| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by edepa
I just brought my 2002 MDX in for the recall. With 30k miles I also wanted transmission fluid flush, but of course not if they were going to change out the transmission. I picked up the X just after the service folk had left and the gal at the desk was just a place to give a key for the loaner I had and pick up my bill. No charge. However it said that the jetkit was installed. Now I was in a quandry, did the jet kit only go in if the tran was okay(my belief), or did they do it all the time? Since, if the tran was okay, they would have flushed the fluid, right????
Wrong. Or so Hillside Acura said. My service rep said the tran was fine, jetkit installed.....and when I said I had asked for the tran flush if the tran was okay, he said the fluid was flushed, but he had left and they apparently didn't bill me, so just don't worry about it.
Now, how can I tell what was really done? I have no clue if they did a 1X flush, or the 3x i had asked for, or a zero X which i also think is possible. How should the fluid look now when I check it? I hate to look a gift horse in the mouth, but I'd rather have paid and known what I was getting. I appreciate any responses.:confused:
I have no idea what the ATF looks like at a 1X change. I can say it looks brand new at a 3X. |
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| TheWorm |
If it was flushed it'll be a nice reddish-pink; sort of a watery cough syrup.
If it wasn't (installing the jet kit doesn't require a change or flush, just a potential top-off) changed then @ 30k it would be a little dirty.
Just pull the dipstick and put a drop on a white paper towel. The difference betw red/pink clean cough syrup and a little dirty will be immediately noticeable as soon as you do it.
You can always post a pic of the drop and we'll tell you. |
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| deltajetfixer |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
I have no idea what the ATF looks like at a 1X change. I can say it looks brand new at a 3X.
I can say that it continues to look brand new at a 1x change thereafter every 7500 miles (I "change" it 3.2 quarts worth at every engine oil change). |
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| ufbz |
Just picked up my 2001 MDX after it had been sitting 10 days in dealer's shop. Got a new transmission. The service manager said it will have a 3 year /36000 mile warranty. They also added the oil jet kit on the new transmission.
I can't really tell the difference with a new transmission. But the noise that used to occur when I step on gas padel is gone. So that's a good thing.
I also voted in the poll. |
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| chris.soto |
My MDX had been suffering from "minor" transmission slippage.
I have 34,000 miles on my 2002.
I heard about the recall, found out it pertained to my truck, and scheduled an appointment.
I mentioned my transmission slippage to them and the 18% transmission replacement info from this poll.
Recall was completed, Monday 6/14/2004 and I am also getting a new transmission this Wednesday 6/23/2004 (very happy - better resale -- hope my warranty is extended on transmission -- planning to get 2006 MDX loaded -- Tim, I will probably be calling you then -- maybe I will set another accessories record).
They told me the transmission replacement had nothing to do with the recall (whatever!).
I placed my vote for the poll accordingly. |
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| mhassan |
I checked with Acura Canada and sure enough my 02/Touring with 66K KM (eq 41K miles) was included in this 2nd gear transmission inspection recall. Unlike its American site there is no info relating to the recall on Acura Canada site!
Booked in the vehicle and was told in the evening that everything checked out and an oil jet kit has been installed. Not sure what the process involved i.e. if they have replaced the fluid or not. I did inquire about possibility of Acura extending warranty coverage and was told that it is not an option.
I am now seriously contemplating purchasing Acura Plus warranty and would seek views/recommendations from you all on this. |
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| mgmdx |
| Received a recall notice yesterday for my '01 MDX. Will take it in within the next two weeks to perform appropriate fix. |
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| vip9 |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
Remember, the kit is being used for an uncommon failure mode. Most tranny failures reported have nothing to do with this fix.
My understanding is that most (all ???) '01 and '02 are affected. So the fact that some trannies need not be replaced is based on the "driving conditions" as my service advisor put it. The way I understand that is if someone drives 'exessively' in 2nd gear, it will become damaged.
I am relieved that I did not need a new transmission. They assured me verbally and it states so in the work order - NO DAMAGE OR DISCOLORATION.
As far as the extra piece of harware that they installed... I do not even know where to look for it. ;) |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by vip9
My understanding is that most (all ???) '01 and '02 are affected. So the fact that some trannies need not be replaced is based on the "driving conditions" as my service advisor put it. The way I understand that is if someone drives 'exessively' in 2nd gear, it will become damaged.
I am relieved that I did not need a new transmission. They assured me verbally and it states so in the work order - NO DAMAGE OR DISCOLORATION.
As far as the extra piece of harware that they installed... I do not even know where to look for it. ;)
Yes, it is for the 01 and 02 models of MDX.
