2012 ACURA MDX Problems

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Complaints Reported

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Complaints by Component

ENGINE

14 complaints

Oil consumption/burning Cylinder rings

Aug 27, 2025

On 11/30/24 I heard a slight whirling sound while driving. On 12/1/24 I drove from Point A towards my home. Along the way the oil light flashed. I stopped at Advance Auto Parts, 15 miles from Point A. I checked the oil and it read as it should on the dip stick. No oil was needed. I drove straight home, a distance of 30 miles, and parked the car. When my son arrived home he started the car and there was a knocking sound. He shut it off. He stated that he felt it to be the rod bearings. He then changed the oil as previously planned as supplies were already in the car. He checked the oil and found a slight glitter in it indicating the rod bearing issue. The car remained parked until 12/26/24 when it was taken to an independent service center, round trip of 18 miles, who confirmed that the rod bearings were the issue. The car was parked again and only started to move about 50 feet into the garage prior to a snow storm. It has not been started since. My safety was put at risk as the engine could have, and will, fail when driving. The engine had previously been repaired at an Acura dealer for an oil consumption issue in accordance with service bulletin 19-006. Honda refused to honor the recall previously offered due to this known failure. The car was picked up on 12/8/22 with 92,954 and purchased finalized on 1/4/23. The oil consumption issue was first noted on 2/12/23 at 97,088 miles. Car was serviced and oil changed on 2/16/23 at which time the oil consumption issue was diagnosed by the selling dealer. Oil was continually added until work was completed on 3/21/23 at 99,425 miles. The new issue with the rod bearings (that were not changed with the first repair as they should have been) was first noted at approximately 137,840 miles. This is now the second engine failure for this car. The car is available for inspection. The car has not been inspected by any entity other than the initial diagnosis on 12/26/24.

Feb 03, 2025

Consistently getting low oil notification shortly after getting oil changes. This has been happening since 2017. Dealer does a oil consumption test and says it is not a problem. However I cannot go between oil changes without getting the notification. I have no oil leaks. Furthermore, I have had 'oil' services done over the past 5 years that never fix the problem. I'm afraid this is doing damage to the vehicle and can put us in danger if oil level is too low. Dealer continues to say it isn't a problem. And when they try to fix it, it doesn't work. This began in 2017

Oct 27, 2022

This vehicle unrealistically burns oil. 5-6 quarts of oil is added to engine between oil changes.

Sep 18, 2022

ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO, MY SUV HAD A MESSAGE ALERT COME ON WHILE I WAS SITTING STILL AFTER JUST STARTING MY VEHICLE IN WALMART PARKING LOT AFTER GROCERY SHOPPING, SAYING TO CHECK THE OIL LEVEL; OIL LEVEL LOW. ALSO, JUST RECENTLY, MARCH 27TH I HAD TO ADD OIL TO MY VEHICLE AGAIN; 3/4 OF A QUART LOW ON OIL. THE VERY NEXT MORNING, I HAD ANOTHER ALERT COME ACROSS MY MESSAGE BOARD SAYING TO CHECK THE OIL LEVEL- OIL LEVEL LOW. SO I CHECKED IT AGAIN, IT SHOWED AT THE TOP OF THE HASH MARKS ON THE DIPSTICK AS IT SHOULD. SO I'M NOT SURE WHAT'S GOING ON THERE UNLESS IT'S A MALFUNCTION OF SORTS OR A SENSOR ISSUE. I CHECK MY OIL WHEN I FILL UP MY GAS TANK. ALL OF A SUDDEN, MY SUV WAS BURNING/ USING OIL. I HAVE TO KEEP PUTTING OIL IN DUE TO A LOW OIL LEVEL LOOK ENTIRELY TOO OFTEN. I'VE HAD TO PUT OIL IN MY ENGINE AT LEAST TWICE A MONTH. AND I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT JUST ENOUGH TO TOP IT OFF, I'M TALKING ANYWHERE FROM 3/4 OF A QUART TO 3 QUARTS OR MORE AT TIMES. THERE ARE NO LEAKS, NO PUDDLES OR OIL SPLATTER ON THE BOTTOM OF MY TRUCK OR IN MY DRIVEWAY. MY TRUCK IS HAVING A SEVERE OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM. I KNOW THERE WAS AN EXTENDED VEHICLE WARRANTY THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO FIX THIS THAT EXPIRED APRIL OF 2021-I DID NOT GET THIS VEHICLE UNTIL SEPTEMBER OF 2020. ALSO, I DID DO THE THOUSAND MILE TEST AND IT FAILED MISERABLY. NO ONE CAN TELL ME IF IT WAS FIXED OR NOT, BUT OBVIOUSLY, EITHER WAY, IT DID NOT GET FIXED OR THE FIX DID NOT WORK. IT IS A COSTLY FIX AND IT IS A MANUFACTURER FAIL, NOT MINE. THIS NEEDS TO BE FIXED BEFORE IT CREATES ANY FUTURE PROBLEMS OR YEARS UP THE PISTONS IN MY ENGINE OR LOCKS UP. ANY HELP OR ASSISTANCE WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED! THANK YOU.

