| Curtsan |
Question for you more seasoned MDXer's...
At 60 MPH, and in final gear, engine revs about 1900 +/- a bit.
At 70 MPH, engine is up to about 2500+/_ and in final gear, a strange humming , deep sounding droan appears and is easily heard. It is best described as driving over those pavement rumble strips on a highway, although not quite that loud.
It is not really evident from a certian area of the vehicle, just kind of everywhere...no shaking or vibrating, just a low frequency humming noise...(like those vibrating lazy-boy reclining chairs)
the RPM's are just from memory, so I could be off a bit. My point is to indicate the final (5th) gear.
At first I thought it was wind, but when I speed up, to about 75, it goes away completeley. Also, when I slow back down to under about 65, it goes away.
I then thought it was tire noise, but why only in that narrow speed range?
So, I thought tranny? I sped up to 70, and sure enough the noise appeared like clockwork. I then sharply touched gas pedal, like when going to pass someone. Upon downshift, the noise went away, even though my speed was the same...so again, eliminates wind and tire issues.... In fact it sounded very quiet and smooth....(4th gear I presume) when I released gas pressure, engine upshifted and noise came back within those speeds I've described.
Is this normal, at 65 to 70 in final (5th) gear? Everything was warmed just fine, and occurs in cold or warm weather. In wind or in no wind.
Curious as to thoughts? |
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| g_dog01 |
| Take it to a dealer and take a technician for a ride (you drive). You're in a "good" situation in that, apparently, you can replicate the problem for the technician to hear. Personally, I have no idea what the problem is. Good luck. |
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| ec8r |
Our 2001 MDX has a similar problem as well. It is a constant drone from the powertrain once we're cruising at a constant speed in 5th gear. I've been meaning to take it in to the dealer but just haven't had time, plus, I just have a feeling that they are not going to admit that anything is wrong and that everything is the way it should be.
If I were to describe our problem another way it's almost like as if one were driving a stickshift car and upshift to too high a gear too soon and then it kinda feels like the engine is bogging a bit due to being in the wrong gear (except the drone/vibration in the MDX is not as bad).
I had the same problem with my 2000 Nissan Maxima SE with the drone/vibration and when I took it in it turned out to be a bad electronically controlled engine mount.
Please let me know if you get yours taken care of. I'm curious as to what is causing it as well. |
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| Curtsan |
| YEs, that is a great way to describe it....If you get to the dealer before I do, please post findings...Thanks |
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| MDXHunter |
| I have the same sound around 70mph with the tach at about 1800 rpms. To me it sounds like a deep bass burrrrrr sound. I know if I just let my foot off the gas for a split second the sounds stops. My thought is that it is the exhaust sound. I don't think it is the wind because it did not vary the other day when it was very windy here. My solution has been drive 75mph.b |
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| MDXHunter |
| I have the same sound around 70mph with the tach at about 1800 rpms. To me it sounds like a deep bass burrrrrr sound. I know if I just let my foot off the gas for a split second the sounds stops. My thought is that it is the exhaust sound. I don't think it is the wind because it did not vary the other day when it was very windy here. My solution has been drive 75mph. |
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| MonsterDX |
| I should mention that in my case I hear the same noise but in my case it appears to happen only if we are going uphill. When I say uphill, I don't mean a mountain. I am talking more about inclines. once on the down slope, the sound goes away. I usually maintain my speed around 70. |
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| vicpai |
........everyone who's posted has a 2003 model......so it may well be a '03 model problem! (or design characterisitic)......Yes, I do notice it too, but it is kinda "subdued" and apparent when the engine runs approximately in the 1800 to 1900 RPM range ......it's most definitely an "exhaust droning" kinda noise and is MOST NOTICEABLE on inclines (sort of like the gearing is TOO TALL and the engine is "struggling")
Since they "remapped" the transmission ratios for the '03 model as well as the '03 engine itself is a new "modified" design maybe there is some kind of resonance at "sound frequencies" in this particular RPM range, which the NVH engineers overlooked :eek: |
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| bchenMDX |
| I hear the low humming noise too, but after awhile it disappears, I'm not sure if I should have them check it out, I already brought my X in for this grinding noise when the X downshift or when I press on the pedal a little harder, and the brakes clicking, just not sure if I should bring it to the dealer everytime I hear something different, plus if I have the time to bring it to the dealer. |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by Curtsan
Question for you more seasoned MDXer's...
At 60 MPH, and in final gear, engine revs about 1900 +/- a bit.
At 70 MPH, engine is up to about 2500+/_ and in final gear,
My MDX runs at just under 2000 RPM's (probably 1900-1950) at 70 MPH on level hishway. |
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| kamalsyal |
Just got back from a long drive on my 200 mile old 03 X (its now at about 550 miles), and on the highways I heard the wierd noise at 70 MPH also. If I went up to 75mph or came down to 65 mph, this noise went away.
