures in twenty seven weeks. That’s every three weeks there is a new problem.
Most concerning is heated seat problem, possibly a fire hazard. Six failures have occurred one time, three problems are intermittent.
Dealership can’t emulate failures and will not change any components in an attempt to eliminate a possible cause.
I am working with a regional case manager with Acura client relations now. Many other MDX models are having the same problems.”
Enforcing Your Rights as a Lemon Owner
The lemon law provides an important legal remedy. This law protects consumers who own or lease vehicles that require repeated repairs under the manufacturer’s warranty.
In states like California, the lemon law holds that a vehicle must undergo a “reasonable number of repair attempts” for the same or similar defect before it qualifies as a lemon.
Typically, this means between two to four attempts, though fewer attempts may be required if the issue poses a serious safety risk. If a defect continues after the necessary repair attempts, the vehicle may be considered a lemon.
For 2018 Acura MDX owners, common issues such as transmission malfunctions, electrical failures, or persistent engine problems could lead to a valid lemon law claim if these defects are not resolved after multiple repair efforts.
California’s lemon law could entitle you to a refund or a replacement vehicle. A refund would cover not only the purchase price but also related costs such as taxes, registration fees, and any towing expenses.
Alternatively, you could receive a replacement vehicle, typically a comparable model, often from the current model year. Please note that manufacturers may deduct a usage fee based on the miles driven before the defect occurred.
If you opt for a replacement, you might also be responsible for any price difference if the new model is more expensive than your original purchase.
Unsure About the Lemon Law? Call the Lemon Law Experts!
For California consumers facing problems with a defective vehicle, the Lemon Law Experts offer unmatched experience in handling lemon law cases.
Since 2009, we’ve helped thousands of clients across the state secure significant settlements in refunds and cash compensation, amounting to millions of dollars, for vehicles that fall under lemon law protection.
Our focused expertise in lemon law and breach of warranty claims ensures that you receive the personalized legal assistance necessary to resolve your case swiftly.
Time is of the essence in lemon law cases, so don’t delay. Let us help you resolve your 2018 Acura MDX issues quickly and get back to driving with confidence.
Contact the Lemon Law Experts today at (877) 885-5366 or through our website’s online form.