If you read the full history of the failure mode, something like 6 - 9 cars failed due to this anomaly. And it requires driving not only in 2nd gear for an extended length of time, but with a small throttle opening. This apparenty produces enough load, with insufficient fluid circulation to overheat the assembly over an extended period of time. If you were looking at a bell curve for failures, you would likely see this as an outlier for which a handful of people tested for in the real world.
Obviously, Acura's analysis said the potential for precluding this failure could be implemented relatively quickly. Ala the fix. Much cheaper than redesigning the whole tranny for more robustness to preclude the more common failure modes that still plague 18% of the owners just on this board.
Buy the way, if you look down between the back of the battery and the the firewall, you will see a black rubber tube terminating into a mechanical fitting in the transmission, at the point that used to be the fill plug for ATF. That is part of the fix which circulates additional fluid onto the second gear shaft for better cooling. |
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| cmjcrj700pilot |
| What is the web address for the Canadian X site? |
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| wmquan |
| As I previously posted, my transmission recall was performed without a replacement and I have voted. The latest news is that I got my transmission recall notice in the mail today, despite the fact that mine was one of the first week of MDX's delivered. :rolleyes: |
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| Mocking-DX |
just brought my x to ferman acura in tampa,fl for the recall and the srs light that came on.
anyway i asked the service advisor working on my X if they're extending the transmission warranty due to the recall and he said NO.
they had to keep my car overnight because they can't figure out the cause of the srs light warning.
anyway i'm enjoying the 2004 TL. The power on this is awesome. The auto stich is a little slow to downshift for my liking but the power is just great. Not to mention it looks sharp |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Mocking-DX
anyway i asked the service advisor working on my X if they're extending the transmission warranty due to the recall and he said NO.
Since the recall has not much to do with the more common reasons the transmissions fail, not much surprise there. It is only a preventative measure, not a fix. |
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| Mocking-DX |
well just got a call from acura and said my x is done.
they installed a the oil jet kit. @nd gear is ok at 40,000mi
turns out also that there were more repairs they had to do
the replaced the left rear shocks coz it was leaking.
they replaced the srs computer module because there was an internal fault. the srs warning light came on when i run the passenger side wheel at those highway grooved warning strips at80 MPH.
they also had to replace the front sway bar link coz I noticed it was leaking last time i changed my engine oil. So have to go back agin when the link arrives.
No wonder my car pulls a little bit to one side.
so far i'm satisfied with the Ferman acura service in Tampa.
we'll see next time i go back for the sway bar. |
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| Redwing |
Got an '01 w/30k miles.
No notice but dealer checked and then installed jet. Also put shims on brakes. No other issues. Did the 30K maint. Probably overkill, but I thought I'd do it once.
Maybe I've been lucky! :D :D :D |
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| Robyjo |
'01, 44K miles.
Just got mine done at Niello in Sacramento (I'm warming back up to them--especially consider Lasher is the alternative).
No problem, just installed the oil jet kit and did the brake shims (which did nothing to very little).
BTW, I'm doing ATF changes every 30K miles with a 1 time drain and replace @ each oil change.
Rob |
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| Mocking-DX |
| so how do fill the atf fluid now with the oil jet kit? |
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| Pauls MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by Mocking-DX
so how do fill the atf fluid now with the oil jet kit?
Very slowly thru the dip stick hole. |
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| Parkit |
Got my 01 mdx done at Salem (OR) Acura at 22,615, 6-18-04 and voted. Oil jet kit only. No letter from factory but service advisor said it needed to come in so did the rear brake shims and weeping mirrors while there also. Advisor recommends 15k atf changes and 30k for the vtm.
Thanks to all the contributors to this site who have made all this info. available....parkit |
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| sideburns |
| Just took my MDX , a 2001 with 72.000+ miles, to dealer (Tustin Acura, Orange County, CA) for trans check. I had the trans "overheat" 3 times in past with the result of burned trans fluid which I flushed and replaced myself. It overheated going up some steep dirt roads in the Sierra Nevada Mts. I stopped right away and let the trans cool down. All three times the trans seemed to run fine afterward. I thought surely the second gear would show heat damage. The photo taken by the dealer showed a gear that looked brand new - he actually let me look at it and showed me the factory guide that had photos of bad vs. good gears. I was satisfied that the trans was not bad. He installed the jet kit. The real test will come again in July when I am climbing that same dirt road in the Sierras. Hopefully the trans will not overheat. One interesting item the Acura service rep said was that there are two levels of trans overheating. The first level turns on the "trans overheating" light on the dash, the second level, which is more severe throws a "fault code". I never got a fault code. He said that probably if the second level was reached that the gear would have had heat damage. |
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| manus1980 |
As mentioned earlier I got the fish tank pump and not the transmission swap. I have 3 questions.
First question is if the dealer changes the fluid during the recall procedure when only the fish tank pump is required.
Second question is how does one know if the pump is having trouble or stops working? Is it a completly independent system or will it show an error code.
