I bought the 2003 Acura MDX January 2017. I first noticed the gear changes in a hard jerk the very day I bought it on my way home. This happened about 4 times after about 3 hours of driving. After, I did a full service, the jerking stopped, but always happened once in a while when I drive long distance. When I put the SUV in gear, reverse to be precise, after driving for a while, it takes about 20 seconds to pick. When I step on the gas, the RPM goes up, then the SUV starts to slowly take off, which means the transmission is slipping. The SUV drags for a while before eventually moving as it should.

Last week, I drove from Ajah to Sango, the jerking started from Third mainland bridge, then the transmission partially failed when I got to Sango. The A/T temp light came on and the SUV started to drag. It was moving very slowly till I got to my destination. After about two hours, I headed back home, the A/T temp light was off and the SUV was driving normally.

The hard jerk when changing gears started again, then suddenly the gear refused to engage when I was in traffic. I had to switch off the ignition and turn it back on before it engaged.

I have checked the transmission oil and it is normal. It does not smell burnt or feel loose. I have watched severally videos on YouTube and I am convinced the transmission is bad and needs a replacement or rebuild. More so, the mileage on it is about 313,000.00 miles.

Please experts in the house, how do I fix this dreaded transmission problem?

Do I purchase a new transmission gear or have a pro like Gazzuzz do a rebuild.

mmrius:
I bought the 2003 Acura MDX January 2017. I first noticed the gear changes in a hard jerk the very day I bought it on my way home. This happened about 4 times after about 3 hours of driving. After, I did a full service, the jerking stopped, but always happened once in a while when I drive long distance. When I put the SUV in gear, reverse to be precise, after driving for a while, it takes about 20 seconds to pick. When I step on the gas, the RPM goes up, then the SUV starts to slowly take off, which means the transmission is slipping. The SUV drags for a while before eventually moving as it should.

Last week, I drove from Ajah to Sango, the jerking started from Third mainland bridge, then the transmission partially failed when I got to Sango. The A/T temp light came on and the SUV started to drag. It was moving very slowly till I got to my destination. After about two hours, I headed back home, the A/T temp light was off and the SUV was driving normally.

The hard jerk when changing gears started again, then suddenly the gear refused to engage when I was in traffic. I had to switch off the ignition and turn it back on before it engaged.

I have checked the transmission oil and it is normal. It does not smell burnt or feel loose. I have watched severally videos on YouTube and I am convinced the transmission is bad and needs a replacement or rebuild. More so, the mileage on it is about 313,000.00 miles.

Please experts in the house, how do I fix this dreaded transmission problem?

Do I purchase a new transmission gear or have a pro like Gazzuzz do a rebuild.

I am 99% sure the tranny is shot. I have unfortunately dealt with such before. You have stated the two obvious options you have other than getting rid of the vehicle. I would probably go the route of rebuild if you plan on keeping the vehicle for a while because you do not know what the condition of the "new" transmission is in. And when you say "new," I am guessing you mean a used transmission but new to you, right?

layifioren:


I am 99% sure the tranny is shot. I have unfortunately dealt with such before. You have stated the two obvious options you have other than getting rid of the vehicle. I would probably go the route of rebuild if you plan on keeping the vehicle for a while because you do not know what the condition of the "new" transmission is in. And when you say "new," I am guessing you mean a used transmission but new to you, right?

Yes, by new I mean a used transmission. My main fear is finding a trusted mechanic that can rebuild the tranny without any recurring problems in the near future. Preferably, I would have loved a used tranny from an accidented 04 or 05 MDX.

Bottom line, I need the best guy to fix it.

I dont have too much knowledge on transmissions and especially an acura tranny. But two things i can tell here is that mileage is very high so this kind of problem isnt a surprise. I think you should stop driving the car to prevent more damages, you might save some cash.

Kai you don buy agbana, the person who imported that car is wicked, unfortunately that is the only type of affordable car that can be legally imported

mmrius:


Yes, by new I mean a used transmission. My main fear is finding a trusted mechanic that can rebuild the tranny without any recurring problems in the near future. Preferably, I would have loved a used tranny from an accidented 04 or 05 MDX.

Bottom line, I need the best guy to fix it.

To be honest, I would rather put the vehicle for sale as is while disclosing the issue to prospective buyers. Honda automatic transmissions between 1998-2005 are not the best and I would not want to risk installing a used transmission only to have issues in the near future. Considering the mileage and the lack of trust in Honda transmissions in those years, I will just move on and get another vehicle with the money from the sale plus the one I would have used to fix it.