Mar 31, 2021

+ 9 more complaints for this component

POWER TRAIN

11 complaints

SHUDDERING WHEN GOING BETWEEN 20-40 MILES.

Nov 23, 2020

THE TRANSMISSION BROKE EVEN AFTER THE REGULAR MAINTENANCE. SPENT MORE THAN $5,000 WITH THE DEALER TO FIX IT.

Nov 07, 2020

METAL PIECES WITHIN THE TRANSMISSION FLUID.REGULAR MAINTENANCE DONE WITH ACURA OF WAPPINGER FALLS, NY 12590. SPENT $5190.04 FOR REPLACING TRANSMISSION AND TORQUE CONVERTOR WITH REMANUFACTURED UNIT. FEW YEARS BEFORE HAD ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUES JUST AT 55,000 AND WAS TOLD THAT INTERNAL GASKET OIL CONSUMPTION WAS NOT PART OF THE ENGINE PROBLEM. *TR

Jun 05, 2020

EVER SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR I TRY TO TAKE IT BACK TO GET IT WAS BECAUSE THE CAR RPM FLUCTUATE ABOUT 1500-2500 RPM RANGE AND 30-40MPH CAUSES THE CAR TO JERKS LIKE ITS TRYING TO GO AND BRAKING AT THE SAME TIME. IT DOES THIS CONSISTENTLY IN CITY STREETS SOMETIMES IT DOES THAT ON THE HIGHWAY. ESPECIALLY GOING UP HILLS. I JUST DON'T FEEL SAFE AT ALL WHEN THE CAR ACTS UP LIKE THAT. I TAKE IT BACK TO WHERE I BOUGHT IT FROM THEY KEEP SAYING IS NORMAL I EVEN TOOK IT TO ACURA DEALER AND THE TECHNICIAN SAYS ITS NORMAL AND THAT I NEED TO PRESS ON GAS HARDER. THIS IS BULLSH*T.

Feb 19, 2020

WHILE DRIVING MY CAR MY RPMS FLUCTUATE AND MY CAR CAN'T SEEM TO GET INTO GEAR. IT IS ALL OVER THE PLACE AND VERY SCARY AT TIMES. IT SEEMS TO BE SOMETHING WITH THE TRANSMISSION AND ALSO A VERY COMMON PROBLEM. THIS SHOULD NOT BE THE CONSUMERS PROBLEM. ACURA SHOULD BE LIVING UP TO THERE NAME BY FIXING THIS PROBLEM. ACURAS SHOULD NEVER HAVE A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. THATS WHY MY HUSBAND AND I ARE LOYAL CUSTOMERS. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTING.

Oct 30, 2018

+ 6 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

8 complaints

THIS VEHICLE BURNS SO MUCH OIL. I USE 5 QUARTS OF OIL BETWEEN OIL CHANGES IN THIS VEHICLE. UNREAL! SO DISAPPOINTED IN HONDA.

Sep 18, 2022

My Sunroof exploded.

