| nysimonsez |
I went to a honda dealer to get a gallon of vtm-4 fluid. The parts guy said I can't change the vtm fluid myself. Honda uses a special pump that's connected to the bottle and pump in the fluid. And only Honda has that pump and bottle connector so I have to change the fluid at the dealer. I told him I'll schedule an appt later and bought the fluid anyway.
Is the parts guy lying? Do I need to pump in the vtm-4 fluid? Sounds like he's trying to fool me. I was planning to go to my local mechanic to have that change.
Anyone has similar response from dealer? |
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| TheWorm |
LOL. The parts guy is mistaken. LOL b/c I was @ the Honda dealer this afternoon buying VTM and tranny fluid. They had a pile of them sitting right next to the fluid! One comes in every case they get.
If he won't give or sell you one for $5, then go to an autoparts store and buy one -- you DO need it as the fill hole for VTM is on the side of the rear diff. You don't need a super-special bottle-sealing pump -- any siphon-type will work.
You *did* get the crush washers, too, right? |
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| nysimonsez |
Thanks for the confirm. When he told me that, I looked at him like he had 3 heads! Some dealer really try hard to screw you. That's why I really enjoy this site, bringing honest feedback to those less knowledgable like me.
Oh no! Forgot to get it, guess I'll have to go back , and have him make up another story to have them do the job.:( |
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| thomas |
If someone can help you, you don't even need the pump. Just get
a long flexible plastic tube, put one end into the fill hole, have someone fill in the oil at the other end beside the car body. You
monitor the full status at the bottom. This also can do the job.
Good luck.
T |
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| JTM |
| definitely you can do you by yourself. And yes, you do need a pump to perform the job. |
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| dleasman |
Much easier than changing your oil.
Just use the pump from Mercury Marine for their gear lube... It works perfectly.
The pump:
http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wc...productId=56208
This pump fits the fluid bottle just fine... You put the hose into the upper hole, and pump it in until the level is up to the hole. That's it.
-Dana |
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| frostyra |
| There are TWO crush washers, one for the drain and one for the fill (not positive, but I think they're different sizes. |
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| hammermdx |
Yup they are different sizes, here are the specs:
drain plug washer - 18mm
fill plug washer - 24mm |
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| hammermdx |
| Forgot to add that they both get torqued to 35lbf-ft. |
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| TheWorm |
| I think the fill is 20mm (you might be thinking of the tranny fill @ 24mm). And, oddly, the 01 calls for a 20mm drain and the 02/03 calls for an 18mm (or the other way around). Not sure whether those 2mm make a difference. I ended up buying BOTH sizes for our 01 just in case...will find out this weekend which it is. I know my dealer used (or at least charged me for) an 18mm @ my 7500 service. |
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| hammermdx |
| Thanks Worm...I'll report back tomorrow as I'll be doing the VTM change for the first time as well as an oil change and tire rotation. |
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| hammermdx |
I just got done changing the oil and filter, rotating the tires and doing the VTM change. Worm, you are right about the VTM washer size, I was thinking of the tranny in my previous post. Some observations:
1. I put 5 qts of oil in since I changed the filter. Started and ran the car for a few minutes to make sure there were no leaks. I then rotated the tires, and checked the oil (I wanted to make sure I allowed enough time for all of the oil to return to the pan). The oil mark is just below the top circle on the dipstick, I was a little surprised as I thought it would be right at the mark. I didn't add any additional oil as it was pretty close to the top mark, but thought it would have been right on the mark.
2. The VTM change was a piece of cake thanks to all of the advice and instructions on this board!!! I dropped my full service spare for the first time in 6 months and was suprised it wasn't too dirty and had only lost 3lbs of air. I did follow the instructions that jford62 suggested in this thread: http://acuramdx.org/forums/showthre...ight=vtm+change
After I did this, the VTM took 7 more pumps from the VTM Fluid container. I checked the fill mark on the container from Acura and there was exactly 1qt left which is right on the mark since the manual says the refill takes 3 quarts. Makes you think if they do this at the dealers....I doubt it and just another reason to do this yourself....it is a piece of cake!!! |
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| DaleB |
| As the VTM is more complex than a regular differential, I wonder if it would be good to fill it with fresh fluid. Drive the car around a few minutes, then let it sit for several minutes. And then check the level again. |
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| hammermdx |
DaleB,
I only drove it on my driveway for a few minutes, put in in reverse and forward several times, then manually engaged the VTM and after doing this I ended up topping off the fluid. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by hammermdx
DaleB,
I only drove it on my driveway for a few minutes, put in in reverse and forward several times, then manually engaged the VTM and after doing this I ended up topping off the fluid.
