***THIS IS A RESUBMIT WITH CORRECTED INFORMATION*** I purchased a used 2016 Acura MDX from a family member, and shortly afterward began experiencing a rhythmic metallic knocking noise under load, particularly at low RPMs (e.g., accelerating in low gears or when the engine is bogged). The noise is not present at idle or during coasting, and it closely matches the symptoms described in recall 23V‑751, which addresses premature connecting rod bearing wear that may lead to engine failure in certain Honda and Acura vehicles. However, my vehicle’s VIN is not included in the existing recall. The knocking has persisted across several thousand miles and multiple oil changes. I recently inspected the drained oil and found metallic sparkles/particles, which may indicate active bearing wear. There has been no Check Engine Light, and the vehicle has received on-time oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil, with immediate mechanical inspection when the noise first appeared. I know for certain the previous owner maintained the vehicle properly, as he is a family member and I occasionally helped with maintenance myself. Based on the symptom pattern, operating conditions, and consistency with the failure mode described in 23V‑751, I believe this vehicle may be affected by the same underlying defect, but is excluded due to an overly narrow recall scope. I am submitting this complaint in support of Recall Query RQ24-013, which is currently under review to determine whether Honda failed to include all affected vehicles. I am concerned this poses a long-term safety and reliability risk, and that vehicles like mine are being improperly excluded from coverage. It is available for inspection. I am deeply concerned for my significant other to drive my vehicle in any capacity, and myself as well. I have videos as well. Please reach out if you need them because the bearing has not spun out yet.
2016 Acura MDX engine complaints
Page 4 of 7: complaints 71 to 100 of 173, newest first, as owners wrote them.
I purchased a used 2016 Acura MDX and shortly afterward began experiencing a rhythmic metallic knocking noise under load, particularly at low RPMs (e.g., accelerating in low gears or when the engine is bogged). The noise is not present at idle or during coasting, and it closely matches the symptoms described in recall 21V‑215, which affects certain 2016–2018 Acura/Honda models for premature connecting rod bearing wear. However, my vehicle’s VIN is not included in the existing recall. I purchased a used 2016 Acura MDX and shortly afterward began experiencing a rhythmic metallic knocking noise under load, particularly at low RPMs (e.g., accelerating in low gears or when the engine is bogged). The noise is not present at idle or during coasting, and it closely matches the symptoms described in recall 21V‑215, which affects certain 2016–2018 Acura/Honda models for premature connecting rod bearing wear. However, my vehicle’s VIN is not included in the existing recall. This vehicle has received on-time oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil, and I have taken care to immediately investigate any new or unusual noises. The knock has persisted across multiple oil changes and several thousand miles without worsening, but recently I noticed metallic sparkles in the used oil—potential signs of rod bearing wear. There has been no Check Engine Light, but based on the symptom pattern, operating conditions, and consistency with the defect description in recall 21V‑215, I believe this vehicle may be experiencing the same issue and is simply outside the current recall range. I am submitting this report in support of the ongoing Recall Query (RQ) into whether Honda failed to include all affected VINs. This appears to be the same failure mode as those already recalled, and it presents a serious long-term risk to engine safety and reliability.
Engine shut off due to rod bearing failure
The rod bearing went on this car. I don't understand how there was an open recall but this car was NOT included with the issue. This makes no sense to me. This was a huge cost to my hard working family to fix and Acura was less than helpful esp considering it was an actual recall for our car year. But due to our luck, our car was NOT included. I feel that this needs to be investigated further because more cars were impacted by this recall than were deemed to be included. I reached out previously on this matter to this organization and received NO response.
I purchased the vehicle in 2017. It was certified used by acura dealer but it was practically new; less than a year old with 10,000 miles on it. About a month or so after purchasing I started noticing a an issue when pressing on the gas and the vehicle not responding and a few seconds later it would suddenly jerk trying to catch up to the gear it should be on. Right away I took it to dealership for them to inspect and they said the vehicle needed a "software update" and it should be fine after that. Long story short, it is now 2025 I've taken the vehicle in for a "software update" more times than I can count and I am still living with the same problem. On occasion it gets better and sometimes it gets worse. Especially at higher speeds when the gears seem to go to neutral for a few seconds and then re-engage again on its own which cause jerking/stalling motion.