Does this little pump really move around enough fluid to make a difference? |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by manus1980
As mentioned earlier I got the fish tank pump and not the transmission swap. I have 3 questions.
First question is if the dealer changes the fluid during the recall procedure when only the fish tank pump is required.
Second question is how does one know if the pump is having trouble or stops working? Is it a completly independent system or will it show an error code.
Does this little pump really move around enough fluid to make a difference?
I think it is just a fluid distribution system. Not a separate pump. It is just using the existing pressure to put more fluid where it's needed. No, ATF is not drained or replaced unless you request it. |
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| nanali1 |
| I brought the 'X in for service prior to recieving the letter. I did this because i started noticing second gear slipping or disengaging. Mentioned it to the dealer who took pictures (supposedly) and ruled that only the kit fix rather than replacement. Well, after a few weeks and additional 150 miles, tranny is still slipping (about 3x already). How would one know if the picture/s were actually taken and assumed that a kit needs to be installed rather the tranny replacement? I'm @ 35750 miles now, if the tranny dies after the warranty period, am I now responsible for the replacement cost since the kit fix was done and the car will now be over the warranty period? I use to brag and suggested to anyone in the market for an SUV to consider the 'X, but now... I don't know.... Acura if you're reading this, extend the drivetrain warranty just like what ya'll did with the TL/CL!!! |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by nanali1
I brought the 'X in for service prior to recieving the letter. I did this because i started noticing second gear slipping or disengaging. Mentioned it to the dealer who took pictures (supposedly) and ruled that only the kit fix rather than replacement. Well, after a few weeks and additional 150 miles, tranny is still slipping (about 3x already). How would one know if the picture/s were actually taken and assumed that a kit needs to be installed rather the tranny replacement? I'm @ 35750 miles now, if the tranny dies after the warranty period, am I now responsible for the replacement cost since the kit fix was done and the car will now be over the warranty period? I use to brag and suggested to anyone in the market for an SUV to consider the 'X, but now... I don't know.... Acura if you're reading this, extend the drivetrain warranty just like what ya'll did with the TL/CL!!!
Am no expert, but I don't think your symptoms have anything to do with the present recall. The fix is a preventative measure for the 'potential' of a catastrophic failure. |
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| nanali1 |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
Am no expert, but I don't think your symptoms have anything to do with the present recall. The fix is a preventative measure for the 'potential' of a catastrophic failure.
I'm lost... How's the symptoms I'm experiencing not related to the current recall? The recall specifically mentions "second gear" as stated below. Please anyone explain if I'm missing something here...
"The situation is created by insufficient lubrication of the transmission's secondary shaft second gear that can occur under certain driving conditions. Prolonged operation under these conditions can lead to heat build-up and under certain circumstances may eventually result in chipped or broken gear teeth or breakage of the gear. In the event of a chipped or broken tooth, the owner will likely experience abnormal noise from the transmission and seek repairs. In rare instances, this condition may lead to gear breakage and possible locking of the vehicle's transmission, creating a potential safety hazard." |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by nanali1
I'm lost... How's the symptoms I'm experiencing not related to the current recall? The recall specifically mentions "second gear" as stated below. Please anyone explain if I'm missing something here...
"The situation is created by insufficient lubrication of the transmission's secondary shaft second gear that can occur under certain driving conditions. Prolonged operation under these conditions can lead to heat build-up and under certain circumstances may eventually result in chipped or broken gear teeth or breakage of the gear. In the event of a chipped or broken tooth, the owner will likely experience abnormal noise from the transmission and seek repairs. In rare instances, this condition may lead to gear breakage and possible locking of the vehicle's transmission, creating a potential safety hazard."
I thought your main problem was slippage. Not breakage. Note it says the noise if followed by lock-up due to gear breakage. Your inspection apparenty did not show overheating of the mechanism in question. Therefore it is a different problem entirely. There have only been somewhere around 10 cars with this exact problem as described in the bulletin, resutling in lock-up, a potentially dangerous safety consideration. That's why Acura is pouring in money to fix this problem, not the others that plague the transmission.
Your complaint of slippage, is not that uncommon, unfortunately. |
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| Robyjo |
quote:
Originally posted by Mocking-DX
so how do fill the atf fluid now with the oil jet kit?
I don't think any differently, but I haven't done it yet, so I'll let you know when I do the next change... |
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| mystMDX |
I've been away from this board for quite sometime until last night when I received the Transmission recall notice in the mail.
I read the posts and this AM dropped my 2001 MDX Touring/Nav with 69,000 miles off at the dealership.
