| hsj |
quote:
Originally posted by ndahbar
HOLY. This is a long a** thread. :D
In response to my last reply...uhm...my dealer CALLED Acura CR in front of me to confirm whether or not they knew about this issue and if there was a fix in the works. So uhm...that is why the service dept was comfortable doing the work.
Ok, I dont understand what all the posts are about. WHO CARES what model you drive. If you don't hear anything, good for you! If you do, this is REAL: Go fix it, or wait for the official recall, coming soon to a dealership near you.
I remember it was fixed on your X , BUT you didn't made it clear if CS acknowledged it and supported the temporary fix ?
Any update on the recall.. |
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| fsconsult |
quote:
Originally posted by hsj
I remember it was fixed on your X , BUT you didn't made it clear if CS acknowledged it and supported the temporary fix ?
Any update on the recall..
Did anyone else try this temporary fix??? Did it resolve.
I'm starting to get a bad feeling that this fix may turn out to be an "Urban Legend"
My service dept. nor ACS haven't heard anything.
Just curious! |
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| hsj |
quote:
Originally posted by fsconsult
Did anyone else try this temporary fix??? Did it resolve.
I'm starting to get a bad feeling that this fix may turn out to be an "Urban Legend"
My service dept. nor ACS haven't heard anything.
Just curious!
I'm not sure how many, but there are lot of owners who have tried this and it has infact resolved the issue. I'm so happy to have mine without the noise now.... |
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| ndabrens |
| Well, I got tired of listening to the drone so thought I would try a home-made fix. After having read most of the posts I removed the middle exhaust hanger and sure enough the drone disappeared. Trouble is if you trace the exhaust you'll see that it doesn't look too secure without a middle hanger so I tried a couple of home-made hangers: Coat-hanger wire, solid block of rubber with two drill holes, laminated hard rubber hanger with drill holes, braided copper wire and even tried just sticking a cork in the gap of the existing hanger. None of these fixes worked. Then I remembered a post where someone (owner or service tech) had stretched the existing hanger so that is what I did. Took the hanger into the basement, set it across the "jaws" of my Workmate, stuck screwdrivers through the holes of the hanger into the holes in the wooden jaws and then cranked open the jaws. (Have to be careful 'cause as you stretch the rubber the screwdrivers want to come out of the work-mate; could wear one in the forehead!) Anyway, I cranked open the Workmate until I thought it would break and then cranked close the jaws again. Re-installed the rubber hanger (which didn't LOOK any different) and Voila! Barely any drone (~95% gone) and the exhaust system is still properly secured. Took a drive out to the mountains this morning and couldn't make it drone. |
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| MDteX |
quote:
Originally posted by ndabrens
Well, I got tired of listening to the drone so thought I would try a home-made fix. After having read most of the posts I removed the middle exhaust hanger and sure enough the drone disappeared. Trouble is if you trace the exhaust you'll see that it doesn't look too secure without a middle hanger so I tried a couple of home-made hangers: Coat-hanger wire, solid block of rubber with two drill holes, laminated hard rubber hanger with drill holes, braided copper wire and even tried just sticking a cork in the gap of the existing hanger. None of these fixes worked. Then I remembered a post where someone (owner or service tech) had stretched the existing hanger so that is what I did. Took the hanger into the basement, set it across the "jaws" of my Workmate, stuck screwdrivers through the holes of the hanger into the holes in the wooden jaws and then cranked open the jaws. (Have to be careful 'cause as you stretch the rubber the screwdrivers want to come out of the work-mate; could wear one in the forehead!) Anyway, I cranked open the Workmate until I thought it would break and then cranked close the jaws again. Re-installed the rubber hanger (which didn't LOOK any different) and Voila! Barely any drone (~95% gone) and the exhaust system is still properly secured. Took a drive out to the mountains this morning and couldn't make it drone.
That's great, but strange. Rubber's characteristic is that it returns to its normal shape. Hopefully after time it will stay "drone free" for you. Some others on this board could take some lessons from you about being a little pro-active. |
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| Sir P |
quote:
Originally posted by MDteX
That's great, but strange. Rubber's characteristic is that it returns to its normal shape...
The speed and completeness of returning to its original shape depend on the properties of the particular rubber material. There is a small chance that stretching this rubber bracket provides only a temporary fix, and the drone will return in a few months. A better fix will be Acura releasing a redesigned longer bracket and notifying every dealer of the problem. |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by ACURA58
But the real question is: Do you go on line to a Forum, such as this, and complain about your washing machine when it doesn't work too??"
First of all, it hasn't failed. Second of all, what the hell is your problem? Didn't you get the message when you were banned (etdw) the first time? No matter what you say I won't go away; get it?
I hope all legitimate owners with this problem (or any other) don't get discouraged by stupid comments like these guy's. Why the hell do they keep coming back at this thread if they don't have the drone problem?? Hopefully a moderator can ban this creep again, at least from this thread. They can go express their sick love for this car somewhere else; we just want to deal with real problems, that's all.