My Acura MDX 2016, when stopped in traffic or at a red light will randomly shut down or switch to neutral. It started 2-3 years back. This has happened frequently last few months. Last time i was stuck in the exit of a parking garage blocking the exit. After around 20-30 mins the car decided to start on its own. I took the car directly to a dealer who found no issues with the car. I had the battery replaced recently with a new battery Upon searching the internet, i found this link where each person is describing the same issue [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I drive a 2016 Acura MDX, with less than 80K mileage. My car has an idle stop feature which was not working and I was having trouble starting my car in the mornings when it was cold. I assumed the battery was getting low, replaced to a new battery and the idle stop began working again momentarily. However, after coming to a stop and the idle stop feature engages, the vehicle was not always automatically restarting. More than once a day it turns off engine as intended with idle stop, but then my car shifts into Neutral and the engine fully dies. I'm left at stop lights or stop signs with a car that is off and will not restart. The last instance I was almost hit by a car when the light turned green and I could not drive forward. I have to shift into park, turn the on/off button, press my foot on the brake and push on/off button 2-3 times to get the car to start back up. All of this on a battery that’s less than a week old. More often then not the idle stop is not working at all. I’m left with a message on my dashboard “auto engine idle stop unavailable.” My VIN was not listed under the Acura SB to “update the PGM-FI software that may affect the idle stop operation and starter under certain conditions.”
Due to a manufacturing defect of the engine crankshaft, the connecting rod bearing prematurely wore and could seize. This is a recall for 2016 MDX V6 engines, my VIN is not included for some reason.
My Acura mdx 2016 has always had oil changes on time . Also only 93 octane gas . Online there are 100’s of people complaining about my issue which there is a recall for same year make and model but my vin is not included. The recall is for rod knock , and this is what I’m experiencing right now out of nowhere. And Acura will not own up to it very upset . This is a very dangerous situation that can cause an accident with my family in the vehicle . Do to engine lock up .
Connecting rod failure causing the need for engine replacement. This connecting rod has been part of a recall campaign by Honda for 2016-2020 MDX models, but this 2016 engine VIN [XXX] is not part of the recall, even though the SAME EXACT issue as the recall is what occurred. Acura is refusing to honor the recall. This happened while on a highway in the California mountains, going uphill, putting my entire family at risk as the vehicle lost power and became inoperable. The dealership confirmed the connecting rod failure, but informed me of Acura's denial on the recall claim. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I have a 2016 Acura MDX with only 120,000 miles on it. Recently I started hearing a knock coming from the engine. I have taken it to three different mechanics, including an Acura dealership mechanic. I was informed by all three to not drive the car due to the fact that it was a rod bearing defect/problem. They all commented that I was lucky that it had not thrown a rod or I could have been injured or possibly had my engine freeze up while driving injuring myself or someone else. After some thorough investigation/research, I have been informed that my make and model has been recalled for the same issue, unfortunately, my Vin number is not included in the recall for whatever reason.
The contact owns a 2016 Acura MDX. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, there was a loud knock sound coming from the engine compartment, and afterward, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the connecting rod bearing in cylinder #3. The vehicle was repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 23V751000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a claim was opened; however, the claim was later denied. The failure mileage was 122,000.
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The motor's rod bearing spun. It is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The failure could have created enough friction between the bearing sleeve, rod and/or journal bearing to seize the motor and the drivetrain while driving. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes the vehicle was taken to the Acura dealership to be inspected, diagnosed and repaired. There is a recall for the same year, make and model but my vehicle's VIN is not included in the recall. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has only been inspected by the Acura dealership. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There was a check engine light that produced code P0430 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2) and P0306 (Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected). The vehicle had a loss of power and troubles accelerating under load. The first time the problem was noticed was January 18th, 2025.