Just got off the phone and fortunately, all It needed was the Oil Jet Kit installed. |
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| Hey-Jude |
Nanali, I think you're feeling lost because Dale's post is nonsensical. No offense Dale but to say
quote:
Therefore it is a different problem entirely.
sounds a little too overconfident. You may be right and it may be another problem but come on....I think 9 out of 10 sufferers are going to suspect it's more than coincidental when there's a recall that specifically gives that symptom as a condition of the defect.
Just because Nanali's transmission passed their fool-proof (ahem) test (for now) doesn't mean that his slippage isn't related to the design flaw. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Hey-Jude
Nanali, I think you're feeling lost because Dale's post is nonsensical. No offense Dale but to say
sounds a little too overconfident. You may be right and it may be another problem but come on....I think 9 out of 10 sufferers are going to suspect it's more than coincidental when there's a recall that specifically gives that symptom as a condition of the defect.
Just because Nanali's transmission passed their fool-proof (ahem) test (for now) doesn't mean that his slippage isn't related to the design flaw.
Considering all the transmission failures reported on here and the full description as it reads in the recall bulletin, I am quite confident it is unrelated. Could it also be a 2nd gear problem? Of course it could. Does that mean it could slip and if the gear is over-heated also chip teeth off the gears? By golly, it could certainly do both!
But based on the broken gear being related to overheating the 2nd gear assembly, then if they are related, then either the inspection by the mechanic was not performed correctly, or the criteria set up by Acura were wrong. Either the discolored assembly was missed by the mechanic inspecting it, or it can fail before it becomes discolored.
I don't recall (no pun intended) any one having their transmission lock up as described in the bulletin. They typcially have either just coasted to a stop (most typical when trannies give up the ghost) or maybe made enough strange noises, or begin to slip (very common) to cause the owner to go in for service.
Again, Acura is not denying there are not other tranny problems related to the MDX by only pushing one recall for a very specific failure mode.
But I am open to any other ideas. Automatic transmissions are very complicated systems. |
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| BorisSWort |
| Had my inspection this morning, 33k miles, everything okay, so they installed the oil jet, and they washed and vacuumed my car. Strange because many people on this forum told me I would not get any recall work because it is a "black market" vehicle. |
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| greatscot |
quote:
Originally posted by BorisSWort
. . . Strange because many people on this forum told me I would not get any recall work because it is a "black market" vehicle.
What does that ("black market" vehicle) mean? :confused: |
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| edepa |
quote:
Originally posted by greatscot
What does that ("black market" vehicle) mean? :confused:
I assume he means it was canadian vehicle. Acura doesn't extend warranty into u.s., but they are much cheaper in canada i'm told. |
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| Tnman |
| I have an 02 MDX tour/navi . acoording to owner link its effected by the recal and I have na appointment on 7/7 to take it in for the recall and 45K service ($350) Over the last few days we started noticing a jerking feeling while we are at apeed and throtle is just enough to maintian the speed on flat surface. I am wondering if this is something connected with recall or if this is another problem with transmission. I have 100K warranty so I'm not too worried but I have read there are issues with MDX transmissions. Do the new / Replacement transmissions work better or do they crap out in another 40-50K? |
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| Sid |
I just got my X back with a new transmission installed (8 days later). This is a Canadian MDX that they were able to get ok'd through the regional Acura Rep.
Not sure how but I'm glad it is done. Though I must say that I was getting used to the TL:)
Sid |
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| Boiler |
| I just had my Transmission recall performed today. My 2001 MDX has 57K miles. They installed the kit. I had it performed about 40 miles away in Ann Arbor, MI. When I got back to work, there was a message that they had noticed fluid on the garage floor when I left. I went to the parking lot to check and sure enough there is quite a puddle. We are currently working on what we're going to do to resolve. They do not want me to drive it. Does anyone know what kind of damage can occur from driving that far with a pretty substantial leak? |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Boiler
Does anyone know what kind of damage can occur from driving that far with a pretty substantial leak?
Transmission fluid, I take it....It all depends on how much was lost. Overheating and failure of the transmission comes to mind.
The 'quality' of the remaining fluid in the tranny can be inspected for signs of overheating. |
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| gasman |
| 01 Touring/Navi/Mesa Beige/Gold, etc. Now has 61,000 miles on it - dealer (Rick Starr Acura in Ft. Pierce, FL), did the recall - installed lube kit - at about 59,000 miles - had no problems, and (hopefully!!!) Still don't. They did it before I got the official recall notice - I just asked them, & they had the kit. Job took an hr and a half.:) :) |
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| sar10 |
| Has anyone experienced shifting problems after the recall work was performed? I have noticed erratic shifting between 4th and 5th gears. It feels as if the tranny can't decide what gear it should be in and finally "drops" into 5th. Any feedback appreciated. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by sar10
Has anyone experienced shifting problems after the recall work was performed? I have noticed erratic shifting between 4th and 5th gears. It feels as if the tranny can't decide what gear it should be in and finally "drops" into 5th. Any feedback appreciated.
