| A6MDX |
I've searched the archives and I can't find anyone that has a similar problem.
My wife was driving the MDX last night and the transmission just 'let go'. While in drive, the engine revs but it acts as if the transmission is in neutral. No odd sounds or warning lights.
The interesting thing is that the MDX will move if placed in 1st/2nd gear and reverse works as well. Place the gear selector in 3, 4 or D and nothing. In other cars I know this is called "Limp Mode." But there is normally some other indicator or malfunction lamp to indicate limp mode.
The MDX has about 21,000 miles on it and has had no other problems.
Anyone had something similar occur? |
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| strife63 |
Currently have 19,500 on my '03. Still no problems.
Take it in and have it checked out. Sounds serious. |
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| A6MDX |
| In case anyone has the same thing happen, a new transmission is on the way. |
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| perk |
| Damn! I had hoped they fixed the xmission problems in the '03 tranny. Oh well, let's hope you are one of the very few with the problem. BTW, did you do any heavy towing, rough driving, etc? I know you might be reluctant to share prior to new xmission install, but please let us know once you have the new one in place. Thanks. |
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| A6MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by perk
BTW, did you do any heavy towing, rough driving, etc? I know you might be reluctant to share prior to new xmission install, but please let us know once you have the new one in place. Thanks.
Only thing I have towed is a single JetSki. And only 3 or 4 times to a ramp that is about 12 miles away.
No rough driving, no off-road of any kind. It's my wife's daily driver. |
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| A6MDX |
| Transmission was replaced with a rebuilt one. No indication of what the problem was as they did not crack it open to diagnose it. |
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| mdx99 |
quote:
Originally posted by A6MDX
Transmission was replaced with a rebuilt one. No indication of what the problem was as they did not crack it open to diagnose it.
Sh###, at 20,000 miles, the tranny blew out already. I want my money back, Acura!:o |
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| Zbigniew |
Exact same thing happened to me yesterday. Vehicle was fine all morning. Came to an intersection, red light. Green light, I attempted to give it gas (I was in D5) and the engine revved as if it was in neutral, I was not moving. Automatic transmission. I waited and nothing happened, as if it was not in gear. Tried gears D4 and D3 and still could not move. Finally, when in D2, it moved and then I continued on my way. But, next intersection, same thing. The vehicle will only start moving in gears 1 or 2 and reverse. Once the vehicle is in motion the gears seem to work fine, as it goes through the gears D3 - D5. Seems like whenever the vehicle stops, it will slip out of gear. Vehicle only has 23,600 miles on it. Never any problem before. Transmission fluid level normal, but it does smell slightly burnt, possibly a clutch problem. Checked the web, 'alldata.com' but nothing listed for such a problem. Cannot find anything else about this problem. Good to see someone else has the same problem. Will be taking the vehicle in to Acura tomorrow. I am sure it will be covered under warrantly. Will post the problem and solution once I get it.
Kelowna, B.C., Canada |
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| mogur |
It appears that the 2003 and 2004 transmissions are turning out to be no more reilable than the 2001 and 2002. My buddies 2004 with 36,000 miles - he drives a lot - blew its transmission in a similar manner and it had to be replaced...
quote:
Originally posted by Zbigniew
Exact same thing happened to me yesterday. Vehicle was fine all morning. Came to an intersection, red light. Green light, I attempted to give it gas (I was in D5) and the engine revved as if it was in neutral, I was not moving. Automatic transmission. I waited and nothing happened, as if it was not in gear. Tried gears D4 and D3 and still could not move. Finally, when in D2, it moved and then I continued on my way. But, next intersection, same thing. The vehicle will only start moving in gears 1 or 2 and reverse. Once the vehicle is in motion the gears seem to work fine, as it goes through the gears D3 - D5. Seems like whenever the vehicle stops, it will slip out of gear. Vehicle only has 23,600 miles on it. Never any problem before. Transmission fluid level normal, but it does smell slightly burnt, possibly a clutch problem. Checked the web, 'alldata.com' but nothing listed for such a problem. Cannot find anything else about this problem. Good to see someone else has the same problem. Will be taking the vehicle in to Acura tomorrow. I am sure it will be covered under warrantly. Will post the problem and solution once I get it.
Kelowna, B.C., Canada
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| m2pc |
:eek:
Ohh CrapppOla
:(
They should extend the warranties on the trannies, I bought the X for reliability, now I'm wondering.....
3rd Acura, All have been positive experiences so far..... |
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| BlueStreak |
quote:
Originally posted by A6MDX
I've searched the archives and I can't find anyone that has a similar problem.
My wife was driving the MDX last night and the transmission just 'let go'. While in drive, the engine revs but it acts as if the transmission is in neutral. No odd sounds or warning lights.
The interesting thing is that the MDX will move if placed in 1st/2nd gear and reverse works as well. Place the gear selector in 3, 4 or D and nothing. In other cars I know this is called "Limp Mode." But there is normally some other indicator or malfunction lamp to indicate limp mode.
The MDX has about 21,000 miles on it and has had no other problems.
