***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***

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Old 10-23-2008, 01:05 PM
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***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***

How To:

Engine/Drivetrain
Change VTM-4 Rear Diff Fluid
Change Engine Oil and Filter (01-06)
'03-'06 MDX - 3rd & 4th Gear Transmission Switches / Sensors DIY


Exterior
Install Body Side Moldings (01-06)
Install Body Side Moldings (07-up)
Install Running Boards (01-06)
Install Running Boards (07-up)
Install Moon Roof Visor (01-06)
Install 2002-up Roof Rack (02-06)
Install Tailgate Spoiler (01-06)
Aftermarket wheel "Need 2 knows" (01-06)
Install Acura MDX Hitch (04)
Install Roof Rails (07-up)
Install Body Side Moldings (07-up)

Interior
Import PhoneBook into Navi System (07-up)
Fix Steering Wheel Audio Controls (01-06)
Glove Box Light Stays On (01-04)
Fix Subwoofer Rattle (01-06)

TSBs
Technical Service Bulletins


*Please feel free to add, I will update thread accordingly

Last edited by FiftyFive; 10-20-2009 at 07:40 AM.
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Old 10-25-2008, 11:20 AM
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Aftermarket wheel "Need 2 Knows" for the 2001 - 2006 MDX

I wish I had some of this information available to me prior to buying aftermarket wheels for my 2006 MDX. Hopefully my lessons learned will help others out...

1) The stock MDX wheel is 17" x 6.5" with a 235/65/17 tire and a 45mm offset. The overall diameter of wheel+tire is 29.028 inches. Here is a great Tire Calculator that provides overall wheel diameter calculations.

2) The 2007+ MDX wheels will not fit the 2001 - 2006 MDX. The 2007+ MDX has a 5 x 120mm bolt pattern where the 2001-2006 MDX is 5 x 114.3mm. AVOID adapters - the 5 x 120mm to 5 x 114.3mm adapters will force the wheels out about 2 inches from the fender.

3) You will need hub-rings unless the aftermarket wheel you're purchasing has a 64.15mm hub (the factory hub of the 01-06 MDX). Honda and Acura wheels are balanced on the hub, so it's imperative that you have a 64.15mm hub. You'll experience vibration if your wheels are not properly mounted with rings. Hub-rings are inexpensive and are sometimes offered for free with your purchase of aftermarket wheels. Hard nylon rings don't last as long as metal, but are preferable because they will not rust your hub or wheel. Just tell the shop you need hub-rings for the 64.15mm hub on your MDX. If they say you don't need rings, insist that you do. My rings are 66.5mm (the hub of my aftermarket wheel) to 64.15mm. They simply slide on the hub, then you mount the wheel, tighten, and you're ready to go.

4) I feel the ideal width of the aftermarket wheel for the 2001-2006 MDX is 8.5 inches, of which you'll need at least a 40+mm offset (I have a 35mm offset). Remember that the lower the offset is, the further the outer wheel rim sticks out from the hub, so saying "at least" means 40mm or lower. Below are my recommendations for wheel/tire sizes:
  • 17 x 7" wheel, 235/65/17 tire
  • 18 x 8" wheel, 255/55/18 tire
  • 19 x 8.5" wheel, 245/55/19 tire
  • 20 X 8.5" wheel, 265/45/20 tire
  • 22 x 9" wheel, 265/35/22 tire

Nylon hub ring


With your new wheels, your floor/hydraulic jack may not be tall enough, use the tire jack in the rear hatch if necessary


You may need to buy a torque wrench with a long socket for your new wheels and I highly suggest buying a quality set of wheel locks
Old 07-24-2009, 03:44 PM
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thank you for this thread
Old 09-04-2009, 04:25 PM
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rear wiper blade replacement

Searched but couldn't find out how to replace the old blade. Is there an existing DIY out there?
Old 09-05-2009, 09:50 PM
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Originally Posted by frosty ride
Searched but couldn't find out how to replace the old blade. Is there an existing DIY out there?
I haven't done so yet but I can't imagine it being too different then replacing any other wiper blade.
Old 12-26-2009, 06:45 PM
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Hey guys i just bought a 2001 mdx for winter and wanted to put HID for my headlights. My question is are the 2004 mdx projector headlight direct fit into the 2001 bumper?
Old 12-30-2009, 05:54 PM
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tranny question

Originally Posted by TLvtecJD
Hey guys i just bought a 2001 mdx for winter and wanted to put HID for my headlights. My question is are the 2004 mdx projector headlight direct fit into the 2001 bumper?
does anyone know what manuel trannys will bolt up to a mdx motor if any? or if there is anything about an adaptor plate?
Old 02-08-2010, 09:05 PM
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Originally Posted by frosty ride
Searched but couldn't find out how to replace the old blade. Is there an existing DIY out there?
x2 Anyone find out how to do this?
Old 02-16-2010, 04:33 PM
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Thanks
Old 04-04-2010, 01:03 AM
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the change oil and filter link is no longer working
Old 04-05-2010, 11:32 PM
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Failing navigation?

anything on 03-04 navigation systems failing? Mine only loads to the "enter code" prompt and then only allows 1 of the 4 numbers to be typed.

