Hi all, I just got a used 2012 MDX with 97000 miles on it, from my wife. Well, she bought a brand new MDX and I am taking her hand-me-down car, as usual.

Anyways, I don't exactly know what she has done with the 2012 MDX in the past. Just by talking to her, sounds like she has done only break pads, break fluids, air filter/cabin air filter, tier replacement/rotation, wheel alignment and battery replacements on top of regular oil changes. I am reading through some of the threads here and kinda feel there is a 105k mile big maintenance coming up. I wonder if there are anything I need to be worried about for now.

Spark plugs
Timing belt
etc.

Do I need to replace any of them before the 105k mile maintenance? Right now the car itself runs well. I don't hear any abnormal sounds or feel any unusual vibrations.
How hard is it to replace the spark plugs myself? I replaced all spark plugs on my G37 a couple years ago. That's probably the handiest job I'v ever done on cars LOL

Thanks for any suggestions/advice.

 

sounds like she takes really good care of her vehicles!
the 105k mile maintenance includes the items you mentioned; spark plugs, water pump, timing belt and it's tensioners.

if you replaced a set of spark plugs then you have the knowledge on how to do it on all cars...it's the same concept.
remove shit out of the way and proceed to take out spark plugs.
the rear head may need a swivel to make it easier.

basically car repairs is the art of visual intelligence. meaning; if you see something broken or worn out, replace it

 

Wait until it comes up in the MID. Probably next oil change cycle or two.

If you're not confident have it done professionally. If you don't mind getting dirty and having it down for a little while, greaf time to get some hands on experience!

 

trans fluid change along with differential and transfer case depending on when it was last done is a good start. The 105K service is a lot easier on MDX due to the extra room in engine bay vs TL and other sedans.

That crank bolt will be a PITA to get off. Buy a strong (can handle 1000ft/lbs) wrench and cheater bar. OR cheat and use the proper LARGE impact socket that works very well. You can use a thinner one but it won't work as well as the fat impact socket.

There's a few DIY's on here on how to fix the air mix motors if they are making noise by your knees inside the car.

I'd also check your radiator and make sure there isn't any visible rust. The MDX radiators tend to crack internally and can mix ATF and coolant. Denso makes the radiator and its under $200 last time I checked.

Do you have a sport/comfort button below the gearshift? If not, you have the non-advance model with standard shocks! If it's the Advance more than likely the shocks are worn and need to be replaced. They can be very expensive, I changed mine out to Tech model shocks from acura and resistors to get rid of the light.