Anyone had something similar occur?
Just curious. Do you have an aux tranny cooler installed, either the one that came with the tow pkg or an after market unit? |
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| Aaron |
This is exactly what happened to me on the George Washington Bridge in the middle of rush hour last night. I pressed the accelerator, RPM gauge moved up, and the car didn't go.
The car will work if you treat it like a manual shift (whenever you stop the car, you need to shift into 1/2 gear to get it moving, and then up through the gears to D5 as you accelerate past 20 MPH or so).
I only had 33k miles on it, and had just had the 30k service done.
I hope this isn't the start of some horrible saga (see what happened to the 2001, 2002 MDX owners and their transmissions).
Car is at the dealer, new transmission being installed (under warranty). |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by BlueStreak
Just curious. Do you have an aux tranny cooler installed, either the one that came with the tow pkg or an after market unit?
I would not expect much improvement with the factory cooler. It probably does more to protect your warranty if you tow than it does to protect the transmission.
And if there is an inherent defect, a cooler MIGHT delay a problem, but not prevent one. |
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| cvyluv |
| OK so are any other 2003-2004 owners starting to get nervous like I am?? |
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| mdx-bro |
I have a 03 MDX w/ about 37k miles and it was just replaced due to the same problems you all have mentioned above (slips out of gear from stand still). This is bull crap that they have not had a re-call by now since it seems several folks on this list have hit this problem and it exists in previous years. They were very nice and professional about fixing it but it seemed odd to me that wouldn't even crack the tranny open. It is almost as if these tranny are built to be thrown away???
Clyde |
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| keeksv |
quote:
Originally posted by mdx-bro
I have a 03 MDX w/ about 37k miles and it was just replaced due to the same problems you all have mentioned above (slips out of gear from stand still). This is bull crap that they have not had a re-call by now since it seems several folks on this list have hit this problem and it exists in previous years. They were very nice and professional about fixing it but it seemed odd to me that wouldn't even crack the tranny open. It is almost as if these tranny are built to be thrown away???
Clyde
'03 MDX with 35K...new transmission is being put in as I speak...under warranty. Was making a slight whine in 4th gear, took it in to dealer and they said it was "unsafe to drive"
ew |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by keeksv
'03 MDX with 35K...new transmission is being put in as I speak...under warranty. Was making a slight whine in 4th gear, took it in to dealer and they said it was "unsafe to drive"
ew
Makes me wonder if they drove it. Once Ford replaced a transmission in a Taurus I had (routine) when I gave them the symptoms. They never drove it.
Turns out it was a throttle position sensor.
Yours sounds more defined. :) |
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| keeksv |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
Makes me wonder if they drove it. Once Ford replaced a transmission in a Taurus I had (routine) when I gave them the symptoms. They never drove it.
Turns out it was a throttle position sensor.
Yours sounds more defined. :)
They said they drove it and commented on rough shifting from 1-2, but then again, I could probably describe the same symptoms from 5 minutes on this board, or from talking to someone who has had similar problems.
No complaints about the service though...no questions asked about the repair.
Looking into getting an extended warranty now... |
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| mdx-bro |
My repair was covered under warrenty also but I am not comfortable with the lack of answers. Why not more diagnostics and or open up the case. They told my wife that the "tranny is sealed so that is why we do not open it" ALL TRANNIES ARE SEALED!!!!
Sheesh.
Clyde |
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| Aaron |
Dealer told me the replacement transmission is rebuilt. Old tranny goes back to factory to be refurbished. He said it's a "transmission valve" problem, and he's seen it before.
Declined to tell me how often he's seen it.
Next year I will have to decide whether to get rid of the car or get an extended warranty. |
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| keeksv |
| I asked the same thing about the replacement and was told that it would be a rebuilt unit. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mdx-bro
My repair was covered under warrenty also but I am not comfortable with the lack of answers. Why not more diagnostics and or open up the case. They told my wife that the "tranny is sealed so that is why we do not open it" ALL TRANNIES ARE SEALED!!!!
Sheesh.
Clyde
Yeah, they're sealed until you pull the dipstick or drain the fluid.
I think they mean they are not 'geared for maintenance' other than drain and fill.
No pan to drop, no filter to change. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by keeksv
I asked the same thing about the replacement and was told that it would be a rebuilt unit.
What did you expect, a brand new one off the production line? That will never happen on any car.
But the rebuilts, or remanufactured units 'should' have all the latest changes incorporated. Let's face it, it was a new one that failed, no reason to believe they are any better. |
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| keeksv |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
What did you expect, a brand new one off the production line? That will never happen on any car.
But the rebuilts, or remanufactured units 'should' have all the latest changes incorporated. Let's face it, it was a new one that failed, no reason to believe they are any better.
No expectations here, just stating what the dealer told me. No, I'm not expecting a new transmission, just one that works. And as I said before, I'm completely satisfied with the way this is being handled by Acura.
And yes, some car makers replace defective parts with new ones off the production line. My Cadillac is on its second rear end (differential). The first one was replaced with a brand new unit, new design. And currently, failures of this kind are being replaced with yet another, new redesigned unit...all under warranty. Not saying that new parts always fix the problem either...at least this isn't the case in my experience.
