This page covers 2 recalls, 33 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2023 Acura MDX.
21–22 mpg combined
10.7–11.2 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
For the 2023 MDX, the complaint picture is spread fairly thin across 33 reports, but powertrain and forward collision avoidance each draw the most attention. On the powertrain side, owners describe sudden loss of drive power while moving, a binding or locking sensation in the drivetrain, and in at least one case a transfer case fluid leak that owners say causes unpredictable power delivery. A separate cluster of reports involves the forward collision avoidance system activating unexpectedly or behaving erratically. The electrical system accounts for a handful of complaints as well, with owners noting dashboard warning lights appearing for braking and suspension systems after the first year of ownership. One recurring brake-related description involves the pedal becoming unusually stiff and the vehicle failing to slow normally for several seconds before returning to normal operation, a pattern reported across more than one complaint.
33
Total Complaints
2
Crash-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2023 Acura MDX has two recalls, both rated at the same severity level: one where the front passenger airbag sensor can misread occupant weight and deploy the airbag incorrectly in a crash, and one where a brake pedal that can shift out of position may prevent the driver from stopping the vehicle.
The airbag concern involves the passenger seat sensor, which can misclassify who is sitting there and cause the airbag to deploy when it should not, raising the risk of injury to the occupant. On the brake side, an unsecured pivot pin in the brake pedal assembly can allow the pedal to move out of its proper position, leaving the driver unable to apply full braking force when needed.
At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and create an electrical short, potentially causing airbags to deploy unexpectedly during a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger seat weight sensor at no cost to you.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The brake pedal pivot pin wasn't secured properly, allowing the pedal to shift out of position during use.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the brake pedal assembly and replace it if needed at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