Makes sense. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
hammermdx,
I will hit 7,500 miles soon and would like to do the service myself. I am comfortable changing the oil and rotating the tires. I will use the 5-tire rotation to get some use out of my full size spare.
My question has to do with changing the VTM fluid. I have never done this before. Q: Is it necessary to remove the full size spare in order to perform the VTM fluid change?
I would appreciate any comments and tips. I am a DIY'er and would like to do the VTM fluid change correctly and as efficiently as possible. |
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| hammermdx |
EXCALIBUR,
I did my VTM service at 6 months since I only have 4200 miles on it. Yes, you have to drop the FSS, once it's out of the way it's a piece of cake to change the VTM fluid. I also used this opportunity to clean the spare, cover, and check the air. If you do your won oil changes, the VTM change is just as easy. Just make sure you pick up the VTM fluid and crush washers from the dealer as well as the hand pump to get the fluid back in the rear differential. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
hammermdx,
Thanks for the reply. I will get the supplies from my local Acura dealer. Just to clarify my thinking, could you confirm if I have the right sizes listed for the crush washers?
VTM Drain Plug - 18 mm
VTM Fill Plug - 20 mm
Oil Drain Plug - 14 mm
Thanks again. |
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| hammermdx |
| The VTM crush washers look right, now sure about the oil drain plug. To be honest, I just ordered the oil filters and crush washers from Tim and didn't bother worrying about telling him the sizes, since I figured he would send me what I needed, which of course he did. Even if you get the crush washers from a local dealer, they should know the right sizes. Let us all know how it goes! |
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| EXCALIBUR |
hammermdx,
Roger that. I think I will just ask the dealer to give me the right size crush washers. |
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| TheWorm |
hammer, thanks for the play-by-play. I might hit it tomorrow; we'll see what MrsWorm has in mind.
Excalibur has the oil drain plug washer correct - it's 14mm IIRC. I, too, just had them included w/the filters from Tim. |
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| TheyCallMeBruce |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
hammermdx,
Roger that. I think I will just ask the dealer to give me the right size crush washers.
"Ask the dealer?"
My dealer gave me the wrong sizes. Twice. Its no fun to find this out when your VTM is drained empty, and then return to find that the washer is still the wrong size.
20mm for the top fill plug.
18mm for the bottom drain plug.
If they try to give you a 14mm, you say "no, that's for the motor oil drain plug." If they give you a 24mm, you say, "no, that's for the fill plug on the transmission, I'm doing the VTM." If they give you a 22mm, you say, "Read my lips; I need an 18 and a 20, nothing else!"
I received every combination possible. Makes me want to slap somebody. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
TheyCallMeBruce,
That's a big Affirmative on the crush washer sizes.:29: |
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| hammermdx |
TheyCallMeBruce,
Thanks for the details, btw I looked in the owners and service manual and could not find out the size of these washers, so I just relied on Tim. How did you know? |
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| JimH |
I just picked up some of the washers from my local Honda Parts
dealership this week. The 14MM crush washer for the oil pan
is listed as part #: 094109-14000 (washer (14MM)).
The 18MM washers for the VTM and Trans. drain plug are listed as: 090471-PX4-000 (washer (18MM)). I tried to get the 20MM and the 24MM washers, but my Honda dealer did not even stock these. From earlier posts on this site, others have reported that the part number for these washers to be as follows:
20MM--> 94109-20000;
24MM--> 90441-PK4-000
I cannot verify the last two parts numbers, but assume they are correct per earlier posts. My impression from the parts guy is that the fill-plug washers are probably not always changed, even though they should be to insure 100% non-leaking over time. |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by JimH
My impression from the parts guy is that the fill-plug washers are probably not always changed, even though they should be to insure 100% non-leaking over time.
The owners manuals says to put a new washer in even after just checking fluid level.