There have been quite a few comments about similar experiences on here. For me it seems to be more common when the vehicle is still cold after starting out. It seems to 'clunk' into 5th instead of a smoother transition. Have not really noticed any 'hunting' between 4 and 5, yet. |
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| frostyra |
| I got mine done today -- just needed the kit. I asked to see the pics they took -- gear teeth were bright and shiny.:D |
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| DaleB |
| On my comment about 4th and 5th gear shifting, I was not aware it was linked to the recall in any way. Considering the intent of the recall it does not seem likely. |
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| Solid |
Casted my vote and No, I didn't receive a letter from acura neither an email notification from ownerlink's.
2002 MDX w/ 34000 miles. Needs a new transmission, Acura of concord will take a week to replace. One thing they asked me is if I had the 30K service done which includes replacing transmission oil. I told them that I did the my maintenance myself and flushed the ATF fluid twice. According to them, my oil was burned and they might ask me for my receipts on my oil purchases, which I'm glad I kept. If let's say I haven't replace the transmission oil at 34,000 - that shouldn't be enough reason for the transmission to break and needs replacement is it? |
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| frostyra |
quote:
Originally posted by Solid
Casted my vote and No, I didn't receive a letter from acura neither an email notification from ownerlink's.
2002 MDX w/ 34000 miles. Needs a new transmission, Acura of concord will take a week to replace. One thing they asked me is if I had the 30K service done which includes replacing transmission oil. I told them that I did the my maintenance myself and flushed the ATF fluid twice. According to them, my oil was burned and they might ask me for my receipts on my oil purchases, which I'm glad I kept. If let's say I haven't replace the transmission oil at 34,000 - that shouldn't be enough reason for the transmission to break and needs replacement is it?
First, Honda said they're notifying owners more-or-less in the order in which the cars were made -- mine was made in June '01, and I got the notice in June '04.
Second, what condition was the original transmission fluid? If it was brownish instead of red, it should have been changed earlier. Personally, I think that a triple change every 20-25,000 miles is the safest way to go. |
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| Kevin1963 |
Hi,
I have a 2001 MDX with approximately 86K miles on it. I first started noticing the shudder issue at about 60K, but it wasn't a frequent problem nor did it seem too distracting. I mentioned it at two regular maintenance service visits, but the dealer was unable to replicate the problem. It became more pronounced about 3 months ago, and the car actually shakes at times at low speeds. My situations of shuddering are about the same as posted by others.
I received the recall notice last month and figured that this was my problem. So I made an appointment for the recall, mentioned the shudder again and expected them to tell me my tranny was shot and I'd be getting a new one, free and clear. Alas, the Acura service folks determined that all I needed was the oil jet treatment and that might help the shudder.
No dice. The shudder didn't get any better, so I made arrangement with the dealer to drive with a tech. It shuddered up a storm, causing the tech to recommend replacing the EGR valve, which I agreed to do. After the replacement, we took a drive again and the shudder was still there. The tech then said that the tranny was probably dying after all.
The service rep. says that since we are out of warranty (and we didn't buy an extended one), they don't really have an obligation to do anything, but "after talking with the service manager", they will replace the tranny and my only financial obligation will be for labor, which will be over $1,000. He told me that by getting the tranny free would save me several thousand dollars.
My question is, with the transmission recall out there and the fact that I am 36K out of warranty, is this a good deal for me or am I getting hosed? I assume that if I had taken the MDX in for the recall and they determined I needed a new tranny, I wouldn't be shelling out a dime, whether or not I'm in warranty. When I asked the rep why the recall wouldn't cover the whole thing, he said that our tranny problem isn't specifically related to the problem specified in the recall. Should I fight this and if so, what would be the best course of action to take? The botton line is that car needs to be fixed and soon, so although I'd rather spend a grand on something more fun, it's been a fairly good car that I'd like to keep. Any thoughts would be appreciated!
Kevin |
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| vip9 |
quote:
Originally posted by frostyra
First, Honda said they're notifying owners more-or-less in the order in which the cars were made -- mine was made in June '01, and I got the notice in June '04.
Not sure if that is accurate. Mine is one of the first - born in Dec'00 - and I got the letter in June. |
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| wmquan |
quote:
Originally posted by vip9
Not sure if that is accurate. Mine is one of the first - born in Dec'00 - and I got the letter in June.
My MDX was made in the first week of production (September 2000), but I didn't get my recall notice until June 21st. :rolleyes: |
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| WoodstockMDX |
quote:
Originally posted by Solid
Casted my vote and No, I didn't receive a letter from acura neither an email notification from ownerlink's.
