RDXrookie

I just got the A14 service due notification and the certified Acura/Honda independent shop told me the 4-cyl doesn't need the timing chain replaced because it's a chain as opposed to a belt used in the 6-cyl. Does this seem correct? That was the first I heard that during all of my research online about this service.

hues10

That is my understanding as well. No timing belt service since it is a chain. Some people will get a valve service done at 100k, though I believe that is optional.

mrgold35

The 105,000 miles timing belt service from my V-6 MDX was $1700. It was about $600 each for my TSX and RDX with timing chain for the same service since they didn't have to touch the chain. I don't think I've heard of anyone changing out the timing chain for the TSX or RDX? Some folks are pushing +250,000 miles on them.

Tomtwtwtw

Username checks out! (welcome to the boards)

The timing chain *should* last the life of the engine. That said, some people replace them if/when the water pump goes as it's not a lot of extra labor/parts cost to replace the chain, tensioner and guides while in there. I have yet to read a post about timing chain failure, or even abnormal wear requiring replacement though. I'm just passed 160k miles on mine, and several members here are far higher.

hues10

While we are on the topic of 100k service interval stuff, I have a little less than 56k miles on my 2011 now. Besides me changing the oil and I already did the transmission fluid (drain and fill), anything else I should worry about changing? I did coolant and brake/power steering fluids in the past two years as well, so every fluid is up to date, or within a couple years of being changed. Since I only have put 20k miles on this in over 5 years, I love the no maintenance costs. Just do not know if there is a time thing to worry about like spark plugs, etc. At this rate, it would take me 11 more years just to reach 100k miles. There could be flying cars by then, and I will still have my turbo'd RDX. Could be a classic by then though. Thanks.

schen72

Sounds like you're doing fine. My 08 has about 80k miles on it now. I just follow the MID. Be aware of the few maintenance items that are not tracked by MID. My RDX has been pretty reliable so far. Nothing mechanical has broken. I'm on second set of tires and second battery.

NBP04TL4ME

Engine and cabin filters if not recently done..........

Tomtwtwtw

Given how little you drive, I'd stick to MID and just make it a point to change coolant and brake fluid every 3 years regardless of mileage. I'm not completely sure how power steering does in age vs use, but since you already did that you may as well keep it on the same 2-3 year schedule as the other fluids. It's the cheapest and easiest of the 3 to replace. For spark plugs I'd stick with only miles (i.e. worry about it in 10 years or so at your current pace). The manual does say to change oil once a year minimum, but I don't think you're risking anything by going to 18 months. If/when your tires go past 5 years of age, inspect them regularly for sidewall cracks or other signs of dry rot.

hues10

Thanks for the advice everyone. I did replace two tires approx. 3 years back since I think they were originals and were getting down there on the tread life. I now have two new tires (10k miles on them in the rears) and two older tires in the front, but still with tread. I figure every year I go, is one less year I needed to buy the 2 front tires. They are not bald, and the tread is not down to the wear bars either. Filters and fluids. Sounds good.

russianDude

Close to 190k miles, I only changed plugs at 100k miles and never did any “valve adjustment” BS. Car drives great, not changing plugs again, will be getting rid of it in few years.

mrgold35

The only thing you have to worry about is time related maintenance compared to mileage maintenance. The serpentine belt is the only thing I can think of that might need to be changed early if it is going to be 3-5 more years before you reach 100,000 miles. Everything else other than fluid changes, brakes, or tires will be normal wear and tear (happens when it happens) like battery, alternator, door locks, coil packs, water pump, P/S pump or rack, etc... I just did my P/S pump, coil packs, and Vtec oil pressure switch in the last few years on my 08 with +165,000 miles. She still runs like new and way cheaper to repair compared to a car payment.