Acura MDX 2007-2013

Acura MDX 2007-2013 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2007-2013 Acura MDX drivetrain system, including SH-AWD, transmission, differential, and axles. Essential for maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Acura MDX Drivetrain Specifications Specifications

This document provides detailed drivetrain specifications for the 2007-2013 Acura MDX. It includes technical information about the engine, transmission, drivetrain system, suspension, and brakes. Use the search functionality to quickly find specific details, and navigate through the sections to explore each component in depth.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search bar at the top of the document. Enter keywords such as 'engine type,' 'transmission,' or 'suspension' to find relevant sections.

Navigate through the document by scrolling through the sections. Each major section is categorized by drivetrain component, with subsections providing detailed technical specifications.

Key Specifications

▲

Engine Type

3.7L V6 SOHC VTEC

■

Horsepower

300 HP @ 6,000 rpm

●

Torque

270 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

◆

Transmission

5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift

★

Drivetrain

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)

Available Specifications

Engine

The engine is the heart of the Acura MDX drivetrain, providing power and efficiency. This section details the engine specifications, including type, performance, and fuel system.

Engine Overview

3.7L V6 engine
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) design
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC)
Horsepower: 300 HP @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

Fuel System

Multi-point fuel injection system
Fuel tank capacity: 21.0 gallons
Recommended fuel: Premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane)
Fuel economy (mpg): 15 city / 20 highway / 17 combined

Performance

0-60 mph acceleration: 6.5 seconds
Top speed: 125 mph (electronically limited)
Redline: 6,800 rpm
EPA estimated driving range: 357 miles (city), 420 miles (highway)

Emissions

Meets ULEV-2 emissions standard
50-state emissions compliant
Catalytic converter with high-efficiency design
Emissions warranty: 15 years / 150,000 miles

Transmission

The transmission plays a crucial role in delivering power from the engine to the wheels. This section provides details about the transmission type, gear ratios, and special features.

Transmission Overview

5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control
Torque converter with lock-up clutch
Sequential SportShift paddle shifters
Transmission fluid capacity: 3.5 quarts

Gear Ratios

1st gear: 2.697
2nd gear: 1.615
3rd gear: 1.113
4th gear: 0.843
5th gear: 0.672
Reverse: 1.789

Transmission Features

Grade Logic Control reduces gear hunting on hills
Sequential SportShift allows manual shifting
Transmission cooler integrated with radiator
Adaptive shift logic based on driving conditions

Drivetrain System

The drivetrain system in the Acura MDX is designed to deliver power efficiently to all four wheels. This section covers the drivetrain components and technologies.

Drivetrain Overview

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
VTEC Torque Vectoring
Electronic clutch system
Weight distribution: 57% front / 43% rear

Components

Transfer case with electromagnetic clutch
Drive shafts: High-strength steel
CV joints with triple-angle boot design
Differential: Helical limited-slip rear differential

Drivetrain Features

Torque vectoring enhances cornering performance
Up to 70% of torque can be sent to rear wheels
Integrated Dynamics Control for stability
Hill start assist prevents rollback on inclines

Suspension

The suspension system balances ride comfort and handling precision. This section details the suspension components and technologies.

Front Suspension

MacPherson strut design
Stabilizer bar: 22.0 mm diameter
Coil springs with adaptive damping
caster: 57.8 degrees
Camper: 2.2 degrees

Rear Suspension

Multi-link rear suspension
Stabilizer bar: 20.0 mm diameter
Coil springs with adaptive damping
Toe: 0.1 degrees
Camber: 1.0 degree

Suspension Features

Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Electronic damping adjustment
Load-leveling suspension available on certain trims

Brakes

The braking system provides confident stopping power and control. This section covers brake specifications and features.

Brake Overview

Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Brake assist function
Regenerative braking system

Brake Components

Front brake rotors: 12.6 inches (ventilated)
Rear brake rotors: 12.0 inches (ventilated)
Brake pads: High-friction coefficient material
Brake fluid: DOT 3
Brake lines: Stainless steel

Brake Features

Automatic brake hold function
Hill start assist
Emergency braking assist
Tire pressure monitoring system
Brake wear indicators

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Overview

Type: Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)

Configuration: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Platform: Honda J-Series

Material: High-strength steel (driveshaft)

Location: Front-engine, all-wheel drive layout

Dimensions

Wheelbase: 108.3 in (275 cm)

Curb Weight: 4,400 lbs (1,996 kg)

Ground Clearance: 8.7 in (22 cm)

Driveshaft Diameter: 3.5 in (8.9 cm)

Transmission Gear Ratios

3.369
2.158
1.617
1.227
0.979
0.759

Final Drive Ratio: 4.25

Suspension Travel: Front: 6.8 in (17.3 cm)
Rear: 7.3 in (18.5 cm)

Materials

Driveshaft: High-strength steel

Axles: Heavy-duty constant velocity (CV) shafts

Differential Housing: Cast iron

Transmission Case: Aluminum alloy

Propeller Shaft: High-strength steel

Features

Torque Vectoring

Active torque distribution
Up to 100% torque transfer to rear wheels
Dynamic torque vectoring between rear wheels

intelligent Control

Electronic control unit (ECU)
Real-time traction monitoring
Adaptive torque distribution