Jun 27, 2022

11/17/2020 Acura battery of our 2012 Acura MDX failed & was replaced under manufacturer warranty, via comp was provided. 6/29/2021 Acura battery failed again. Dealership did not honor warranty claiming manufacturer Acura would not pay for replacement. Dealership said I needed to contact Acura Client Relationship which I did. ACR initially said dealership was at fault & the battery should be replaced under warranty. I asked for a client number & was placed on 10 minute hold. When agent returned she changed her story saying battery was not under warranty even though it had been replaced under warranty in November 2020. Their reason was I ‘did not pay for the battery.’ This is not true as I did pay a prorate portion of the replacement in November & the original battery I purchased with the certified vehicle purchase. The ACR agent declined to provide me a claim number. I talked to the dealer service manager Andrew Jackson & the service tech writer Tevin Jackson. I requested contact information for an Acura Zone or Regional Manager. Andrew stated he would speak to general manager - Cecil Turner. I followed up with Andrew, was told that Acura Client Relations have no record of my call (I have itemized billing & therefore proof of the call including duration) & he asked me to call back to get a claim number. I did this & obtained a claim number which I provided to Mr. Jackson. I followed up again & was told the Regional representative was going to try & obtain an Acura Loyalty Card. Weeks later I checked on this again & was told they were still trying. While the dealership is not at fault & my claim of Fraud is not directed at Acura of Little Rock or Mr. Tevin, Mr. Andrew or Mr. Cecil (even though as a 21 year customer of this dealership he has not bothered to contact me in any way) I am very dismayed that the manufacturer Acura – an American Honda com. The repeated battery failures are a real & present safety danger. Acura batteries are garbage.

Aug 08, 2021

MOISTURE GETS INTO THE BACK-UP CAMERA CASING, CAUSING LACK OF VISIBILITY ON BACKUP CAMERA SCREEN, CREATING AN UNSAFE SITUATION.

Jul 19, 2019

TAKATA RECAL: PERHAPS A MONTH AGO I ATTWEMPTED TO GET INFORMATION RE RECALLS FOR THIS CAR ON YOUR SITE. THE ANSWER WAS THAT IOT HAD DEFECTIVE AIRBAGS. I CONTACTED A DEALER WHO INFORMED ME THAT I WAS MISTAKEN. I AM ASKING IF YOU HAVE ANY EVIDENCE OF SUCH A DEFECT AND COULD PROVIDE ME WITH INFORMATION TO SHOW THE DEALER IF THERE HAS BEEN A DEFECT IN THE PAST.

May 13, 2019

+ 3 more complaints for this component

AIR BAGS

8 complaints

The airbag light is on I went to have the airbag replaced. I was told I couldn't get my airbag replaced because it was a CANADIAN vehicle and they couldn't get the part etc. to replace it. So I have a Canadian vehicle that was not disclosed to me at the time of purchase. What can I do to resolve this issue? I purchased the Suv from Walt Sweeny 6315 Harrison Avenue Cincinnati Ohio 45247Auto Center 877- 300-3930. I spoke with the owner once and other person. No resolution has come about yet.

Jul 15, 2021

MY AIRBAG LIGHT WON'T GO OFF. SHOWING AN ERROR WHEN HOOKED UP TO THE MACHINE

May 05, 2021

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD MY CHECK AIRBAG SYSTEM INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. I REACHED MY DESTINATION AND TURNED OFF MY VEHICLE, I THEN RESTARTED MY VEHICLE AND THE LIGHT WAS STILL ON. I TOOK A PICTURE OF THE LIGHT FOR PROOF. IT DID GO OFF LATER IN THE DAY. IT HAS COME ON INTERMEDIATELY SINCE THAT DAY. I CHECKED AND MY VIN IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST FOR THE AIRBAG.

Aug 02, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAGS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED, INFORMING THE DRIVER TO GO THE DEALER FOR SERVICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LEITH ACURA (2300 CAPITAL SUMMIT CT, RALEIGH, NC 27616, (919) 803-8700) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE AIR BAGS ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000.

Jul 22, 2020

I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WITH MY AIR BAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON THE DASH BOARD, SAYING CHECK AIR BAG SYSTEM. THIS HAPPENS EVERYDAY WHEN DRIVING.

Oct 27, 2018

+ 3 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 126,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 159,000.

