Acura MDX 2001-2006 Brakes Specifications
Acura MDX 2001-2006

Acura MDX 2001-2006 Brakes Specifications

Explore the detailed technical specifications for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX brakes system, including brake pads, rotors, calipers, ABS, and hydraulic components. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Acura MDX Brake Specifications (2001-2006) Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the brake system specifications for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX. It includes detailed technical information, maintenance guidelines, and key specifications to help users understand and service the braking system effectively. Use this guide to identify components, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot common issues.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'rotor size,' 'brake fluid,' or 'maintenance schedule.' Results will highlight relevant sections and subsections.

Navigate through the document by exploring the sections listed in the table of contents. Each section contains detailed subsections and technical points to guide you through the brake system specifications and maintenance.

Key Specifications

Front Rotor Diameter

12.6 inches (320 mm)

Rear Rotor Diameter

12.2 inches (310 mm)

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 3

ABS System

Standard

Front Brake Pad Thickness

0.43 inches (11 mm)

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

This section provides an overview of the Acura MDX brake system, including its components, functionality, and key features. It serves as a foundational guide for understanding the braking mechanism.

Brake System Components
  • Front brakes: Ventilated discs with dual-piston calipers
  • Rear brakes: Solid discs with single-piston calipers
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
  • Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) integrated
  • Brake assist feature for emergency stops
Brake Fluid and Hydraulic System
  • Brake fluid type: DOT 3
  • Reservoir location: Under the hood, driver's side
  • Hydraulic system pressure: Approximately 1,000 PSI
  • Fluid capacity: 1.5 liters (including all lines)
  • Recommended fluid change interval: Every 30,000 miles

Brake Components and Specifications

This section details the technical specifications of individual brake components, including dimensions, materials, and performance metrics.

Brake Rotors
  • Front rotor diameter: 12.6 inches (320 mm)
  • Rear rotor diameter: 12.2 inches (310 mm)
  • Rotor thickness: 1.1 inches (28 mm) front, 0.9 inches (23 mm) rear
  • Minimum rotor thickness specification: 0.8 inches (20 mm)
  • Maximum allowable rotor runout: 0.002 inches (0.05 mm)
Brake Pads
  • Front pad material: Semi-metallic
  • Rear pad material: Non-asbestos organic
  • Pad thickness: 0.43 inches (11 mm) front, 0.35 inches (9 mm) rear
  • Minimum pad thickness specification: 0.1 inches (2.5 mm)
  • Wear sensor integrated into front pads

Maintenance and Repair

This section provides guidelines for routine maintenance, inspection intervals, and repair procedures for the brake system.

Brake Inspection and Maintenance
  • Inspect brake pads every 15,000 miles
  • Inspect rotors for warping or excessive wear every 30,000 miles
  • Check brake fluid level monthly and top off as needed
  • Replace brake fluid every 60,000 miles
  • Clean brake components with Brake Cleaner (dot 3 compatible)
Common Repairs
  • Replace brake pads: Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles
  • Resurface or replace rotors: Every 50,000 to 70,000 miles
  • Replace brake hoses: Every 100,000 miles or when damaged
  • Bleed brake system: After any hydraulic component replacement
  • Inspect and replace calipers as needed

Troubleshooting Common Issues

This section helps identify and resolve common brake-related issues in the 2001-2006 Acura MDX.

Common Brake Problems
  • Spongy brake pedal: Low brake fluid level or air in the system
  • Brake light on dashboard: Faulty ABS sensor or low fluid level
  • Grinding noise: Worn brake pads or warped rotors
  • Pulling to one side: Uneven brake wear or misaligned calipers
  • Vibration during braking: Warped rotors or loose components

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
Ventilated disc brakes front and rear
Configuration
4-wheel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Platform
Honda SH-AWD platform
Material
Cast iron rotors with aluminum calipers
Location
Front and rear axle

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
12.6 in (320 mm)
Rear Rotor Diameter
12.2 in (310 mm)
Front Rotor Thickness
1.1 in (28 mm)
Rear Rotor Thickness
0.9 in (23 mm)
Caliper Piston Diameter
2.2 in (55.8 mm)
Brake Pad Width
1.8 in (45.7 mm)
Wheel Circumference
Circumference varies by wheel size

Materials

Rotors
Cast iron with friction surfaces
Calipers
Aluminum alloy with steel pistons
Brake Pads
Organic or semi-metallic friction material
Brake Lines
Steel-reinforced rubber hoses