Adaptive Front Differential

Electronically controlled
Variable torque split
Speed-sensing operation

Rear Differential

Mechanical limited-slip
Torque-biasing capability
Integrated traction control

Traction Control

Electronic traction control
Stability control integration
Wheel slip monitoring

Hill Descent Control

Steep grade descent control
Crawl speed control
Downhill assist

Safety Features

Electronic Stability Control

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Traction control integration
Emergency stability intervention

Traction Control

Wheel speed sensors
Throttle control modulation
Brake force distribution

Brake Based Torque Vectoring

Individually controlled braking
Torque vectoring through braking
Enhanced cornering stability

Comfort Features

Active Damper System

Real-time damping adjustment
Sport and comfort modes
Integrated with traction control

Isolated Rear Subframe

Reduced noise transmission
Improved ride comfort
Enhanced stability

Dual Mode Transmission

Manual shift mode
Sequential SportShift paddle shifters
Adaptive shift programming

Smooth Torque Delivery

Progressive throttle response
Smooth power transition
Reduced drivetrain shock

Accessories

Transfer Case Kit

Heavy-duty transfer case
Reinforced mounting brackets
High-capacity gear set

Driveshaft Components

Replacement CV joints
Driveshaft center bearing
Heavy-duty boot kit

Transmission Pan Kit

High-capacity transmission pan
Cooling fins for improved heat dissipation
Drain plug with washer

Maintenance

Service interval

Inspect driveshaft boots
Check CV joint lubrication
Inspect axle shafts
Check differential fluid level
Inspect transmission fluid level
Check for any unusual noises or vibrations

Notes: Recommended to use genuine Honda/Acura parts and fluids. Follow factory service manual procedures.

Warranty

Basic: Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Drivetrain components

Corrosion: Miles: 70,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Perforation of body panels

Accessories: Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Dealer-installed accessories

Production Details

Manufacturer: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Manufacturing Process

Forged steel components
Precision casting
Robotically welded drivetrain components
Computer-controlled machining

Quality Control: inspection: 100% end-of-line testing
Testing: Dynamic and static load testing
Certification: ISO 9001:2015 certified

Sustainability Practices

Recyclable materials
Energy-efficient manufacturing
Reduced emissions production process

Production Metrics: Annual Production: Over 50,000 units
Assembly Line Speed: 12 units per hour
Quality Rating: Top-tier reliability

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

5,000 miles

6 months

Inspect driveshaft boots and CV joints
Check differential fluid level
Inspect axle shafts for damage
Check transmission fluid level
Inspect for any signs of leakage

Normal driving conditions. More frequent service required for severe driving conditions.

15,000 miles

12 months

Replace transmission fluid
Inspect driveshaft center bearing
Check rear differential fluid level
Inspect front differential mounting
Check for any unusual noises during operation

Recommended to use genuine Honda/Acura ATF DW-1 fluid.

30,000 miles

24 months

Replace CV joint grease
Inspect driveshaft boots for cracks
Check axle shaft spline wear
Inspect differential gasket condition
Perform drivetrain system diagnostic check

Severe driving conditions may require more frequent service. Refer to owner's manual.

60,000 miles

48 months

Replace driveshaft center bearing
Inspect transmission mounts
Check differential housing bolts
Inspect axle shaft CV joints
Perform detailed drivetrain inspection

Critical service interval. Neglecting may lead to premature component failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2007-2013 Acura MDX use?

The 2007-2013 Acura MDX is equipped with a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. This system distributes torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels, enhancing stability and performance.

What is the torque split in the SH-AWD system?

The SH-AWD system in the 2007-2013 Acura MDX can distribute torque between the front and rear axles in a range of 90:10 to 30:70 under normal driving conditions. Additionally, it can send up to 100% of the rear axle's torque to either the left or right rear wheel during cornering.

What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the SH-AWD system?

Acura recommends inspecting the SH-AWD system every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This includes checking the fluid levels, inspecting the driveshaft and axles for wear, and ensuring the system's electronic components are functioning correctly.

What type of fluid is used in the SH-AWD system?

The SH-AWD system in the 2007-2013 Acura MDX uses Acura Hypoid Gear Oil HGO-1 or an equivalent. It is crucial to use the specified fluid to ensure proper lubrication and performance of the system.

Can the SH-AWD system be disabled?

No, the SH-AWD system in the 2007-2013 Acura MDX cannot be manually disabled. It is always active, continuously monitoring driving conditions and adjusting torque distribution accordingly.

What is the towing capacity of the 2007-2013 Acura MDX with SH-AWD?

The 2007-2013 Acura MDX with SH-AWD has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with a towing package. Always ensure that the vehicle is within the specified weight limits to avoid damage to the drivetrain.

Factory Service Resources

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

SH-AWD System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical overview of the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, including its operation, benefits, and maintenance requirements.

Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for maintaining the drivetrain components, including fluid changes, inspections, and common issues.

Towing with SH-AWD

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide on towing with the Acura MDX, including weight limits, towing package requirements, and safety tips.

SH-AWD Fluid Specifications

Coming Soon

Detailed information on the recommended fluids for the SH-AWD system, including part numbers and replacement intervals.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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

Facebook Contact

15+ Years

Experience

500+ Guides

Guides

50+ Makes

Vehicles

1000+ Solutions

Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

ASE Master Technician Certification
Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.

Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.

Intellectual Property

All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.