The Honda dealers just do not have the experience yet to know that the crush washers must be repaced, top and bottom. The pilot VTM fluid is not required to be changed till 15000 miles(?) so they have probably not had to do it yet. |
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| ardvarkus |
quote:
Originally posted by TheyCallMeBruce
"Ask the dealer?"
My dealer gave me the wrong sizes. Twice. Its no fun to find this out when your VTM is drained empty, and then return to find that the washer is still the wrong size.
20mm for the top fill plug.
18mm for the bottom drain plug.
If they try to give you a 14mm, you say "no, that's for the motor oil drain plug." If they give you a 24mm, you say, "no, that's for the fill plug on the transmission, I'm doing the VTM." If they give you a 22mm, you say, "Read my lips; I need an 18 and a 20, nothing else!"
I received every combination possible. Makes me want to slap somebody.
Crack me up.
Just what I went few the first few times- early on they'd just give you what they thought would fit based on their past knowledge of Acuras- then they actually looked it up. Both times wrong. Finally I just order them by size.
BTW, to the initial post- I like to collusion between the Parts counter and the Service group to rip-off the customer.
Yes, every case they buy has one pump. Last time I bought, I offered to buy a cse if they gave me the pump...he said he couldn't, they are 'saved for the mechanics'. (A$$hole) I then changed my order to only the specific items I needed for the next days labors.
Pump costs $3.98 at any discount auto supply place. (And sure, you can use a hose and a helper pouring from next to the vehicle... But then you have 6 feet of fluid in the hose, and then have to store the hose for next use! :))
Ard |
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| EXCALIBUR |
ardvarkus,
Just in case my Acura dealer refuses to sell me pump and I have to go to an auto parts store, what is the exact name for this kind of pump? Just want to be sure.:confused: |
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| TheyCallMeBruce |
quote:
Originally posted by hammermdx
TheyCallMeBruce,
Thanks for the details, btw I looked in the owners and service manual and could not find out the size of these washers, so I just relied on Tim. How did you know?
Miserable experience from a particular parts guy that's too lazy to look up the numbers. So, now I have every size Honda sells between 14 and 24 mm, and now I insist on speaking to the parts manager whenever I purchase anything at all - at least he gets my discount points right. I write down the numbers into my manual each time I figure them out. |
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| TheyCallMeBruce |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
ardvarkus,
Just in case my Acura dealer refuses to sell me pump and I have to go to an auto parts store, what is the exact name for this kind of pump? Just want to be sure.:confused:
Sometimes they are called differential fluid pumps.
I know that Valvoline's oil pump doesn't fit the VTM jug, even though its label says it fits all differential oil containers.
The Sta-Lube pump works really well for me and I like the simple device to keep the hose in place, hands-free.
Might be easier to bring the jug of VTM to the auto parts store and ask them to figure it out, as they might not like you tearing up their packages to test fit their various pumps. This way, you walk out knowing you have something that works, without begging the dealer parts punk who wouldn't give it to you. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
TheyCallMeBruce,
Thanks for the information.:) |
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| EXCALIBUR |
| I dropped my FS Spare today to get a better look at the differential in anticipation of changing my VTM Fluid. I already purchased my VTM Fluid, pump, and 18 mm and 20 mm crush washers from my dealer. Before I go beyond the point of no return, would someone please clarify which are the VTM Drain Bolt and Fill Bolt? Looking at the differential from the rear of the MDX, they appear to be two bolts with "square holes". These holes appear to accept a 3/8" socket driver (without any socket attached). Are these the VTM Drain Bolt and Fill Bolt? If anyone could post pictures, I would appreciate that also.:confused: |
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| TheWorm |
| Excalibur - you've got 'em both ID'd. Take the fill plug out first - want to make sure you can pour fluid in before you let it all out. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
TheWorm,
Roger that. We have "target acquired". I changed my oil and did the 5-tire rotation this afternoon. My next mission will be the VTM Fluid change. Just wanted to be sure. Thanks:4: |
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| hammermdx |
EXCALIBUR,
The suspense is killing me, how did you make out with the VTM change? |
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| EXCALIBUR |
hammermdx,
Sorry, wouldn't you know it? It's the weekend and I have no time. The VTM-Fluid change is on standby right now. I will keep you posted.:rolleyes: |
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| hammermdx |
| No problem, I know the feeling, misery loves company! |
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| R Stevens |
I had planned on doing the VTM fluid at 7,500 miles, but read the manual last night again and realized the requirement is 7,500 miles or 6 months - whichever comes first. I am only at 5,700 miles but the 6 month date was January 12, so I need to get it done ASAP.