Back to topic. Based on the success of several of you removing the middle hanger, I'll do it today, just to see if the problem is eliminated. I was reluctant to do it because the apparent lack of support, but will do it temporarily to make sure I'm included in the apparent fix.
Later guys. |
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| ndahbar |
quote:
Originally posted by fsconsult
Did anyone else try this temporary fix??? Did it resolve.
I'm starting to get a bad feeling that this fix may turn out to be an "Urban Legend"
My service dept. nor ACS haven't heard anything.
Just curious!
TRUST me, this is no Urban Legend. Go ahead, call CS and tell them about it, we'll see who is right.
This is real guys. My car had a low-volume, yet annoying drone sound at ~2000 rpm in any gear. It's history. |
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| ELP_JC |
You guys about the middle hanger were right. The front one made absolutely no difference, and I was doubtful the middle one would do the trick. Well, removed it yesterday night, went for a ride this morning, and IT'S COMPLETELY GONE. As a comment, the hanger had basically no elongation at all, making it very hard to make sense of the whole thing. Good job HJS (I think he's the one saying all along to remove the middle hanger). Unfortunately, leaving the hanger removed would put undue stress in the system, and could eventually fail, so I'm reluctantly going to put it back until we all can figure out what's safe to do (you're welcome to persuade me otherwise, of course). I have a solution at the bottom, by the way.
Upon close inspection, the problem has nothing to do with the exhaust itself, but it's being transmitted THRU the exhaust. The front hanger is suspended from the front cross-member, which doesn't transmit any vibration to the passenger compartment (no wonder it didn't make a bit of difference). The middle one, however, is WELDED to the passenger structure, and basically acts like a speaker when the harmonic resonance of the engine at 2K is transmitted THRU the exhaust.
The only proper solution (supporting the exhaust) consists of a bracket supported by the frame, rather than the passenger structure; there's NO SUBFRAME in all that area at all. This can only be achieved by attaching a side-to-side bar bolted to the frame, from the location where the side steps attach. The rest of the problem lies on where exactly, and how to support the exhaust (push it up with a rubber block, weld a hanger similar to the existing one, etc).
There's another possible solution, and I want your opinion:
If that HUGE middle muffler wasn't there, the weight of the exhaust would be minimum, and we could very safely leave it unsupported. As an '04 owner, we already know our cars have absolutely NO SOUND from the exhaust, compared to the very nice sound from previous years. Soooo, what about replacing the middle muffler with a straight piece of pipe??? No way in the world our exhaust would be loud with those 2 very big mufflers at the rear, but maybe we could get the sound other years of MDX enjoy, while not having to add any more weight and inconvenience with the 'fix'. And at least it'd sound like it looks!!
Comments welcome.
JC |
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| dbddaw |
Guys,
I am not sure what the "middle exhaust hanger" looks like! Can anyone post some pics? |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by dbddaw
Guys,
I am not sure what the "middle exhaust hanger" looks like! Can anyone post some pics?
There're pics on this thread; page 6 or 7 if memory serves me right.
But you can't miss it buddy: the lower 'hook' is welded to the front of the huge middle muffler, and the front of the muffler is EXACTLY where the front and rear doors meet. Just slide under the X at that point and you'll literally hit it with your head (just went under to tell you this accurately).
I'm going to put it back for now after polishing the metal surfaces and lubing the hanger where it mounts; hope that makes a difference. Before trips, I'll just slide it off the top hanger for a quiet ride; this should minimize chances for damage to the exhaust.
Hope this helps. |
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| ACURA58 |
[QUOTE]Originally posted by ELP_JC
[B]
First of all, it hasn't failed. Second of all, what the hell is your problem? Didn't you get the message when you were banned (etdw) the first time? No matter what you say I won't go away; get it?
Glad to see you're still aboard. Was beginning to worry! Nothing like your friendly comments to stir things up.
Oh, by the way, congrats on the repair. Boy, for a second there, I truly thought that 'drone' was coming from your head.......Thank goodness I was wrong!
:p |
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| ndahbar |
quote:
Originally posted by ELP_JC
You guys about the middle hanger were right. The front one made absolutely no difference, and I was doubtful the middle one would do the trick. Well, removed it yesterday night, went for a ride this morning, and IT'S COMPLETELY GONE. As a comment, the hanger had basically no elongation at all, making it very hard to make sense of the whole thing. Good job HJS (I think he's the one saying all along to remove the middle hanger). Unfortunately, leaving the hanger removed would put undue stress in the system, and could eventually fail, so I'm reluctantly going to put it back until we all can figure out what's safe to do (you're welcome to persuade me otherwise, of course). I have a solution at the bottom, by the way.
Upon close inspection, the problem has nothing to do with the exhaust itself, but it's being transmitted THRU the exhaust. The front hanger is suspended from the front cross-member, which doesn't transmit any vibration to the passenger compartment (no wonder it didn't make a bit of difference). The middle one, however, is WELDED to the passenger structure, and basically acts like a speaker when the harmonic resonance of the engine at 2K is transmitted THRU the exhaust.
