The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

2017 Acura MDX Advance - Harsh Shifting and Hesitation

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Acura MDX Advance

My 2017 Acura MDX Advance (with about 85,000 miles) has recently started experiencing some really harsh shifting, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear, and sometimes 3rd to 4th. It feels like a jolt, almost like someone bumped me from behind.

It also sometimes hesitates to shift when accelerating from a stop, like it's taking a moment to decide which gear to be in. There's no Check Engine Light on yet, but this is definitely not how it used to drive.

I'm worried about the transmission. Has anyone with a similar year MDX had these issues? What was the cause? Could it just be a fluid change, or am I looking at something more serious?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:39 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Harsh shifting and hesitation in an automatic transmission, especially in a 2017 Acura MDX with 85,000 miles, are common concerns that require prompt attention. While there's no Check Engine Light (CEL) yet, transmission issues often manifest as driveability problems before triggering a code.

Here are the primary areas to investigate:

  1. Transmission Fluid Condition and Level:

    • Low Fluid: Insufficient transmission fluid can lead to poor hydraulic pressure, causing harsh shifts and hesitation.
    • Contaminated/Degraded Fluid: Over time, transmission fluid breaks down and loses its lubricating and cooling properties. Old, dirty fluid can cause valves to stick and clutches to slip or engage harshly. Acura transmissions are particularly sensitive to fluid quality and proper fluid change intervals.

  2. Transmission Solenoids: The transmission uses solenoids to control fluid flow and engage/disengage gears. Faulty or sticking solenoids can cause erratic shifting patterns, delays, or harsh engagements.

  3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) or Software: Sometimes, the issue isn't mechanical but electronic. The TCM might have a software glitch or a faulty sensor, leading to incorrect shift commands. Acura has released software updates for transmission behavior in various models.

  4. Internal Transmission Wear: While less likely to be the first cause at this mileage if regularly maintained, internal wear on clutch packs or other components can eventually lead to these symptoms.

What to do:

  1. Check Transmission Fluid: Have the transmission fluid level and condition checked immediately. Note that Acura transmissions often have specific procedures for checking fluid, usually when the engine is warm.
  2. Professional Diagnostic Scan: Even without a CEL, a professional scan tool can often pull specific transmission diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that are stored in the TCM. These codes can pinpoint solenoid issues, sensor failures, or other electronic faults.
  3. Transmission Fluid Change (Drain & Fill): If the fluid is dark or smells burnt, a drain and fill (not a flush) with genuine Acura DW-1 fluid is often recommended. Multiple drain and fills might be necessary over a short period to replace most of the old fluid.

When to see a shop:

Given the complexity of modern transmissions, it's highly recommended to have your MDX inspected by an Acura dealership or a reputable transmission specialist. They have the specific diagnostic tools and expertise to accurately diagnose the problem. Addressing these symptoms early can prevent more severe and costly transmission damage down the road.

Menu

Help & account