2002 MDX w/ 34000 miles. Needs a new transmission, Acura of concord will take a week to replace. One thing they asked me is if I had the 30K service done which includes replacing transmission oil. I told them that I did the my maintenance myself and flushed the ATF fluid twice. According to them, my oil was burned and they might ask me for my receipts on my oil purchases, which I'm glad I kept. If let's say I haven't replace the transmission oil at 34,000 - that shouldn't be enough reason for the transmission to break and needs replacement is it?
Just curious why they asked if you replaced the transmission fluid at 30000 when the maintenance schedule in the owners manual for "normal" conditions says change it at 45000? I had mine done at 30000 because that's the interval for "severe conditions" which the dealer suggested exists for metro Atlanta stop and go commuting - no argument from me.
Has Acura issued a TSB telling everyone to change the tranny fluid every 30000? |
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| nanali1 |
quote:
Originally posted by Hey-Jude
Nanali, I think you're feeling lost because Dale's post is nonsensical. No offense Dale but to say
sounds a little too overconfident. You may be right and it may be another problem but come on....I think 9 out of 10 sufferers are going to suspect it's more than coincidental when there's a recall that specifically gives that symptom as a condition of the defect.
Just because Nanali's transmission passed their fool-proof (ahem) test (for now) doesn't mean that his slippage isn't related to the design flaw.
Well... Now the CEL came on. The light came on right after one of the many 2nd gear slippage i've been encountering. Have another appt. on the 20th of July. I also did an ATF flush 2 days ago and the fluid is super dark and lots of metal bits/wood splinter looking stuck on the magnet/drain plug. How can I tell if the fluid is burnt? |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by nanali1
Well... Now the CEL came on. The light came on right after one of the many 2nd gear slippage i've been encountering. Have another appt. on the 20th of July. I also did an ATF flush 2 days ago and the fluid is super dark and lots of metal bits/wood splinter looking stuck on the magnet/drain plug. How can I tell if the fluid is burnt?
It will smell burnt. Does not sound good at all. How many miles? |
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| WoodstockMDX |
I voted but I think we need a new catagory. I'm having my transmission replaced but it was not because of the recall. I guess the poll is technically accurate - the transmission was NOT normal and it is being replaced but not because of the concerns addressed by the recall. Apparently, the recall pictures did not show a problem BUT the shuddering problem was confirmed to warrant a tranny replacement. I'm presuming the EGR was checked as well as it was mentioned by the SM as a possible cause and Acura would certainly take the path of lease cost if they were sure that was the problem.
Going to pick up our X tonight and will schedule the tranny replacement then. Of course, a loaner is being offered - although probably a TL and not an X. Will ask about warranty on the new tranny as well as whether Acura is considering the TL type warranty extension to 100 K miles. |
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| jst4fun |
I've already voted, but wanted to tell my story.
On Friday (7/9) I left for a weekend of fishing and backpacking with my sons scout group. Just outside of Lancaster (hwy 14 in calif) I noticed the "AT TEMP" light come on, then another car in the group radioed me and said there was smoke coming out of my MDX. I pulled over and the smoke enveloped us. Got everyone out and watched as the tranny fluid leaked out. There was a trail of the stuff on the road as well. Called the Acura roadside people and they sent out a flat bed which took me all the way to Valencia Acura, an hour in the wrong direction. Waited another hour while they decided they could'nt fix it right away. I had told the service rep I was carrying 5 people plus gear, so he gets me a Lincon town car as a loaner. OK, the car is big enough for five packpacks, but now I was 2.5 hours behind the the group which meant I missed picking up the back country permits, plus couldnt use the 2 day fishing license, and had to spend a night in the town of Loan Pine, in a motel!
My tranny had been inspected before I left by Pasadena Acura and had the Jet kit installed.
Got my X back yesterday ( new tranny installed) and as I was driving home both the VTM-4 and emission light came on. So it's back to dealer again.
Is'nt there some sort of trip interruption insurance Acura has, any one know how to file a claim?
My wife said I seemed to be taking this all pretty well, I think I'm just holding it in and ready to explode. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by jst4fun
I've already voted, but wanted to tell my story.
On Friday (7/9) I left for a weekend of fishing and backpacking with my sons scout group. Just outside of Lancaster (hwy 14 in calif) I noticed the "AT TEMP" light come on, then another car in the group radioed me and said there was smoke coming out of my MDX. I pulled over and the smoke enveloped us. Got everyone out and watched as the tranny fluid leaked out. There was a trail of the stuff on the road as well. Called the Acura roadside people and they sent out a flat bed which took me all the way to Valencia Acura, an hour in the wrong direction. Waited another hour while they decided they could'nt fix it right away. I had told the service rep I was carrying 5 people plus gear, so he gets me a Lincon town car as a loaner. OK, the car is big enough for five packpacks, but now I was 2.5 hours behind the the group which meant I missed picking up the back country permits, plus couldnt use the 2 day fishing license, and had to spend a night in the town of Loan Pine, in a motel!
