2003 Acura MDX - Maintenance & Specs
The 2003 Acura MDX belongs to a Acura MDX lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 13 model years, from 2001 to 2026. Records for this year list a 3.5L engine. It is configured as 4-wheel or all-wheel drive with an automatic 5-spd. The 2003 sits mid-run, with both earlier (2001) and later (2026) MDX model years also documented.
It takes 5W-20 synthetic blend oil, 4.5 qt with a new filter meeting API SN. Fluid specs on file include Type 2 coolant, DOT 4 brake fluid, Honda ATF DW-1 transmission fluid. Know Your Ride lists 14 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 7,500 miles. Documented torque values include oil drain plug 29 ft-lb, lug nut 80 ft-lb, spark plug 18 ft-lb.
There are 13 safety recalls on record; one covers: ...2007 AND SOME MY 2008 HONDA PILOT, RIDGELINE, AND ACURA MDX VEHICLES. A PINCH BOLT EXISTS BETWEEN THE BIKE ARM BRACKET AND THE UPRIGHT ASSEMBLY OF.... Its overall reliability signal is rated "Excellent" based on aggregated complaint and crash data.
EPA fuel economy is rated at 15 city / 21 highway MPG, 17 MPG combined. Estimated annual fuel cost is about $3,400.
Quick Specs
| Oil viscosity | 5W-20 |
| Oil type | Synthetic Blend |
| Oil capacity (w/ filter) | 4.5 qt |
| OEM oil spec | API SN |
| Oil filter | Fram PH7317 |
| EPA combined | 17 MPG |
| Tire size | 245/60R18 |
| Coolant | Type 2 |
| Open recalls on record | 13 |
| Technical service bulletins | 80 |
Common Trouble Codes
- P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
- P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
- P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
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Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.