Did anyone in this forum ever find out about why this noise is coming only at 70 mph ?
As a side note, I had 6 fullsized adults (all under 5'8" though), 2 on each row, and the X performed beautifully. I am very impressed with the power and the handling of X when its fully loaded !
I hope this 70mph drone is not a major problem. Will talk to the dealer once this snowstorm is over the the dealership opens ! |
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| stumpie |
| Anyone ever make it to the dealer to get thier take? After reading this thread I notice it also at 70.......... |
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| kamalsyal |
I spoke with my dealer and he asked me to bring it in so the service manager can ride with me and experience this sound on his own.
Havent had the chance to go to the dealer yet, and once I do I will update this group on the outcome !
Hope its nothing serious :confused: |
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| waylan |
I've allways had a low humming noise in my MDX at 65-70 and I currently have a 2002. Its very noticeable if you have been driving another car for awhile and then get back into the MDX. I posted about it .here many moons ago. Sad to hear that the problem still exists in the 03 which I have ordered. When I first got my 02 MDX, I was almost tempted to get rid of it immediatly. None-the-less... you get used to the noise.
I believe the noise could be eliminated with additional sound proofing. I ordered sound proof samples from http://www.b-quiet.com but haven't ordered anything yet. |
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| DMor |
| I had this humming noise too....almost a groan when I accelerated from time to time. In my case, using only PREMIUM, instead of cheating with lower octanes, seemed to eliminate the groan/hum. Now my husband is the only one who groans. |
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| Curtsan |
I too have used only top grade (91) octane gas, but get the humming noise at 65-70 mph. I would be curious if anyone has actually had the dealer explain it yet? I'm not really near a dealership to do so.
FYI-My original post indicated the RPM's , but I was wrong in the number, and after looking at it more closely, the subsequent posts whcih have RSPM's correspond with 65-70 mph are more accurate than mine.
Thanks everyone for picking up on this.
As far as the noise, I just want to rule out transmission or other potential major issues later....Please update is you have any new info on this... |
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| ndahbar |
Yup, my 2003 does this too. From 1800 to 2100 RPM. Oh well, it seems like a normal thing based on the exhaust design. Just the right resonant frequency occurs there.
It's not so bad, I guess I will just have to cruise 75/80mph on the freeways, which I prefer anyway. :p
But please, if anyone comes to an action-oriented conclusion with a dealership, let us know.
Also, what do you think we can all do collectively? I am sure the dealerships will tell us "oh that's no big deal it's just how your exhaust works, we don't have anything on record from Corporate HQ that there is an exhaust problem". |
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| JeffK |
Mine too!
But can't take it to my dealer as I live on Long Island and no place to go 70 mph legally or even close to it.
If you find the fix please post it.
I will be checking back to see an answer.
Many Thanks.
JeffK |
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| ufbz |
I searched the site before I tried to post my problem. So I think it's best to post in this thread and bring it back alive instead of starting a new thread.
Ever since my 2001 MDX had its first transmission oil change at 48K miles and some short time later, I started noticing this low humming noise from engine (or from front somewhere under the hood, I am not so sure). It sounds like what you hear of the jet engine when you are in a plane and it's accelerating to take off. Of course the noise level is much lesser than the jet noise.
I have this noise no matter what speed I drive, at 30, 40, or 70 mph, I hear it as long as I press the gas pedal a bit. But if I ease off the gas pedal, the sound goes away. I always use Premium gas and that seems not helpful.
I talked to my dealer's service manager and he also noticed this noise. He said it would cost me 70 bucks to run a computer diagnosis (since I passed the 50k miles warranty) but he doubt it could turn up anything. He suggested me to just live with it. So I did not have the check up yet. Now after I read all your comments, I kinda feel relieved that maybe it's not a big deal.
I am curious if anyone actually have their engine checked by Acura? What's your finding? |
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| Fabvsix |
| I guess I have my music too loud to notice this noise in my 03, but will tomorrow ! :2: |
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| jnbsdad |
Hey Y'all,
I had this problem with our 2002. It ended up being the muffler. I took it into the dealer and was able to replicate it for the mechanic. He said it was "normal," but mine was louder than most. He replaced the muffler under warranty and the problem went away. Hope this helps.
jnbsdad |
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| mgsparro |
This is my problem too...rebalancing tires doesn't really do the trick, and nor does premium gas.
Do you think I could tell the officer next time that I was driving 75 b/c the car makes a drone at 70? :D
There are at least 3 registries in the knowledge base ,
#68 , #90 , and my entry - #150 .