My tranny had been inspected before I left by Pasadena Acura and had the Jet kit installed.
Got my X back yesterday ( new tranny installed) and as I was driving home both the VTM-4 and emission light came on. So it's back to dealer again.
Is'nt there some sort of trip interruption insurance Acura has, any one know how to file a claim?
My wife said I seemed to be taking this all pretty well, I think I'm just holding it in and ready to explode.
Extremely unfortunate , but unless the dealer/zone mgr. is sympathetic and willing to push for more compensation, I doubt you can hold them to the wall.
It could just have easily failed a block from home. But 'Murphy' says that will not happen. Plus, Lancaster in July? Heat and some miles with a full car will certainly be the straw to break the camel's back.
If Acura tranny failures were a rare occurence your chances would be better. Unfortunately, they have a real problem and are barely holding it together in handling the complaints. I would really be surprised if more than 1/2 of all MDX trannies make it to 100K without a problem. At least 2001-2003 models. |
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| nanali1 |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
It will smell burnt. Does not sound good at all. How many miles?
The car has about 36k miles. |
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| deltajetfixer |
quote:
Originally posted by jst4fun
My tranny had been inspected before I left by Pasadena Acura and had the Jet kit installed.
Hmmmm...
1) Temperature warning light on
2) ATF leaking from your MDX
Sounds like something wasn't done properly during the jet-kit installation and the leak resulted in failure?
I'd like to think that this is an isolated case of someone incorrectly installing the kit (loose clamp,bolt or missing/damaged o-ring) and DaleB's prediction won't come true!:eek: |
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| nwaring |
Isn't this the second post with leaking problems after the jet install?
Hmm....
Niles |
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| bb123 |
Well Dale, I must say I'm impressed - you have finally come around to the idea that MDX trannies are failing more often than those in the average SUV. In the face of the growing anecdotal evidence, it is hard not to get there. I respect your willingness to see things in a new light.
Now, if only Acura would step up to the plate and formally extend the transmission warranty to 7yrs/100,000 miles.
I am sure that they have already done so on a "silent" basis. If your transmission fails between 50,000 and 100,000 and you complain loud enough and long enough, I suspect Acura will fix it under warranty.
What a mess this is turning out to be - after owning nothing but Hondas/Acuras since 1989, I will be looking hard at Toyotas once our MDX approaches 50,000 and the end of its warranty. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by bb123
Well Dale, I must say I'm impressed - you have finally come around to the idea that MDX trannies are failing more often than those in the average SUV.
I don't think I ever minimized the problem, except when the problem was minimal.
Obviously there are more complaints, either because more trannies are truly failing (for a variety of reasons, not even related to the recall) or more folks are fessing up, or both.
But the failures we have certainly could be contributing to the lower ranking for Acura on JD Power.
Of course there is more to a reliable SUV than a good transmission.
I think it would be most valuable to know if the replacement MDX tranmssions are holding up. If they are, things might be only half as bad. |
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| Bergie |
I just couldn't read all these posts on MDX transmission problems without putting in my two cents.
My '02 MDX with 42K couldn't wait for the recall notice to arrive (which still hasn't) before taking a dump.
It began to slip out of second gear only a couple of times in a two week span. During this time, the check engine light came on. Both times this happened, I was entering the Caldecott Tunnel!! Talk about nervous. I pulled over each time and noticed it would seem to engage first gear. After a 5 second wait, I went for it and never had the problem again until a week later. A call to Acura confirmed that this could be serious. It wasn't a bad dream! I scheduled the appointment when they had a loaner car available.
Concord Acura looked at the problem and informed me it really was a bad tranny. A week in an '04 TL helped to make the time away from my MDX bearable. The TL is a nice car!!
It now seems fine (now 3K later) gas mileage is back up and no weird shifting is occuring. The dealer said the warranty of the "refurbed" tranny was only 12 months. They did treat me very well (as I would expext) and took care of the problem. However, I do wonder how long this "refurbed" tranny will last?? |
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| DaleB |
Ouch! I know that tunnel well.. ..the thought of being stuck there is a scary one.
Only 12 months? What if you extend your bumper to bumper warranty, it is included I hope. |
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| deltajetfixer |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
Of course there is more to a reliable SUV than a good transmission.
Hmmmm...seems a bit contradictory...unless of course you mean to jest?
Reminds me of my 1977 Triumph Spitfire. It had a "weak" transmission (synchronizers didn't last). Looked good and handled well though ;)
I don't believe I'd feel the same way had I bought it new... |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by deltajetfixer
Hmmmm...seems a bit contradictory...unless of course you mean to jest?
Reminds me of my 1977 Triumph Spitfire. It had a "weak" transmission (synchronizers didn't last). Looked good and handled well though ;)
I don't believe I'd feel the same way had I bought it new...