Can I expect the Acura anti-warranty Delta Force to attack at first light? |
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| hammermdx |
quote:
Originally posted by R Stevens
I had planned on doing the VTM fluid at 7,500 miles, but read the manual last night again and realized the requirement is 7,500 miles or 6 months - whichever comes first. I am only at 5,700 miles but the 6 month date was January 12, so I need to get it done ASAP.
Can I expect the Acura anti-warranty Delta Force to attack at first light?
Just tell them you've been on the road since 1/12 and the X hasn't been driven, and this was the fist chance you had to bring it in. Just kidding, I'd be very surprised if you had any warranty problems. Let us know how you make out. |
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| ardvarkus |
quote:
Originally posted by R Stevens
I had planned on doing the VTM fluid at 7,500 miles, but read the manual last night again and realized the requirement is 7,500 miles or 6 months - whichever comes first. I am only at 5,700 miles but the 6 month date was January 12, so I need to get it done ASAP.
Can I expect the Acura anti-warranty Delta Force to attack at first light?
I doubt it will be even mentioned...even if you bring it in and they declare the VTM is totally destroyed, it would be ludicrous to believe that a 2 month extension on the interval caused the damage....
I mean, when does the '6 month clock' start? When they fill it at the factory (which is when it 'should') or a some arbitrary time weeks or months later when you take delivery?
Inquiring minds want to know....
Ard |
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| hammermdx |
quote:
Originally posted by ardvarkus
I doubt it will be even mentioned...even if you bring it in and they declare the VTM is totally destroyed, it would be ludicrous to believe that a 2 month extension on the interval caused the damage....
I mean, when does the '6 month clock' start? When they fill it at the factory (which is when it 'should') or a some arbitrary time weeks or months later when you take delivery?
Inquiring minds want to know....
Ard
Great point about when the 6 months start...I bet Acura would say once you take delivery. |
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| ardvarkus |
quote:
Originally posted by hammermdx
Great point about when the 6 months start...I bet Acura would say once you take delivery.
My question was somewhat tongue-in-cheek...I have no doubt that is what they'd say- which, of course, has no basis from a 'scientific' point of view... I'd bet they were never asked, and if they were would likely rolls their eyes and wonder why this person has so much free time to ponder such things...
:)
Ard
PS Ultimately, some engineer in Tokyo has done a 'worst case' analysis in 1999 or 2000 when the maintenance schedule was developed using historical 'time in stock' data for Acuras, and determined that 6 months post delivery is fine...Given the short amount of time MDXs lay in stock, 2 extra months is fine. IMHO |
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| mqsix |
Our MDX is at Acura of South Bay in Torrance California today for its first service at 7200 miles. We were quoted by the service writer $155.18 for the service including the VTM change. I figured the first one should be done by Acura to change out the break-in fluids and the subsequent ones will be done at home.
Here's the kicker, the service writer called after an hour and said that their technicians have an update that says the VTM is not necessary part of the 7500 mi anymore and should be changed at the 15000 mi service. Today's service will ONLY be $62.00
I like the idea of saving the money for a few months but has anyone heard of this change in Acura's recommendation (like the Pilot) for the 2003 model year or is the dealer doing their own opinion or interpretation of the 7500 in extreme and 15000 in regular conditions like it says in the manual?
I know it my choice too, but if Acura says to skip one, I'm not complaining. My wife's driving is mild mostly highway.
Thanks, |
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| rudy331 |
| The '03 owner's manual actually indicates no VTM change until 15,000 unless driven under severe conditions. Just had 7500 mile service done on Monday. They tried to convince me to go ahead and do it, but of course they were charging $190.00 w/vtm change and only $69.00 without. |
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| acurasandiego |
| There's such a price difference!!! My dealer charged me $94 for the 7,500 mile service which includes changing the VTM fluid. |
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| ardvarkus |
quote:
Originally posted by acurasandiego
There's such a price difference!!! My dealer charged me $94 for the 7,500 mile service which includes changing the VTM fluid.
Did your printed paperwork include VTM fluid and washers? That is a surprising price... I could see that they had an old 7500 mile service flyer, but they actually didn't do it since it wasn't required ...
