The 2007 Acura MDX represents the first year of the second-generation midsize SUV. Yet, it’s one vehicle that defies the adage about never buying the first year of a new model. However, nearly 100 owner complaints point to some problems with engine stall and loss of steering control.
Key Points
- The 2007 Acura MDX is the first year for the second-generation midsize luxury SUV.
- Only one recall was issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and it’s for an aftermarket back rack attachment.
- Consumer complaints over engine problems include many drivers reporting losing electrical power while as their engine shuts off.
- Among the nearly 100 consumer complaints filed with the NHTSA, half cover the electrical system’s various gremlins.
- Some owners also report juddering at certain speeds, with a few also reporting their panel lights will come on for no apparent reason.
- Due to its reliability, the 2007 MDX remains a good choice on the used car market.
The 2007 Acura MDX Kicked Off Second Generation in Style With Only One Recall Over an Aftermarket Part
It’s been said before and will be said until the end of time: “Never buy the first year of a new model or the first of a new generation.”
However, this does not apply to the 2007 Acura MDX, the first year for the second generation of Acura’s three-row midsize luxury SUV, and the last generation to be exclusively all-wheel drive.
The 2007 and 2008 Acura MDX models were hit with just one recall from the NHTSA. And it’s not Acura’s fault. Built by Swedish outdoor equipment company Thule, the aftermarket hitch-style bike rack equipped on some MDXs had a rather gruesome issue with a pinch bolt.
According to the NHTSA, when moving the bike arm bracket to its down position, the pinch bolt has the potential of causing severe laceration or amputation to the user’s fingertips or hand.
Acura instructed 2007 and 2008 MDX owners to contact Thule for a free repair kit to ensure no one would lose a fingertip or a hand. However, as far as recalls go, at least this one isn’t the fault of the Acura assembly line.
Electrical Weirdness Flows Through 2007 Acura MDX, Resulting in Parasitic Power Draw and Doors Randomly Locking and Unlocking
Although a fairly low number, there were just under 100 consumer complaints filed with the NHTSA since the first 2007 Acura MDX models hit showrooms in late-2006. The majority of the complaints concern the electrical system.
One of the more recent complaints noted the door locks would lock and unlock randomly, while the power windows would roll up and down on their own.
Another complaint links a parasitic power draw from the Acura HandsFreeLink Bluetooth system to the MDX failing to start, causing the owner to go through a couple of batteries in a single year.
Meanwhile, other problems may lurk. According to Repair Pal, the most-reported problem is with the five-speed automatic’s rough shifting linked to mechanical failure, and warning lights activating due to faulty sensors.
At MDXers, one 2007 Acura MDX owner was trying to find the cause of the power cutting out at low speeds before picking back up. A faulty ABS sensor was ultimately the cause of the acceleration hiccups.
2007 Acura MDX Stands the Test of Time Despite Electrical Flaws
Electrical weirdness and frightening problems with an aftermarket bike rack aside, the 2007 Acura MDX is still a more-than-viable choice over 15 years later for consumers seeking a luxury three-row midsize SUV.
The biggest factor in the first-year second-generation MDX’s favor is, of course, the reliability and dependability all Hondas and Acuras are known for.
You don’t have to take our word for it, of course. From the Vehicle History owner reviews, most of the feedback is positive, and the vehicle received an overall 4.2 star rating (out of five).
Photos: Acura