Apr 22, 2025

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA MDX. AFTER CAMPING, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE WHERE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT RODENTS CHEWED ON SEVERAL WIRES. THE DEALER DID NOT DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE AND NO REPAIRS WERE MADE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,900.

Jan 30, 2017

POWER DOOR LOCKS WERE ALL DEFECTIVE, BECAME NON-RESPONSIVE TO TRANSMITTER AND DRIVER MASTER SWITCH IN YEAR 4. LOCKS ALSO BEGAN CYCLING OPEN AND CLOSED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. ALL 4 ACTUATORS HAD TO BE REPLACED OVER THE COURSE OF THREE TRIPS TO DEALER. I AM REPORTING ONLY THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE DATE AS THIS HAPPENED THROUGHOUT THE COURSE OF 2017

Jan 03, 2017

POWER DOOR LOCKS WERE ALL DEFECTIVE, BECAME NON-RESPONSIVE TO TRANSMITTER AND DRIVER MASTER SWITCH IN YEAR 4. LOCKS ALSO BEGAN CYCLING OPEN AND CLOSED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. [MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD!] ALL 4 ACTUATORS HAD TO BE REPLACED OVER THE COURSE OF THREE TRIPS TO DEALER. I AM REPORTING ONLY THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE DATE AS THIS HAPPENED THROUGHOUT THE COURSE OF 2017

Jan 03, 2017

MY WIFE, WHO HAD BEEN DRIVING, EXITED THE SUV TO GO SHOPPING, LEAVING ME ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. UNAWARE, SHE PRESSSED THE "LOCK" BUTTON ON THE KEY REMOTE AS SHE WALKED AWAY.. AFTER A MOMENT, I ATTEMPTED TO OPEN MY CAR DOOR, WHICH TRIGGERED THE PANIC ALARM. THE ISSUE WAS THAT IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE WHICH COUYLD HAVE RESULTED IN A DANGEROUS EVENT HAD THE CAR BEEN ON FIRE. IT WAS LATER SHOWN TO ME A MANUAL LOCK/UNLOCK SWIITCH THAT I COULD HAVE OPERATED. BUILDINGS HAVE EXITS THAT REQUIRE NO EXPERIENCE TO USE IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. WHY CANNOT A VEHICLE BE EXITEDHURRIEDLY, EVEN THOUGH THE PANIC ALARM WILL BE ACTIVATED IN THAT TYPE OF AN EMERGENCY?

Mar 30, 2016

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2 complaints

See attached document for complaint.

Feb 12, 2025

LIKE MOST TREADS THAT I COME ACROSS ON BLOGS, I ALSO HAVE NOTICE A STRONG SMELL EXHAUST FUMES UNDER HEAVY ACCELERATION INSIDE THE CABIN. THE SMELL FOR THE FUMES ARE NAUSEATING AND OF COURSE POSSE A REAL HEALTH RISK IN MY OPINION. WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE USED BUT STILL UNDER WARRANTY. MODEL: ADVANCED *TR

Oct 13, 2014

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

S25 S25 recall fuel system 2012 Campaign Number 12V063000

Sep 06, 2022

ACURA MDX 2012 - PERSISTENT SLOW START OF THE ENGINE; ENGINE IS STRAINING TO TURN OVER/START. I HAVE REPLACED THE BATTERY 4 TIMES, CHECKED ALL POSSIBLE PROBLEMS (STARTER, SPARK PLUGS ETC.) BUT SAME RANDOM, PERIODIC PROBLEM OF THE ENGINE STRUGGLING TO START. RELATED PROBLEM: FUEL TANK APPEARS TO BE SOMEWHAT LOOSE; WHEN I BUY GASOLINE, I CAN SEE THE GAS TANK MOVE. IN ADDITION, IT IS DIFFICULT TO FILL UP THE CAR WITH GAS; THE GAS PUMP CUTS OFF BEFORE THE GAS TANK IS TO THE "FULL" LEVEL. MY GUT TELLS ME THAT THESE 2 PROBLEMS ARE SOMEHOW AFFECTING MY CAR STARTING. MY CAR HAS ONLY 51,000 MILES ON IT. I TAKE GOOD CARE/MAINTAIN IT. I HAVE READ OTHERS COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM!!! ACURA SHOULD FIX THIS! TOO EXPENSIVE OF A CAR; WHERE IS THE QUALITY??? THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM OF MY 2012 ACURA MDX . PLEASE HELP.