Just me 2 kobo

sultaan:
Kai you don buy agbana, the person who imported that car is wicked, unfortunately that is the only type of affordable car that can be legally imported

This is serious agbana. I actually bought the SUV from BJ MOTORS here on Nairaland and to think I just sold my 2001 Acura TL after driving it from May 2009 to January 2017 without any major issues.

I am certain, I will get the best solution to this problem and enjoy the ride until it is replaced.

layifioren:

To be honest, I would rather put the vehicle for sale as is while disclosing the issue to prospective buyers. Honda automatic transmissions between 1998-2005 are not the best and I would not want to risk installing a used transmission only to have issues in the near future. Considering the mileage and the lack of trust in Honda transmissions in those years, I will just move on and get another vehicle with the money from the sale plus the one I would have used to fix it.

Just me 2 kobo

The tranny can actually be fixed. The only challenge is getting a pro who knows how to fix it. Acura is a luxury brand and this particular MDX is very rugged.

mmrius:


The tranny can actually be fixed. The only challenge is getting a pro who knows how to fix it. Acura is a luxury brand and this particular MDX is very rugged.

Money can just about do anything including fixing your tranny. The question is: is it cost effective in the long run to fix? The transmission will need a rebuild or be swapped. I am just trying to be objective but the choice is yours.

layifioren:

Money can just about do anything including fixing your tranny. The question is: is it cost effective in the long run to fix? The transmission will need a rebuild or be swapped. I am just trying to be objective but the choice is yours.

Thanks for your advice and input, I truly appreciate it.

Please anyone knows where I can get transmission from an accidented SUV or a good mechanic that can rebuild mine?

mmrius:



This is serious agbana. I actually bought the SUV from BJ MOTORS here on Nairaland and to think I just sold my 2001 Acura TL after driving it from May 2009 to January 2017 without any major issues.

I am certain, I will get the best solution to this problem and enjoy the ride until it is replaced.

Ur best solution is have a good mechanic change ur transmission. Next time do not buy a car with check engine or any other warning lights on. Or go with a scanner when buying a car, at least know the pending faults the car has and if it is something minor then u can buy.

I see lots of cars for sale in autos section with check engine, abs and sometimes srs light on and yet the seller will call the car super clean perfect condition. Smh.

greenhulk:


Ur best solution is have a good mechanic change ur transmission. Next time do not buy a car with check engine or any other warning lights on. Or go with a scanner when buying a car, at least know the pending faults the car has and if it is something minor then u can buy.

I see lots of cars for sale in autos section with check engine, abs and sometimes srs light on and yet the seller will call the car super clean perfect condition. Smh.

The truth is after 3 days of driving around Lagos trying to get the cleanest MDX, this was the best I came across. Carfax report gives it a clean bill of health.

No major accidents or issues. All maintenance and service done accordingly.

At the time of purchase, there was no check engine light on. Although, it came on, on my way home. It's obvious the dealer had cleared all the error codes. Truth be told, the SUV is very clean through and through, the only but is this transmission wahala.

mmrius:


The truth is after 3 days of driving around Lagos trying to get the cleanest MDX, this was the best I came across. Carfax report gives it a clean bill of health.

No major accidents or issues. All maintenance and service done accordingly.

At the time of purchase, there was no check engine light on. Although, it came on, on my way home. It's obvious the dealer had cleared all the error codes. Truth be told, the SUV is very clean through and through, the only but is this transmission wahala.

Ur best solution is have a good mechanic change ur transmission. Next time do not buy a car with check engine or any other warning lights on. Or go with a scanner when buying a car, at least know the pending faults the car has and if it is something minor then u can buy.

I see lots of cars for sale in autos section with check engine, abs and sometimes srs light on and yet the seller will call the car super clean perfect condition. Smh.

Next time you want to buy a car, don't be content with a scan.

Get a scan from a factory level scan tool for that ride or a professional aftermarket scan tool that can read all kinds of codes not just generic codes.

Next study how the monitors for that are activated. Next go on a test drive with a helper who will ensure that your test drive activates those monitors, compare and contrast the scan at the dealer stand with the test drive after the monitors have been run.

You can learn more about monitors here: https://www.nairaland.com/3661728/on-board-diagnostics-obd-ii-questions/3#54612233

This does not dismiss the need for a thorough physical inspection from top, bottom, sides and interior.

And the need to go with a professional, but let us hope the professional does the right checks, so a little knowledge on your side never hurts.