Muffler idea is interesting... |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
quote:
Originally posted by vicpai
........everyone who's posted has a 2003 model......so it may well be a '03 model problem! (or design characterisitic)......Yes, I do notice it too, but it is kinda "subdued" and apparent when the engine runs approximately in the 1800 to 1900 RPM range ......it's most definitely an "exhaust droning" kinda noise and is MOST NOTICEABLE on inclines (sort of like the gearing is TOO TALL and the engine is "struggling")
Since they "remapped" the transmission ratios for the '03 model as well as the '03 engine itself is a new "modified" design maybe there is some kind of resonance at "sound frequencies" in this particular RPM range, which the NVH engineers overlooked :eek:
I'm afraid the problem is still around in 2004. The car just needs to downshift from 5th to 4th when you are driving at 70-75MPH and hit an incline or the exhaust note gets deep and your $40K luxury SUV sounds like a motorboat. If you manually downshift to D4 the RPM's go up and the car returns to its refined, quiet self. I suppose that they have designed the car like this to achieve their gas mileage numbers, but they have made a mistake and the car should downshift by itself in these situations. Since this is a high tech vehicle, I'm wondering if they can send out a software fix that will make the MDX less hesitant to downshift in specific conditions like this one. Otherwise, I can downshift myself as long as it doesn't harm the tranny. Does anyone know if manually downshifting the MDX on a regular basis between 4th and 5th gear could be harmful to the transmission? |
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| tmmdx |
| I think the hum has to do with the engine rpm around 1800-2000 in fifth gear. i also have an 5-speed accord that makes the humming sound when i'm in 5th and the rpms go below 2000-perhaps engine isn't producing enough power. if i downshift or get the rpms above 2000, the humming goes away. i wouldn't have thought that the x would have the same problem. |
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| jswift2000 |
| I have the same problem with a 2003 at 70mph. I did find that going around 68 or 73 mph seems to lessen the droning. It may be a design flaw and I just have the time to take it to the dealer to have someone look at me and tell me they cant hear it. $41,000 for a drone at 70mph. Love that!!! |
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| FndlyFmrFlyr |
Thanks to all for your posts about the hum. My 02 has a soft hum resonance noise between 2100 and 2300 rpm in 5th (76 - 85), the normal cruise speeds around here. The noise has been there since new.
Neither the dealer nor Acura has any fix. The dealer has heard the noise and Acura called me several times about the noise during the first month or two I owned the car.
Approaching two years and I still notice the noise. Not bad enough to get rid of the car. |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
| No, it isn't reason enough to get rid of the car, but it is very disappointing! Around here, when there isn’t rush hour traffic we cruise at 70-75MPH on highways that have various degree inclines. These are the perfect conditions for the loud, deep exhaust note to occur. I have driven manual shift automobiles my whole life, so I can just downshift to D4 when my brand new Acura MDX starts sounding like a motorboat. But this is a serious flaw in my opinion. If I had a friend with an MDX who took me out for a ride and pointed out this problem, I really don’t think I would have bought one. Then again, does anything else compare? Maybe I would have bought a Pilot if it didn’t have the same problem, but I would guess that the Pilot has the same issue. Oh well… only 450 miles and 3 weeks into ownership and I am doubting my purchase. Maybe if I take it out in the snow today I'll feel better. :roadtrip: |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
quote:
Originally posted by 2004_Sandstone
... Maybe if I take it out in the snow today I'll feel better. :roadtrip:
Okay, that helped. That was cool. :1: |
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| hsj |
I thought I was the proud owner of MDX untill I hit this glitch within 2 days of my purchase.
Today I went to the service dept at dealer to pick my MDX after the could not figure out the cause of the humming noise. Tried replacing They got in touch with Tech Line in California, tried replacing Air Intake and exhaust system , but no luck. Acura termed it "Normal Characteristic for the car". Thats the way the car has been designed. When the service manager test drove another car on the lot he didn't hear anything in the morning. Incidentally I met their GM and test drove his '04 MDX. Guess what ..! The Hum noise was there in his car also though it was not much as in my case. Then, I took appointment at another Acura dealer and drove one of their demo's and that too had as much noise as I have. Now this even confuses me even further as may have said that they don't hear "anything" at all. I may not have paid this detail when I test drove it for the first time cause in the city drive you can not keep it around 2000 rpm and this noise gets ignored. This is at the loudest when cruising at highway around 68-75 mph, otherwise its super quiet.
Can this forum members come forward with responses if they hear No noise / minimal / or considerable noise in their 04s. In the normal drive you might have to push gas paddle little slow to keep it at 2000 rpms, but try to run in on 2000-2100 rpms on highway on G5.
The regional Rep for Acura is coming over at dealership on friday (Dec 12) and I'll be taking my car to her for a ride. If we have more views here that will help a lot and makes our case strong, Otherwise Acura is selling this by saying " this is Normal design". A 40k+ car designed to make noise under certain conditions but only for few but not all ..Funny.....Doesn't sound fair.