Jan 11, 2019

Other/I am not sure

1 complaint

Does not have anchor for the seat. A recall was placed by NHTSA

Mar 22, 2025

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

1 complaint

The engine consistently consumes too much oil between service events. The low oil light comes on. I had this problem for over 8 years and the dealership said it was not a problem until now and they want me to pay for it. The oil control rings have been clogged since 2016 and progressively gotten worse. The clogged rings cause restriction of oil to return to the crankcase. This causes a decrease in available oil and may cause overheating that could lead to engine fire. Acura should fix the oil control rings to function properly. They have identified this in the past, through a service bulletin (19-006). I have performed 97% of my oil changes at Acura dealerships.

Jan 24, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

DONE everything Dealer suggested and still having problems with random misfires in 1,2 and 3 cylinders, changed spark plugs, fuel injectors, ignition coils and compression test and changed rear CAT. Still check engine light come on sometime then the SUV driving good, and sometimes it drive ruff, check engine light come on then go off then come back on with same codes: random misfire.

Jun 29, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY MY CHECK AIRBAG SYSTEM INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. I REACHED MY DESTINATION AND TURNED OFF MY VEHICLE, I THEN RESTARTED MY VEHICLE AND THE LIGHT WAS STILL ON. I TOOK A PICTURE OF THE LIGHT FOR PROOF. STILL ON FOR 3 WEEKS NOW. I CHECKED AND MY VIN IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST FOR THE AIRBAG.

Nov 02, 2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

WINDSHIELD WIPER DOESN'T WORK, ELECTRONIC STEERING FAILED

Mar 26, 2020

Fire: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE, I PARKED IT, TURNED IT OFF AND IT CAUGHT ON FIRE.

Dec 31, 2019

Fire: 1

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE

1 complaint

WHEN I AM DRIVING ON THE HIGH AT HIGH SPEEDS 80 MPH THEN I GO TO GET OFF AN EXIT THE STEERING WHEEL VEHICLE SHAKES AND VIBRATES THE FRONT OF THE CAR AND TIRES.

Apr 09, 2019

STRUCTURE,TIRES

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA MDX. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE SPARE TIRE DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. AUTONATION ACURA OF STEVENS CREEK (4747 STEVENS CREEK BLVD, SANTA CLARA, CA 95051) DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRE HOLDING THE SPARE TIRE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, INCLUDING THE SPARE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO THE PARTS NOT BEING SUPPLIED FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, BUT REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 15,000.

Jul 02, 2018

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

WE HAVE A 2012 MDX 4 DR AWD ACURA IT HAS OVER 49,000 MILES ON IT. RECENTLY, WE STARTED NOTICING CLUNKING NOISE ORIGINATING FROM THE LEFT FRONT AREA WHENEVER WE HIT A SLIGHT BUMP ESPECIALLY ON A SLOWER RIDE LIKE GETTING INTO THE DRIVEWAY. IT IS SUSPECTED TO BE THE STRUT ISSUE WHICH WILL COST US PRETTY SIGNIFICANT COST TO REPLACE IT AND WONDERING IF IT HAS ANY RECALLS FOR THIS TYPE OF ISSUE. *TR

Jul 21, 2017

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY 45 FROM DALLAS TO HOUSTON ON MAY 25, 2017, GOING APPROX. 65 MPH. ALL OF A SUDDEN I HEARD A VERY LOUD POP SOUND FROM THE SUNROOF. I ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE BUT MANAGED TO PULL OVER ON THE SHOULDER OF THE HIGHWAY TO FIND OUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED. I SAW THAT THE SUNROOF GLASS WAS COMPLETED SHATTERED AND BUBBLED OUTWARDS INSTEAD OF INWARDS. THERE WAS NO VEHICLES WITHIN AT LEAST 200 YARDS AHEAD OF OR BESIDES MY CAR. THERE WAS NO FALLING OBJECTS THAT I COULD FIND INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I BELIEVED THAT THE SUNROOF SHATTERED BY ITSELF. I HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY FOR OVER THREE HOURS BEFORE THIS OCCURRED.