If any codes were cleared, they shall return and the truth will set you free!

mmrius:


The truth is after 3 days of driving around Lagos trying to get the cleanest MDX, this was the best I came across. Carfax report gives it a clean bill of health.

No major accidents or issues. All maintenance and service done accordingly.

At the time of purchase, there was no check engine light on. Although, it came on, on my way home. It's obvious the dealer had cleared all the error codes. Truth be told, the SUV is very clean through and through, the only but is this transmission wahala.

Then u shouldn't worry, make a transmission transplant, u will enjoy ur car. The transmission of that car is not too expensive. I drive an 05 pilot and it is a joy to drive, I love the response when I floor the throttle, it just delivers. Love the leather and quality of interior. Now taking the fact that the pilot is a trim down version of the MDX, I can imagine how it would feel driving the MDX.

greenhulk:


Then u shouldn't worry, make a transmission transplant, u will enjoy ur car. The transmission of that car is not too expensive. I drive an 05 pilot and it is a joy to drive, I love the response when I floor the throttle, it just delivers. Love the leather and quality of interior. Now taking the fact that the pilot is a trim down version of the MDX, I can imagine how it would feel driving the MDX.

You completely get it. The MDX is a beauty to drive in its own right. Being the luxury brand of Honda, the drive is smooth and always takes off like a jet. It's the perfect family SUV.

mmrius:



You completely get it. The MDX is a beauty to drive in its own right. Being the luxury brand of Honda, the drive is smooth and always takes off like a jet. It's the perfect family SUV.

Considering you have made up your mind to keep the vehicle, I will highly recommend you get the transmission rebuilt by a reputable mechanic that will offer you good warranty than to do a swap. I love Acuras die and I was a proud owner of 2002 and 2003 TL Type S and later on 2006 TL. Buying a used Honda transmission is a big gamble because there is no way to tell if the transmission is good except you test it on the donor vehicle before it's removed. From multiple experiences, I will never advice someone to buy a used Honda automatic transmission betweenyears 1998-2005 considering their astronomical failure rate. If you do find one with less than 80000 miles/ 1280000 km, then it might be worth buying. Anything more than that, for the sake of your wallet, don't do it. I am speaking from multiple experiences.

layifioren:


Considering you have made up your mind to keep the vehicle, I will highly recommend you get the transmission rebuilt by a reputable mechanic that will offer you good warranty than to do a swap. I love Acuras die and I was a proud owner of 2002 and 2003 TL Type S and later on 2006 TL. Buying a used Honda transmission is a big gamble because there is no way to tell if the transmission is good except you test it on the donor vehicle before it's removed. From multiple experiences, I will never advice someone to buy a used Honda automatic transmission betweenyears 1998-2005 considering their astronomical failure rate. If you do find one with less than 80000 miles/ 1280000 km, then it might be worth buying. Anything more than that, for the sake of your wallet, don't do it. I am speaking from multiple experiences.

In other words, that is almost synonymous with import it because they don't provide mileage for engines and transmissions in local markets!

Unless he is fortunate to meet a vehicle that was scraped due to accident

layifioren:


Considering you have made up your mind to keep the vehicle, I will highly recommend you get the transmission rebuilt by a reputable mechanic that will offer you good warranty than to do a swap. I love Acuras die and I was a proud owner of 2002 and 2003 TL Type S and later on 2006 TL. Buying a used Honda transmission is a big gamble because there is no way to tell if the transmission is good except you test it on the donor vehicle before it's removed. From multiple experiences, I will never advice someone to buy a used Honda automatic transmission betweenyears 1998-2005 considering their astronomical failure rate. If you do find one with less than 80000 miles/ 1280000 km, then it might be worth buying. Anything more than that, for the sake of your wallet, don't do it. I am speaking from multiple experiences.

Finding someone to rebuild with warrantee will cost more than twice the price of a used transmission. I've been using Honda for years now and I'm on my 3rd Honda, I've only had 1 transmission issue Wich was with 2005 accord. I bought it Nigerian used and the previous owner used it once my for 8 months but he used abro oil on his tranny. It developed problems just 2 months after I bought it. I replaced the transmission with a tokunbo and I used the car for 4 yrs without any transmission issues. Sold it after I got tired and still bought another Honda that I'm using right now.

Rebuilding is good, but it is not very easy to rebuild Honda transmissions using original parts. Costs a lot and u need an expert.

Oh and buying any used transmission is a gamble, not just Honda.

PLEASE, can anyone recommend where I can get a used transmission, Ladipo or Oyingbo?