Any info on a fix would be appreciated. I am thinking of picking up a used one but am not apposed to a full upgrade if anyone knows of an aftermarket deck that accommodates the climate control. I refuse to pay thousands to have the crapy stock deck but I will pay a few hundred if no other options are available.

Thanks.
Old 05-05-2010, 09:32 AM
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Originally Posted by Elijah J
anything on 03-04 navigation systems failing? Mine only loads to the "enter code" prompt and then only allows 1 of the 4 numbers to be typed.

Any info on a fix would be appreciated. I am thinking of picking up a used one but am not apposed to a full upgrade if anyone knows of an aftermarket deck that accommodates the climate control. I refuse to pay thousands to have the crapy stock deck but I will pay a few hundred if no other options are available.

Thanks.
Just wanted to follow up with the solution...

For those who need repair of the Honda Navigation Unit found in the trunck of the car. Navigation Technical Support (888) 628-4357.

Ship to:

Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.
2012 Abalony Avenue - Unit D
Torrance, CA 90501

Include:
Description of Problem
Return Address
Phone Contact

Pay by Credit Card, Check or Money Order $150.
Old 05-07-2010, 12:41 AM
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thanks
Old 05-07-2010, 04:12 AM
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hi i need to know to install the flip down dvd screen on my mdx03
Old 08-06-2010, 11:50 AM
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Replacing the Dust/Pollen Cabin Filter

Has anyone replaced this on a 2010 MDX? Any step by steps out there?
Old 08-07-2010, 11:42 AM
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Originally Posted by chipt911
Has anyone replaced this on a 2010 MDX? Any step by steps out there?
I havent messed with the cabin filter on an MDX but Ive swapped them out of every other car I've owned. Its really not difficult once you locate the filter. I guess I'm making assumptions and not really giving any real advice...so I'll just say look to the manual for the filter's location and go from there. Its been my experience that they are always behind the glove box. Do an Azine search for removing your glove box...good luck.
Old 08-28-2010, 09:49 AM
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I am hoping someone has the install scans for replacing the passenger side exterior mirror for an 07 MDX???

My wife backed the SUVie out a few weeks ago and hit the side mirror on the garage causing the casing to crack. I have already ordered and received the replacement housing pieces just want to make sure I uninstall correctly to avoid breaking any needed components.

Many Thanks!
Old 08-28-2011, 12:04 PM
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**BROKEN LINK**

Import PhoneBook into Navi System (07-up)

http://ttr.blog-city.com/tutorial_ho...your_acura.htm
Old 01-19-2014, 01:10 PM
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cabin air filter

Is the cabin air filter on a 12 MDX still behind the glove box as on the 07?
Old 03-17-2014, 04:30 PM
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This thread should be Sticky, I also found a few videos on YouTube that I'll add to this thread.
Old 09-17-2014, 12:35 PM
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DIY: License plate light removal

https://acurazine.com/forums/1g-2g-m.../#post15161050

Last edited by FactoryMDX; 09-17-2014 at 12:49 PM.
Old 09-17-2014, 01:02 PM
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DIY: RCA panel Removal 07-09

https://acurazine.com/forums/1g-2g-m.../#post15161061
Old 09-18-2014, 06:16 PM
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DIY: LED Rear signal light install 07-09

Tools:

-Ratchet or Philips head screw driver
-Flat head screw driver


-Lift rear gate

-Pry off rear light assembly screw covers with flat head screw driver
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141803.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141804.jpg

-Unscrew both bolts with phillips screw driver or ratchet
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141805.jpg

-Once both screws are out wiggle the entire lens towards the back of the truck to give yourself enough of a gap to squeeze a flat head screw driver in between the body and the rear lens. Use a towel over the screw driver so you dont scratch the paint. Once you have at least 1/4 to 1/2 of the screw driver tip in the crack then you're going to want to twist the screw driver to help pry the lens out.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141806.jpg

This is whats holding the lens to the body:
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141808.jpg
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141808a.jpg

-When you get the lens out turn it on the side and look for this ballast. Turn the ballast counter clockwise to release the prongs and pull the bulb out.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141808b.jpg
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141809.jpg

-Pull the old bulb out and replace with the LED. *Most LED's only work when plugged in one way, they are polarized... so test the bulb BEFORE you button everything back up* If it doesnt lite then remove the bulb, rotate, then plug it back in.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141809a.jpg

-Install the LED bulb into the ballast rotate the ballast clockwise to lock it back in place and then line the two prongs on the back of the lens with the two holes in the body and push towards the front of the car until you feel it snap in place... replace the 2 screws (do not over tighten) and screw covers.