I have Sage Touring / Nav
Thanks
HS |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
quote:
Originally posted by hsj
...
The regional Rep for Acura is coming over at dealership on friday (Dec 12) and I'll be taking my car to her for a ride. If we have more views here that will help a lot and makes our case strong, Otherwise Acura is selling this by saying " this is Normal design". A 40k+ car designed to make noise under certain conditions but only for few but not all ..Funny.....Doesn't sound fair.
HS
HS,
Please tell me what kind of feedback you receive from the Acura Rep. Also, please find how we can help you apply pressure on Acura to create a fix for this problem. I believe the fix for this problem would be a modification to the exhaust system (or replacement). The sound is like a souped up Honda Civic with a performance exhaust system. Back in high school I would have thought the sound was cool - like it's the sound of a Porsche or something. But these days I think it is very uncool.
I'm sure that all MDX's make this sound, including my 2004 and everyone else's.
HS, it helps to take it out in the snow. It helped me become a proud owner again. But I would like Acura to create a fix.
-J |
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| hsj |
Hello members....
Please post your experiences with '04...I think only collective actions gonna make thing better for us....
hs |
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| Kev-man |
I didn't see a poll on the humming/drone @ 2000rpm.
Is there one?
If not, there should be, and by model year would be nice.... |
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| hsj |
Today I test drove three MDXs with the Acura Rep at the dealership. Because of traffic, its was very hard to keep it around 2000-2100 rpms at low speed but it could still be heard. Its very dominant when the car is at low speed and hitting that rpm range (small incline makes it even worse). The problem exists in all we test drove BUT varies in severity of noise. Only Base MDX had very "marginal" noise. The Rep agreed to this and will check the difference between base and touring. Provided the feedback ( from Service dept/Acura) she thinks its normal but agrees that the noise varies and loudest in my so far. She is gonna check with the Design Engineer and he should be here at the dealership in couple of weeks and will test ride with me.
Turn off radio in yours, try it at low speeds ( at an incline ) and try to hear carefully. You can't miss it , it will be different from the regular thrust.
HS |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
quote:
Originally posted by hsj
... Only Base MDX had very "marginal" noise. The Rep agreed to this and will check the difference between base and touring. ...HS
Go HSJ! Tell them to fix the exhaust system. That has to be the problem.
And by the way, my MDX is the base (premium) model and the noise is loud and clear. It is a big design flaw and Acura should provide a modification to the exhaust system free to its customers. That is what I would push for.
Keep us posted and tell us how we can help.
-J |
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| hsj |
2004_Sandstone,
Did u checked with the dealer and and asked for a fix ?
hsj |
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| CJB |
Picked up my new 2004 on Friday night. Immediately noticed the significant exhaust drone/hum at 2000 RPM (don't recall it on the test drive). Called the dealer today to ask about it and he is going to drive a demo model to see of he can reproduce it. I searched the net tonight and found this forum. Looks like this is humming is a pervasive issue. I'll be interested to hear how HSJ makes out with the Acura rep and design engineer.
I have Sage Touring / Nav/ DVD |
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| hsj |
CJB,
Don't wait, dealer will say it is normal.,Will do all tricks, you will have to get to his nerves to get results. Let's see what they come up with, If same crap or different ...Mine even said "Thats the way SUVs are build"
I would urge to all members to be more aggresive in their approach or we will have to live with it. Acura won't care as long as the sales are good for mdx. I have contacted couple of "Auto Experts" and hopefully they will bring it in their reviews, if it doesn't sound normal their reviews will make some difference. When it is flashed across the magazines then people will take a note of this before purchase and test drive the same one which you are gonna buy.....
hsj |
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| 2004_Sandstone |
quote:
Originally posted by hsj
2004_Sandstone,
Did u checked with the dealer and and asked for a fix ?
hsj
HSJ,
No, I didn't check with my dealer because they are not a good dealership in my opinion. They delivered our car to us without a full tank of gas (which is listed as included on the window sticker), a power window that was not aligned properly, and 5 bolts of the footsteps they installed were dangling loose under the vehicle. I really didn’t get the impression that they focus on customer service. I would be happy to contact the Acura sales rep and tell her about the noise we are discussing. I'll look into getting in touch with her or my regional rep if there is one.
-J |
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| hsj |
I guess you will have to utilize dealer's services first, if you are not happy about it then bring it to Acura/Honda Customer service notice. Without giving delaer a chance, I don't thing regional sales rep will be very much interested in looking into ur issues....and then you can provide some documentary proof and seek the Rep...
hsj |
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| tonsaphun |
Very interesting.....I got the same thing. Has we come to a conclusion yet? Or are we waiting for HSJ? I would do anything to get the dealer to fix the problem. I totally forgot the mention this to service yesterday when i brought my car in for the 7500 maintenance.