Now, here is a question:
Why was it required at 7500 miles last year (ie 2001,2002) but now it isn't "needed"??? Is the fluid different? (no) Is the VTM-4 transmission different? (Not to my knowledge) Is acura bending to market pressure to reduce first-service costs and hence figuring that they can take the extra 7500 miles on the VTM4 since any failures won't hit until after warranty?
Who knows....
Ard |
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| acurasandiego |
quote:
Originally posted by ardvarkus
Did your printed paperwork include VTM fluid and washers? That is a surprising price...
Ard
The price did include VTM fluid, washers ( MDX Diff: Washer 20MM, Washer 18 MM, Fluid VTM-4), oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, and adjusting other fluid levels. |
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| N_Jay |
quote:
Originally posted by ardvarkus
Why was it required at 7500 miles last year (ie 2001,2002) but now it isn't "needed"??? Is the fluid different? (no) Is the VTM-4 transmission different? (Not to my knowledge) Is acura bending to market pressure to reduce first-service costs and hence figuring that they can take the extra 7500 miles on the VTM4 since any failures won't hit until after warranty?
Or, now we have 2 years experiance,
or,
Some upgrade to the materials, machgining, or finishing process,
or,
Bending to pressure to reduce the environmental impact of waste fluids.
See there are a few "non-sinister" reasons |
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| EXCALIBUR |
quote:
Originally posted by rudy331
The '03 owner's manual actually indicates no VTM change until 15,000 unless driven under severe conditions. Just had 7500 mile service done on Monday. They tried to convince me to go ahead and do it, but of course they were charging $190.00 w/vtm change and only $69.00 without.
Did you get the VTM Fluid changed at 7,500 miles or are you going to live it bold and wait for 15,000 miles? Inquiring minds want to know?:confused: |
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| ardvarkus |
| nevermind....:) |
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| Will4271 |
My '03 MDX is at about 4000+ miles.
I'm wondering should I change the VTM fluid also at 7500?
For those who have changed it, did the fluid lose it's coloring or seemed ready for the change?
thx.
:eek: |
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| rudy331 |
| I chose not to do the VTM at 7,500. I haven't done alot of city driving and no towing. However, they did rotate and balance the tires. Guess what? After that I had a noticeable vibration in front. Took it to a local guy to have balancing checked thinking that perhaps someone at Acura dealer wasn't on top of their game--they weren't. The lug nuts were very loose on the front driver's wheel. Guess I was lucky it didn't fall off.:mad: |
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| hammermdx |
quote:
Originally posted by Will4271
My '03 MDX is at about 4000+ miles.
I'm wondering should I change the VTM fluid also at 7500?
For those who have changed it, did the fluid lose it's coloring or seemed ready for the change?
thx.
:eek:
I changed mine at 6 months (I only had about 4000 miles) and the old fluid looked pristine. I could not tell the difference between the old and new fluid. It only took me about 20 minutes to do it. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
rudy331 and hammermdx,
What say you? I have owned my MDX for 13 months now and am rapidly nearing 7,500 miles. I have 1 gallon of new VTM-Fluid sitting in my garage (in the container of course).
Q: Should I go for it and change the VTM-Fluid at 7,500 miles or wait unitil 15,000 miles?:confused: |
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| hammermdx |
| I would change it, better to be safe than sorry. I thought you had done it a few moths ago? :2: |
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| EXCALIBUR |
hammermdx,
You are right. I may as well change it since I have all the supplies. "Procarastination is the thief of time." I just never got around to changing the VTM-Fluid. I will let you know how it goes.:) |
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| hammermdx |
| I know what you mean! Good luck, it's a piece of cake. |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
rudy331 and hammermdx,
Q: Should I go for it and change the VTM-Fluid at 7,500 miles or wait unitil 15,000 miles?:confused:
The 2001/2002 owners manual calls for the change at 7500 miles. I understand that the 2003, like the Pilot, now calls for the initial change at 15000 miles.
Probably no difference in parts for the 2003 but I changed mine at 7500 miles to be consistant with warranty maintenance requirements. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
BaldEagle,
The verdict is in...I will change the VTM-Fluid for my MDX at 7,500 miles.:4: |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by N_Jay
Or, now we have 2 years experiance,
or,
Some upgrade to the materials, machgining, or finishing process,
or,
Bending to pressure to reduce the environmental impact of waste fluids.