I will be shopping for an extended warranty on our MDX though |
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| Ceenit |
| Did they give you any documentation on the warranty period for the replacement tranny? I've heard varying stories on this board, but very little documented for the customer. |
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| keeksv |
quote:
Originally posted by Ceenit
Did they give you any documentation on the warranty period for the replacement tranny? I've heard varying stories on this board, but very little documented for the customer.
I'm planning on addressing this with the service tech once the car is fixed. What I'm hoping to do is talk my way into a break on an extended warranty on the entire car somehow. Regardless, I plan to get any kind of warranty on the replacement trans.(if any is offered) in writing, from them or from Acura.
Just glad I brought the car in for the noise before the original warranty period was over. |
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| keeksv |
From the Warranty Book--I guess if you pay for a remanufactured part yourself, it is 3 years/36K, but if it is a remanufactured part replaced under warranty, not sure what they do...will need to clarify this with the dealer. I would imagine that they would do 3/36 regardless if you ask them to, or just the balance of your new car warranty...
Your Warranties in Detail
Replacement Parts
Remanufactured Parts
Remanufactured parts installed by
an Acura dealer are covered for 3
years or 36,000 miles, whichever
comes first. Some examples of
remanufactured parts are alternators,
starters, brake calipers, power
steering racks and pumps, ABS
modulators, automatic transmissions,
and driveshafts. Check with your
dealer to determine if a
remanufactured part was used to
repair your vehicle.
Remanufactured parts purchased
from an Acura dealer but installed
by someone else are covered for 3
years from the date of purchase.
Warranty Coverage
Acura will repair or replace any
part covered by this warranty that
is defective in material or
workmanship under normal use. If
the part was originally installed
by an Acura dealer, the repair or
replacement will be done with no
charge for parts or labor. If the
part was originally installed by
someone else, the cost of the
replacement or repair is covered
by Acura, but you must pay all
installation costs.
This Warranty Does Not
Cover:
Parts replaced under the New
Car Limited Warranty or parts
covered by other warranties in
this manual.
Replacement Parts Limited Warranty |
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| mtran1977 |
I currently have 32500 miles on my 2003. My transmission has been making a ratcheting sound at 2100 RPM since around 10-15k miles. It was difficult to reproduce because you had to hold the RPMs at around 2100 to hear the noise.
Every time I brought it to the dealer, they said they could not reproduce the noise. I did a 3x drain and fill, oil change, VTM fluid change, and front differential oil change at 30k, and the noise went away for about a week.
I finally was able to reproduce the problem for the lead Acura tech, and was told that the transmission might have to be replaced. |
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| Todd03MDX |
My 2003 MDX with about 48,800 miles on it was finally taken in for this problem. It's my wife's daily driver and the final straw was when it just stopped while she was driving home on I-294 during rush hour traffic. She didn't know going all the way down to D2 or D1 would probably get it going again so she put it in park, shut the X off and restarted it, then it went. She was quite upset about it with all the other cars behind her on the tollway honking and such.
We took it in armed with a printout of this thread. Transmission was replaced. Maybe it's just because I haven't driven it for a while, but it sure seems to have more power than I remember. Could the gearing be different?
On the down side, the green gear indicator light around D5 started flashing. Turns out this is a fault indicator similar to the Check Engine Light but for the transmission. Also, my wife was not pleased that the X had not been washed when she picked it up last night and it was filthy, so she ran it through their car wash herself. But the biggest shock was when she got home and happened to walk around the passenger side and saw damage on the front corner. We immediately drove it back up to McGrath Acura in Westmont, IL. The service dept was closed but we talked to a sales manager about it. A nice mechanic remembered the X and said the damage was not there when it was being worked on. I dropped it off this morning and the service manager was all apologetic about the damage, immediately made an appointment for the body shop and kept the X to fix the remaining trans problem. I had plans to take my 4-year old daughter bike riding along the lake front downtown Chicago today and needed the X to get our bikes down there. Fortunately they gave me a 2006 X with Nav as a loaner. Every other time we've taken the X in for service we've only gotten a TSX. It sure seems like they knew about the damage but were hoping we wouldn't notice until it was too late to keep them responsible.
http://www.fototime.com/CCA99E8B497A91F/orig.jpg |
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| Advanex |
| Well, I just bought a 2003 MDX at my local dealership last week. It has 47K on it. I drove it home and was in love. I drove it to work the next morning, and since it was cool enough, I turned off the radio, and the A/C. I noticed a squeeling noise from about 35mph on up. Faster I go, the higher pitched it got. Took it to the dealership day before yesterday, and they said it was the tranny, so now I'm cruisin' in a 2006 TSX as a loaner until my new tranny gets put in. I'm just glad it was covered under waranty. |
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| oilchange |
I was hoping that the 2003 transmission, which is different from the 2001-02, would be much better.