The only proper solution (supporting the exhaust) consists of a bracket supported by the frame, rather than the passenger structure; there's NO SUBFRAME in all that area at all. This can only be achieved by attaching a side-to-side bar bolted to the frame, from the location where the side steps attach. The rest of the problem lies on where exactly, and how to support the exhaust (push it up with a rubber block, weld a hanger similar to the existing one, etc).
There's another possible solution, and I want your opinion:
If that HUGE middle muffler wasn't there, the weight of the exhaust would be minimum, and we could very safely leave it unsupported. As an '04 owner, we already know our cars have absolutely NO SOUND from the exhaust, compared to the very nice sound from previous years. Soooo, what about replacing the middle muffler with a straight piece of pipe??? No way in the world our exhaust would be loud with those 2 very big mufflers at the rear, but maybe we could get the sound other years of MDX enjoy, while not having to add any more weight and inconvenience with the 'fix'. And at least it'd sound like it looks!!
Comments welcome.
JC
Glad to see that I have a supporter finally in the ending parts of this thread. :4:
I am not concerened at all from the exhaust not being supported. I am sure the tech woulda mentioned something. BESIDES a recall is coming soon to fix this so she will be back in their service bay for a very brief period, for free. :1:
I didn't know they quieted down the 04. But err, actually, I hear nothing from the exhaust, it's all glorious engine sound.
Hmm...I am thinking to remove the airbox just for an hour and drive around, see how it sounds. It was awesome when my friend did it for his Honda S2000. :cool: |
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| Arzoo |
| Two days ago I dropped my X off at the dealership for state inspection, an oil change, and to diagnose/fix the 2000rpm engine drone. I came prepared with info from this thread, including the phone number for the other dealership that has resolved the problem. At the time I left the car, there was no tech to go for a test drive, so I carefully explained the problem. I told them that the noise was very loud at 70mph, but could be heard any time the tach was pegged at 2000rpms. The next day (yesterday), they called me back and said that the engine sounded normal. Rather than argue, I asked them to have a tech ready for a test drive when I picked the car up later that day. So we went on the test drive, I took the car to 70mph, and the tech's remark was, "wow, that's loud". DOH! He also agreed that it could be heard at lower speeds also. What irks me, is that they wouldn't even call the other dealership during they day because they didn't see anything as wrong. Now they'll look into it. |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Glad to see that I have a supporter finally in the ending parts of this thread. :4:
You're da' man! Never would imagine a rubber hanger could transmit vibration... and neither did Honda.
quote:
I am not concerened at all from the exhaust not being supported. I am sure the tech woulda mentioned something. BESIDES a recall is coming soon to fix this so she will be back in their service bay for a very brief period, for free. :1:
I don't know about that buddy; it could be months before a fix shows up. And depending where you live, it could be a problem or not. With the potholes in this city, I'm afraid to leave it unsupported for months. I'm just sliding it off as needed; takes me 10 seconds now. And finally, Honda wouldn't issue a recall since it's not safety related; it'd be a TSB (techinical service bulletin).
Thanks for your contribution. At least everybody knows now where the problem is. |
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| kvfhg |
If you guys are worried about the exhaust system not being well supported. Read Tispco's suggestion on page 21-22. He cut some of the rubber off and it worked for him.
If you are worried that would void your warranty, go to an Auto Parts and buy a generic piece for ~$12. modify that piece (keep the original).
That would provide enough support (at least better than removing the whole thing). |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by kvfhg
If you guys are worried about the exhaust system not being well supported. Read Tispco's suggestion on page 21-22. He cut some of the rubber off and it worked for him.
If you are worried that would void your warranty, go to an Auto Parts and buy a generic piece for ~$12. modify that piece (keep the original).
That would provide enough support (at least better than removing the whole thing).
ANYTHING you attach to the upper bracket under tension transmits the vibration. Besides, if it doesn't transmit vibration, it's not providing support either; same thing as no hanger, and possibly Tispco's case. I rather have no support on trips, and full support the rest of the time.
The guys who don't have the drone have no tension on this hanger; it depends on how the exhaust was welded at the factory. The worst offenders, like my X, have more tension on the hanger than the others, and the drone is more pronounced.
The fix will be a bar the length of the car, attached to the side rails, just like the side steps. Have no idea how it'll look like, but I bet it'll take months.
Even if the fix take years, I'm a happy camper now; removing the hanger just on trips won't harm anything IMO. The system seems pretty sturdy, and can't foresee a problem unless unsupported by thousands of miles.
Thanks a lot for your contribution. |
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| MDteX |
quote:
Originally posted by ELP_JC
The guys who don't have the drone have no tension on this hanger; it depends on how the exhaust was welded at the factory.
I think you have it nailed. Even with robotics a slight change in the angle can produce more pressure at a single point. I guess that vibration is being transmitted to the passenger cabin and creating the annoying drone.