My Acura mdx 2016 is well maintained, only 42500 miles,bought brand new from dealer, problem started 6 months ago, accelerator, rpm goes up even on 20 miles driving, and car just stops and gear goes to park mode..dealer inspected, they said transmission needs to be replaced, contacted NCDS, their respond I passed the warranty of 7 years, not covered. Dealer charging 7100 to fix issues.
After starting the engine, when attempting to slowly accelerate, the engine almost dies or hesitates to respond to accelerator. Dangerous situation.
Problem started with Check Engine light coming on, then going off, then coming on again followed by what seemed like all system failure lights getting reported. A clicking/rattling started to be heard in the engine. When driving the vehicle to the dealer to get it inspected the vehicle engine cut out while cruising at 45 MPH. I was able to roll to a stop on the side of the road luckily, it would not start and needed a tow to a more local related dealer (Honda) repair. Honda repair did not move past reading the codes, so I transported the vehicle via a service to the nearest Acura dealer, where they diagnosed the internal rod problem, with the fix being a replacement engine. The vehicle remains at this Acura dealer service.
I was driving down the road & without any warnings my car suddenly loss power. Engine started a really bad knocking sound then stalled out , took to certified mechanic and he told me I need a new engine. Prior to this there were no boarding likes or issues related to the car.
Loud Clicking sound, engine light blinking, car was shaking horribly almost caused an accident.
“Emissions system problem” warning light has lit up on dashboard twice. This was checked and found to be a faulty code both times however, the second time it occurred, it correlated with the sway bars needing to be replaced.
Engine knocking noise, irritable shaking while on road, dangerous driving conditions. Engine Failed and diagnosed at Acura Dealership as failing bearings and connector rod. This issue is under investigation the federal safety agency Action Number: RQ24013 and I am currently being forced to pay out of pocket for the repair amounting to several thousand dollars. Acura needs to recall these engines NOW and get it fixed. This driving condition is EXTREMELY unsafe, the entire car shakes uncontrollably. This car was bought brand new from dealership by myself. 1 owner. Always serviced at Acura or Honda dealerships.
I have a 2016 Acura MDX with nearly 79,000 miles on it. It died without warning late at night while on the freeway on [XXX], leaving my [XXX] son stranded alone in a dark, remote area for about an hour. Not a safe situation! I had it towed to Shadetree Auto in Layton, Utah. They informed me that the engine had seized. What!? It was well maintained and just had the oil changed a few days previously. They wanted over $11,000 for a used engine. (See Attached Invoice & Report). They couldn't figure out why a well-maintained engine with only 79,000 miles on it would just seize up. Coolant was also not the issue. I couldn't afford it, so it sat for a couple of months until I discovered that there was a Recall on that year for faulty connecting rod bearings that was causing engines to seize. So, I checked into it, but my particular VIN # was not included in the recall. I found a copy of a letter from Acura stating that they were still determining the extent of the problem, nevertheless, they rejected my claim as not included, rather than extending the recall to include my vehicle's documented problem. (See the attached Acura letter dated Feb 7, 2024). I had my car towed to Jody Wilkinson Acura in Salt Lake City for a detailed inspection and second opinion and they confirmed that the engine was seized and that it I had a broken connecting rod on cylinder #1 due to a spun bearing (See photos at the end of attached email). But Acura continued to deny my claim. Jody Wilkinson's quoted me over $20,000 for a new engine. I asked Acura what the appeals process was and they said "there isn't one, we just won't cover it". Seems like Acura may be [XXX] a lot of people. Why would I put another known faulty engine in my car? Absurd! I have attached the following documents: •Shadetree Auto Inspection Report & Invoice •Acura Letter Feb 7, 2024 •Jody Wilkinson Inspection Report Your help in obtaining justice would be greatly appreciated! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA
While driving on an interstate highway at 73 mph, under cruise control, at night, as the road started to incline up a hill my vehicle started losing power. The highway is two lanes each way, and I was in the left-hand lane passing a slower vehicle that was in the right-hand lane. There were cars behind me in my lane. When my car started losing power, the check-engine light came on along with some other indicators. I attempted to maintain speed by depressing the accelerator, but the car continued to slow down. It was nighttime when this happened, on a pitch-black highway that had been freshly paved. I was able to finally get behind the car I had been attempting to pass and was then able to get into the emergency lane and stop. My car was making a ticking noise. I turned off the car, opened the hood, but it all looked fine. I looked under the car - there were no fluids running out of the car. I checked the oil, and it was at the full mark on the dipstick - I had changed the oil about 1000 miles prior to this event. When I took the car to a local Acura dealer, they told me that the noise I was hearing was "rod knock", and that it would cost about $8000 to repair by purchasing a short block and having them install it. When I started researching the issue I learned that some 2016 Acura MDXs have a known issue of incorrect rod bearing size, but that my vehicle is excluded because it was evidently manufactured before a certain date. My car has only 125,116 miles on it. It is maintained meticulously. Please investigate.