See there are a few "non-sinister" reasons
I understand the refill requirement of the 03 diff is slightly less than the 01 and 02, is that right? Thought I read that on here before.
If it is then there had to be some mechanical change to change the capacity. Or they moved the fill hole lower. |
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| miro |
| I'd like to confirm that on 2003 the manual recommend VTM-4 fluid change at 15Kml for either sever or normal driving schedule. I was ready to do that service but now I'm just going to to oil change and wait till 15Kml. And I don't buy "better safe than sorry". If you follow that you could change oil every 300 ml... |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by miro
I'd like to confirm that on 2003 the manual recommend VTM-4 fluid change at 15Kml for either sever or normal driving schedule. I was ready to do that service but now I'm just going to to oil change and wait till 15Kml. And I don't buy "better safe than sorry". If you follow that you could change oil every 300 ml...
Do I use minimum quality oil and change it every 3750 miles, as recommended for severe service?
Or use synthetic premium oil, and change it every 7500 miles, as recommended for normal service?
I like the using synthetic, and change it every 5000 miles. |
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| craig02mdx |
| Am I reading the "Severe" schedule wrong. The change is done at 7500 and then not again until 30000? |
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| EXCALIBUR |
hammermdx,
VTM Fluid Change: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! My MDX just hit 7,525 miles so I decided to go for it this afternoon. Thanks to all the valuable tips you provided, it was a cinch, taking 20 minutes tops.
I will repeat a few tips which were particularly helpful:
1) I dropped the FSS and getting to the VTM drain and fill bolts was easy. It required a little "muscle" to loosen the bolts...the only real tool needed for this job is a 3/8" socket driver.
2) BTW, for the VTM, the correct size Crush Washers are: fill bolt - 20 mm. and drain Bolt - 18 mm. If you are changing oil, the correct size is 14 mm.
3) After filling less than 3 qts. of the VTM Fluid, I temporarily tightened the fill bolt. I drove my MDX back and forth a few times in my driveway. I topped off the VTM Fluid a little...it took 3 qts. total.
4) SAFETY FIRST! I wore safety glasses. Latex gloves would have been good for extra protection. Dispose of all hazmat materials properly.
The used VTM Fluid, appeared to be pristine to me...the color of Vicks 44 Cough Syrup. This prompts me to wonder if it is really necessary to change the VTM Fluid at 7,500 miles. Oh well, better safe than sorry, and besides it is such an easy job.
Okay members, it's time to roll up your sleeves, get a little grease under your fingernails, and change your own VTM Fluid. It's fun and you'll save enough money to buy more accessories for your MDX.:29: |
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| ardvarkus |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
hammermdx,
SAFETY FIRST! I wore safety glasses. Latex gloves would have been good for extra protection.
Are you kidding?!
No respirator? At the very least a full body tyvek suit and mask....
Did you retorque the bolts using a torque wrench, or wing it?
I assume a pump for the fluid... I really is simple, simple, simple- easier than the engine oil really.
Ard |
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| hammermdx |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
hammermdx,
VTM Fluid Change: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! My MDX just hit 7,525 miles so I decided to go for it this afternoon. Thanks to all the valuable tips you provided, it was a cinch, taking 20 minutes tops.
I will repeat a few tips which were particularly helpful:
1) I dropped the FSS and getting to the VTM drain and fill bolts was easy. It required a little "muscle" to loosen the bolts...the only real tool needed for this job is a 3/8" socket driver.
2) BTW, for the VTM, the correct size Crush Washers are: fill bolt - 20 mm. and drain Bolt - 18 mm. If you are changing oil, the correct size is 14 mm.
3) After filling less than 3 qts. of the VTM Fluid, I temporarily tightened the fill bolt. I drove my MDX back and forth a few times in my driveway. I topped off the VTM Fluid a little...it took 3 qts. total.
4) SAFETY FIRST! I wore safety glasses. Latex gloves would have been good for extra protection. Dispose of all hazmat materials properly.
The used VTM Fluid, appeared to be pristine to me...the color of Vicks 44 Cough Syrup. This prompts me to wonder if it is really necessary to change the VTM Fluid at 7,500 miles. Oh well, better safe than sorry, and besides it is such an easy job.