I have not heard any noise at the 2k range or 70mph range in my new MDX. I keep "listening" but so far so quiet. I guess I am one of the lucky ones. |
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| kvfhg |
Glad you are a happy camper now. Tispco's suggestion will release the tension of the hanger. You do sound a little conflicting.
You were worried that the system doesn't have enough support. And you also talked about potholes. But it's ok to remove the hanger for trips. Have you thought of driving over a pothole on your trips?
You didn't even try Tispco's suggestion and already made a conclusion that it doesn't work.
You didn't even ask if it worked for me or not.
But it's ok, I'll leave it up to the engineer (like yourself) to decide for your own X. |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by MDteX
I think you have it nailed.
Hey buddy, that's easy when somebody else found the source of the problem:p . And yes, all the structure surrounding the cabin acts like a giant guitar. I tried a more elastic hanger which came with a Borla exhaust I bought a long time ago (but didn't work for the same reason), and didn't solve the problem, but it lessened it (while providing no real support); that's how I arrived at my conclusion.
The perfect solution would be to find a hanger just like the OEM but spaced in a way it doesn't create tension or compression, so it provides support only when needed; that's most likely the case in your car, but we 'droners' have tension on our systems.
I might try my luck to find a properly spaced hanger at PepBoys or some other parts store, but in reality, that solution is like if I didn't have the hanger in place most of the time, so I have to agree with the guy who suggested no harm by driving without it. I still want to play it safe, so by removing it only on trips I bet nothing will happen by the time I sell this thing, even without a fix.
Have a great weekend gentleman. And yes, even to the acura58-clone above. Won't bother responding to @$$*^@!' attacks anymore; they just want to bring the worst on all of us.
JC |
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| hsj |
| Just wondering, After all this discussion how many people have actually applied the fix or they are still waiting for official fix ( If it will ever come ).... |
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| phins2rt |
| Still waiting for now... |
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| jcthomas |
| Still awaiting the official fix. |
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| ELP_JC |
It's going to be a long wait folks. Just put a large towel in the secret compartment, and you can slip the hanger off in a sec. when the drone gets annoying.
Hope everybody enjoyed their weekend. |
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| rerodgers |
Still hoping/waiting for some sort of TSB. However, I will say that after 4,500 miles on the X, I think the drone has either gotten quieter or I have become accustomed to the drone. My guess is that the hanger has probably stretched some on it's own.
If Acura/Honda can develop a better hanger, it should not be long before a TSB is issued. Although, given some of the other lingering unresolved issues, that might be wishful thinking.
I have driven the car over a 1,000 the last 2 weekends and my drone was not that annoying. I must have a slight drone, but nevertheless, I still have it and would like it fixed. If a TSB isn't issued in the next couple of months, I think I will follow the suggestion and just remove the hanger myself.
:4: |
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| longrfastr |
Waiting for a fix too. Mine now has 3,000 miles on the clock and the drone is still there but it seems to get a LITTLE quieter with time, however, knowing that the cause of the problem likely will not cause damage to the vehicle really helps, in other words without the info I got on this thread, I'd probably be at the dealership on a weekly basis trying to figure what it is!
04 Silver |
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| teke |
| No t sure if this has been discussed in this thread.....I too have an 04. On warm days I do not notice the drone, however when it is 40 degrees or less I hear it, Must be that the rubber get less flexible in the cold? Any of you guys have the same expierence? |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by teke
No t sure if this has been discussed in this thread.....I too have an 04. On warm days I do not notice the drone, however when it is 40 degrees or less I hear it, Must be that the rubber get less flexible in the cold? Any of you guys have the same expierence?
You bring up an interesting point Teke. As you said, rubber becomes more elastic with heat, and should transmit less vibration to the cabin when hot, indeed diminishing drone in summer, but not eliminating it IMO. I bought my car in Nov, and hasn't been above 70 ever since, but I haven't noticed any difference from 30 to 70º either.
By all accounts, '04s are the worse 'dronners', but maybe older X owners with the affliction can answer your question more specifically.
Good day everybody. |
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| pmacuidhir |
| As if the forum needs to know that another person has the loud low frequency noise in the 2004 MDX. Took to dealer. They agreed there's a problem but claimed to haver never had other customers complain. I think that letters to car magazines, J.D Power, Consumer Reports, Internet forums, etc. is the way to go to get Acura's attention. If they don't get hurt in the pocket book, they will not act soon. Would like to hear of other ideas to get more publicity on this issue. |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by pmacuidhir
As if the forum needs to know that another person has the loud low frequency noise in the 2004 MDX. Took to dealer. They agreed there's a problem but claimed to haver never had other customers complain. I think that letters to car magazines, J.D Power, Consumer Reports, Internet forums, etc. is the way to go to get Acura's attention. If they don't get hurt in the pocket book, they will not act soon. Would like to hear of other ideas to get more publicity on this issue.
