2003 Acura MDX used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Complete transmission failure34 owner complaints, usually around 106,000 miles, owners paid about $3,900

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Transmission slipping17 owner complaints, usually around 120,000 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Airbag warning light14 owner complaints, usually around 70,974 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 19V499000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V501000, Jun 27, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V182000, Mar 6, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 16V344000, May 23, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 15V370000, Jun 15, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 15V320000, May 28, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 15V045000, Jan 28, 2015
• Air bagsRecall number 14V700000, Nov 4, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 14V353000, Jun 20, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 13V412000, Sep 19, 2013
• Electrical systemRecall number 12V573000, Dec 11, 2012

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Customer Support Program For Front Passenger's Airbag Inflator.Jun 30, 2026
• These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic ConvertersJun 3, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMar 10, 2020
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsJun 1, 2018
• This bulletin is a notification of a class action settlement relating to airbag inflatorsMay 25, 2018
• Advertisement in hawaiian newspapers to remind owners of the takata recall and to schedule an appointment...Aug 21, 2016

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.