I've got a 2019 MDX Sh-AWD with only a bit over 26k miles on the clock, but have owned it for over 5 years now. Overall the transmission shifts fine but sometimes gets confused in downshifting. I know with the 6 speed tranny a fluid drain-and-fill fixed odd behaviors. Wondering whether an early fluid change might be in order for my 2019? Still way below mileage per the general guidelines, but time and driving habits might warrant it? Thoughts?

thx - andy

 

I don't think replacing fluid 'early' as preventative maintenance is ever a bad idea! I wouldn't hesitate to replace it just in case !

 

Are you thinking a dealership visit 1X (+/- $200) or 3X (+/- $450) trans service? I've had shifting issues with previous 5AT and 6AT and an early 1X trans service seemed to fix the shifting issues. Those vehicles were in the +75,000 miles on the odo (drove +150,000 miles).

 

With my old 6AT vehicles (TL, '13 MDX) the 1x drain/fill did the trick, like you say. But with the ZF9, the cost is significantly higher due to the cost of the fluid - but it'd also be a 1x drain/fill situation. I haven't heard of the 3x method for the ZF9's - only the older 5/6AT versions. Thinking I'll give it a shot.

andy

 

Just to circle back to this post, I brought in my '19 MDX with just shy of 27k miles in and had them replace the ZF9 tranny fluid and the front transfer case fluid - along with an oil change. I will say that the tranny shifts smoother than it did before the change and feels a bit more responsive overall. I know people give the ZF9 a bad rap, but at least for the one I have, it works pretty well for me :-)

andy