I'm on the same boat as you; dealer say I'm the first one to complain (yeah right!). We're patiently awaiting for a fix, but I really think Honda won't do crap. It took a class-action lawsuit to make them acknowledge an overheating problem on their stupid GL1800 bikes; do I think they'll act on a 'nuisance'? No. By the way, they know about the problem already.
Anyway, I like your approach, but need to find a way to speak with one voice, like a specific Email where to complain. Since this is not a safety issue, it's a lot harder to be taken seriously.
JC |
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| MDteX |
Part of the problem you will have is that it is NOT safety related and seems to affect a small number of vehicles. I do not hear anything but a nice sound from the exhaust when I step on the pedal.
I hope everyone gets their drone fixed soon so they can enjoy their MDX even more. |
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| Tispco |
| I thought I would check back in on this thread and let everyone know how it was going with my X. I modified my main muffler rubber isolator by removing some of the rubber (see picture on page 21 of this thread) and adding some washers to the front hanger. I believe ELP_JP also tried the front washers only and it made no difference, so I have to assume the modified isolator solved my problem. Anyways, the fix has been in place for a little over a month and 2000 miles (I took the kids to Disney World). There is no drone and no other problems with the exhaust. :) |
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| dpd2003 |
| Due to the high prevalence of this problem and the proven fix now, is Acura fixing this issue on the new units?? or do we still have to accept the fact that we will have spend a lot time at the dealer post-purchase trying to convince them that this is a real problem and that there is a fix available?? |
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| hsj |
quote:
Originally posted by dpd2003
Due to the high prevalence of this problem and the proven fix now, is Acura fixing this issue on the new units?? or do we still have to accept the fact that we will have spend a lot time at the dealer post-purchase trying to convince them that this is a real problem and that there is a fix available??
Do it before you buy it.... |
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| longrfastr |
Hi
Just to let everyone know. I'm just back from my first Service on the MDX and both the service rep and my salesman were aware of this situation.
Here's what the service rep wrote on the Invoice:
Droaning noise from under truck at cruising speeds. (Check service bulletins.) Acura aware of concern, engineering is working on a repair.
The dealership is Erin Mills Acura in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.
Keep reporting the problem they will come up with a fix!!
04 MDX Silver |
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| fsconsult |
quote:
Originally posted by MDteX
That's great, but strange. Rubber's characteristic is that it returns to its normal shape. Hopefully after time it will stay "drone free" for you. Some others on this board could take some lessons from you about being a little pro-active.
WOW...so this is what life has come to...one pays 42k for a so-called "LUXURY" SUV and the customer must do Acura's job. (or what Acura should be doing - finding solutions)
I guess you have be an Engineer or at the very least, mechanically inclined to own an Acura these days.
RIDICULOUS!
But congratulations to those who were successful in getting rid of the DROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONE. |
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| phins2rt |
| Just my $.02. I have noticed, since the weather has warmed up here, that I do not hear the drone anymore. I hadn't noticed it at all until last December so I am hoping, at least for me, that it is temperature related. |
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| GDTRFB |
quote:
Originally posted by CJB
I've made a couple of posts to this thread stating a significant, unmistakable drone at 2k RPM in my 4-week old '04 MDX. In my case the noise heard could not be ignored (even by the dealership).
Well, I'm happy to report it's fixed! I just got back from a test drive that included a 70 mph highway run (up a slight incline) at exactly 2k rpm with zero evidence of the drone. I ran through all gears at 2k rpm and no drone. I'm convinced they figured it out.
Sorry for the suspense here but I don't have all the details of the fix. I was out of town today and my wife took the vehicle in for me. I can tell you that the service manager told me prior to bringing it in that it involved a resonating exhaust hanger. I'm not a mechanic but I'm sure there are multiple hangers and I don't know which one or what they did with the specific hanger (modify?, remove?). The service manager informed me that they worked with an Acura design engineer who suggested this (among a few other things) to check.
I will be honest. I had little confidence that this was the cause but the service manager stated their service team was able to reproduce the drone on all five '04 MDXs on their lot and that this "hanger fix" resolved the issue. To their credit, they were right!! I applaud their efforts.
I just called talked with an Acura Service advisor, expressing my apprehension about this potential problem on my yet to be delivered MDX. To his credit, he acknowledged the issue exists although only a "small number of owners" have mentioned or complained about it. Anyway, he said Acura was working on a fix involving some "hanger" and it will resolve the problem. He gave me the impression that Acura already knows what needs to be done to resolve this. Although he could not say specifically when it would be fixed, he clearly indicated it would not be that long of a wait.
Needless to say, I am a little more reassured and feeling better than I was yesterday after reading the thread under "transmission problems" on this forum.
(I am also trying to get an answer if this fix or modification is also being done at the factory, which would be great for me since mine has yet to be built). |
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| GDTRFB |
The Acura service advisor called back. They call it a "redesigned exhaust hanger", and he is not sure when the factory will start incorporating them into newly built MDX vehicles. It probably has to do with having a sufficient supply of this part available.