Maybe not. |
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| BlueStreak |
For those of you experiencing problems with your 03 tranny, have any of you ever changed (yourself or via service shop) the tranny fluid? I read these posts with problems yet no one ever mentions the maint. services they have performed. I'm trying to see if there is any pattern with failures and fluid changes (or the frequency of changes).
I'm driving an 03 with just under 60k and no problems at all. I tow a jet ski, small trailer to haul wood etc. and a 3,000 competition ski boat. I don't tow long distances by any means, but I do tow in all kinds of weather. I lock the VTM and shift to D1 to pull the boat out of the water (9 degree ramp that is always wet), but that's it.
As I've posted before, on pervious transmission fluid changes I've noticed my fluid was darker than original. Never a burnt smell, but on the first two changes my drain plug was much dirtier than I would have expected. I've never done the "tripple flush" as others have mentioned; rather I drain and fill every other (7,000 mi) oil change.
Seems to be working for me so I'm staying the course with both vehicles. I follow about the same pattern with my 1994 Honda Accord, and with 180,000 miles on the odo the original transmission shifts like it did when I bought it. (My vette is a 6-speed manual so fluid changes aren't the issue.)
Daleb - Your comment about the coolers was you wouldn't expect to see much improvement. Isn't removing heat the main issue here? If the cooler can lower fluid temps a few degree's, why do you say this wouldn't do much? With higher engine operating temps for emissions reasons the tranny fluid is automatically at this new temp. Wouldn't this contribute to the "burnt" smell people talk about? |
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| Todd03MDX |
I completed the 45k maintenance myself on 03/20/06, which included the ATF. This was the 1st and only ATF service ever done. There's a thread here on how to do it and people have said it really takes about 3.5 qts to refill after a drain rather than the 3.0 qts the manual says. So after my 1st drain, I refilled with 3.5 qts. After driving around for about 5 miles or so, I checked the level and it seemed to be overfilled. So I drained again and refilled with just 3.0 qts. Drove it again around 8 miles and checked. The ATF level was not low at all so I believe the manual is correct, at least on my '03. Drained a 3rd time and refilled with 3.0 qts. With this final drain I put in a new crush washer.
With the 1st drain the ATF fluid was darker than new, of course, but didn't seem overly dark. I didn't notice anything unusual or surprising.
It was about a month ago that my wife thinks she first started experiencing the transmission slipping. Is it coincidence that it started about 2 months after doing the ATF service? Hmm, don't know. Doesn't seem right to me that just doing a simple maintenance at the appropriately scheduled mileage could cause any negative effects.
My X does not have the towing package or an auxiliary cooler, so it's never been put under any heavy towing stress or even carrying a big load. There's been only a few times we've had a full load of 7 people. We've never used the VTM-4 Lock button. |
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| m2pc |
I don't think that your change had anything to do with it unless you didn't use the ATFZ1 fluid or if the level was low, but you said you checked it out and all was well.
After they swap out, I am sure they will be sending this back to refurb, maybe you could request a post-mortem defect report? I am sure if these failures are not common, they would like to know why the redesigned tranny failed.
Although the recommended ATF change is 45k, I would use the severe at 30k, or as a precaution, every 15k (for 2003 an up this is probably overkill) for the drain and fill. (I wouldn't use a flush machine only because I think I saw a Honda TSB recommending against it.) |
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| Todd03MDX |
Yes, I used only authentic Honda ATF-Z1 and since this MDX is a lease, I decided to do all the maintenance strictly by the book. So I figure as long as I do that, what happens, happens and it will be covered.
I also have read a thread or two talking about how a power flush can be bad. I think it's funny though that the dealer markets a power flush of the transmission. |
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| BlueStreak |
I would request from the dealer a report on why the unit failed. I'm curious as to the reason(s) if they will share with you. On my initial tranny fluid change my drain plug tip was coated with material. The 2nd change the plug was cleaner and the most recent hange had no material of any kind on it. I was curious what the material was, but more thankful I cleaned it out of the unit.
The flush machines are not recommended for several reasons. One is the chemical used to clean.
Good luck with the repair and the new unit. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by BlueStreak
I would request from the dealer a report on why the unit failed. I'm curious as to the reason(s) if they will share with you. On my initial tranny fluid change my drain plug tip was coated with material. The 2nd change the plug was cleaner and the most recent hange had no material of any kind on it. I was curious what the material was, but more thankful I cleaned it out of the unit.
The flush machines are not recommended for several reasons. One is the chemical used to clean.
Good luck with the repair and the new unit.
They can be flushed the old way. Just using the transmission pump while the engine idles. Really takes 2 people, one to add new fluid at the top, and the other to watch the old fluid go in a bucket until it runs clean.
Another variation is 2 buckets, one with fresh fluid to be sucked up while the other is pumped out.
Can be messy, you have to be very careful, and it's kind of a hassle.
Most transmission shops can do the same thing, quicker, and no use of solvents.
Besides solvents, the other concern is too much pressure from outboard flushing machines pushing contamination into small spaces.