With at least 3 - 6 months signed warranty or guarantee.

How much does it cost on the average?

mmrius:
PLEASE, can anyone recommend where I can get a used transmission, Ladipo or Oyingbo?

With at least 3 - 6 months signed warranty or guarantee.

How much does it cost on the average?

I don't think anyone will give u that u that kind of warrantee on a used transmission.

greenhulk:


Finding someone to rebuild with warrantee will cost more than twice the price of a used transmission. I've been using Honda for years now and I'm on my 3rd Honda, I've only had 1 transmission issue Wich was with 2005 accord. I bought it Nigerian used and the previous owner used it once my for 8 months but he used abro oil on his tranny. It developed problems just 2 months after I bought it. I replaced the transmission with a tokunbo and I used the car for 4 yrs without any transmission issues. Sold it after I got tired and still bought another Honda that I'm using right now.

Rebuilding is good, but it is not very easy to rebuild Honda transmissions using original parts. Costs a lot and u need an expert.

Oh and buying any used transmission is a gamble, not just Honda.

Certainly, buying any used transmission is a gamble, some are just more of a gamble than others. It's no secret that Honda transmissions between those years were very iffy. Honda even had recalls back then for some trannies and my 02 and 03 TL-S were in that category. My brother also uses an 05 Honda and had to swap his transmission few years ago for a rebuilt one. I was a car dealer for years and the two makes I specialised in were Toyota and Hondas. Every one of three Hondas I came across between those years (1998-2005) had transmission issues to include an 01 Odyssey with 100K miles and 04 Civic with 115K miles. I remember vividly and there was no sign of abuse.

mmrius:
PLEASE, can anyone recommend where I can get a used transmission, Ladipo or Oyingbo?

With at least 3 - 6 months signed warranty or guarantee.

How much does it cost on the average?

Please share your experience with the transmission change/repair?
My Acura MDX 2003 has similar issues and I would like to learn from your experience.

mmrius:
PLEASE, can anyone recommend where I can get a used transmission, Ladipo or Oyingbo?

With at least 3 - 6 months signed warranty or guarantee.

How much does it cost on the average?

How far?

Gliding:


Please share your experience with the transmission change/repair?
My Acura MDX 2003 has similar issues and I would like to learn from your experience.

I had the transmission replaced at Ladipo. I bought a tokunbo transmission gear for 180k, labor was 20k, original honda Z1 transmission oil 4,500x5 = 22,500. I also sold my faulty transmission for about 5k or 10k not sure now.

In all, I spent about 230k - 250k. Best part is, till date I have never had any issues with the transmission gear. Money well spent.

mmrius:


I had the transmission replaced at Ladipo. I bought a tokunbo transmission gear for 180k, labor was 20k, original honda Z1 transmission oil 4,500x5 = 22,500. I also sold my faulty transmission for about 5k or 10k not sure now.

In all, I spent about 230k - 250k. Best part is, till date I have never had any issues with the transmission gear. Money well spent.

Thanks for the update.

Gliding:


Thanks for the update.

.

Good evening.

Could you please provide me with the contact of the trader you bought the gear from and the guy that mounted it?

I have the same problem as you do right now.

georgeiyke009:
.

Good evening.

Could you please provide me with the contact of the trader you bought the gear from and the guy that mounted it?

I have the same problem as you do right now.

Good evening,

I haven't repaired mine.
I'm still in the process. Was told it may cost upwards of 170k.

mmrius:


I had the transmission replaced at Ladipo. I bought a tokunbo transmission gear for 180k, labor was 20k, original honda Z1 transmission oil 4,500x5 = 22,500. I also sold my faulty transmission for about 5k or 10k not sure now.

In all, I spent about 230k - 250k. Best part is, till date I have never had any issues with the transmission gear. Money well spent.

Good morning.

Could you please provide me with the contact of the trader you bought the gear from and the guy that mounted it?

I have the same problem as you do right now.

Gliding:


Good evening,

I haven't repaired mine.
I'm still in the process. Was told it may cost upwards of 170k.

Thanks for replying. I though I asked mmrius.

mmrius:


I had the transmission replaced at Ladipo. I bought a tokunbo transmission gear for 180k, labor was 20k, original honda Z1 transmission oil 4,500x5 = 22,500. I also sold my faulty transmission for about 5k or 10k not sure now.

In all, I spent about 230k - 250k. Best part is, till date I have never had any issues with the transmission gear. Money well spent.

Glad you're happy. FYI you'd have rebuilt yours for less.