By the way, there is a rumor out there about a recall for the timing belt. Heads up MDX owners. |
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| Kev-man |
All,
I posted a poll in the poll section (of all places) concerning this 2000rpm drone.
Please head over there and fill it out when you get the chance. If we can get a BUNCH of data, then some or all of us can show it to our dealers, and then our regional service rep's.
I'm about to buy an '04 Premium, and would REALLY like to know what could make it occur more frequently on the Premium...... as the engine, exhaust, etc. should all be the same. Could it be the roof rack? ;) :confused: |
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| hsj |
Found something interesting about this hum/droning/resonance issue with '04 -X
On page 18, 2004 Acura MDX brochure, under "Dual-Stage Intake Manifold", the following statement appears: "The intake manifold is divided in two by a butterfly valve. At low engine speeds, the valve is closed to allow resonance energy to help increase cylinder charging. As engine speed increases, the valve opens and cancels the resonance taking place in the manifold...". I think it is interesting that this is the only place in Acura advertising that I've seen the word "resonance". |
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| volleyplay |
| I have a 04 MDX that has the same sound at 70mph and I have spoke to the service manager at my dealer and he wants to go for a test drive with me. It seems when the transmission goes into lock-up because if I just push the throttle a little causing it to go out of lock-up the sounds goes away. To me it sounds like a torque coverter issue.:( |
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| volleyplay |
| I have a 04 MDX that has the same sound at 70mph and I have spoke to the service manager at my dealer and he wants to go for a test drive with me. It seems when the transmission goes into lock-up because if I just push the throttle a little causing it to go out of lock-up the sounds goes away. To me it sounds like a torque coverter issue.:( |
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| ELP_JC |
Hey guys, ANOTHER '04 here. Mine is fully optioned and the first one to arrive, but like many others, didn't notice the problem on the '03 loaner.
Let me clarify something: drone happens in ANY GEAR; just go to 2K rpm and it'll be there; no need to drive 70 mph for it, although it gets more annoying at that speed because the drone is directly proportional to ENGINE LOAD.
Now, I personally discard exhaust; you just don't have drone with a quiet exhaust.. and when you do, it comes where the mufflers are: IN THE BACK. It's got to be either the INTAKE or the CONVERTER. The intake changed in 2003 (from 240 to 260 hp). By the sheer number of transmission failures in this vehicle, the converter is not a far fetched possibility.
Finally, why take your car to the dealer just for them to drive the crap out of it? Let them drive somebody else's car; it'll be there too.
I think we ALL NEED TO COMPLAIN directly to Acura AND to your dealer. Dealer won't fix it because they DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS.
I just talked to the service manager in the only dealer in town, and guess what: he's never heard of it, but said he'd discuss it with the regional rep next week. Does anybody know where to complain with Acura? Let's unite guys; according to this thread, this darn thing is been going on over a year, and most dealers haven't heard of it (hmmmmm); how convenient.
My car just turned 1,300 miles, and the drone is driving me nuts.
Let's keep this thread alive until we succeed. Happy holidays to everybody here.
JC |
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| hsj |
I had gone this path, Service dept after getting in touch with tech line in CA tried replacing "Air Intake & Cat Back Exhaust" but that didn't help at all. Then I test drove 3 (along with mine) new 04 MDXs and all had this noise with varying degree. Finally they agreed that tech line is no good and Design Engineer from Acura will come over to the dealership (may be first week of Jan) and look at the problem more closely. Atleast , my dealership is aware of the problem but can't do anything about it.
I'm just waiting for the meeting with design engg and then go from there. I guess we could have some sort of petition with signatures from all members complaining about this drone. I have checked with couple of other people and it doesn't bother them, I wonder if they came from the path of Jet Engine and found this to be much more sooting and started living with it. I guess Dealership/Acura are using the delayed tactics so that more customer would give up and things will settle down, But I'm not giving up especially after spending 44K.
Ant more ideas about taking up this cause collectively ?
hsj |
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| hsj |
| I guess atleast 5000 '04 mdxs are out but we only have handfull of owner reporting this dreaded hum. Atleast, all I have test driven after I noticed the problem, Have the hummimg noise, I wonder how people could compromise on something unbearable..wakeup guys and kick acura's @$$..:mad: |
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| evergreen |
| I have a 04 Base model MDX with 600 miles and I have noticed the same problem ever since I bought it. I didn't pay much attention when I took it for a test drive... The droning noise is heard every time the rpm reaches around 2000-2200 irrespective of the speed or the gear. Very annoying... Took it to my dealer. Initially they said they didn't hear it.... Took the mechanic with me for a ride, and he admitted that he hears it. Since I was in a hurry they have agreed to look further in to the problem next week. I will keep you posted. I agree that we should collectively bring this issue to the attention of Acura. Its a shame that a luxury SUV has such problems. I am curious if Honda Pilot has similar issues. |
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| jhayes |
For the record:
I have a 04' Touring / NAVI with ~ 2K Miles.