DONE

Last edited by FactoryMDX; 09-18-2014 at 06:20 PM.
Old 09-18-2014, 06:39 PM
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DIY: Interior LED install

Tools:

-Sunglass Repair Screw driver (flathead)
-Needle nose pliers
-Paper towel


Very simple, I've marked all the pry areas on the lens'.. Put the Small flat head all the way into the pry area, then pry. The lens will pop off. The 2nd row lights have a hinge on one side, so open using the marked pry area first then pull straight down off the hinges.

The bulbs are tight to remove so I folded paper towel and lined the inside of the needle nose pliers so it wouldnt break the glass and pulled the bulbs straight out.

-Rear gate door bulbs (194)
-Rear cargo area bulb (DE3175)
-2nd Row dome light (194)
-Front map lights (194)
-Front courtesy lights (DE3175)

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141817.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141818b.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141821.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141822.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141819.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141822b.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-0918141822c.jpg
Old 09-20-2014, 03:49 PM
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DIY: Oil Change 07-09

Tools:
-Ratchet
-Funnel for new oil
-oil catch can for old oil
-new oil
-new filter
-new drain bolt crush washer


-Open Hood

-I removed the plastic trim on top for more room to pour new oil in, but if you have a long funnel you might not have to.

-Remove oil Cap
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3872.jpg

-Locate and Loosen the oil drain bolt until you can spin it with your fingers slowly but do not remove yet
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3870.jpg

-Place oil catch can under drain bolt and now you can fully remove the drain bolt and drain engine oil. Let drain until there is a drip, then replace oil pan drain bolt with a new crush washer.

-Locate oil filter & Place catch can underneath, unscrew filter counter clockwise. Once removed, let oil drain for a second then replace with new filter and tighten HAND TIGHT. *make sure old oil filter rubber seal is not stuck on the mounting surface | Also rub a small amount of engine oil on the new filters rubber seal*
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3871.jpg

-Find the oil fill cap in engine bay, remove cap counter clockwise, place funnel into fill hole and fill engine with 4.5 quarts of oil. *I use Valvoline super syn 5w-20 and I buy the 5 quart jug from walmart*
Click image for larger version

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-Make sure all tools are cleared out of the engine bay, start engine and let idle for 15 seconds so the oil can fill the new oil filter. Turn engine off and check oil dip stick level.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3873.jpg

-The oil level should be in the middle of the cris crossed area of the dip stick. Check oil level after 4 quarts as it is easier to add than take away.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3876.jpg

-After all is OK start the engine again and look under truck to make sure the oil filter and drain bolt is not leaking.

-Reset the oil minder by navigating to where it tells you the oil life percentage, hold the reset button on the steering wheel until you get the confirmation question to reset, choose reset. You're done
Old 09-20-2014, 04:08 PM
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DIY: Front Windshield wiper replacement 07-09

Tools:
Two Hands


-Lift driver side wiper arm as shown. I use the frame-less wiper blades b/c they are just better and look nicer than the old framed ones.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3877.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3878.jpg

-Swivel the wiper blade as shown and follow the pictures.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3879.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3881.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3882.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3883.jpg

-Once the old blade is removed line up the new blade in the correct position, slide the hook end on the wiper arm into the accepting slot on the new wiper blade
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3886.jpg

-Once inside the slot, pull the new blade upwards to lock it onto the wiper arm. Do the same on the passenger side. You're Done
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3887.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3888.jpg

Last edited by FactoryMDX; 09-20-2014 at 04:10 PM.
Old 09-20-2014, 04:16 PM
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DIY: Rear Wiper replacement 07-09

Tools:
Two Hands


-Lift wiper arm up
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3910.jpg

-Keep Rotating wiper blade as shown in picture until blade releases from arm. Install reverse order. You're done
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3911.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3912.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3913.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3914.jpg
Old 09-20-2014, 04:40 PM
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DIY: Front Door Sash Trim Repair TSB 12-006: (2007-2012 MDX)

Tools:
-Phillips head screw driver
-Felt with adhesive on back
-Scissors


-Open driver door and look at top outside corner of door.

-Peel the weatherstripping off the corner. It is held on by a plastic clip, just pull outward and clip will release. Remove screw under the weatherstripping that holds the outside sash on.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3891.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3892.jpg

-Release this clip that holds the top trim on. Do not pull hard on this piece as you only need to flex this a little to untuck the outter sash for removal.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3894.jpg

-Untuck the upper piece of the outter sash and then slide the sash upwards to unhook.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3895.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3896.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3897.jpg

-Cut and attach the felt to the inner rail as shown. I also covered the plastic hooks in felt for good measure.
***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3898.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3908.jpg

***Acura MDX DIY/FAQ***-img_3907.jpg

-Re-install the reverse way. You're done
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