Acura MDX transmission downshifting issue commonly reported in this model on Acura MDX

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Acura MDX owners report experiencing significant transmission issues, particularly in earlier generations from 2016 to 2019, including hard shifting, jerking, and warning messages. Many owners have noted problems with smooth shifting, such as delayed or rough transitions, gears slipping, or getting stuck in a specific gear. Transmission failures are among the most frequently reported concerns, leading to performance issues and costly repairs. While the 2017 MDX has shown similar rough shifting tendencies, adjustments during routine maintenance have been attempted to mitigate these problems. Although the 2019 model has seen some improvements, drivers still report harsh shifting and jerking sensations during acceleration or deceleration. Additionally, issues with downshifting in the 10-speed transmission have been linked to the transmission's attempts to anticipate driver actions, resulting in delays when braking or accelerating. These transmission problems highlight potential safety concerns for MDX owners.

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