I have had the 2K hum from the beginning. Took the X in for service, and test drove with a service guy. Later the service rep. calls stating that they could not reproduce the noise. I had her go back out and drive some more and try to run at 2k. Later she calls back and verified that she could reproduce the noise, and that it also reproduced on another 04' on the lot.
They opened a call with Acura Tech-Line, never heard of it. Told me to check back with her at my first oil change to see if they have any more information.
Why pay 40K+ for a noisy ride, when I could co by a used Pinto and get the same results.... |
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| Lance Crowley |
My '03 X pulls 2000 rpm, on the nose, at 70 mph. I have no change in noise levels at any speeds, other than the slight difference from the engine as the rpm's change as you pull a grade, etc.
My wife has extremely good hearing and is very critical of any bothersome noise. Her comment on our X is that it's the quietest car we've had since our '91 LS400.
One of our friends has an '03 also, he's also very critical, he's other cars are an M5 a 740iL and 525. He also had a '01 X. I asked him about any abnormal noise and said he was very satisfied with his X's and didn't have anything like the noise mentioned in this tread.
I'd guess that if your pulling 2800, or so, rpm at 70 mph your in 4th gear. |
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| hsj |
quote:
Originally posted by jhayes
For the record:
They opened a call with Acura Tech-Line, never heard of it. Told me to check back with her at my first oil change to see if they have any more information.
Do u think you will wait for another couple of months or pursue it further at the earliest. You are right, Its our money that they are riding on ..Make life miserable for dealership/tech line ( They are crap anyway)..if they don't Co-operate. I think we should all apply for "Lemon Law", if they can not fix this, I can't let my money go down the drain..... |
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| evergreen |
HSJ,
I agree with you.. we should all collectively pursue it further at the earliest. To begin we should atleast email or write to Acura signed by all of us. |
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| hsj |
How do we go about this sign campaign...
hsj |
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| RM5 |
hsj
I am in on this, I can't stand this humming at 2k the dealer tells me there is no fix for it yet . I think we should all make a big stink about it. a petition sounds good .question is how do we go about it . I think acura is trying to shove this under the rug. we did not pay 45k for R&D vehicles. I am sure acura knows what the problem is. just holding out on a fix. I personally think its a bad design of the exhaust. since that is the only change in the 04 that is not cosmetic.:mad: |
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| inky |
A fly on the wall at Acura R and D
Ted:
Hey charlie you know that 2k resonance we noticed on the 15kmile loop?
Charlie:
Yeah. so what. The long term testers said not too bad and our budget for the 04 mods is way over so will let it go for now.
Ted: OK, the fix is about $100 per unit but will simply ignore the problem and deny any knowledge. IN fact, let's call is a characteristic of this vehicle. We could say we did this on purpose!
Charlie:
dude, just when I thought you could not think up something more stupid, you go and totally redeem yourself! Bonus' for all and to all a good night.
Corporate Manager: Hmmn. We sold 01's to 03's till we could make no more, but now they sit there while others contemplate, Toureg, X3, RX 330 and a host of others. Maybe I should make a stand on this since we clear about $10,000 on each unit. Nah, they will punish me somehow. We can stand a few peeved owners who make little difference in the big picture. |
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| ELP_JC |
I'm definitely on this too. I can tolerate all other noises, rattles, and shortcomings of this otherwise great vehicle, but the 2K just drives me nuts.
For the record, many '03s have the same problem, eliminating the '04's exhaust. Besides, a quiet exhaust never resonates (and they'd do it in NEUTRAL too, and they don't). I hear my engine more than the exhaust even a foot from the tips.
Most likely is the intake, since it significantly changed in '03 to bump HP from 240 to 260, and includes a 'resonator'. The last possibility could be the tranny's torque converter, since the drone happens in EVERY gear, right at the 2K rpm mark. The drone is clearly coming from the engine compartment, and it intensifies with engine load (like going up hill); it similarly disappears going down hill, for the same reason.
How about everybody calling the Acura client services number? Somebody posted the following number: (800)382-2238.
If I can get this issue resolved, I'd be a happy man. But refuse to take my vehicle to the dealer if there's nothing they can do about it. Once Acura has the solution, or there's a person who can do something about it (regional rep, etc), I'd gladly take it in for corrective action. I already talked to the service manager, and promised to get back with me after he meets with the rep next week. I told him he can duplicate it on any '04 vehicle there. |
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| hsj |
ELP_JC,
I had posted earlier, my service dept had tried replacing Air Intake and exhaust with no luck. What if its fault in all components, even replacing those won't help. Regional Rep pretended she doesn't understand what is happening. Tranny could be a issue but unless they can figure out what exactly is causing hum and replacing it with right component, till then I think we have no fix. This issues should be tossed in the leading magazines for Autos and let it make sort of headlines. I'm sure its not a expensive fix unless they want to to it, but will follow the delay tactics as long as it sells. Also, as posted earlier:
"On page 18, 2004 Acura MDX brochure, under "Dual-Stage Intake Manifold", the following statement appears: "The intake manifold is divided in two by a butterfly valve. At low engine speeds, the valve is closed to allow resonance energy to help increase cylinder charging. As engine speed increases, the valve opens and cancels the resonance taking place in the manifold...". I think it is interesting that this is the only place in Acura advertising that I've seen the word "resonance". |
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| erubenst |
You can put me down for any collective action...