No, not really jesting. I mean there are SUVs, as well as other vehicles with a myriad of problems. If the tranny is the main problem in a significant number of MDXs, that is not good. But if a replacement fixes the problem, and quality improved on future models it's not really the end of the world.
But if a bunch of other mechanical or electrical problems were also showing up, the car is loser. I am not happy that my tranny may need replacing prematurely, but I still don't regret purchasing an MDX. |
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| Solid |
Got my car today, tried it and noticed nothing different from before, run's like it suppose too-Great!. About the ATF, the service rep didn't ask me for the ATF receipt and I didn't bother reminding him. Feels good, I got new transmission rather than just the kit.
Can you visually see the Jet kit installed? People says you couldn't use the filler hole anymore and should use the dipstick hole to fill ATF but by looking at my filler hole, I didn't see any obstruction not unless if it's hiding under the plug or maybe I didn't get one?
quote:
Originally posted by frostyra
First, Honda said they're notifying owners more-or-less in the order in which the cars were made -- mine was made in June '01, and I got the notice in June '04.
Second, what condition was the original transmission fluid? If it was brownish instead of red, it should have been changed earlier. Personally, I think that a triple change every 20-25,000 miles is the safest way to go.
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Solid
Got my car today, tried it and noticed nothing different from before, run's like it suppose too-Great!. About the ATF, the service rep didn't ask me for the ATF receipt and I didn't bother reminding him. Feels good, I got new transmission rather than just the kit.
Can you visually see the Jet kit installed? People says you couldn't use the filler hole anymore and should use the dipstick hole to fill ATF but by looking at my filler hole, I didn't see any obstruction not unless if it's hiding under the plug or maybe I didn't get one?
Have no idea if the 'kits' are installed on replacment units. Maybe they have other internal changes that preclude the use of a kit. |
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| mogur |
No kits on the replacements, they have been internally modified...
Tom
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
Have no idea if the 'kits' are installed on replacment units. Maybe they have other internal changes that preclude the use of a kit.
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mogur
No kits on the replacements, they have been internally modified...
Tom
Good, Honda got that one right. |
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| nanali1 |
quote:
Originally posted by nanali1
Well... Now the CEL came on. The light came on right after one of the many 2nd gear slippage i've been encountering. Have another appt. on the 20th of July. I also did an ATF flush 2 days ago and the fluid is super dark and lots of metal bits/wood splinter looking stuck on the magnet/drain plug. How can I tell if the fluid is burnt?
Just wanted to give ya'll an update, dropped off the car @ Park Avenue Acura. This after they installed the Jet Kit and told me that they couldn't replicate the 2nd gear issue that I've been experiencing. This time, after the CEL came on, they are now replacing the tranny. I can now vote. I was holding off voting 'till I got the result that I wanted. REPLACEMENT. Downside is that I'll be driving a Ford Escape for a week.:mad: |
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| JR8 |
I voted earlier that the kit was put on my 02 mdx at about 45K, but after this past weekend (54K) I have to change my answer.
my wife was driving the MDX and the transmission would "dissengage" when trying to accellerate on the freeway. When I say "dissengage", the RPMs would climb to redline and the vehicle would be coasting. When the accelator was let up, the transmission would engeage with a jolt.
She took it to the dealership and they decided the tranny needed to be replaced. Even though the car was out of warranty, they replaced it without charge and in 3 business days (Valencia Acura)!
By the way we don't pull anything behind our vehicle, but we do make many trips a year up steep inclines to the mountains. |
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| Pauls MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by JR8
I voted earlier that the kit was put on my 02 mdx at about 45K, but after this past weekend (54K) I have to change my answer.
my wife was driving the MDX and the transmission would "dissengage" when trying to accellerate on the freeway. When I say "dissengage", the RPMs would climb to redline and the vehicle would be coasting. When the accelator was let up, the transmission would engeage with a jolt.
She took it to the dealership and they decided the tranny needed to be replaced. Even though the car was out of warranty, they replaced it without charge and in 3 business days (Valencia Acura)!
By the way we don't pull anything behind our vehicle, but we do make many trips a year up steep inclines to the mountains.
That was exactly what my baby did when I needed to replace at the 30,000 miles. I was able to drive for 3 weeks until they were able to get the unit. I never got stuck just had to wait for the tranny to engage when it sliped. |
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| bb123 |
| Those were the exact symptoms we experienced when our transmission failed. It is scary to me (and should be to Acura) that there are far more of these type of transmission failures than the "unrelated" problem that led to the recall of 600,000 units for the jet kit. |
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| rvehock |
| Just dropped off both my 01 MDX and 00 TL for the transmission recall, they added the TL's with a notice dated 6/24/04. Will post back with the results when I get them back. |
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