Vehicle always smells hot or as if something electric is burning in the engine compartment. Have always had scheduled maintenance and have taken it in on time for all oil changes and maintenance to be performed. Have asked for this to be checked at that time and when the smell has become over powering. Engine lights have popped up and then all lights have shut off two separate times previously to the point where I had to turn off the vehicle. I have taken it to two dealerships and another mechanic to look for the cause. They are not able to determine the cause but recommend I contact Acura as this sounds like a warranty issue.
This occurrence with the vehicle happened in October of 2023 and I no longer own it. The only reason I'm reporting it today is because of the news reports I've been seeing about a possible investigation into the exact issue I experienced. I started to hear a knock from the engine that got progressively worse over the course of a week. I made an appointment to have it looked at, but before I could even make it to that appointment multiple dash lights and warnings started showing up on the meter combi. Engine light was the first to appear followed by the transmission light, then the vehicle went into "limp mode." It wouldn't go over 30mph and eventually just shut itself off; every warning lamp on the dash was on. It was towed to a local Acura dealership where the service tech diagnosed the issue and stated it was a connecting rod bearing that had worn prematurely and there was movement in the piston. I had them check for a recall then and my VIN was not on the list so I proceeded to source a motor and have another shop swap it for much cheaper. That being said, I would very much like to be reimbursed for the costs I incurred. I have multiple documents and at one point had a video that the dealership tech sent me showing the defect. Not sure if they can provide that now or not.
The engine started to make noise, drove it to the Acura Dealership. The engine seized at the repair bay. The technician initially said they just had a recall on these engines then after looking up the ID notified me that the blown engine was not covered under the recall. After several calls to Honda corporate customer service they informed me that they knew it had a faulty engine however it was not under the recall and they didn't have to repair or replace. I paid the dealership to install another engine at my own expense.
The contact owns a 2016 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the vehicle lost power. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road after each failure and restarted. The contact stated that an unknown fault code was displayed occasionally. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Engine blew a rod at 130,000 miles. Replaced engine. Maintained vehicle correctly And changed oil regularly. contacted Acura, but no help. Other vehicles reported similar problems and recalls issued., but not for my particular vehicle.
Driving on [XXX], car began to make a loud noise, began to lose power and smoke was pouring out of the engine. No check engine lights came on. Pulled over immediately and turned off engine, and smoking continued. Car was in a unsafe location and we had to wait an hour with traffic very close for a tow truck. Large quantities of oil leaked out of the engine. Car was towed to Niello Acura in Roseville CA. They diagnosed Catastrophic Engine Failure. Large hole in oil pan and wrist pin found lodged between A/C compressor bracket and engine block. Wrist pin secures the piston to the connecting rod (there is a recall on Acura MDX's for this but my car was not included) Needs new engine. All maintenance was up to date. 78K miles on the engine, had just been serviced at 75K. Purchased at 18K as a Certified Used Vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
the car suddenly shut off when i was on the red light wit the idle stop.
The contact owns a 2016 Acura MDX. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was then towed to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the rod bearings had failed, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,000.
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