2004 Sage Touring / Navi, 1000 miles and droning and humming at 2K RPM...
I also have the brake click/clunk, so i guess i won the daily double...
not happy |
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| suv4x4 |
| Same thing here. 03 base with 7000 miles |
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| phins2rt |
| I noticed this too this weekend. I thought at first it was wind noise but then when the X downshifted, the drone went away(or at least was much less noticeable). It was actually quieter in 4th gear than 5th!! Strange... |
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| ndabrens |
| Just completed my first road trip (~ 750 miles) in the 04 Base MDX. Great highway vehicle but the ~70mph exhaust drone is definitely there. 2 or 3 mph above or below and the drone disappears. |
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| ELP_JC |
HJS, you just verified my point: I think the problem is in the DESIGN of the intake, so replacing it doesn't change anything. The torque converter is the second and only other possibility.
And yes, I also though the rumble was due to the pavement and tires; I told my wife: 'this car is noisier than a truck', only to find out later it was at that particular rpm only(right smack on the cruising range). Totally unacceptable, even in a cavalier; let alone in a 'luxury' SUV.
Happy new year to all of you.
JC |
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| Fabvsix |
| The 03's got a re-designed transmission, this includes the 04's. I'll take the drone noise over a questionable transmission (01 & 02's).......Also, just turn up the radio volume ! ;) |
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| inky |
Man,
I just drove 1200 miles from Tulsa to Morgantown, WV to see my Dad through surgery. The speed limit was 70 in MO and WV and the pain in the ass noise on my 04 is at 68-72 mph. Of all the places to have the noise!!! This is my average setting. Now I either go with 67 or 73.
MY 03 base did not have this. I drove it twice to WV and back and never ever noticed this. So, what in the world could it be. I first thought the 04 changes to exhaust and still think so but have no facts. To have a $40000 vehicle that I cannot set on 70 mph cruise is so stupid and silly.
I need to find out some more before going to dealer but only way for Acura to realize magnitude of problem is to complain. Acura survey is way too early for any thing and it mostly is about the dealer satisfaction. |
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| evergreen |
| Since so many of us have noted the same problem, and quite a lot of us cannot tolerate it, why not write to Acura? I doubt the dealers will be able to do anything about this, judging bysome of the posts listed here. A letter signed collectivelly by all of us will be the most effective. But, I am not sure how we can accomplish this. Other option would be that we can all send individual letter (using a same format) by certified mail to Acura. We should try and mail them out on the same day so that Acura gets a bunch of letters with a similar problem together and may decide to act on it. I will be gald to post a letter format here, and let the other members modify and tweak it . Once there is reasonable agreement then we can begin the letter campagin. I would like to know everyones opinion on this.... |
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| tonsaphun |
| Is there anyway we can make or print a copy of this thread so we can send it to our dealer or Acura? At least this is a record of how many people had this problem and how long it has benn going on. I can't wait to have this problem fix. |
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| hsj |
I think we have enough evidence about the problem, and it is worst in 04s. Is there any Moderator in this forum who can take this to Acura. I think Collective rather than Individual actions will bring in more results....
I'm open to all suggestions as long as the problem is fixed...I think some sort of petition would be nice.
:confused:
HSJ |
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| Fabvsix |
News media is effective. Car magazine editors are REALLY effective. This is what we did regarding the transmissions issues with the 2001 Acura CL Type S. Two months later, Honda issued extended warranties on all CL, TL, MDX (01 & 02) and Oddessy's/Accord V6 models from 1998 to 2002 up to 100,000 miles ! This is why I wouldn't complain about the 03 and 04's because they "redesigned" the transmissions !
Come on all you 01 & 02 MDX'ers...................you know all about what I'm talking about ! .......I know our PRIDE sometimes get's in the way......This is why I choose NOT to buy an 02 and wait for the 03's.......
nuff said....................;) :rolleyes: |
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| hsj |
quote:
This is what we did regarding the transmissions issues with the 2001 Acura CL Type S.
When you say "we" is that just you or group of people, I have written to "MSN" Auto Reviewers about 2 weeks back, How do we go about in sending a letter thru regular mails to most of the Car Magazine editors (as Forum than a single member), and Also do "cc" to Acura on it. I'm willing to take responsibility but a formal draft is must.