When you come down to it, the best all around is just a simple drain every 10-15K miles. Maybe every 2nd or 3rd oil change. |
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| ELP_JC |
I'm doing it every 10K myself. I'm surprised Honda hasn't changed the schedule from its 30K miles; it's ridiculous on this marginal trannies. And I wouldn't dare towing anything.
My manual doesn't mention any number of quarts; it all depends how much you drain (if vehicle is inclined it'd drain more).
Plus the method to measure the level is a little stupid IMHO. It says to 'immediately' check level after shutting motor off. If I do it right away (hood open, jumping out of the car immediately after shutting motor off), it's at one level. If I wait even a few seconds later, level shows a lot lower, as fluid rapidly settles down. I HATE that. Why just don't check it when engine is idling, like most cars?
Anyway, I let mine drain overnight, and have been putting 4 quarts. Haven't had a problem, plus more fresh fluid. Bottom line is change the darn fluid at least every 10K miles if you don't want any problems, because a failure would most likely be outside of the warranty. Cheap insurance folks. Later. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by ELP_JC
Anyway, I let mine drain overnight, and have been putting 4 quarts. Haven't had a problem, plus more fresh fluid. Bottom line is change the darn fluid at least every 10K miles if you don't want any problems, because a failure would most likely be outside of the warranty. Cheap insurance folks. Later.
I thought it was around 3 1/2 qts on the 01 and 02s...you are doing the right thing. Probably less of an issue with an 04 but it is really cheap insurance. |
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| Advanex |
Well, I got my M back from the dealer. New (or rebuilt) tranny and new torque converter installed. Still have the squeeling noise, so obvioulsy it wasn't a tranny problem, but I'm not complaining since I have basically a new tranny in a 2003 M.
I personally think it is a bad bearing. I'm going back to the dealer on monday to drive with them and see what they say. |
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| Todd03MDX |
| This is way overdue, but several posts back I related my poor experience with McGrath Acura in Westmont, IL and how my MDX was damaged while in their care. Well, I'm happy to report they did a great job taking care of it. They took full responsibility and got it fixed. They also had a couple of engineers from Acura corporate come in to figure out and fix the transmission problem after it was replaced. While this was all being done I got a 2006 MDX with Nav as a loaner, which we put well over 1,000 miles on. And when I finally picked up my MDX, it was fully detailed inside and out, and even under the hood. The service manager there bent over backwards to take care of me and I really appreciate that. I did ask if he could get me a report on what happened to my transmission, but I'm not holding my breath for it. He wasn't sure if he could get it. If I get it, I'll certainly make it availalbe to anyone that wants it. |
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| Will4271 |
I also have an '03 MDX but the transmission is fine. No problems what so ever.
Got the vehicle on 10/31/02 (late night)
Good luck... |
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| screbr |
Can anyone here who's experienced the 03-04 transmission disengaging comment on whether they noticed any indications that their transmission was deteriorating?
My wife's 04 has about 26K on it, and the last few times I've driven it, I've noticed that the 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd shifting is rough, and the rev's go much higher "than I would expect" before shifting. For example, the 1st to 2nd is shifting at around 3k or 3200 RPMs on what I would consider light to normal acceleration.
I'm going to take it into the dealer when I get back in town next week, but just thought I'd pose the question for additional ammo. |
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| mtran1977 |
quote:
Originally posted by screbr
For example, the 1st to 2nd is shifting at around 3k or 3200 RPMs on what I would consider light to normal acceleration.
I think this is normal. My old and replaced transmission both do this. If you consistently accelerate lightly, the transmission will "learn" to shift earlier. (it might just be psychological...) The shifting behavior is annoying though because the engine is loud when it goes over 3000RPMs. |
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| foreign...bah! |
My wifes 2003 MDX started acting up about a month ago; the A/T Temp light and 5 speed flashing, started going off. The X has 85K miles on it and I'm guessing the Warranty is 75K from the information I've gathered from the other bloggers. We took it in and the Service Techs said the A/T Sensor was bad ($200 to replace) and that the fluid was dark and had a burnt smell, so they flushed the tranny. One of the Acura Service Techs was up front about the transmission problems on other Honda products, and that got me here. We drove the X from the dealership to a birthing class and there was a pronounced thud going into 2nd or 3rd shift (and reving to 4000 rpm) sometimes, but no A/T Temp light or 5 speed flashing.
It's my wifes car, but I've not been happy with the quality of this vehicle. Here is a list of quality issues we've had to date:
- Paint chipping on hood, A-pillar, back quarter panel at 6 months.
- Sunroof drain line was not connected properly and subsequently drained on top of a fuse box making the windows go up and down on their own at 9 months.
- Steering wheel radio controls stopped working at 18 months.
- Pending transmission failure at 32 months.
And you would think there is a Gulag somewhere for Acura Service Department personnel who don't get the "10". What's up with that? I just about came unglued when we first bought the vehicle; it took me 6 months to get their Gestapo follow-up people to stop calling me and start calling my wife. |
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| DJ Super Duke |
Since Friday night my Transmission been acting up.
1st.....On Friday night I went to parallel park and when I put the car on reverse it wouldn't go.