Jun 04, 2017

VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

THE SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY EXPLODED CAUSING SHATTERED GLASS TO FALL ON THE DRIVER WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. IT SOUNDED LIKE A GUN WENT OFF. THERE WAS NOT ANY DEBRIS OR ROCK THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED THE SHATTERED GLASS. THE GLASS WAS LIFTED UPWARD, NOT DOWNWARD AS WOULD HAVE BEEN THE CASE IF SOMETHING CAME FROM THE SKY OR AIR. THE TEMPERATURE WAS 55 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT AND THE TIME WAS APPROXIMATELY 3:40. I HAD USED THE SUNROOF EARLIER IN THE MORNING WITHOUT A PROBLEM AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM BEFORE. *TR

Oct 31, 2016

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

WHEN DRIVING USING ACC, THE VEHICLE BRAKES (NOT CONSISTENTLY) WHEN APPROACHING A LARGE TRUCK IN THE LANE NEXT TO LANE I AM DRIVING IN. THIS HAS HAPPENED SINCE NEW AND HAS BEEN REPORTED AT LEAST 10 TIMES TO DEALER AND THEY SAY THEY CAN'T REPRODUCE THE ISSUE. GAS MILEAGE IS 12MPG IN TOWN AND 19MPG ON FREEWAY, STICKER WAS 16/23. I HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS SINCE NEW AND THEY DRIVE THE CAR AND SAY THEY ARE GETTING CORRECT MILEAGE, THEN THEY TOLD ME THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE ROTORS NEEDED GRINDING. I WAS ASSURED BY THE SERVICE WRITER THAT MY MILEAGE WOULD BE MUCH BETTER, WITH A WINK OF AN EYE. I LEFT THE NEXT DAY FOR 600 MILE DRIVE AND MY MILEAGE WAS 20MGP IN TOWN AND 27MPG ON FREEWAY, THIS LASTED FOR ABOUT TWO MONTHS. TEMPERATURE GUAGE FOR OUTSIDE TEMP HAS NEVER WORKED. ON HOT DAYS IT WILL READ 64 WHEN IT IS 105 OUTSIDE. I AM TOLD I HAVE TO DRIVE AT LEAST 20MPH FOR THIRTY SECONDS FOR THE TEMP TO INCREASE EACH DEGREE. ABSURD, HOWEVER, EVEN THIS TACTIC DOES NOT WORK.

Jul 16, 2016

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

THE REAR BACK-UP CAMERA ON THIS MODEL OF VEHICLE PROVIDES A VERY POOR IMAGE AT NIGHT CREATING A CLEAR SAFETY HAZARD. THE IMAGE THAT APPEARS ON THE SCREEN IS ALMOST NOT DISCERNIBLE AND VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO MAKE OUT ANY IMAGES. WE ALSO OWN A 2010 ACURA TSX THAT HAS A BACK UP CAMERA WHICH WORKS VERY WELL AT NIGHT. ONE WOULD THINK THAT A NEWER AND HIGHER END VEHICLE WOULD OFFER AT THE VERY LEAST A COMPARABLE QUALITY CAMERA. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHICH HAS NOTED SIMILAR CONCERNS FROM OTHER CUSTOMERS BUT THEY NOTE THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THE INFERIOR QUALITY OF THE CAMERA AND ASSOCIATED LIGHTING PLACE ANY DRIVER RELYING ON IT IN A DANGEROUS POSITION. THIS SITUATION SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED TO ENSURE NO ACCIDENTS OCCUR AS A RESULT OF THE INFERIOR BACK UP CAMERA.

