EacH2003 Acura MDX comes with the same 3.5L V6 engine, which useS4.2 quarts without filter (or 4.5 quarts with filter) of SAE 5W-20 full synthetic motor oil. Alternatively, Acura recommends the use of SAE 0W-20 full synthetic, but the difference between the two in the MDX's J35A5 engine are essentially negligible. In the absence of either, You may use SAE 5W-30 over the extremely short term, but it's not recommended and You must change Your oil as quickly as possible. This is because the thicker oil will introduce undue friction into the engine's operation, which can prematurely wear and tear engine components -- causing the engine to die an early death. Therefore, You'll want to stick with SAE 5W-20 or SAE 0W-20 whenever possible, even if it costs a bit more. You'll thank Yourself in the long run.
John A.
January 2, 2020
The 3.5L V6 engine in the 2003 Acura MDX requires 4.5 quarts of 5W20 or 0W20 synthetic oil Acura says both are acceptable.
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