2016 mdx zf 9at
 

Thinking of a 2016 MDX, SHAWD and Tech. 9 sp ZF transmission issues are a significant concern. Trying to understand if all the TSBs are performed on the transmission does it resolve most of the issues? Also hearing of some peculiar other things about this year of MDX like engine not responding to acceleration on gas pedal. Any comments appreciated.

First year of the ZF9. Funky programming at initial release. TSB 15-054 issued to fix it, which made it smoother, but because of dog gears, there's still hesitation to shift (mainly downshift) at the dog gears until sync is achieved. That is what you are asking about the no response to gas pedal. 17+ is a bit smoother but not really much different from a software updated 16 until late 18/19 model year, which introduces things like 2nd gear startup from a stop. Just have to drive one for yourself and see if you can detect these things or if they bother you. The only reliability concern has to do with the 16-early 17 model year with the warmers. They were defective and caused coolant and ATF to mix. You'll know you have this if you are slowing, then accelerate again at around 20 mph and there is a chirp. Clunky shifting is also a symptom. If you have this consistently or have the obvious mixing of ATF and coolant, they will replace your transmission under warranty. Out of warranty, not so sure. IF you overheated, they will also replace your engine.

Have you considered a Honda Pilot (2016 and up) in the lower trim levels with the tried and true six speed?

That's why I got a 2015 Advance. No 9 speed.