HSJ |
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| Fabvsix |
HSJ:
I was not involved in this at all. Simply a member of my other forum. I know that there were several members who had their transmission go from D5 to D2 at 70 mph and all but caused serious injury. Yes the cars were all but totaled too ! A gal in Southern Cal almost got killed when her TL Type S downshifted to D2 going 70 on the freeway. Someone(Editor) at the LA times caught wind of it and that's all it took ! The Slimbags at Acura/Honda Corporation couldn't hide this apparent problem and issued extended warranties to certain Serial number runs with the CL, TL, MDX (01), Accord and Oddessy. I've been a proud owner of Honda's since 1984 to present and know for a fact that they (Acura Engineers/Honda Engineers) re-designed the transmission for later 02, 03 and 04 models. I still have my CL Type S with almost 70,000 miles without any trouble. Probably due to it being the "187th" car off the production line. The troubled trannys are later in production. Some speculate that Honda went with a different supplier of parts for cost cutting measures, which blew up in their faces and cost them BIG TIME. You get what you pay for.........If you want a VERY detailed "inside" report, I've got it ! :1: |
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| Ronal404 |
Here is an edited version of the letter I sent to Acura. Copy, paste and edit as you see fit.
Acura Client Services
MS 500-2N-7A
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
Re: Noise problems with 2004 MDX Tour w/RES
VIN ---
I purchased this vehicle two months ago from X Acura in Y and am extremely unhappy with the persistent noises coming from the vehicle. This is a great car until you get to either 40 or 70 MPH, then the question from the passenger becomes “what is that noise?”
When I brought these noises to the attention of the service manager at X Acura, he said that he was aware of the noise problems but did not know if Acura was working on a fix and had no way of finding out the status. He said this may be characteristic of the MDX and that there was nothing he could do, even though other customers have the same complaint. Could you please offer some information and assistance with this as the noise is making me regret this purchase.
Problem 1: At exactly 70 MPH there is a resonating, droning sound coming from underneath the car, possibly from the exhaust system or the transmission. Since most of the freeways here have a speed limit of 70 MPH, I have to drive under or over the limit to avoid this noise, which then becomes a safety problem.
Problem 2: At approx 38-42 MPH and 2000 RPM, when I decelerate slightly, there is a different resonating hum again coming from either the transmission or exhaust system. I was able to duplicate this sound on the X demo MDX.
There are other problems with the car that the service manager is willing to correct (excessive windshield cleaner fluid on the hood and a mis-aligned door) but he is unable to tell me anything on these two noise problems.
Question 1- is Acura aware of these problems and are you working on a solution to these noise problems? Do you have an estimated date on when this may be fixed?
Question 2- If this is ‘characteristic’ of the MDX, will Acura be willing to purchase this car back from me, or give me a new MDX without the noises and properly adjusted windshield cleaners and doors?
I would appreciate an answer to this letter.
Thank you |
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| hsj |
I haven't seen very much interest in taking this matter aggresively with Acura and how to go about it, There are loads of Xs going out every day and wonder why we do not hear lot of complaints. Or are we the only one fighting out with dealer/Acura?????
I have test driven atleast 10 ( all had this problem) + 4 people I know have this ..
:rolleyes: |
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| hsj |
Did u speak to Acura tech line before you sent them the letter and if you got any response from them.....
I think we should send 4 certified copies ( 1-Acura, 2-Dealer, 3- DA office for local state, 4- BBB office )... |
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| CJB |
Dealer had my two week old '04 MDX yesterday checking the 2000 RPM drone. Acura Tech Line suggested issue is with the rear differential and wants it replaced. I'm not a mechanic - thoughts on this being the source of the drone?.
Interestingly, there is a nationwide shortage on the replacement rear diff part(s). I can't be given a date of availability. Is this normal for Acura parts? or, does it indicate a run on the part(s) caused by a pervasive issue. |
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| Kev-man |
I'm in on WHATEVER action can be taken. My '04 drone isn't BAD but I'd still like it fixed.
Most MDX owners:
1. Don't log onto this forum
2. Don't have an '04, which seems to be the worst
I'm going to copy Ronal404's note, and do as hsj suggests and copy: 1-Acura, 2-Dealer, 3- DA office for local state, 4- BBB office.
Let's all try to do something!!! |
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| hsj |
quote:
Originally posted by CJB
Dealer had my two week old '04 MDX yesterday checking the 2000 RPM drone. Acura Tech Line suggested issue is with the rear differential and wants it replaced. I'm not a mechanic - thoughts on this being the source of the drone?.
Interesting.....Atleast you have a different answer than what we have heard..Keep us posted about the developmets ....and hopefully its the fix we hav'een waiting for .... |
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