As the topic states 142k 2007 mdx new battery last year. I wondering if its the starter? It's my daily driver, it starts after 2/3 cranks. My wife has a habit of leaving the interior lights on. I haven't tested the battery yet, would low voltage trigger the start system warning light or does the starter itself trigger it? Thanks (sent from my iPhone)

 

Both. The voltage dips below the sensor cutoff when the starter pulls more current than is available. My bet is the battery. If the starter motor turns then it is probably OK, it just needs to turn with enough velocity to rotate the engine while the battery is also supplying power to the ignition system. Most other features in the car are relay disabled during the start mode.

For those of you who have not had battery issues yet, you will get a good indication of potential issues if you purchase a $10 battery condition indicator that plugs into the cigarette lighter outlet. It shows voltage and current direction (to battery for charge or from battery when alternator is not generating enough power).

Acura refuses to give us a voltmeter even though these cars can be temperamental when the battery gets low on power.