2nd. I'm on 93 in Boston going about 40mph..the car starts jerking back and fourth as if I was loosing gas, but it seems like the gears wasn't switching right.
3. rd After driving with it for a while it seems it was capped at one specific speed.
4. Finaly It would not back up at all, each time I had to put it on Neutal and push. SO that did it for me I drove it to the dealership yesterday.
Is this the known transmission problem that is common with that model.
01 ACURA MDX 71K |
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| shootist |
It could be malfunctioning roof racks.
But if the transmission won't shift, the transmission is probably broken. Do you think it might be something else? |
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| CofOjones |
| The transmission on my wife's '03 MDX failed after she just had the 60,000 mi service completed! It started to lose power as she explained it and then one day while coming up our driveway it let go , like it was knocked out of gear. Once she put it into park and back into gear it went again. We took it to the dealer and they replaced it with a new transmission. Ironic that it happened right after the service (150 miles later) :mad: |
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| Will4271 |
quote:
Originally posted by Todd03MDX
This is way overdue, but several posts back I related my poor experience with McGrath Acura in Westmont, IL and how my MDX was damaged while in their care. Well, I'm happy to report they did a great job taking care of it. They took full responsibility and got it fixed. They also had a couple of engineers from Acura corporate come in to figure out and fix the transmission problem after it was replaced. While this was all being done I got a 2006 MDX with Nav as a loaner, which we put well over 1,000 miles on. And when I finally picked up my MDX, it was fully detailed inside and out, and even under the hood. The service manager there bent over backwards to take care of me and I really appreciate that. I did ask if he could get me a report on what happened to my transmission, but I'm not holding my breath for it. He wasn't sure if he could get it. If I get it, I'll certainly make it availalbe to anyone that wants it.
Did you pay anything for the repair of the transmission? |
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| Will4271 |
All these posts got me worried when my transmission will give out :(
I have that '03 also. |
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| Todd03MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
Did you pay anything for the repair of the transmission?
No, the replacement of the transmission and the additional fine tuning they had to do so the tranny light would stop blinking was all under warranty. |
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| xavier405 |
I'm real sorry to read about all these transmission problems.
Is there any way to get an idea of how many people are NOT having problems? There is a tendency for people to post on forums like this when there are issues, so we get to read about them. But are these problems happening to 2% of the MDXs? or 50%? ??
Thanks |
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| DefCon4 |
I recently bought an '03 MDX on eBay. Silver with black leather interior. No NAV or DVD unfortunately. 48k miles for $19,200. It was a no reserve auction that I won by bidding.
Well, it would "shutter" around 1500 RPMs so I took it in to the dealer with 49925 miles on it (just under the warranty wire). It's now being fitted for a brand new transmission.....wonderful !! I only got to drive it a handful of times and it's been in the dealer service center since.
Re: Buying cars on eBay - Last year I purchased my 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 on eBay and got a similar excellent deal. However it has run flawlessly since day one. I've never had it in the shop for anything but a fluid flush and oil change (expecting a baby, so I had to upgrade to something with a back seat....no quad cab)
Incidentally, I still have the Ram and I'm trying to sell it. If anyone is interested in a Hemi Ram (50k miles ~$18k - Exc Cond in/out)....virginia beach area.
I've heard the trannies on the '03 MDX are either perfect or trash.....meaning there must have been a bad batch of them floating around out there or something.
Interested to hear if anyone else has experienced problems with the '03 MDX that I should look out for.
Just an FYI... the dealer told me the "EGR valve issue" has recv'd an extended warranty mileage of 80k. So if you're above the base 50k, you might still be able to get your EGR valve swapped out for free. Apparently this valve has been known to cause the shuttering....not so in my case).
Thanks.... |
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| storwatch |
| My friend bought a used 2003 mdx, he had the trans problem. But I don't have problem on mine yet! |
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| COX03 |
I joined this site just to make this post. I found it after I had already experienced my tranny problem, and I wanted to find out if it was a widespread problem. Sounds like it is.
Anyway, here is my story. My '03 MDX tranny failed at 57k miles, 7k out of warranty. Same problem as was described in the initial post. Wife driving car, comes to a stoplight, engine revs but won't engage. Luckily it was about 300 yards from my office, so I walk over, and discover that the car will go if placed in reverse, D1, or D2, but not D3, D4, or D5. But, you can start out in 1 or 2 and then upshift to 3,4, or 5 once up to speed.
Somebody suggested that the dealer would fix it for free, and sure enough, they did, to much initial applause. This was Mile High Acura near Denver, CO. The only thing they checked was to see if I had done my 30,000 mile service, which I had done at that dealership (which is where I bought the car).
I had approached the service manager initially, and he assured me that if I had done the required services that the regional service manager would approve it. Later, I talked to a different service guy, and he also was sure that it would be done for free. Makes me think they do this all the time.
Not everything went smoothly, though.
The first repair (you can see where this is going) took a week, as expected. Brought the car home. Found fluid dripping all over the garage and driveway. Not good.