Jul 01, 2016

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

TESTING

Mar 07, 2016

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED AS CAR WAS DRIVEN ON CITY STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. STREET WAS DOWNHILL THEN TRANSITIONED TO UPHILL, WHICH IS THE POINT AT WHICH THE BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED ("BRAKE" WARNING DISPLAYED, SEATBELT TUGGED, AND CAR SLOWED). THERE WAS NO ACTUAL OBSTRUCTION IN FRONT OF THE CAR. IT WAS NOTED THAT THERE WERE TWO METAL CONSTRUCTION COVERS ON THE STREET IN FRONT OF CAR. AFTER CAR SLOWED WARNING STOPPED AND CAR FUNCTIONED NORMALLY. *TR

Jun 17, 2015

BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

THE REAR BACK UP CAMERA DOES NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE BRIGHTNESS AT NIGHT. WITH THE SCREEN BRIGHTNESS SET TO MAX, I AM UNABLE TO DISCERN OBJECTS BEHIND ON THE SCREEN AT NIGHT ESPECIALLY IN RAIN AND UNLIT ROAD. THE CAMERA LENS IS CLEAN. I HAVE OTHER HONDAS BUT NOT THIS PROBLEM. DEALERS KNOW THE PROBLEM, BUT NOT DOING ANYTHING. *TR

Apr 02, 2015

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 ACURA MDX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE RPMS SUDDENLY INCREASED AS THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED AN UNINTENTIONAL ACCELERATION AND FAILED TO SHIFT PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING NORMALLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000.

Nov 13, 2014

WHEELS

1 complaint

I WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL SIDE STREET AT ABOUT 20 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY MY CAR VEERED OFF THE ROAD AND SWERVED INTO A PARKED CAR CAUSING MODERATE DAMAGE TO THE DRIVER SIDE REAR FENDER OF THE PARKED CAR. MY CAR SUSTAINED MAJOR DAMAGE - TO THE PASSENGER SIDE ON THE FRONT. ALSO, THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WHEEL CAME OFF AND ROLLED A LITTLE AWAY BEFORE COMING TO A STOP. I PULLED THE CAR OVER AND PARKED IT. EVEN WITH THE PARKING BRAKE ON, THE CAR WAS ROLLING A LITTLE TILL A BYSTANDER PUT A COUPLE OF BLOCKS UNDER THE REAR TIRES TO STOP THE CAR. THE ROAD WAS CLEAR AND DIDN'T HAVE ANY POT HOLES OR BAD WEATHER. WE BOUGHT THE CAR IN SEP 2012 AND IT HAS ABOUT 13 - 14000 MILES. *TR

Feb 05, 2014

Crash: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS

1 complaint

I PURCHASED A BRAND NEW 2012 ACURA MDX (1 YEAR AND 2 WEEKS OLD). IT HAVE ONLY 7000 MILES ON IT RIGHT NOW. THE POWER DRIVER SEAT IS NOT WORKING AND ALSO, THE MEMORY #1 AND #2. THE SEAT IT ALL THE WAY UP POSITION CLOSE TO STEERING WHEEL IT HARD FOR ME TO DRIVE. I WORK ANN ARBOR, MI THE ACURA DEALER ARE IN TROY, MI. IT MORE THAN ONE HOUR DRIVE ONE WAY. IF I TAKE MY ACURA MDX TO THE DEALER, I HAVE TO TAKE TIME OFF FROM WORK WHICH I DO NOT TO .................. WHY IT COST MONEY ....................... I'M NOT HAPPY. I OWN HONDA ACCORD 10 YEARS, ACURA 3.2 TL 8 YEARS, TOYOTA HIGHLANDER MORE THAN 5 YEARS NEVER HAVE ANY PROBLEMS LIKE THIS ONE ...................... NOW WHAT............... *TR

Aug 05, 2013

STEERING,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

I WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL SIDE STREET AT ABOUT 15 MPH WHEN I HEARD A SNAP AND SUDDENLY MY CAR SWERVED INTO A PARKED CAR CAUSING MINOR DAMAGE TO THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT FENDER OF MY CAR AND THE DRIVER SIDE REAR FENDER OF THE PARKED CAR. I HAD A WITNESS, A BYSTANDER, WHO ALSO SAID HE HEARD A SNAP BEFORE MY CAR SWERVED. MY CAR WAS TOWED TO AN ACURA DEALERSHIP WHERE I WAS LATER INFORMED THAT THE CAR HAD A BROKEN TIE ROD. I DID NOT HIT ANY POT HOLES. THE ROADS WERE CLEAR AND MY CAR HAS NEVER BEEN TOWED BEFORE. IT IS 6 MONTHS OLD WITH 6000 MILES. I CAN PROVIDE PICTURES OF THE DAMAGE.THERE IS NO OTHER DAMAGE TO THE UNDER CARRIAGE EXCEPT A SCRAPE WHERE THE TIE ROD SNAPPED. THERE IS NO BENT WHEEL EITHER. *TR

