2012 MDX with 47,000 miles
 

Hello,
First I must apologize for not searching the forum to see if this issue has been asked and answered but I'm thinking of buying a 2012 MDX with 47,000 miles in the next day or so and don't have the time to search. So, I'm thinking that this would be a great buy (at around $17,000) but just checking if there are any issues with the 2012 MDX that I should be aware of, the vehicle has been well taken care of and taken to dealer for all servicing (so I've been told, I'll ask for verification). I have two older vehicles (1999 volvo V70 and 2004 Sienna) that I have done a lot of maintenance on (timing belts, struts, PCV, brakes etc.) so I'm confident I can do most of the repairs and maintenance on the MDX for years to come. Also, with such a "new" vehicle there may not be much wrenching to do (and I've actually come to enjoy it) are there any reasonable modifications that can be done to the MDX, maybe brake or suspension or headlight upgrades? I may be towing next summer so I'd like to look into upgrades to improve towing capabilities. Anyway, if I get this vehicle I'm looking forward to learning more about it on this forum and contributing as well. Once again, thanks for your input and I'll be sure to search before posting in the future!
Ed

If it has not been done already, plan on a timing belt maintenance change which occurs 7/yrs or 100,000 miles, and that will be due next year. It ranges between 1100-1400 dollars at a dealer. The parts and do it yourself you'll probably get completed for under $400.

Search the forums, there was issues with several of years starting with the 3.7L in 2010 where some have had issues with burning oil where the piston rings allow oil seepage and some have seen 1 quart low to 1000 miles, others have 1 quart low in 8500 miles. I have always used Mobil-1 and I'm usually about 1/2 quart low at 8500 miles when the oil change reminder comes on. Also if it's an Advance the electronic sport struts are very expensive to replace (3 to 4 thousand).

My 2010 I have had a rear engine seal replaced 2 years ago, and the extended warranty covered that job ($1300), and I just had the timing belt maintenance completed for $1100 and at around 51K. I have had issues with the front right brake rotor warping twice and I finally replaced it with https://brakeperformance.com/ front rotors and pads at 28K, and just upgraded the back rotors and pads when the pads were just about worn out at 50K.

My mpg has stayed around 17 mpg on premium grade gas and my service specialist said to me to keep this one, it's a beast and better built compared to the 2014+ years (His opinion). Although, I must say driving a 2016 with the 9 speed, I actually preferred the better mileage and overall quietness. I could easily obtain mid 20s with the same driving style.

The 2010-2013 I believe all came per-packaged with a transmission cooler that would allow you to tow 5000 pounds with the factory hitch accessory. (I know the 2010 did). The wiring harness and hitch accessory is about 4 bolts underneath and a removing a rubber rubber grommet and snaking the wiring underneath the storage area to the left side of the rear fender near the gas cap and plugging it in, and adding a fuse to the front fuse box for power. If you go to Bernardi Acura - Bernardi Parts you'll find instructions on how to do so. I have found accessories and parts are usually cheaper at https://www.alldiscountparts.com.

Good luck and enjoy!