Brought it back. Diagnosis, seal bad on rear diff. (We had asked them to do the 60k service, after they fixed the tranny, which included changing the diff fluid). So, three days later, they've got that fixed. Oh, and the dealer sends a guy to our house to clean up the drip marks (without me asking). So kudos for that.
Great. Pick up car, drive it back. On the way home, the light starts blinking on the gear selector... manual says that means potential tranny problem!
Call the dealer this morning. The service manager himself drives to our house immediately, drops off a new MDX loaner, and takes our car back to the shop. I just found out that we will be getting another new tranny.
So, props to Mile High Acura on the effort and the willingness to do the right thing. But I'm beginning to wonder how long I should keep this car. I asked the dealer for an extended warranty this morning, since the rebuilt tranny only comes with a one year warranty.... We'll see. |
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| Todd03MDX |
| Yeah, I had the gear selector blinking light issue too after getting the tranny replaced. Took it back, they had a couple of special technicians come in to figure it out and got it fixed. So far so good. |
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| MrPrescott |
I posted an intro to this problem somewhere, but couldn't find it...
I have an 02 MDX, purchased in Nov 2001, now with 62K miles. We decided to sell it before I had problems and wouldn't you know, transmission started slipping before we could sell it.
At first, dealer said we hadn't serviced the tranny there at 45K, and where I did probably didn't use Honda fluid (indicating I was SOL). I found my records - discovered that I had it done at the Honda dealership. Once they learned that, they said they'd check it out.
At first, said nothing was wrong. I told them to keep the car until they experienced the problem. 4 days later they called, saying the computer had picked up the problem and that Acura was sending a new transmission - FREE!
Kudos to Acura service for taking responsibility - once they realized they couldn't blame it on me.
My MDX is for sale with a New Transmission, if anyone wants it. Yours for $18,950!;) |
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| blueshoo |
Have a 2003 MDX with 49k miles on it that was purchased in March with 43k miles. About 1 month and <1k miles from being out of warranty, so trying to make sure a transmission problem doesn't come up to bite me once it's outside the warranty period, although the posts about Acura taking care of problems post-warranty is somewhat reassuring.
I've read the many descriptions of the MDXes dropping out of gear, and wondering if anyone who's had a transmission go bad had a similar experience to this:
When slowing down from say 3rd or 2nd gear (e.g., stop-and-go traffic), then accelerating, the transmission wouldn't 'catch' a gear, so the engine rev'd in idle. Then, BAM, it catches gear. It's only happened a few times. On all but one this resulted in a small jerk forward as the acceleration caught. Once it was an all out launch, though, creating a real safety issue.
I've recently done a simple 1x Transmission Fluid change, and it hasn't happened since. My concern is that this is a sign of very bad things to come, though.
Any similar experiences?
I haven't yet taken it to the dealer, but planning in the next week or so, just because of the concern. At this point, I'm not sure what they'd be able to determine since nothing is really happening. But, I don't want to be stuck (literally and figuratively) with a bad transmission down the line.. The previous owner had what appears to be a 1x transmission fluid change done at the dealer in June 2005 @ ~31k miles. |
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| DefCon4 |
| In response to the previous post.... Drive ...very quickly....to your local dealer and tell them your tranny is doing all kinds of crazy things. I did this and was lucky I got in 75 miles under the 50k warranty. thank GOD I did because I saved myself at least $4000. |
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| madress |
My transmission failed at 45K - under warranty thank goodness. Now though I fear the problem may have plans to return. Why do I think this? On a recent road trip, a felt a kind of slip intermittently when driving approximately 70-72 mph. I also have a slight vibration at this speed which does not seem to be the tire balance (I have had the tires balanced twice in the past month to try to solve the problem). I recall the little intermittent slip just prior to my initial transmission failure.
My '03 MDX has 60K miles presently. This causes me a dilema: sell the vehicle before it cost me? I can't in good conscience dump this problem on some unsuspecting soul. I could trade it with the expectation a dealer would be responsible to the next buyer. I could drive on and hope for the best. I shouldn't have to worry about this. I bought an Acura because of the perception of quality. |
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| blueshoo |
quote:
Originally posted by madress
My transmission failed at 45K - under warranty thank goodness. Now though I fear the problem may have plans to return. Why do I think this? On a recent road trip, a felt a kind of slip intermittently when driving approximately 70-72 mph. I also have a slight vibration at this speed which does not seem to be the tire balance (I have had the tires balanced twice in the past month to try to solve the problem). I recall the little intermittent slip just prior to my initial transmission failure.
My '03 MDX has 60K miles presently. This causes me a dilema: sell the vehicle before it cost me? I can't in good conscience dump this problem on some unsuspecting soul. I could trade it with the expectation a dealer would be responsible to the next buyer. I could drive on and hope for the best. I shouldn't have to worry about this. I bought an Acura because of the perception of quality.