Mar 19, 2013

Crash: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

HONDA ACURA MDX, THE VEHICLE PROVIDES A BACKUP CAMERA TO DISPLAY THE REAR VIEW WHEN THE VEHICLE BACKS UP. HOWEVER THE CAMERA SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK AT NIGHT UNDER STREET LIGHT. THE DRIVER BARELY SEES ANYTHING AT REAR THROUGH THE VIDEO DISPLAY EVEN IT IS SET AT NIGHT MODE AND IT IS TURNED TO MAX. BRIGHT LEVEL. I ALMOST HIT A CHILD WHEN I TRIED TO BACKUP THE CAR WITH THE REAR VIEW THOUGH THE CAMERA AND I THOUGHT IT WAS CLEAR BUT IT IS NOT. IT IS A VERY DANGEROUS AND IT COULD KILL A CHILD. ACURA SHOULD NEVER INSTALL SUCH POOR QUALITY CAMERAS ON ITS HIGH END VEHICLES. OR ACURA SHOULD PUT A CLEAR WARNING MARK BESIDE THE DISPLAY WHICH WARNS DRIVER NEVER USE IT AT NIGHT. COMPARING TO THE OTHER BRAND REAR VIEW CAMERAS I NEVER HEARD SUCH STORIES THAT THEY ARE NOT BE ABLE TO WORK AT NIGHT. THERE ARE COMPLAINTS ON THE WEB AND MANY PEOPLE ARE EXPERIENCING THIS PROBLEM. I HOPE ACURA WILL REPLACE THE CAMERA AND PREVENT IT FROM AN ACCIDENT REALLY HAPPENED. *TR

Feb 23, 2013

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

THE REAR BACK UP CAMERA DOES NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE BRIGHTNESS AT NIGHT. WITH THE SCREEN BRIGHTNESS SET TO MAX, I AM UNABLE TO DISCERN OBJECTS BEHIND ON THE SCREEN AT NIGHT ESPECIALLY IN RAIN. THE CAMERA LENS IS CLEAN. THIS IS SIGNIFICANTLY WORSE COMPARED TO MY PRIOR 2008 ACURA MDX, AND COMPARED TO OTHER VEHICLES THAT I OWN AND HAVE DRIVEN WITH SIMILAR CAMERAS. THE DEALER SAYS THAT IT IS A FREQUENT COMPLAINT. *TR

Jan 29, 2013

4.2/5.0

45 reviews

Where to Find VIN for Problems Check

To check for problems and complaints on your 2012 ACURA MDX, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.

Where to Find VIN Number on 2012 ACURA MDX for Problems Lookup - Dashboard, Door Jamb, Engine Bay, Documents

Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports

Each character in your 2012 ACURA MDX 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.

2012 ACURA MDX VIN Structure for Complaint Verification - WMI, VDS, Check Digit, Model Year, Plant Code

How to Check 2012 ACURA MDX Problems in 3 Steps

Locate Your VIN

Find the 17-character VIN on your 2012 ACURA MDX dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.

Review by Component

Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.

Check Safety Issues

Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your ACURA dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2012 ACURA MDX have?

The 2012 ACURA MDX currently has 72 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2012 ACURA MDX?

The most common problems reported for the 2012 ACURA MDX are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2012 ACURA MDX problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2012 ACURA MDX comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

How do I report problems with my 2012 ACURA MDX?

You can report safety problems with your 2012 ACURA MDX directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.

Where can I find my VIN to check problems?

Your 2012 ACURA MDX VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.

Is the 2012 ACURA MDX reliable?

Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2012 ACURA MDX. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.