He said he will be able to call the factory after my MDX arrives and should be able to let me know if it has the new one not. Hopefully, yes. If not, nothing will be done until the problem is reported. They will not install the fix before I take delivery, as it may not even be necessary.
Since not all MDX's have the problem, they are not going to "fix" or install the redesigned hanger on every car. Only if the problem actually exists on your MDX. |
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| rerodgers |
Sounds like Acura is making progress on a hanger redesign. I have noticed that my drone has disappeared now that the temps have gotten in to the 60-70's. I guess the rubber has loosened up enough to stop transmitting the vibration to the car. I wonder if they do come out with a fix if I will have to wait until it gets cold again next winter to prove to them that I actually have a drone issue. If they test drove my X today, they would not hear anything.
Anyway, I am enjoying drone free driven as long as the weather stays warm.
:4: |
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| longrfastr |
Hi,
Could this problem be common to all 3.5 litre Honda motors/5 speed transmissions???
I had the oportunity to drive a 2004 Honda Odyssey Van yesterday and to my surprise, the drone was also very present at the same 2000 RPM under the same types of loads, albeit no as loud as in my 04MDX.
Just my 2 cents.
Marc
04 MDX Silver |
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| MDX-rated |
quote:
Originally posted by phins2rt
Just my $.02. I have noticed, since the weather has warmed up here, that I do not hear the drone anymore. I hadn't noticed it at all until last December so I am hoping, at least for me, that it is temperature related.
My experience is consistent with this. I could hear it very clearly from the day my vehicle was delivered in February but since then it has been getting less and less noticeable and just this week, I can barely reproduce it - coinciding with weather warming up here in the Pacific NW!:cool: |
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| joelusa |
| Just turn on your Radio(CD)..and put on AC/DC. turn it just a bit louder and you won't hear that burrrrrrrr sound again.:D |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
Last week my wife took our 2004 MDX to Acura of Denville here in NJ. Although the service manager didn't claim to be familiar with the problem, he and his department were very service oriented and customer focused and took our concern about the exhaust drone seriously. I spoke to the gentleman who was working on our MDX and he was very eager to learn more about the problem and even offered to connect to this website from the dealership PC's. To expedite the process, I faxed him a 2-page document that I compiled after reading the great posts that you folks have provided. I suggested that the most helpful line of the document might be the entry that someone posted:
"modified front hanger as per tech line 311099/ . 5/099-99""
I'm not sure if he went straight to the tech line or read through the various posts that I compiled, but my wife tells me that he removed one of the exhaust hangers and that he learned that Acura will be issuing a "bulletin" about the problem and that we should come back in a month or two when they get the new hangers. The car is definitely quieter in the 1900 to 2100 RPM range, but since it has warmed up even here in NJ, I’m not sure that it had been so loud prior to taking the car in.
So, in light of our experience with our local dealership, I would say the situation is looking better for those of you that provide some information to your Acura service department (depending on the dealership of course). Acura of Denville has been a good dealership and I am happy to give them some good press in light of how open-minded and helpful they were in assisting us with this problem.
Good luck everyone and thanks again to those folks who spent their time searching for the fix to this problem and then sharing the information with the rest of us. |
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| Arzoo |
quote:
Originally posted by 2004_Sandstone
So, in light of our experience with our local dealership, I would say the situation is looking better for those of you that provide some information to your Acura service department (depending on the dealership of course).
I did the same as you; printed out and provided the dealership (Acura of West Chester PA) with information on the problem, including the name and number for other dealerships which had diagnosed the issue. They didn't even look it over. :mad: |
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| mdxdave |
I also provided information from this thread to assist the service department at my local Acura dealer (Acura of Columbus - Dublin, Ohio) in fixing this problem. I sat there for an hour while they confirmed the problem but did absolutely nothing to fix it. What a waste of time. I fixed the damn thing myself.
Love the MDX - hate the dealership experience. |
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| dipersp |
| Arzoo - I've heard nothing but bad about West Chester. Let me know if you find a good dealer in the area. I'll be trying Acura of Ardmore for my first "dealer need." |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
For the two folks above who had bad experiences with their Acura dealers, I would file a complaint to Acura Corporate and tell them that there are good, customer-focused Acura dealerships out there, and then there are the ones they have been unfortunate enough to go to.
And New Jersey isn't known to have the friendliest or most helpful inhabitants (see Sopranos) and services due to its high population density, but it sounds like the Midwestern (and west of NJ in PA) dealerships aren't exactly living up to their "just good folks" reputations. Maybe you should shame those dealerships by telling them that even a NJ dealership was good-natured enough to take their customer seriously and quickly remedy the problem. "Come to NJ - the kinder, friendlier state." Wait, don't do that. There are too many people here already! …and they’re all driving MDX’s. On my way to work this morning, I had one in front of me and one behind me as I passed one on a side street talking to an ML-320. The guy in the Mercedes was probably asking the guy in the MDX where he can get one! |
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| dipersp |
| Or the MDX was asking for the time! |
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| jdnella |
Hello All!