Is there an extended warranty covering the new transmission? |
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| 3HawaiiMonkeys |
We have a 2003 MDX Touring model with 30k miles on it. For the past few months we've been experiencing a flashing D5 on the shift indicator lights within the instument panel. The manual made reference to potential transmission problems. The dealer determined that it was a faulty 4th. gear pressure switch, so they replaced it. After a few weeks, the indicator light flashed again. We took it back and they found a faulty PCM and had it replaced. A few weeks went by and you guessed it, the D5 light started flashing again! Back to the dealer and it was a faulty 4th. gear pressure switch again! How many switches do they need to go through before they realize that something else might be causing the switches to fail?
Has anyone had this problem? If so, how was it corrected. Any info. would help. Thank you. |
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| dmagargee |
I just had my 2003 with 44,200 towed to the Acura Dealer. It would move in D1 or D2 and R, I did not know I could get up to speed in D2 and then shift up. I was through the NJ Toll and about to go over the Commodore Barry Bridge, where I did not want to be stuck....
Guess I will be getting a replaced transmission. I have to talk to dealer tomorrow... as of this evening they said they had no loaners available, I sure hope they have something for me to drive tomorrow.
I am also disappointed about this, how reliable will the rebuilt transmission be? |
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| MrPrescott |
quote:
Originally posted by dmagargee
I am also disappointed about this, how reliable will the rebuilt transmission be?
I was told, when the replaced my 02 Tranny, that it is a new transmission - not rebuilt. From what I understand, they can't rebuild them. |
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| SouthOCMDX |
My 2003 mdx transmission failed over the weekend. I had the 5yr/100k warranty and failure happened at 100,100 miles... just my luck.
My parents had exact same problem with their 2003 mdx at around 40K miles (iirc) and had their transmission replaced under warranty. Both vehicles had same symptoms before the failures were diagnosed (slipping out of gear).
I have the factory tow package on mine (with trans & ps fluid coolers). My parents do not. I have towed with the vehicle only twice and never towed anything over 1000 lbs (jetski trailer and rental trailer only).
All service was done at the dealer.
Up to now we have been very brand loyal to Honda. I currently own a 3.5RL & 2kw generator, and previously owned a CRX & Honda Motorcycle, and wife has owned several Civics. We buy Honda and Acura products for quality.
What is a reasonable life expectancy for a transmission on this vehicle? Personally I don't expect a Honda/Acura transmission to fail prior to 250k miles under normal driving conditions and with maintenance done. Is this unrealistic?
Where is the recall??? Two failures in one family is hardly a coincidence. I have two sons under 5 and to me this is a safety issue when a transmission slips out of gear while merging into traffic or making a left turn.
Acura is offering to do a 50/50 split on my repair because I am out of warranty (by 100 miles!) and give me 3yr/36k warranty on the replacement tranny. Is this a fair deal or am I getting the shaft? |
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| Ceenit |
SouthOCMDX,
Only being 100 miles over, you have a very strong arguement against paying anything.
Especially considering the recent litigation with Honda on the odometer readings being off (yes the Acura MDX is included in this litigation). Basically, Honda will not admit fault, but they are being forced to extend all warranties by 5%.
I'll see if I can scan the legal paperwork this evening. |
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| Todd03MDX |
| Ceenit is right. You should be fine because of the class action lawsuit. There is a thread about it on this board under the General discussion titled "Odometer class action lawsuit". See if this link works for you: http://www.acuramdx.org/forums/show...ghlight=lawsuit |
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| SouthOCMDX |
Wow...
I haven't been frequenting the site as often lately so I missed that thread.
After reading through it, does look like I have a very good argument for getting a replacement transmission free of charge. Under the settlement the extended warranty is clearly eligible for the 5% bump. It looks like it's a question of whether I pay the proposed 50% now and get my money back after the settlement is finalized or they do the repair as goodwill and save me the paperwork.
My MDX is still in "under review" status and is still out of commission at the dealer waiting for resolution of my open case. I am going to call Acura tomorrow and see if they change their tune about the 50/50 split.
Thx a ton. |
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| Ceenit |
I would definitly NOT pay the 50% now. I think it would be MUCH easier to make the point up front with them, than to go back after the fact through all the litigation remediation processes.
You may just have to work up the ladder a bit to get to a level of management that is at least aware of the new warrany policy. It shouldn't take much though as I doubt it's a secret at any Acura dealership.
My bet is they are just trying to burn you for some extra cash for their service department. |
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| richkuan |
Man, this thread is getting more and more scray! Honda's products have pretty consistent quality (note: I said "consistent", which does not mean "good"). So, if many have that problem, 95% possibility is all the car have that problem.
I thought 2003 MDX has a good tranny! But looks like it's just another bomb with extended timer.
Although mine is still trouble free, I believe sooner or later the problem will surface (better before the warranty expires).
I had posted before regarding Acura's quality problems. They want to save money by sacrificing the quality. Which, IMO, is stupid. And this is why I don't want to buy any "luxurious" car from Acura anymore.
I once heard a sales in an Acura dealer introduce the RDX to other customers. He said, it has brand new designed engine and transmission. I was laughing quietly, because that why I don't want it. Because, with Acura's marginal quality, I don't want to pay $40000 to be a "test driver". |
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