Okay members, it's time to roll up your sleeves, get a little grease under your fingernails, and change your own VTM Fluid. It's fun and you'll save enough money to buy more accessories for your MDX.:29:
Great job, I knew you could do it!! |
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| AG02MDX |
I had a Honda dealer change the VTM fluid in my 2002 MDX (7450 miles). The dealer was surprised the MDX required a fluid change at that mileage. He actually wanted to see the maintenance schedule in the manual. He said Pilot's require the first VTM fluid change at 30,000 miles. What's the schedule for 2003 MDXs?
The Acura dealer quoted $90 to change the VTM fluid with a 2 to 3 hour wait. The Honda Dealer, who's always done a great job with my '99 Prelude, charged $60 dollars with only a 20 minutes wait. |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by AG02MDX
Honda dealer........., charged $60 dollars with only a 20 minutes wait.
And that included a donut break.:jester:
$90 with a two to three hour wait???? A lot more than a donut break going on here. Nap, visit to girlfriend, etc., are some possibilities. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
quote:
Originally posted by hammermdx
Great job, I knew you could do it!!
Thanks again, I had a great coach.:29: |
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| EXCALIBUR |
quote:
Originally posted by AG02MDX
The Acura dealer quoted $90 to change the VTM fluid with a 2 to 3 hour wait. The Honda Dealer, who's always done a great job with my '99 Prelude, charged $60 dollars with only a 20 minutes wait.
Hmmmmmmm. The VTM Fluid and crush washers cost about $30.00. That leaves us $60 for labor. It took me 20 minutes to change the VTM Fluid. That works out to be $180/hr. At those rates, I think I may have found myself a new career...VTM Fluid Change Technician. Alright members, don't all rush in at once. Just call my staff and make an appointment. If I can't get the your MDX out the door in 30 minutes (10 minutes required for doughnut and girlfriend break), then the job is FREE! :2: |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
Hmmmmmmm. . At those rates, I think I may have found myself a new career...VTM Fluid Change Technician. Alright members, don't all rush in at once. :2:
Do you make house calls?
I will pay with donuts. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
quote:
Originally posted by BaldEagle
Do you make house calls?
I will pay with donuts.
Please send resume and picture of girlfriend first;) |
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| vicpai |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
Please send resume and picture of girlfriend first;)
.......... :19: :19:
......it really doesn't take a lot to crack me up, does it?? :D |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
Please send resume and picture of girlfriend first;)
:19: :19: :19:
Don't have a girlfriend and if I did I sure wouldn't keep pictures around for my wife to see. How about a cut and paste from the "hottest babe" thread?
Thanks for bumping this Vic, miised it the first time around. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
quote:
Originally posted by BaldEagle
:19: :19: :19:
How about a cut and paste from the "hottest babe" thread?
Sheesh!!! Two months before a reply...I still hope the donuts offer still stands. A pic from the "hottest babe" thread will surely seal the deal.:29: |
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| BaldEagle |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
Sheesh!!! Two months before a reply...I still hope the donuts offer still stands. A pic from the "hottest babe" thread will surely seal the deal.:29:
Better slow and sure than premature.
Donut offer still stands. |
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| EXCALIBUR |
quote:
Originally posted by BaldEagle
Better slow and sure than premature.
Donut offer still stands.
Hey, that is a catchy phrase. Donuts and a "hottest babe" pic..."Houston, we are go for launch.";) |
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| TheyCallMeBruce |
quote:
Originally posted by EXCALIBUR
Hmmmmmmm. The VTM Fluid and crush washers cost about $30.00. That leaves us $60 for labor. It took me 20 minutes to change the VTM Fluid. That works out to be $180/hr. At those rates, I think I may have found myself a new career...VTM Fluid Change Technician. Alright members, don't all rush in at once. Just call my staff and make an appointment.
If I can't get the your MDX out the door in 30 minutes (10 minutes required for doughnut and girlfriend break),
then the job is FREE! :2:
What do you do with a girlfriend that takes 10 minutes? Takes me at least 12 minutes, and that includes setup and takedown.
:2: |
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| feliz |
quote:
Originally posted by TheyCallMeBruce
What do you do with a girlfriend that takes 10 minutes? Takes me at least 12 minutes, and that includes setup and takedown.
:2:
I can do it in under 10 if I put her on the hoist!! :2: |
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