Just signed up, and currently own a 2003 Eddie Bauer Explorer with the same vibration problem. After numerous attempts at the dealership, and 3 different driveshafts, they refused to do anymore work on the vehicle. That is why I am looking for other options.
I am very interested in buying an MDX -Touring. I am just worried about this vibration problem. I am worried about having any regrets with my purchase. Should I be concerned, and does anyone regret their purchase and wished they bought something else?
Thanks in advance. |
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| Arzoo |
quote:
Originally posted by jdnella
I am very interested in buying an MDX -Touring. I am just worried about this vibration problem. I am worried about having any regrets with my purchase. Should I be concerned, and does anyone regret their purchase and wished they bought something else?
This specific issue should not be enough to make or break a decision to buy an MDX. It does not effect all MDX's, it's only noticeable at a specific engine RPM, and it will be fixed eventually buy Acura. We owned an '91 Ford Explorer for eight years. It was a great vehicle, for it's time, but it could never compare to the MDX! |
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| Arzoo |
quote:
Originally posted by dipersp
Arzoo - I've heard nothing but bad about West Chester. Let me know if you find a good dealer in the area. I'll be trying Acura of Ardmore for my first "dealer need."
dipersp,
Unfortunately for us, we don't live close to any Acura dealership. West Chester, Ardmore, Montgomery, Reading, and Sussman are all about the same distance (45 min). I wish they would open one in the KoP area. Anyway, I've tried the service department at Montgomery; they weren't even competent enough to correctly tighten the oil pan plug. Now I've also tried West Chester and as I posted above, they didn't exactly impress me either. Next I may try Ardmore, but it may be a while before I need service. If you use them, let me know how it goes. Thanks! |
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| ownmdx |
I also bought my MDX from Acura Westchester (PA) and have had a terrible experience. I originally asked the question about the noise before buying the MDX and they acted as if they never heard of the problem.
I bought the SUV.... I then had the problem.
I followed up immediately and the service manager was very confrontational and acted unprofessional. I cut and paste the information in this link and provided the contact information of the New York dealership that suggested they would accept calls on this. He refused to call....
I then brought the car in for the first oil treatment and asked that they look at this. I asked that they look over this problem at the same time. I received a call that the truck was ready and I asked what they found on the noise... they said they did not look at it. I asked to speak with the same service manager and again he chastised me for not having arranged this visit with him prior to bringing the truck in. He then suggested he would be looking at it and I suggested that if they did not acknowledge the problem I would do "what I had to" and "that would be it". I received a call back from a service rep, not the service manager, and was told that Acura actually has heard of the problem just recently and that there was no fix at this time.. it was probably going to be around June. I could call back then and see where we stood.
I am in shock at the service. I will be following up with someone that cares. |
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| jdnella |
What was the date the car was "born" on? Could be during a certain time frame that these vehicles are having problems. I too, am worried about this noise problem. I don't own one, but I am thinking of buying one. This type of problem is inexcusable. The more I think about it, the more I am leaning towards the RX330.
The sad thing is, I really like this truck. |
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| dipersp |
Arzoo - I'll let you know if/when I hit Ardmore up. I actually bought my X out in Lancaster at Jones Acura - I can't say enough GOOD things about them. Too bad it's almost 2 hours away!
ownmdx - I would DEFINITELY call Acura Customer Care and ***** - there is NO reason we should be treated like this. Whatever happened to customer service? And make sure you fill out a dealer recommendation on the site here - maybe we can stop future buyers from hitting WC.
Doesn't it suck you can't take the MDX back and tell them you don't like their service and would like your money back?! :) Could you just SEE his face?! |
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| blackx |
Well, I finally logged enough miles to take my '03 in for the first service. I told the service dept to write up my 72 mph drone, but not to waste anytime trying to fix the problem unless they have a service bulletin or some other specific instructions from Acura.
My service department only seemed to know as much about this problem as I shared with them. But coincidentally, the Acura rep was there the day my vehicle was in for servicing. The service rep discussed the problem with him. He said he has heard of the problem, but does not know if anything is being done to develop a fix.
Bottom line is there are still a lot of service departments that don't seem to know anything about this problem (or don't want to admit it). It makes me wonder if the story about an improved hanger is also bs aimed at putting us off until we forget about the problem.
I live in the NE and like many others posting about this problem, my noise has diminished somewhat now that the weather has warmed up. It certainly makes sense that a thick block of rubber would transmit more resonance when it is hard as a brick from freezing temperatures.
Has anyone received any believable updates from their service department on this problem? |
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| RealWing |
| My dealer phoned last week and said that Acura/Honda has just issued a bulletin to fix this problem - but that it only applies to the 2004 models. They will install it on my 2003 vehicle to see if it works. I'll get it done this week and see if I can get more details. |
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| teke |
Real Wing,
Okay, so what does the bulletin say to fix it......anyone have a copy of it?