Features

ABS System
  • Anti-lock braking system
  • Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
  • Brake Assist
Brake Assist
  • Emergency Brake Assist
  • Automatic brake hold
  • Electronic parking brake
Vehicle Stability Assist
  • Integrated with VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist)
  • Traction control integration
  • Hill start assist
Pedal Features
  • Power brake booster
  • Adjustable brake pedal
  • Brake pedal with safety switch

Safety Features

ABS Functionality
  • Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
  • Maintains directional control
  • Reduces stopping distance
Emergency Braking
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Panic braking assistance
  • Post-collision braking
Sensor Systems
  • Wheel speed sensors
  • Brake pedal position sensor
  • Brake fluid pressure sensor

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Composite brake pads for reduced noise
  • Rotor coatings to minimize squeal
  • Caliper dampening system
Pedal Comfort
  • Linear pedal response
  • Progressive brake feel
  • Reduced pedal effort
Convenience
  • Automatic brake hold function
  • Brake memory function
  • Electric parking brake

Accessories

Brake Kit
  • High-performance brake pads
  • Upgraded brake rotors
  • Stainless steel brake lines
Wear Sensors
  • Brake pad wear sensors
  • Rotor wear indicators
  • Brake fluid level sensor
Brake Tools
  • Brake bleeding kit
  • Brake cleaner spray
  • Tire pressure gauge

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Service Items
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Test ABS and EBD system functionality
  • Inspect brake lines and hoses
  • Measure brake pedal free play
Maintenance Notes
Replace brake pads when worn below 1/8 inch thickness. Replace rotors if warped or worn below minimum thickness specification.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Brake components and labor
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Brake system components only
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Brake rotors and drums against perforation
Roadside Assistance
Miles: Unlimited miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Emergency brake service and towing

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Manufacturing Process
  • Casting and machining of brake components
  • Assembly of calipers and brake pads
  • Final testing and quality control inspection
Quality Control
inspection Procedures: Dimensional checks, Surface finish inspection, Functional testing
Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, IATF 16949:2016
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of raw materials
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • Reduction of waste materials
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Over 100,000 units
Failure Rate: <1% defect rate
Warranty Claims: Lowest in class for brake system claims

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Test ABS and EBD system functionality
  • Inspect brake lines and hoses
  • Measure brake pedal free play

Replace brake pads if worn below 1/8 inch thickness. Check for rotor warping.

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Replace brake pads if necessary
  • Clean and lubricate brake caliper pins
  • Inspect brake rotor surfaces
  • Check ABS sensor wiring and connections
  • Bleed brake system if air is present

Use manufacturer-approved brake fluid. Ensure proper bleeding procedure to avoid air in the system.

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace brake rotors if worn or warped
  • Inspect and replace brake hardware
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Clean and inspect brake calipers
  • Test brake system performance

Major service interval. Ensure all components are inspected and replaced as needed. Use proper tools for caliper service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the recommended brake pad thickness for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX?

The recommended brake pad thickness for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX is 10mm when new. Pads should be replaced when they wear down to 2mm or less to ensure optimal braking performance and safety.

Q2

What type of brake fluid should be used in the 2001-2006 Acura MDX?

The 2001-2006 Acura MDX requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Always use high-quality, non-silicone-based brake fluid that meets or exceeds Acura's specifications to maintain proper brake system function.

Q3

How often should the brake rotors be inspected on a 2001-2006 Acura MDX?

Brake rotors should be inspected every 12,000 miles or during routine brake service. Rotors should be replaced if they are worn below the minimum thickness of 28.4mm for front rotors and 18.4mm for rear rotors, or if they exhibit severe scoring, warping, or cracking.

Q4

What is the torque specification for the brake caliper bolts on a 2001-2006 Acura MDX?

The torque specification for the brake caliper bolts on a 2001-2006 Acura MDX is 33 lb-ft (45 Nm) for the front calipers and 22 lb-ft (30 Nm) for the rear calipers. Proper torque is critical to ensure safe and reliable brake operation.

Q5

Can I use aftermarket brake pads on my 2001-2006 Acura MDX?

While aftermarket brake pads can be used, it is recommended to use Acura Genuine Parts or high-quality equivalents that meet OEM specifications. Using substandard pads may compromise braking performance, increase noise, and potentially void your warranty.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Acura MDX Brake System Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 2001-2006 Acura MDX brake system, including detailed procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting guides.

Brake Pad Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing brake pads on a 2001-2006 Acura MDX, including tools required and safety precautions.

Brake Fluid Flush Procedure

Coming Soon

Detailed instructions for performing a brake fluid flush on a 2001-2006 Acura MDX, including fluid type and bleeding sequence.

Brake Rotor Inspection and Replacement

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide to inspecting and replacing brake rotors on a 2001-2006 Acura MDX, including torque specifications and safety tips.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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