Teke |
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| Oh_My_Baby |
I guess Acura MDX designers are working on the noisy town so that they deem the droning noise is not a big deal to them.
According to other threads, the consensus on the temporary fix is either cranking up the radio or wearing an earplug. :3: I'm afraid that Acura don't know how to design earplugs either. They would think, again, earplugs are not necessary.
Keep nagging those deaf people over the noise is like nagging with wives about their window shoppping. Good Luck but my ears are always open to hear some miracle that one day all of sudden those deaf designers or salesmen or servicemen regain the hearing sensor. |
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| RealWing |
I had left instructions for the dealer to phone me as soon as a bulletin was issued. They got it on Friday last week. My service manager told me that the fix involves replacing the B pipe exhaust hanger rubber mount. I will get a look at the actual bulletin on Thurs and at least get a number.
I'm getting the "brake clunk" fix done as well.
I'll post more details on Fri or Sat. |
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| blackx |
quote:
Originally posted by RealWing
I'm getting the "brake clunk" fix done as well.
I'll post more details on Fri or Sat.
Didn't know there was a fix for the brake clunk. Would like to hear more about that also when you post details.
Thanks! |
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| ownaccord |
There is now a TSB for this. I brought my 04 mdx in to the shop and they replaced one of the muffler hanger pieces. I no longer get the growl/resonance hum at 2000 rpm.
Ahhh... much better and I am glad that Acura addressed this well documented issue. |
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| ELP_JC |
quote:
Originally posted by ownaccord
There is now a TSB for this.
Hey buddy, I've been getting the run around on this issue for too long, so I decided to just remove the darn thing until some good news, and now you deliver them:cool: .
But do you have the number, or a copy? Will try to get the NHTSB site and look there, but all the info you could provide would be welcome. I had the Canadian TSB, but dealer played dumb. It also said it may NOT remove the resonance completely, but I'm glad to hear your more positive assessment.
Happy holidays, and best wishes.
JC |
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| Tispco |
I just got the new part in the mail from Tim at Ray Laks. The part number is 18215-S3V-A12 and the cost is $7.49. The part is very similar to the old one, but is a bit thinner and made of softer rubber. I just put this new part on last week and have not had a chance to get out on the highway yet.
My dealer wanted me to leave the car for the day to check for the problem and would need to order the part. Then, I was going to have to drop the car off for another day to get it 'fixed'.:rolleyes:
Spending $7.49 with Tim was a much better deal. Thanks Tim!! |
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| ELP_JC |
Hey Tispco, please let me know how good the new part works when you have a chance to try it on the freeway. I've had mine off for a few weeks now, but prefer to have something in place.
And please post Tim's contact info. It'd spend more than $7 in gas alone to get to my dealer, plus the inconvenience, and the extra miles the clowns would drive my car to verify the complaint. Not worth it man, even for $20.
Thanks, and hope you had a great weekend.
JC |
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| phins2rt |
quote:
Originally posted by Tispco
I just got the new part in the mail from Tim at Ray Laks. The part number is 18215-S3V-A12 and the cost is $7.49. The part is very similar to the old one, but is a bit thinner and made of softer rubber. I just put this new part on last week and have not had a chance to get out on the highway yet.
My dealer wanted me to leave the car for the day to check for the problem and would need to order the part. Then, I was going to have to drop the car off for another day to get it 'fixed'.:rolleyes:
Spending $7.49 with Tim was a much better deal. Thanks Tim!!
Tispco,
Excellent news! I have started to notice the resonance again since the weather has gotten colder. I would rather do as ELP_JC suggested and just get the part from Tim. Thanks!! |
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| ownmdx |
Yes, that is the part #. Again, part 18215-S3V-A12
My receipt does not have a TSB number but they should be able to find this since it is a known issue/tsb. |
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| Tispco |
quote:
Originally posted by ELP_JC
And please post Tim's contact info. JC
Tim can be reached at (888) 729-5257 or hondacuraworld@aol.com. Currently, he does not have this part listed on his website (www.hondacuraworld.com), so you need to call them to order the part. |
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| ownmdx |
| I am not sure I would opt to install this on my own. This is a TSB and is covered under the warranty. I would think that if you start to take off mounts yourself that you will void the warranty. Your call.... |
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| Tispco |
This is an incredibly simple fix. I put a blanket on the garage floor and slide under the car in dress pants and shirt. Swapped the part out in 60 seconds without any tools.
If the repair was something more involved, I agree letting the dealer do the work would be the thing to do, but this is an easy fix and Acura cannot void your warranty for work correctly done (if they could even figure out the change was made). Also, for the short amount of time it took me to fix and the $7.49 for the part, it was not worth my time to go to the dealer twice to get this done. My dealer said they would need to drive my X and determine if it had the problem (1st visit), order the parts (they did not have it in stock), and bring my X back to have the part installed (2nd visit). Anyways, that is why I chose to do the work myself. |
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